“And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.”
Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people - Stephen is characterized as 'full of God's grace and power' (plērēs charitos kai dynameōs), the same formula used of Jesus (Luke 4:14). Although Stephen is chosen for table service, he operates with apostolic authority: 'great wonders and signs' (terata kai sēmeia megala). His role transcends his assignment; grace and power overflow administrative boundaries.
Church Fathers on Acts 6:8
See how even among the seven one was preëminent, and won the first prize. For though the ordination was common to him and them, yet he drew upon himself greater grace. And observe, how he wrought no (signs and wonders) before this time, but only when he became publicly known; to show that grace alone is not sufficient, but there must be ordination also; so that there was a further access of the Spirit. For if they were full of the Spirit, it was of that which is from the…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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