Church School SumUp
Theme: “A Dirty Job!”

This week’s Church School SumUp explores the courageous witness of Stephen, an early interpreter of Christianity whose faith remained strong even when his service placed him in danger. The lesson invites viewers to consider what it means to stand firmly for Christ when obedience becomes difficult, costly, or unpopular.

Weekly Lesson: Stephen, An Early Interpreter of Christianity

This lesson focuses on Stephen’s faithful service, spiritual wisdom, courageous testimony, and unwavering trust in God. Although Stephen was chosen to help meet practical needs within the growing Christian community, his ministry extended far beyond completing an assigned task. He became a powerful witness whose words and actions demonstrated the presence of God.

Through worship, scripture, discussion, reflection, and small-group engagement, viewers are reminded that no act of Christian service is insignificant. When believers fully surrender their gifts, responsibilities, and lives to God, even difficult work can become a powerful testimony of faith.

Scripture Focus: Acts 6:7–10; Acts 7:54–60

The Scripture focus presents Stephen as a believer filled with grace, power, wisdom, and the Holy Spirit. In Acts 6, his faithful witness contributed to the continued spread of God’s Word. Those who opposed him were unable to withstand the wisdom and spiritual authority with which he spoke.

In Acts 7, Stephen remained faithful even when his testimony provoked hostility and violence. As his accusers became enraged, Stephen looked toward heaven and saw the glory of God. Even while being attacked, he entrusted his spirit to Jesus and prayed for those who were harming him.

The lesson’s discussion theme, “Truly Trusting In Trouble,” challenges believers to examine whether their trust in God remains steady when circumstances become uncomfortable or threatening. Stephen’s example teaches us that courageous faith does not depend on the absence of trouble. It is revealed through our willingness to continue trusting, serving, and witnessing while trouble is present.

The small-group discussion, “Stand Your Testimonial Ground,” encourages participants to write about faith in action despite internal doubts, challenges within the church, or difficulties in the community. These reflections help believers recognize that testimony is not limited to what we say after a struggle has ended. Our response while we are still facing the challenge can also become a powerful witness to Christ.

Hymnology: “I Surrender All”

This week’s closing hymn, “I Surrender All,” was written by Judson W. Van DeVenter in 1896, with music composed by W. S. Weeden. Van DeVenter wrote the hymn after struggling for several years between pursuing his career in art and answering God’s call to evangelistic ministry.

When he finally surrendered his plans to God, he described the decision as the beginning of a new chapter in his life. His surrender led him into a ministry that reached audiences throughout the United States, England, and Scotland.

“I Surrender All” connects beautifully with Stephen’s story because Stephen did not offer God only his words or abilities. He surrendered his service, reputation, safety, and life. His witness demonstrates that complete devotion to Christ means trusting God with everything, even when obedience requires personal sacrifice.

Key Takeaway

God has given us His very best—Jesus. When we fully embrace that precious gift, we position ourselves to surrender our service, our witness, and our entire lives to Him.

Application Prompt

Where is God asking you to stand firm in your faith despite doubt, opposition, or difficulty? Write a brief narrative describing the challenge, how you can put your faith into action, and what your response could teach others about Christ.