It’s easy for new believers to make mistakes when their overall knowledge of Scripture is weak. I wonder how much Simon understood about Christianity beyond the basics. Verse 13 tells us, “Simon believed and was baptized.” Did he exercise real faith, or did he “slip into” the church to gain access to power? What was the basis for his faith-the teaching of the disciples, or the miracles they performed? Did Simon have faith in God, or faith in faith, the “power of belief”? Decide for yourself, for scholars don’t agree and the text is not definitive on this point. He heard the Gospel proclaimed and saw many signs and wonders. The big question over this passage is whether Simon had genuinely converted. Dynamic cult leaders and other false teachers claim special power and insight, deceiving many. Whenever a ministry is focused on a self-exalting personality instead of Christ, there’s a serious problem. Simon boastfully called himself the “Great Power” (vs 10). The big difference between Simon and the disciples is that they gave Christ the credit and attention, not themselves. But when Philip and Peter came to the city, he encountered real power-unmistakable miraculous healings and speaking in tongues, which caught his attention. Simon the Sorcerer amazed the people of Samaria with his impressive tricks and dynamic personality. ![]() People are attracted to entertainment with dazzling special effects. Conversions in the Book of Acts> “Simon the Sorcerer” Acts 8:9-24 Pastor Bob Leroe, Cliftondale Congregational Church, Saugus, Massachusetts
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