### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Stéphanos**, represented by `{{G4736}}`, is the name of a prominent Christian, **Stephen**. It appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Acts. The name identifies a key figure in the early church, known for his deep faith and significant role in the events following Pentecost.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Stephen** `{{G4736}}` is introduced as one of seven men **chose**n `{{G1586}}` by the multitude to serve the early church. He is described as a man **full** `{{G4134}}` of **faith** `{{G4102}}` and of the **Holy Ghost** `{{G4151}}` [[Acts 6:5]]. His ministry was marked by divine **power** `{{G1411}}`, as he performed **great** `{{G3173}}` **wonders** `{{G5059}}` and **miracles** `{{G4592}}` [[Acts 6:8]]. His bold preaching led to conflict, and he was ultimately **stoned** `{{G3036}}` to death while **calling upon** `{{G1941}}` the Lord Jesus to **receive** `{{G1209}}` his **spirit** `{{G4151}}` [[Acts 7:59]]. His death triggered a great **persecution** `{{G2347}}` that caused believers to be **scattered abroad** `{{G1289}}` [[Acts 11:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context of Stephen's life and martyrdom:
* `{{G1586}}` **eklégomai** (to select): This word is used to describe how the multitude **chose** Stephen and six others for a special role of service in the church [[Acts 6:5]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (power): Stephen was characterized as being full of faith and **power**, which enabled him to perform miraculous works [[Acts 6:8]].
* `{{G3036}}` **lithoboléō** (to stone): This term specifies the method of Stephen's execution, as his accusers **stoned** him after casting him out of the city [[Acts 7:59]].
* `{{G3144}}` **mártys** (a witness, martyr): In his testimony, Paul refers to Stephen as "thy **martyr**," acknowledging his own presence when Stephen's blood was **shed** `{{G1632}}` [[Acts 22:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of **Stephen's** `{{G4736}}` account is significant for the early church.
* **Spirit-Empowered Ministry:** Stephen serves as an example of a life **full** `{{G4134}}` of the **Holy** `{{G40}}` **Ghost** `{{G4151}}` and **power** `{{G1411}}`, demonstrating that ministry effectiveness flows from divine endowment ([[Acts 6:5]], [[Acts 6:8]]).
* **The First Christian Martyr:** He is explicitly identified as a **martyr** `{{G3144}}`, setting a precedent for faith in the face of lethal opposition. His final words, asking Jesus to **receive** `{{G1209}}` his spirit, echo a deep trust in Christ even in death ([[Acts 7:59]], [[Acts 22:20]]).
* **Catalyst for Gospel Expansion:** The **persecution** `{{G2347}}` that arose following Stephen's death was the direct cause of believers being **scattered abroad** `{{G1289}}`, which led to them **preaching** `{{G2980}}` the **word** `{{G3056}}` in new regions like Phenice, Cyprus, and Antioch [[Acts 11:19]].
### Summary
In summary, **Stéphanos** `{{G4736}}` is not merely a name but represents a pivotal figure whose life and death had a profound impact on the trajectory of the early church. He was chosen for service, filled with the Spirit, and became the first Christian to die for his faith. His story is a testament to unwavering conviction and illustrates how God used even violent persecution to advance the spread of the gospel.
TRV