Stephen, who we see in Acts 6-7, was a special man. He is known as the first Christian martyr, the first Christian to be put death because of his faith.

His death established a new standard for faithfulness, another example that people could look to besides that of Christ. Christians could encourage one another saying, “You can be a Stephen.”

In the writings of the New Testament, Stephen’s name came to be seen as a symbol of faithfulness. “To receive a Stephen” was the goal of every Christian.

Stephen (Stephanos) means “crown.” And that crown is promised time and again to the faithful:
1 Corinthians 9:25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown (stephanos) that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.
2 Timothy 4:8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day — and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
James 1:12   Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
1 Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
Revelation 2:10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Revelation 3:11   I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.

I don’t think that the writers only used the word “crown” because of Stephen. But I have to think that he often came to mind when Christians heard that word.

Don’t let anyone keep you from your Stephen!