So then, friends, choose seven men among you who are known to be full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, and we will put them in charge of this matter.

The whole group was pleased with the apostles' proposal, so they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a Gentile from Antioch who had earlier been converted to Judaism.

But the Spirit gave Stephen such wisdom that when he spoke, they could not refute him.

All those sitting in the Council fixed their eyes on Stephen and saw that his face looked like the face of an angel.

But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw God's glory and Jesus standing at the right side of God.

It was he who "gave gifts to people"; he appointed some to be apostles, others to be prophets, others to be evangelists, others to be pastors and teachers.

Those helpers who do their work well win for themselves a good standing and are able to speak boldly about their faith in Christ Jesus.

'This is what I will do in the last days, God says: I will pour out my Spirit on everyone. Your sons and daughters will proclaim my message; your young men will see visions, and your old men will have dreams.

Yes, even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will proclaim my message.

And now, Lord, take notice of the threats they have made, and allow us, your servants, to speak your message with all boldness.

Reach out your hand to heal, and grant that wonders and miracles may be performed through the name of your holy Servant Jesus."

The crowds paid close attention to what Philip said, as they listened to him and saw the miracles that he performed.