Article February 28, 1925 Issue

Moral Courage

MARION C. JONES

TO study the Scriptures in the light of Christian Science is to understand the motives and lives of the prophets and apostles. Differences of custom, climate, and race melt away, and these great men and women are loved as never before, for their victories over self, for their courage and far-seeing wisdom. New beauties in the Bible and priceless lessons unfold at every advancing step, just as in mountain climbing new peaks and fold upon fold of distant ranges are disclosed as one climbs higher.

The story of Stephen, related in the book of Acts, is as inspiring as it is brief. He is described as "a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost;" and the great work that he was doing in Jerusalem is plainly stated. His healing work aroused bitter opposition, so that Stephen was brought before the high priest, and an opportunity given him to speak. With calm courage he proceeded to trace the appearing of the spiritual idea in human consciousness, and its unfolding from the time of Abraham until the crucifixion of Jesus. Fearlessly he exposed the antagonism and consequent persecution which had always attended those who had maintained the supremacy of God on earth as in heaven. Last of all he declared that his auditors, the scribes and the elders, were even then the persecutors of the spiritual idea, the Christ, Truth. Stephen's heroism was coupled with unfaltering love; for as they stoned him he cried, "Lord, lay not this sin to their charge." Then, as the record states, "he fell asleep."

A casual reading of this narrative might bring a sense of doubt as to whether Stephen was truly wise in thus fearlessly exposing the crime of those who had crucified the Master. Yet his wisdom has already been acknowledged in these words: "And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake." The record states, too, that as he faced the chief priest, his countenance was transfigured "as it had been the face of an angel." God's truth meant far more to Stephen than human life itself; and the rich fruitage of his deed was indicated soon afterwards in the great light which dawned upon Saul. Stephen's inspired words were heard by Paul, who was later to labor "more abundantly than they all,"—than any other disciple or apostle, to establish the early Christian church.

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