“Stephen’s Test of Faith” is an inspiring story of standing firm in one’s faith. Young Stephen (Daniel Kumatz) presents a school report about his family’s legacy, and speaks about his grandfather who served during World War ll. His grandfather read his Bible, trusted in God, and gave his Bible to Stephen before passing on. Some boys in class snicker and pelt Stephen with paper wads after his report, making fun of his faith in God. Later, they push him around on the playground, giving him a bloody nose. Stephen seems to waver in his faith. That night he dreams about martyrs of the past, including Stephen from the book of Acts, William Tyndale, a martyr who translated the Bible into English, those that faced the persecution of Rome, and finally those persecuted by the KGB in 1970. Stephen becomes a part of their stories in his dream.
Stephen ultimately must decide which side to stand on, and the film has a satisfying conclusion. It makes a solid statement about holding firm to one’s faith and remembering that “joy comes in the morning.” We are more than pleased to award this film our Dove “Faith-Friendly” Seal for ages 12+, although parents may be fine with younger kids watching. Let this film encourage you to stand up for what you believe!