Yesterday, our attention was drawn to the background of Simon the Sorcerer. Prior to Philip’s arrival in Simon’s city, Simon was the voice of all things ‘prophetic’. But there was a Voice that thundered upon the waters of Simon’s life. How did he respond? Consider Today’s Holy Nougat.
Acts 8:12-13 NIV
[12] But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
[13] Simon himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw.
Believing, Receive
Interesting, isn’t it, that those who followed and revered Simon shifted allegiance to Philip’s faith without a backward glance. I would argue that that’s the power of God’s Spirit. God’s Spirit moves, and people respond. Though people were initially content with counterfeit spiritualism, they got converted by the real deal. They made a shift from their former faith system to follow Christ.
[For the record, Deuteronomy 18:10 -12 tells us that God doesn’t condone any form of divination. This isn’t my argument. The Bible states,
Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft,
[11] or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead.
[12] Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord; because of these same detestable practices the Lord your God will drive out those nations before you. I suspect that God hated such actions as they were contrary to God’s plans for us and were in opposition to God’s authority]
Among the converted was Simon the Sorcerer.
Self-Check
How hungry are we for a mighty move of God, and would we have been the ones ushering in God’s real deal?
Application
Siblings, people are hungry for the mighty move of God, led by the people of God. But there seems to be limited teaching on the manifestation of God’s Spirit in many circles. This limited teaching means that when a diviner offers some knowledge about our lives, our desire for ‘protection’ and manifestations of the spirit prevent us from checking the source. Without knowing the Source, it becomes hard for us to resist the urge to imbibe.
Note, however, that Simon was hungry for a mighty move of God. It was the message of the Gospel that resulted in his conversion, although the signs may have drawn him in afterwards. This is a reminder for us to share the message of the good news with the world. For, inasmuch as people followed Simon for signs, they were transformed by the Gospel message. Such is the power of God’s Word, especially on the lips of the believers.
Point to Ponder
Could God be calling us to be more intentional in inviting others to this new life in Christ? What are the barriers to our being obedient like Philip?
It’s time for us to move forth in God’s Spirit, ready to share our Faith with others.
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May all we seek be found in Christ
