We close our reflections on Simon the Sorcerer, I invite us to see how our faith spaces might be places of healing and repentance. Consider Today’s Holy Nougat.
Acts 8:21-23 NIV
[21] You have no part or share in this ministry because your heart is not right before God.
[22] Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart.
[23] For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.”
Sinners unto Repentance
Peter was thoroughly disgusted with Simon the Sorcerer. In his opinion, there was no hope for Simon. He denounced him as a charlatan. Do we agree?
Self-Check
Do our words and actions suggest to others that we’ve walked away from the faith? How accurately do they represent us?
Application
While I propose that Simon was materialistic and naive, his actions suggest that he didn’t grasp Kingdom reality. Attempting to get the best of both worlds is not indicative of spiritual growth. Peddling the faith is not God’s desire for God’s chosen. Unfortunately, Simon’s mistake is very common in some faith circles today. We hear of faith leaders who purportedly purchase potions to grow their ministry and increase their following. Some have been exposed, and others continue seemingly undetected. But God sees and knows.
Thankfully, Simon’s story doesn’t end with what could be considered as backsliding. In the verse following, Simon seems to have repented. He said, “Pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me.” I believe that our God, Who judges our hearts, would have received that confession if Simon was genuine. We could make an argument that it is possible to be convicted after conversion.
Conviction occurs at the point where we need to acknowledge our sins, especially within the household of faith. Conviction often leads to repentance – unless we harden our hearts. When we fail to acknowledge our sins often enough, we become backsliders. Even then, if we allow our hearts to be touched by God’s Spirit, all isn’t lost.
My challenge with Simon’s contrition is his apparent lack of ownership of his wrong and unwillingness to initiate a relationship with God. He didn’t actively pray for himself. Rather, he asked the apostles to pray for him. If that was an act of repentance, his response may be justified.
Let us offer accompaniment for new converts and believers struggling with living the faith. That’s how iron sharpens iron. (Some of us older believers are immature because we see and hear but don’t understand). Since we’re all sinners saved by God’s grace, let’s allow conviction to lead to repentance, offering accompaniment to those who’ve recommitted to the Faith.
Prayer Point
If we’re struggling to return to our faith, let’s repent right now and ask the Lord to help us return.
If we’re able to think of someone who needs a bit of guidance, let’s ask the Lord whether it’s us or someone else who ought to pray for and accompany the person in finding their way back.
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May all we seek be found in Christ
