Jesus the Son of Man · Chapter
Naaman of the Gadarenes explained
Naaman reflects on the persecution of Jesus' disciples after His death, describing the joy they find in suffering.
What happens
Naaman reflects on the persecution of Jesus' disciples after His death, describing the joy they find in suffering. He recounts the stoning of his friend Stephen, who died with a smile, and mentions Saul of Tarsus, who watched approvingly. Naaman expresses skepticism about Saul's reported conversion, noting his dislike for the man.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Sacrifice
The chapter highlights the disciples' joyful acceptance of suffering and death, as exemplified by Stephen's martyrdom.
Misunderstanding and Betrayal
Naaman's distrust of Saul of Tarsus reflects the difficulty in accepting the transformation of a former persecutor.
Characters to notice
- Stephen
Naaman's friend from the North Country, stoned for proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God; died with a smile and outstretched arms.
- Paul
Saul of Tarsus, present at Stephen's stoning and approving of it; later reported to be preaching Jesus, though Naaman dislikes him.
- Jesus
Referred to as the Master who gave His disciples the legacy of pain and joy; His death is central to the chapter.
Key passages
“His disciples are dispersed. He gave them the legacy of pain ere He Himself was put to death. They are hunted like the deer, and the foxes of the fields, and the quiver of the hunter is yet full of arrows. But when they are caught and led to death, they are joyous, and their faces shine like the face of the bridegroom at the wedding-feast. For He gave them also the legacy of joy.”
After Jesus' death, His followers were scattered and persecuted, but they faced death with joy because He had also given them a legacy of joy.
Naaman reflects on the paradoxical joy in suffering among the disciples.
“And when Stephen fell to earth he outstretched his arms as if he would die as his Master had died. His arms were spread like wings ready for flight. And when the last gleam of light was fading in his eyes, with my own eyes I saw a smile upon his lips.”
Stephen died with his arms spread out like Jesus, and even as he lost consciousness, he smiled.
Stephen's death mirrored Jesus' crucifixion, and his smile indicated his peace.