Acts 8

The world’s first charlatan preacher was born in Samaria. Maybe that’s a little harsh, since Simon appears to have recognized the error of his ways before he actually became a preacher, but the fact still remains that even after hearing Philip, following Philip, and being baptized he still didn’t understand. Why else would he try to buy the Holy Spirit?

Simon had a problem when Philip arrived. He was obsolete, and he needed to choose between fighting and joining. Up until the time that Philip arrived, he had enjoyed being the center of attention. He enjoyed amazement of the citizens. He enjoyed being called “the Great Power.” Contrasted with Philip, though, it became quickly apparent that he was not all that powerful, and that he was more interested in his own well being than that of the citizens. He was prideful.

When Peter and John arrived, Simon saw an opportunity to regain his status. He could once again be “the Great Power” if he had the ability to lay hands on people so that they would receive the Holy Spirit. It was so valuable to him that he was willing to pay for it, but God doesn’t work like that. God isn’t interested in helping a prideful person be more prideful, and God doesn’t sell His blessings.

I hope that things worked out for Simon. After Peter and John rebuked him, he appears to have realized his mistake, and he asked for forgiveness and prayer. The question for you, though, is whether you recognize when you are like Simon?

In our society today, we equate almost everything to money. We have a saying that, “there’s nothing money can’t buy.” Some of us even pride ourselves on how much money we give to the church as if that can buy us more favor with God. Even more amazing, some charlatan preachers even suggest through their message that you can buy God’s blessing by sending them money. What a contrast to Peter and John!

The fact that the church needs money to survive means that we do all need to give. It should only be that though. Giving implies a gift for which you expect nothing in return. Be careful that when you give to any ministry that your heart is not prideful about your act, looking for an ego boost, or expecting some blessing in return.