New International VersionNow Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people.
New Living TranslationStephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people.
English Standard VersionAnd Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people.
Berean Standard BibleNow Stephen, who was full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
Berean Literal BibleNow Stephen, full grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
King James BibleAnd Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
New King James VersionAnd Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.
New American Standard BibleAnd Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
NASB 1995And Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
NASB 1977 And Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
Legacy Standard Bible And Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people.
Amplified BibleNow Stephen, full of grace (divine blessing, favor) and power, was doing great wonders and signs (attesting miracles) among the people.
Christian Standard BibleNow Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
Holman Christian Standard BibleStephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
American Standard VersionAnd Stephen, full of grace and power, wrought great wonders and signs among the people.
Contemporary English VersionGod gave Stephen the power to work great miracles and wonders among the people.
English Revised VersionAnd Stephen, full of grace and power, wrought great wonders and signs among the people.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationStephen was a man filled with God's favor and power. He did amazing things and performed miracles.
Good News TranslationStephen, a man richly blessed by God and full of power, performed great miracles and wonders among the people.
International Standard VersionNow Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
NET BibleNow Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and miraculous signs among the people.
New Heart English BibleStephen, full of grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people.
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd Stephen, full of faith and power, performed great wonders and miracles among the people.
Weymouth New TestamentAnd Stephen, full of grace and power, performed great marvels and signs among the people. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleNow Stephen, who was full of faith and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
World English BibleStephen, full of faith and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd Stephen, full of faith and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people,
Berean Literal BibleNow Stephen, full grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
Young's Literal Translation And Stephen, full of faith and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people,
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd Stephen, full of grace and fortitude, did great wonders and signs among the people.
Catholic Public Domain VersionThen Stephen, filled with grace and fortitude, wrought great signs and miracles among the people.
New American BibleNow Stephen, filled with grace and power, was working great wonders and signs among the people.
New Revised Standard VersionStephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleNow Stephen was full of grace and power and did great wonders and miracles among the people.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishBut Estephanos was full of grace and power and was doing signs and wonders among the people. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentAnd Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.
Godbey New TestamentAnd Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and miracles among the people.
Haweis New TestamentNow Stephen, full of faith and of power, wrought great miracles and signs among the people.
Mace New TestamentNow Stephen full of grace and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.
Weymouth New TestamentAnd Stephen, full of grace and power, performed great marvels and signs among the people.
Worrell New TestamentAnd Stephen, full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people.
Worsley New TestamentNow Stephen being full of grace and power, wrought miracles and great signs among the people.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context The Arrest of Stephen7So the word of God continued to spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem grew rapidly, and a great number of priests became obedient to the faith. 8Now Stephen, who was full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people. 9But resistance arose from what was called the Synagogue of the Freedmen, including Cyrenians, Alexandrians, and men from the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. They began to argue with Stephen,…
Cross References Acts 4:33With great power the apostles continued to give their testimony about the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And abundant grace was upon them all.
Acts 2:22Men of Israel, listen to this message: Jesus of Nazareth was a man certified by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs, which God did among you through Him, as you yourselves know.
Acts 7:55-56But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. / “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”
Acts 11:24Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.
Acts 14:3So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who affirmed the message of His grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders.
Acts 10:38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, because God was with Him.
Acts 8:6-7The crowds all paid close attention to Philip’s message and to the signs they saw him perform. / With loud shrieks, unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed, and many of the paralyzed and lame were healed.
Acts 5:12The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people, and with one accord the believers gathered together in Solomon’s Colonnade.
Acts 9:17So Ananias went to the house, and when he arrived, he placed his hands on Saul. “Brother Saul,” he said, “the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 19:11-12God did extraordinary miracles through the hands of Paul, / so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and the diseases and evil spirits left them.
Luke 4:14Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and the news about Him spread throughout the surrounding region.
Luke 24:49And behold, I am sending the promise of My Father upon you. But remain in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”
John 14:12Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.
John 3:2He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs You are doing if God were not with him.”
Matthew 28:18Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.
Acts 6:3,5,10,15
Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business… 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, Ephesians 4:11
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; did. Acts 2:17,18
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: … Acts 4:29,30
And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, … Acts 8:6
And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. Jump to Previous Faith Full God's Grace Great Marvels Miracles Miraculous Performed Performing Power Signs Stephen Wonders WroughtJump to Next Faith Full God's Grace Great Marvels Miracles Miraculous Performed Performing Power Signs Stephen Wonders WroughtActs 6 1. The apostles, desirous to have the poor cared for, 2. as also careful themselves to dispense the word of God, the food of the soul,3. recommend,5. and with the church's consent ordain seven chosen men to the office of deaconship.7. The word of God prevails,8. Stephen, full of faith and the Holy Spirit, confuting those with whom he disputed, 12. is brought before the council, 13. and falsely accused of blasphemy against the law and the temple.Now StephenStephen is introduced as one of the seven deacons chosen to serve the early church ( Acts 6:5). His Greek name suggests he was a Hellenistic Jew, which means he was a Jew who spoke Greek and was likely influenced by Greek culture. This background is significant as it highlights the diversity within the early Christian community and the church's efforts to address the needs of all its members. who was full of grace and power
The phrase "full of grace and power" indicates that Stephen was endowed with divine favor and spiritual strength. Grace here refers to the unmerited favor of God, which empowered Stephen to carry out his ministry effectively. The power mentioned is likely the power of the Holy Spirit, which was a common theme in Acts, as seen in Acts 1:8 where Jesus promises the disciples they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them. was performing great wonders and signs
Stephen's ability to perform wonders and signs is reminiscent of the apostles' ministry, as seen in Acts 2:43 and 5:12. These miraculous acts served as divine validation of his message and ministry, demonstrating that God was working through him. This aligns with the biblical pattern where signs and wonders often accompany the proclamation of the Gospel to confirm its truth (Mark 16:20). among the people
The phrase "among the people" suggests that Stephen's ministry was public and accessible, taking place within the community. This public nature of his ministry would have made him a prominent figure in the early church and a target for opposition, as seen in the subsequent verses where he faces resistance from certain Jewish groups. His ministry among the people reflects the early church's mission to reach out and engage with the broader society. Persons / Places / Events 1. StephenOne of the seven deacons chosen by the early church to serve and manage the distribution of food to widows. He is described as being "full of grace and power," indicating his strong faith and the presence of the Holy Spirit in his life. 2. Wonders and SignsMiraculous acts performed by Stephen, which served as evidence of God's power working through him. These acts were meant to confirm the message of the Gospel and demonstrate the truth of Jesus Christ. 3. The PeopleThe audience witnessing Stephen's miracles. They were likely a mix of believers and non-believers, including Jews and possibly Gentiles, living in Jerusalem. Teaching Points Empowerment by the Holy SpiritStephen's ability to perform wonders and signs was not due to his own strength but through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Believers today are also called to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in their ministry. Grace and Power in MinistryThe combination of grace and power in Stephen's life highlights the importance of character and spiritual strength in effective ministry. Christians should seek to cultivate both in their walk with God. The Role of MiraclesMiracles served as a testament to the truth of the Gospel. While not all believers are called to perform miracles, all are called to live lives that testify to God's power and truth. Faithfulness in ServiceStephen was initially chosen to serve tables, yet he was faithful in his role and God used him mightily. This teaches that faithfulness in small tasks can lead to greater opportunities for service. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Acts 6:8?
2. How can we be "full of grace and power" like Stephen in Acts 6:8?
3. What role does faith play in performing "great wonders and signs" today?
4. How does Stephen's example in Acts 6:8 inspire our daily Christian witness?
5. What Old Testament figures performed "wonders and signs" similar to Stephen's in Acts 6:8?
6. How can we cultivate a spirit of grace in challenging situations?
7. How did Stephen perform "great wonders and signs" as described in Acts 6:8?
8. What is the significance of Stephen being "full of grace and power" in Acts 6:8?
9. How does Acts 6:8 challenge the belief in miracles today?
10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Acts 6?
11. Acts 6:8 – Where is the historical or archaeological corroboration for Stephen’s “great wonders and signs” if these events were so extraordinary?
12. What key events shaped Stephen's life journey?
13. What is the Feast of Stephen?
14. Why was Stephen stoned according to the Bible?What Does Acts 6:8 Mean Now Stephen“Now Stephen…” (Acts 6:8) • Introduces one of the seven chosen to serve tables (Acts 6:5) and immediately highlights him as a model disciple. • His name meaning “crown” becomes prophetic as he becomes the first recorded martyr (Acts 7:59-60). • Stephen shows that ordinary believers, not just apostles, are called to public ministry (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 2:9). • His life encourages us to step forward when the Spirit opens a door (Acts 8:4; 1 Corinthians 15:58).
who was full of grace and power“…who was full of grace and power…” • Grace: the evident favor of God upon his life, producing Christ-like character (Acts 4:33; John 1:16). • Power: the Holy Spirit’s enablement promised to every believer (Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49). • Luke pairs these two qualities to show they work together—character and charisma, fruit and gifts (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11). • The phrase underscores that effective ministry flows from a Spirit-filled life, not personal talent (2 Corinthians 4:7).
was performing great wonders and signs“…was performing great wonders and signs…” • Wonders draw awe; signs point to Jesus as Messiah (Mark 16:20; Hebrews 2:4). • Miracles validate the gospel message (Acts 2:43; Acts 5:12) and demonstrate God’s compassion (Matthew 14:14). • Stephen’s ministry fulfills Jesus’ promise that believers would do “greater works” (John 14:12). • His actions echo Old Testament power encounters—Moses before Pharaoh, Elijah on Carmel—showing continuity in God’s dealings (Exodus 7-11; 1 Kings 18).
among the people“…among the people.” • Miracles occurred publicly, not in secret corners (Acts 3:9-10). • This openness made the gospel unavoidable in Jerusalem (Acts 5:28). • Ministry “among the people” models incarnational living—being present where needs are felt (Philippians 2:15; Matthew 5:16). • It also prepares the stage for opposition, reminding believers that visibility brings both fruit and conflict (Acts 6:9-10; 2 Timothy 3:12).
summaryActs 6:8 paints Stephen as a Spirit-filled servant whose character (“grace”) and empowerment (“power”) combine to produce visible, public works that exalt Christ. The verse affirms that God works through yielded believers to display His kingdom, drawing attention to the gospel and challenging us to live Spirit-dependent lives in full view of the watching world. (8) Stephen, full of faith and power.--The better MSS. give, "full of grace and power." Did great wonders and miracles.--Better, as preserving the familiar combination, wonders and signs. Verse 8. - Grace for faith, A.V. and T.R.; wrought for did, A.V.; signs for miracle, A.V. Power ( Acts 1:8, note); power to work miracles especially, but also other spiritual power beyond his own natural strength (see ver. 10). This power showed itself in the signs and wonders which he wrought.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Nowδὲ (de)Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.Stephen,Στέφανος (Stephanos)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 4736: The same as stephanos; Stephanus, a Christian.fullπλήρης (plērēs)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 4134: Full, abounding in, complete, completely occupied with. From pletho; replete, or covered over; by analogy, complete.of graceχάριτος (charitos)Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 5485: From chairo; graciousness, of manner or act.andκαὶ (kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. power,δυνάμεως (dynameōs)Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 1411: From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power.was performingἐποίει (epoiei)Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 4160: (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do.greatμεγάλα (megala)Adjective - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 3173: Large, great, in the widest sense. wondersτέρατα (terata)Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 5059: A wonder, portent, marvel. Of uncertain affinity; a prodigy or omen.andκαὶ (kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely. signsσημεῖα (sēmeia)Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 4592: Neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of semaino; an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally.amongἐν (en)Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.theτῷ (tō)Article - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.people.λαῷ (laō)Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2992: Apparently a primary word; a people.
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NT Apostles: Acts 6:8 Stephen full of faith and power performed (Acts of the Apostles Ac) |
