Stephen’s Dying Prayer (Acts 7:60) and the Challenge of Forgiveness

Abstract

Stephen’s dying prayer, “‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them,’” (Acts 7:60) is considered in light of the challenge it presents for the immediate and unconditional forgiveness that may be expected of victims of violence, and the legacy of supersessionist interpretation. In dialogue with several sermons by Augustine on Stephen, I frame a reading that links imitation of Stephen with spiritual struggle and formation, and connects forgiveness with accountability and the call to repentance. The anti-Jewish dimensions are recast in terms of not holding the sin against all who cast stones, contrary to an interpretation that effectively denies forgiveness to “non-believing” Jews. These dynamics of forgiveness are epitomized by the “Testament” and martyrdom of Fr. Christian de Chergé.