As members of the early church were persecuted, and executed for their faith in the resurrected Christ, the church continued to grow throughout Judea and Samaria where believers were scattered as part of God’s perfect plan.
One of the seven disciples chosen to serve the poor in Jerusalem, Phillip, had been preaching the gospel in Samaria, a city populated by Assyrian Jews.
“9 But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great, 10 to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.” 11 And they heeded him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time.” (Acts 8:9-11)
A man named Simon was known as a sorcerer, as he bewitched the people of Samaria through enchantments. Simon claimed to be an extraordinary man, above other men. Because of his sorcery, he was held up as a man anointed from God with miraculous powers.
“12 But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.” (Acts 8:12)
The conversion of the Samaritans was in tune with apostolic course in that both men and women first heard the truth about the risen Christ and God’s kingdom preached by a believer, then they themselves believed and finally, these new believers made a public acknowledgment of their faith through water baptism.
“13 Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.” (Acts 8:13)
Simon believed the message preached by Phillip, and was baptized although he continued to show clear signs of evil and sin as he later endeavored to bribe the disciple to acquire the miraculous gift of healing displayed by Phillip. Simon’s salvation would eventually be disputed as his motives proved driven by greed, not faith. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Luke,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: danielstpierre@thrivethroughchrist.com
