Main Thought
In Acts 8, we read about an interesting individual: Simon the Magician. Simon’s magic captured the attention of Samaritan people for a long time. He had a great deal of influence until Philip the Evangelist arrived. Philip preached the gospel of Jesus Christ in Samaria. Many believed, including Simon. The Bible tells us that Simon went through the motions of being a Christian for a while. Yet his underlying motives remained unchanged. Simon still wanted the power, control, and approval that came from being viewed by others as “great.” Ultimately, we don’t know what became of Simon. He might have faded into history. He might have even become an early enemy of the church. How can we avoid ending up like Simon? By learning to search our hearts.
We can ask ourselves questions to reveal where our hearts stand before God, like:
Why do I feel this way? How can I surrender to the Lordship of Christ?
What motivates me?
Who am I becoming? Who, or what, is helping me get there?
Main Passage
9 But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. 10 They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.” 11 And they paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic. 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed. - Acts 8:9-13
14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” - Acts 8:14-19
20 But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.” 24 And Simon answered, “Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may come upon me.” - Acts 8:20-24
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Is there an area in which you currently feel that you’re “going through the motions?” How might God want to inspire or motivate you in that area?
Search your heart by picking one of the three questions listed above that stands out to you most, then answering it in conversation with your group.