Acts 8:4-25 Philip in Samaria and Simon the Sorcerer

In today’s episode Philip, one of the seven selected to oversee the giving of charitable gifts, goes to a city in Samaria to preach the Good News. While there many believe and are baptized. Philip performed many miracles, healing the sick and banishing demons.

There was already a miracle-worker in the city, Simon. He was not of God, but the people believed he had divine power. That is until Philip shows up with the true power of God as well as the free gift of salvation. Simon believes too and he is baptized with the others. He is so enthralled with the miracles Philip performs that he follows him everywhere. I wonder if Philip was annoyed by Simon looking over his shoulder. Did Philip think that maybe Simon’s conversion wasn’t true?

Once Peter and John came to place their hands on the newly baptized they received the Holy Spirit. This fascinates Simon more than the miracles. Now he follows Peter and John and wants the power that they have. He is even willing to pay for it.

Peter immediately admonishes Simon and tells him that he has no part or share in their ministry because his “heart is not right before God.” Peter also tells Simon to repent and ask for forgiveness. He points out to Simon that he is full of bitterness and sin. Simon is still being selfish by asking Peter and John to pray for him so that he and his money don’t perish.

What are we to learn from Simon? Maybe we need to look at how we give, whether it is time, talent or treasure. Are we giving to look good to others or for God’s glory? When you do something for others is it for your glory or God’s glory?