Who was the first Christian martyr?

Who was the first Christian martyr?

• A. Philip
• B. Stephen
• C. John
• D. James

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is identifying who in the biblical record is described as the first Christian martyr. Stephen fits this as the first follower to be killed for his faith, described in Acts 7. He boldly proclaims Jesus, is accused by the religious leaders, and is stoned to death, praying for forgiveness for his persecutors as he dies. This makes him the earliest martyr documented in the Christian story, so he’s the best answer. Philip is known for preaching and performing miracles, not for being the first martyr. John is celebrated as an apostle who lived a long life and wrote key biblical texts, rather than being the first to die for the faith. James refers to a different early follower who faced persecution later, not as the first martyr.

The main idea here is identifying who in the biblical record is described as the first Christian martyr. Stephen fits this as the first follower to be killed for his faith, described in Acts 7. He boldly proclaims Jesus, is accused by the religious leaders, and is stoned to death, praying for forgiveness for his persecutors as he dies. This makes him the earliest martyr documented in the Christian story, so he’s the best answer.

Philip is known for preaching and performing miracles, not for being the first martyr. John is celebrated as an apostle who lived a long life and wrote key biblical texts, rather than being the first to die for the faith. James refers to a different early follower who faced persecution later, not as the first martyr.