[Acts 8, Proverbs 15]

H – Acts 8:21, “You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God.”

E – Saving Faith!

The story of Simon has captured my attention today. I can’t tell you how many times I have read it. But, today was different. 

Simon was a magician. He must have been pretty good at his trade because the people thought he was great and amazing (8:9-11). However, when Philip showed up in town he had something totally different. He had the power of Christ as he preached the “good news” about the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ (8:12). This was different than anything Simon had experienced or could do. People in his presence were being transformed and healed. Simon saw real signs and real miracles. Nothing was manipulated. Totally amazed he said “I BELIEVE” and was even Baptized (8:13). 

He must have now been a Christian, right? I mean, he went through the church rituals and was even baptized. 

However, we learn something different about what Simon believed in. It appears that Simon’s commitment was towards the signs and miracles and not to the name Jesus. Simon even tried to buy his way in and manipulate the Holy Spirit to do for him what he desired (8:18). He wanted others to take control and intercede on his behalf to even get it (8:24). Yet, Peter told him all of the things that he was doing in an attempt to buy, manipulate, and earn the favor of God would die with him (8:20). Simon was now confronted with the truth – He was not part of God’s Kingdom. 

The reality is, salvation is a gift (8:20) that is only received through genuine repentance (8:22). Anything else is superficial and disingenuous. Without genuine repentance, turning from our sin (wickedness) and selfishness and turning to the Lord Jesus Christ, we will continue in the gall of bitterness and the bond of iniquity (8:23). We will die in our sin. 

Repentance and Faith in Jesus alone will atone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Not what I believe, what I did (baptism), what I have, what I think I deserve, our what others can do for me. Only Jesus!

The sad testimony of Acts 8 is there is no record of Simon repenting. The gospel message was more of what is in it for me (selfishness) instead of surrender. 

A – Genuine belief and faith in Jesus turns me away from wickedness and into His presence. Remain in a heart of repentance. Cling to His Word. Be filled with His Spirit. 

Keep this weeks memory verse at the forefront of my days. 

Proverbs 4:23, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.”

R – Lord God, thank you for salvation. Lord, help me to walk in full surrender. God, help me to speak truth like Peter. Help me to know when to boldly speak or humbly be silent. Lord, I pray I see and experience the miracles of genuine salvation. 

In Jesus Name!