57-58 Yelling and hissing, the mob drowned him out. Now in full stampede, they dragged him out of town and pelted him with rocks. The ringleaders took off their coats and asked a young man named Saul to watch them.

59-60 As the rocks rained down, Stephen prayed, “Master Jesus, take my life.” Then he knelt down, praying loud enough for everyone to hear, “Master, don’t blame them for this sin”—his last words. Then he died.

Saul was right there, congratulating the killers.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Bible: Large Print Edition, Burgundy Leather-look
The Message Bible: Large Print Edition, Burgundy Leather-look
Retail: $69.99
Our Price: $55.99
Save: $14.00 (20%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
Message Slimline Bible, Charcoal Diamond Leather-look
Message Slimline Bible, Charcoal Diamond Leather-look
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $13.99
Save: $26.00 (65%)
3.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message//REMIX 2.0, Purple Swirl
The Message//REMIX 2.0, Purple Swirl
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $19.99
Save: $20.00 (50%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message // REMIX 2.0, Soft Imitation Leather, Storm Black
The Message // REMIX 2.0, Soft Imitation Leather, Storm Black
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $17.99
Save: $22.00 (55%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Student Bible (Softcover)
The Message Student Bible (Softcover)
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $19.49
Save: $5.50 (22%)