Philip and Simon Magus
When the apostles in Jerusalem heard of the tremendous success in Samaria, they sent Peter and John to visit Philip and the new believers. They both arrived in Samaria at a providential time to support Philip. They first prayed for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit—something that, apparently, Philip had not done. Then they helped Philip deal with a former sorcerer named Simon.
Read Acts 8:9-25, the story of Simon, Philip, Peter, and John, and then answer the following questions:
1. Why are miracles and other supernatural manifestations not absolute proof that God is directly behind what is happening?
2. Simon wanted the right thing, just in the wrong way, or so it seemed. (After all, what is wrong with wanting to bestow the Holy Spirit on others?) Judging by Peter's reaction, what might have been the true motive for Simon's request?
3. In what way was Peter's reaction to Simon similar to Jesus' reaction to Peter? Matt 16:21-27.
4. Where do we see, in this section, the grace of Christ and the gospel of forgiveness?
No matter how gifted Philip was, even he needed help, which explains why Peter and John came. The important point is, no one is good enough or gifted enough to do the work of the Lord alone. We all need the help of others. Wanting to buy the power to bestow the Holy Spirit? Come on! Yet Simon was said to be a believer, and he was even baptized. What kind of foolish things did you once believe early in your walk with God that you now know better about? How could this help you be more tolerant of those who, in their ignorance, might be holding foolish beliefs, as well?
No comments:
Post a Comment