Acts 6:8

KJV

¶ And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} Stephen {G4736}, full {G4134} of faith {G4102} and {G2532} power {G1411}, did {G4160} great {G3173} wonders {G5059} and {G2532} miracles {G4592} among {G1722} the people {G2992}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now Stephen, full of grace and power, performed great miracles and signs among the people.

Berean Standard Bible

Now Stephen, who was full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.

American Standard Version

And Stephen, full of grace and power, wrought great wonders and signs among the people.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 6:8 introduces Stephen, one of the seven men chosen for administrative service in the early Jerusalem church, as a figure uniquely endowed with divine grace and power. Far from being confined to his practical duties, Stephen's life was marked by an extraordinary spiritual anointing, enabling him to perform "great wonders and miracles among the people." This verse serves as a pivotal transition, highlighting the Holy Spirit's empowerment of believers for diverse ministries and setting the stage for Stephen's impactful preaching, the opposition it generated, and his eventual martyrdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 6:8 immediately follows the account of Stephen's selection as one of the seven, a group appointed to oversee the daily distribution of food to Hellenist widows, thereby freeing the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word ([Acts 6:1-7](/acts/6-1-7 "Acts 6:1-7 - Selection of the Seven Deacons")). The narrative here shifts from the administrative necessity that led to his appointment to the remarkable spiritual gifts he possessed. This transition underscores that while Stephen was chosen for a practical role, his ministry extended far beyond it, indicating that God's Spirit equips individuals for both practical service and powerful spiritual witness. The verse serves as a prelude to Stephen's bold defense before the Sanhedrin in [Acts 7](/acts/7 "Acts 7 - Stephen's Speech and Martyrdom"), which ultimately leads to his martyrdom, marking him as the first Christian martyr.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church in Jerusalem was experiencing rapid growth, which brought with it both blessings and challenges, including the practical issue of equitable food distribution. The selection of the seven, including Stephen, a Hellenistic Jew, was a crucial step in addressing internal tensions and organizing the burgeoning community. In the broader Jewish context of the first century, signs and wonders were often seen as authenticating marks of divine activity and prophetic authority. Prophets like Moses and Elijah, and later Jesus and His apostles, performed such acts, which were understood as God's endorsement of their message. Stephen's performance of "great wonders and miracles" would have resonated deeply within this cultural framework, drawing attention to his ministry and the message of the gospel.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes in the book of Acts. Firstly, it emphasizes **Divine Empowerment**, illustrating that the Holy Spirit's power is not limited to the apostles but is freely given to Spirit-filled believers for the advancement of God's kingdom. Stephen's "fullness of faith and power" demonstrates the Spirit's active work in equipping individuals for extraordinary service, echoing the promise in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness"). Secondly, it highlights the **Authentication of the Gospel Message** through signs and wonders. These miraculous acts served as tangible evidence of God's presence and approval, confirming the truth of the Christian message to a skeptical world, much like the signs performed by Peter and John in [Acts 3:1-10](/acts/3-1-10 "Acts 3:1-10 - Peter Heals a Lame Man"). Lastly, it foreshadows the **Cost of Discipleship and Witness**, as Stephen's powerful ministry and bold proclamation would soon provoke intense opposition from religious authorities, ultimately leading to his persecution and death, a theme that reverberates throughout [the book of Acts](/acts "The Book of Acts - The Acts of the Apostles").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **full (Greek, _plḗrēs'_):** (G4134) This word signifies a state of being replete, complete, or saturated. When applied to Stephen being "full of faith and power," it indicates that these qualities were not merely occasional attributes but defining characteristics that pervaded his being. It suggests an abundance, a complete indwelling, or a profound saturation by these spiritual realities, enabling his extraordinary ministry.
* **faith (Greek, _pístis'_):** (G4102) Denotes persuasion, credence, or moral conviction, particularly reliance upon Christ for salvation. In Stephen's context, it refers to his deep, unwavering trust and confidence in God, which served as the conduit through which divine power could operate. This faith was not a passive belief but an active, living trust that empowered him to act in accordance with God's will and witness His miraculous works.
* **power (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** (G1411) Refers to force, might, or miraculous ability. It often implies a miracle itself. Here, it signifies the supernatural strength and inherent divine might that enabled Stephen to perform extraordinary deeds. This power is not of human origin but is a direct manifestation of God's Spirit working through him, resulting in tangible, supernatural outcomes.
* **wonders (Greek, _téras'_):** (G5059) A prodigy or omen, often something that causes astonishment or awe. It focuses on the effect of the miraculous deed, drawing attention and wonder from observers.
* **miracles (Greek, _sēmeîon'_):** (G4592) An indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally; a sign or token. This term emphasizes the purpose of the miraculous deed—it points to a deeper truth, authenticates a message, or signifies divine presence and approval. Together, "wonders and miracles" describe acts that were both astounding to behold and significant in their meaning, serving to validate Stephen's ministry and the gospel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Stephen, full of faith and power":** This clause introduces Stephen, not merely by name, but by his defining spiritual characteristics. The conjunction "And" (G1161, _dé_) serves as a continuative, linking this description to his prior selection. The phrase "full of faith and power" is a profound theological statement, indicating that Stephen was completely imbued with deep trust in God and divine, supernatural ability. This "fullness" is a testament to the Holy Spirit's indwelling and empowering presence in his life, which transcended his administrative role.
* **"did great wonders and miracles among the people":** This clause describes the tangible outcome of Stephen's spiritual endowment. The verb "did" (G4160, _poiéō_) implies active performance. The "great" (G3173, _mégas_) nature of these acts underscores their significant impact and undeniable supernatural origin. The pairing of "wonders" (G5059, _téras_) and "miracles" (G4592, _sēmeîon_) highlights both the awe-inspiring nature of the deeds and their function as divine signs. These powerful acts were performed "among the people" (G1722, _en_ G2992, _laós_), indicating a public demonstration of God's power intended to draw attention and authenticate the gospel message within the community.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. **Emphasis** is clearly placed on Stephen's spiritual state through the phrase "full of faith and power," highlighting his deep spiritual anointing as the source of his extraordinary actions. This is further reinforced by the adjective "great" (G3173, _mégas_) modifying "wonders and miracles," using a form of **hyperbole** to underscore the exceptional nature of the signs he performed. The **Juxtaposition** of Stephen's administrative role (implied from the preceding verses) with his powerful miraculous ministry creates a compelling narrative, demonstrating that spiritual power is not limited to specific offices but is available to all who are "full of faith and power." This verse also serves as **Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow, as Stephen's powerful ministry and bold witness will inevitably lead to conflict and persecution, culminating in his martyrdom in [Acts 7](/acts/7 "Acts 7 - Stephen's Speech and Martyrdom").

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 6:8 profoundly illustrates the dynamic nature of the Holy Spirit's work in the early church, demonstrating that divine empowerment for ministry is not confined to a select few, but is available to all who are yielded to God. Stephen, though chosen for a practical administrative task, was clearly operating under a powerful spiritual anointing that enabled him to perform extraordinary signs. This highlights a core theological truth: God equips His servants not just with natural abilities, but with supernatural power to accomplish His purposes, particularly in authenticating the gospel message and expanding His kingdom. The "wonders and miracles" served as undeniable evidence of God's active presence and endorsement of Stephen's message, drawing people's attention and confirming the divine origin of the Christian faith in a context where such signs were culturally significant.

* [Acts 2:43](/acts/2-43 "Acts 2:43 - Wonders and Signs by the Apostles")
* [Romans 15:19](/romans/15-19 "Romans 15:19 - Paul's Ministry with Signs and Wonders")
* [Hebrews 2:4](/hebrews/2-4 "Hebrews 2:4 - God Bearing Witness with Signs and Wonders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Stephen's example in Acts 6:8 offers a powerful model for believers today. It reminds us that spiritual giftedness and divine empowerment are not limited to those in traditionally "spiritual" roles but are available to all who are "full of faith and power," regardless of their specific calling or sphere of service. Stephen's administrative duties did not diminish his spiritual anointing; rather, his faithfulness in one area opened the door for God to use him powerfully in another. This challenges us to cultivate a deep and abiding faith in God, trusting Him to work through us in ways that transcend our natural abilities. While not all believers are called to perform miracles, every Christian is empowered by the Holy Spirit to bear witness to Christ, serve others, and live a life that demonstrates God's love and truth. We are called to be filled with the Spirit, allowing His power to flow through us for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom, whether through acts of service, words of encouragement, or bold proclamation of the gospel. Our effectiveness in ministry, whatever its form, stems from our yieldedness to the Spirit and our unwavering faith in God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry do you feel the need to be more "full of faith and power"?**
* **How might God be calling you to allow His power to work through your seemingly ordinary tasks or roles?**
* **What "wonders and miracles" (whether supernatural or everyday acts of God's grace) have you witnessed or experienced that have strengthened your faith?**
* **How can you cultivate a deeper "fullness of faith" in your daily walk with Christ?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean for Stephen to be "full of faith and power"?**

Answer: To be "full of faith and power" signifies a profound spiritual state where Stephen was completely imbued with unwavering trust in God and supernatural divine ability. "Faith" (Greek, _pístis_) here refers to a deep, active reliance on God, not just intellectual assent. "Power" (Greek, _dýnamis_) denotes miraculous strength and inherent divine might. This phrase indicates that Stephen's inner spiritual condition was one of complete saturation by these qualities, enabling him to be a vessel through whom God could perform extraordinary acts. It highlights the Holy Spirit's active presence and empowerment in his life, demonstrating that his effectiveness was not from human ability but from divine enablement. This "fullness" is a theme seen elsewhere in Acts, such as when the apostles are described as being [filled with the Holy Spirit](/acts/4-31 "Acts 4:31 - Filled with the Holy Spirit") for bold proclamation.

**Why were "great wonders and miracles" important in the early church?**

Answer: In the context of the early church, "great wonders and miracles" (Greek, _téras_ and _sēmeîon_) served several crucial purposes. Firstly, they were **authenticating signs** that validated the message and ministry of those proclaiming the gospel. In a world without widespread literacy or media, tangible displays of divine power provided undeniable evidence of God's presence and approval, confirming that the Christian message was from God. Secondly, they **attracted attention** and created a context for people to hear the gospel. The awe-inspiring nature of these "wonders" drew crowds, creating opportunities for evangelism. Thirdly, they **demonstrated God's sovereignty and power** over sickness, sin, and even death, reinforcing the truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These signs were not ends in themselves but served to point people to the ultimate "sign," Jesus Christ, and His saving work, as seen in passages like [John 2:11](/john/2-11 "John 2:11 - Jesus' First Sign at Cana") where Jesus' miracles are called "signs."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Stephen's ministry, marked by being "full of faith and power" and performing "great wonders and miracles," finds its ultimate fulfillment and source in Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself was the embodiment of divine power and the supreme performer of signs and wonders, which consistently pointed to His identity as the Son of God and the inauguration of God's kingdom ([John 20:30-31](/john/20-30-31 "John 20:30-31 - Purpose of John's Gospel")). Stephen's Spirit-empowered ministry is a direct continuation of Christ's own mission, demonstrating that the resurrected Lord continues to work through His followers by the power of the Holy Spirit. The "power" Stephen received is the same power Jesus promised His disciples in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness"), enabling them to be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth." Stephen's "faith" mirrors Christ's perfect obedience and trust in the Father, even unto death. Thus, Stephen's miraculous works were not merely displays of human giftedness but tangible manifestations of Christ's ongoing authority and presence in His church, confirming the truth of the gospel and drawing people to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). His life and ministry, though tragically cut short, powerfully testify to the enduring reality of Christ's kingdom advancing through Spirit-filled believers.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 4:29

And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,

Acts 4:30

By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.

Acts 7:55

But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

Acts 6:5

And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:

1 Timothy 3:13

For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Acts 6:15

And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

Acts 2:17

And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: