Simon’s actions give an example of a false heart. He had said and done all the right things that seemed to show that he had repented of his former life and turned to Jesus. Acts 8: 13 Then Simon himself believed and was baptized. He began following Philip wherever he went, and he was amazed by the signs and great miracles Philip performed. [1]
Satan has always used people to infiltrate the church. But sooner or later, what is inside comes out. Simon revealed his false heart through a request. Acts 8: 18 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given when the apostles laid their hands on people, he offered them money to buy this power. 19 “Let me have this power, too,” he exclaimed, “so that when I lay my hands on people, they will receive the Holy Spirit!”
20 But Peter replied, “May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God’s gift can be bought! 21 You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God. 22 Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts, 23 for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin.” [2]
Peter’s Stern Rebuke
Peter’s rebuke told Simon what God thought of him. God sees and knows the motivation and desires of our hearts. Simon may have fooled some people, but he could not fool God. No amount of money can buy what only God, as sovereign, can do. Peter called Simon’s actions wicked. This is ponēría in Greek, meaning a compulsive determination to continue in a direction we know is wrong.[3]
Simon still had an unconverted, magical mindset. Even though he had tried to act like he had turned from his former life, he was still held captive by that sin. Peter also called out jealousy which had made Simon bitter. The people of the area held Simon in high regard until Philip came with the powerful Gospel. Had Simon followed Philip closely to try to learn how to do miracles to add to his magician bag of tricks? It sadly seems so.
Repent for Forgiveness
Peter warned Simon what would come if he didn’t change and then prescribed repentance. Peter’s sharp rebuke must have frightened Simon. Acts 8: 24 “Pray to the Lord for me,” Simon exclaimed, “that these terrible things you’ve said won’t happen to me!” [4] Simon seemed to be more worried about judgment than getting right with God.
Unfortunately, we can’t repent for someone else. Someone who wants the prayers of others but refuses to pray or repent for himself is in a precarious situation. This story shows how close a person can come to salvation and walk away. Simon seems to be a pseudo-convert, one who is on the fringe but is not willing to come into a life-changing relationship with God. If Peter had not exposed his false heart, Simon would have remained as a member of the congregation.
No matter what you have done or where you have been, if you sincerely repent, Jesus will forgive you. Don’t remain on the edge of faith; allow the Holy Spirit to change your heart and restore your relationship with the Father.
To learn more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/the-samaritan-pentecost
[1,2,4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.
[3] Ogilvie, L. J., & Ogilvie, L. J. (1983). Acts (Vol. 28, p. 155). Thomas Nelson Inc.