Philip the Evangelist went to Samaria to tell the people about Jesus the Christ. When the people responded to his message, many were healed from their afflictions and set free from demonic spirits.
A fellow living in Samaria named Simon the Sorcerer also believed key facts about Jesus. He submitted to baptism and then followed right alongside Philip, amazed when he saw the many miracles and signs. (Acts 8:13) But although actively involved in God’s work, Simon’s heart remained impure. He still loved the power he had exercised as a sorcerer, and now he wanted to exercise power under Jesus.
It all came to a head when Peter came to help Philip. After Simon the Sorcerer saw Peter laying hands on individuals so they might receive the Holy Spirit, Simon tried to get in on the action by offering money. He said to Peter, "Give me this power also. . . ." (v. 19 NKJV)
And at that point Peter received a revelation of Simon’s motives. "Your money perish with you. . . ." he said. (v. 20a) And, "your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent. . . ." (v. 21b)
We do not know what happened to Simon the Sorcerer, but he did ask for prayer "that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me." (v. 24b)
Originally published May 6, 1988.
Picture: Lilacs long the Red River of the North, Wahpeton/Breckenridge, 2009. Photo by Solveig.
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