April 7, 2009 - Acts 8

We don't hear much about the man from Acts 8 that is commonly called Simon the Sorcerer, but his story is interesting and applicable to us today. Simon practiced sorcery and amazed all in his city. He had achieved quite a following. Then Philip the evangelist came, preached the good news and the people believed and were baptized. Luke tells us that even Simon believed and was baptized! Simon started following Philip around everywhere he went because he was amazed by the great signs and miracles that surrounded Philip. Luke then tells us that Peter and John came to this town and prayed for the people that they might receive the Holy Spirit. This really amazed Simon. So much so that he offered Peter and John money and asked that they give him this gift. Peter answers with a strong rebuke and tells Simon to repent. Simon's response is to ask Peter to pray for him. I think this shows us the importance of our motives for following Jesus and even seeking gifts to use in His kingdom. The main question is, are we seeking our glory or His? Even though it seems that Simon's motives were less than pure, it does seem that he was concerned when Peter rebuked him and that maybe he repented, sought forgiveness, and tried to grow through this experience. If this was the case, then he provides a worthy example for us. We are going to fail. It is vital how we respond to that failure.