What Peter seems to be reacting to is Simon's sin of avarice born of jealousy for the unique apostolic power of bestowing the Holy Spirit (v. Certainly, Simon's misguided request shows such a perverted view of the apostolic position and the gift of the Holy Spirit that it would lead to his ruin or waste in this life. 3:16) and is used at least once in reference to a saved person (1 Cor. The word 'perish' (from apoleia) sometimes refers specifically to eternal destruction in hell, but it has the general meaning of ruin or waste (see Mark 14:4/Matt. It would be odd for Peter to consign money to eternal hell if this is what he is referring to. He indicates that Simon will perish with his money (this should not be considered a prophecy, but a provisional rebuke).

It is important to observe that Peter never says anything about Simon not believing or Simon rejecting Christ. We would also assume that Philip was convinced that they had all believed and been saved before he baptized them (see v. It would be arbitrary to deny Luke's affirmation of Simon's salvation while accepting his affirmation of the others' salvation. 13), and that the Ethiopian Eunuch believed and was baptized (v. 12), that Simon 'also believed' and was baptized (v.

Writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Luke says that the Samaritans believed and were baptized (v. On the other hand, many think there is abundant evidence that Simon was a true believer.

He says Simon is poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity (v.

He tells Simon to repent of his wickedness to be forgiven (v.

He says Simon's heart is not right with God (v.

He says Simon does not have any part in 'this matter' (v.

He curses Simon indicating he will perish (v.

They also think Peter's words are fit only for an unbeliever: Many have trouble accepting that a true believer would try to buy the apostles' unique power to bestow the Holy Spirit. Some believe that Simon does not show enough change of life if he was saved. If Simon is not saved, he would be the exception in the narrative. One accepts martyrdom (Stephen), one becomes an apostle (Saul/Paul), one tries to personally benefit (Simon), and one goes on his way rejoicing in his salvation (Ethiopian). These stories also seem to emphasize the various effects that the gospel has on these different people. The stories show that the reach of the gospel is comprehensive it saves those who are hardened (Saul) as well as those who are open (Ethiopian). After the story about Simon, the end of chapter 8 relates the story of an Ethiopian eunuch who believes Philip's preaching of Christ (vv. 2), and a bad unbeliever who persecuted the church, Saul (v. It comments on a good believer who was martyred, Stephen (v. It is always necessary to note the nature and flow of events.Īcts chapter 8 relates the transition of the gospel message from Jerusalem to Samaria. Many have wondered, what is going on here? Insight from the narrativeīible authors, like Luke who wrote Acts, did not write stories randomly, but as part of a larger narrative. Peter's reaction is swift and his words severe, cursing Simon and telling him to repent. But later, when the apostles Peter and John arrive and bestow the Holy Spirit on the new believers, Simon tries to purchase this apostolic power (and so the origination of the word simony, which means to purchase influence or power in the church). 13), along with the other Samaritans who heard Philip preach the gospel. 23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.' 24 Then Simon answered and said, 'Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.'Ĭan an individual recently saved from an occultic background commit a serious sin? Or would that horrendous blunder prove he was never really saved? The case in point is Simon Magus (magus is Latin for sorcerer) of whom the text says, 'Then Simon himself also believed' (v.

22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. 18 And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, 19 saying, 'Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.' 20 But Peter said to him, 'Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! 21 You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. 17 Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

Bible commentary on simon the sorcerer