The Pulpit Commentary on Acts 8:2

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

The grave beside the Church.

"And devout men carded Stephen," etc.

I. Death the EXALTATION of Christian character. Devout men carried him. Their hope was the rainbow on the cloud of lamentation. The fellowship of Church life helps us to appreciate excellence. The greatest and best testimony when devout men feel the loss.

II. THE CONTRAST between the grave of the good man fallen asleep in Jesus and laid to rest by the hands of lamenting brethren, and the grave of:

1. The worldling.

2. The infidel.

3. The doubter.

4. The backslider.

5. The isolated and unbrotherly Christian, who has not lived in the hearts of devout men. Try to live so that you will be lamented when you die.

III. THE EFFECT on the world of a great Christian life. "He being dead yet speaketh." President Garfield. Great lamentation is often great proclamation of truth. The cross. The Book of Martyrs.—R.

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