Acts 8:23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.

 

Our study through the Book of Acts has brought us to the place where Simon (who was once a sorcerer but was now saved by hearing the Gospel preached by Philip) offered Peter and John money to purchase the power to lay hands on people for them to receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit.

 

Simon watched as Peter and John did this and because he was accustomed to using the powers of darkness (sorcery and trickery) he thought he could purchase this power from them. He quickly learned that he was mistaken and Peter told him about it in no uncertain terms.

 

And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the Apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” But Peter said to him, “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 of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.” (Acts 8:18-23)

 

Wow! What we see here is Peter revealing the condition of Simon’s heart. Simon had heard the Truth of the Gospel and was saved. He even traveled with Philip and watch as he performed Miracles, 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)

 

However, Simon still had the same evil desires in his heart. He wanted to possess power over people like he had when he practiced sorcery. It was all about him and not at all about the Gospel of Christ and the Kingdom of God.

 

Peter received a Word of Knowledge from the Holy Spirit about Simon and he called him out! 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 of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity. (Acts 8:20-23)

 

The Holy Spirit showed Peter that Simon was poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity which goes to the very heart of Simon; his character; who he really was. Although he believed the Gospel Message and was baptized, his heart was not truly changed. He was still operating as Simon the sorcerer, poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.

 

This leads us to the question: Was Simon really saved at this point? There are many people who profess to be Christians, but like Simon, they selfishly seek the Power of God and are even willing to pay money to have it. My friends, this cannot be done. God will not allow it. This is the demonic spirit of pride and will ALWAYS lead to destruction. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18)

 

 

The Truth of the Word of God will…..…….turn the tide……….in this evil world.

 

Thank you Lord for Your Word,         Doreen

 

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