When Opportunity Knocks

Stephen had been brought before the Sanhedrin to be judged for preaching the gospel. There was no higher authority in all of Israel than the Sanhedrin. Standing before the religious elite, young Stephen gave them a brilliant overview of Jewish history.

As they listened, they were enthralled with his insights and understanding. In fact, his message was so powerful that his accusers sat spellbound. But as Stephen got to his main point, they began to grow uncomfortable. After giving his overview of the history of Israel, he told them what their real problem was—they had betrayed and murdered the Just One they were waiting for, and they had not kept the law (see Acts 7).

The Lord gave Stephen just the right words to say on that particular occasion. Remember that Jesus told His followers, “Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say” (Luke 12:11–12). This certainly happened for Stephen. He was ready for the opportunity that God dropped in his lap.

Stephen was ready for this significant moment in his life, a defining moment in both the life of Stephen and the church. He seized the moment and made a difference. And you can do the same. To recognize opportunity is the difference between success and failure. When opportunity knocks, you need to get up and answer the door.