Accept the Initiation: Simon the Great – Part 1

Scripture Reading:  Acts 8:9-13

Key Verse:  Acts 8:9

Now for some time a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and amazed all the people of Samaria. He boasted that he was someone great

This passage of scripture records a short account of a man named Simon.  Secular writers recorded more detail, saying that Simon claimed to be the Father, who gave Moses the Law.  He said it was he who actually descended on the apostles on the day of Pentecost.  When verse nine ends with, “He boasted that he was someone great,” that is an understatement.

His magic amazed the people and Simon got a following because of it.  He would be an equivalent to a modern day movie star, with everyone wanting to shake his hand or get his autograph.  Simon’s ego was fed by all the attention his “magic” generated.  He was far from God and led people away from God’s real power for everyday living.

However, in the midst of all Simon’s popularity, Phillip the Evangelist, steps onto the scene.  Phillip went about preaching the good news of the kingdom of God.  He shared who Jesus Christ really was and how they could trust in Jesus and be forgiven of their sins.  The crowds believed Phillip’s message and these onetime “Simon” followers became Christ followers and were baptized in the name of Jesus.

Even more amazing, Simon also believed and received Jesus.  He obeyed Phillip’s instructions and was baptized in Jesus’ Name, as well!  (More tomorrow.)

Father, thank you for these stories of old that remind me of your power to redeem.  Thank you for baptism that signifies my faith in you!  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.