"Transformation" - 2

 "For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also in the law." (Hebrews 7:12 KJV)

  "Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world's standard, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. As the Scriptures say, "He traps the wise in the snare of their own cleverness."" (1 Corinthians 3:18-19 NLT)

 Here is the point we must make: Taking a stand for something we believe, we must be willing and ready to defend what we believe, regardless of who or what we are up against! You are most likely not going to be able to convince those who think they are right, but you must be prepared to defend what you believe, as it is your right! And when I say right, I mean that it is the right thing to do, because the way this world is turning, your right to say what you believe can cost you; you will pay a price! 

 As for Stephen and the confrontation he was getting into, even though he spoke about the things that were true and proven in the Scriptures, they offended those who were currently in control. Yes, even though they knew what was being said was true, it was very disturbing to see themselves in that light. The more he spoke, the harder their hearts were getting; they changed into something they could not control...

"The Jewish leaders were infuriated by Stephen's accusation, and they shook their fists at him in rage. But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God's right hand. And he told them, "Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor a God's right hand!" Then they put their hands over their ears and began shouting. They rushed at him and dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. His accusers took off their coats and laid them at the feet of a young man named Saul. As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." He fell to his knees, shouting, "Lord, don't charge them with this son!" And with that, he died." (Acts 7:54-60 NLT)