From reading the Biblical account of Peter and Simon in Acts 8, we might get the feeling that Peter was unduly harsh with Simon. Simon claimed to be a believer in Jesus Christ and was baptized. When Simon sinned, why didn’t Peter kindly lead him to repentance? Was Peter too harsh?
Let’s look at some historical information, as well as the account in Acts, to find the answer.
Who was Simon?
Simon Magus was a sorcerer from Samaria who sought out a cult in Egypt called the Egyptian Essenes. These were not the same as the Jewish Essenes from Qumran, who studied and copied Scriptures and were known for their devotion to God. The Egyptian Essenes were mystics who taught a blend of paganism, magical occultism, and Judaism. Simon was deeply drawn to these teachings, wanting to increase his own sorcerous powers. So he went to Egypt and studied with them, learning how to draw upon occult powers.
When he returned home to Samaria, he practiced sorcery there, proclaiming he was someone great. This drew people to him, at least for a time. They said about him, “He is the power of God.” He did not deny this. So in essence, he wanted to be worshipped.
How Philip’s Ministry in Samaria Changed Everything
However, when Philip arrived in Samaria, he preached about Jesus Christ and performed miracles through the power of the Holy Spirit. Many people turned away from following Simon, recognizing that Jesus was the true God and Messiah. This must have been quite a letdown for Simon, for he saw former followers being baptized and proclaiming their faith in Jesus Christ. He was losing his status.
Simon was amazed at how the power of God and miracles flowed through Philip. It appears that he put his faith in Jesus, for he was baptized also. But had his heart truly changed? Had he truly repented of occult practices and of accepting the praises of people?
Jesus taught, “By their fruit you shall recognize them.” (Matthew 7:16) This meant that those who follow Him will be changed by Him so that they reflect the goodness and love of God and show Him in how they live their lives. If someone’s “fruit” turns out to be self-seeking and unrighteous, it is a sign that they have not truly committed their life to Christ. Let’s see what kind of fruit was produced in Simon’s life.
The Encounter with Peter and John
When the apostles in Jerusalem heard of how God was moving among the people of Samaria, they decided together that Peter and John should go there to teach new believers and assist Philip.
Evidently, the people who had committed themselves to follow Jesus did not yet know about Holy Spirit. Peter and John prayed over people to receive Holy Spirit, and then laid hands on them. Holy Spirit touched them all with His power as they received Him.
The account in Acts 8 does not specify what Simon saw, but something powerful must have happened. Simon observed and wanted to have the power to impart Holy Spirit to others. Evidently, he watched, but did not personally submit to the laying on of hands in order to receive Holy Spirit himself.
Simon’s offer to buy God’s power
Simon’s heart was not in the right place. It appears that he lusted after power and position. Perhaps he had charged people money for displays of his occult powers, for he thought he could buy the power that Peter and John were moving in. Maybe he hoped he could obtain wealth and recognition by using Holy Spirit power.
He said, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
The power of God and the giftings to use His power cannot be bought. Peter harshly rebuked Simon. Having a revelation from God about Simon’s true desires, he spoke a word of knowledge.
“Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore for your wickedness, and pray to God that perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”
Even though the words were harsh, they offered the grace of God if Simon would truly repent. Evidently, Simon had not truly repented when he presented himself as a new believer and was baptized. God, through Peter, exposed his true heart and offered a chance to turn from evil and be freed from bitterness and sin.
Did Simon Change?
Peter’s words made Simon afraid. He answered, “Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.”
Notice that Simon was not showing true repentance in this statement. He wanted Peter to pray that he would avoid the consequences. But he did not humble himself before God, truly turning from his sin. He wanted a blessing without a commitment to Christ or a willingness to turn away from his sin.
What Happened to Simon?
Scripture does not tell us. However, historical documents indicate that Simon Magnus formed his own cult, which practiced the mysticism he had learned in Egypt. He rejected the authority of the apostles and brought false teachings, which became a basis for Gnosticism. (Source: Ancient Epistles of John and Jude, the Apostles vs the Gnostics, by Dr. Ken Johnson)
Our Original Question
So, I leave the question with you. Why did Peter admonish Simon so harshly? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
If you’d like to find out what happened with Philip after his miraculous ministry in Samaria, click to read this.
