Simon the Sorcerer

(Deuteronomy 18:9–14)

9 Prior to that time, a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and astounded the people of Samaria. He claimed to be someone great, 10 [and] all [the people], from the least to the greatest, heeded [ his words ] [and] said, “This [man] is the divine power called [the] Great [Power].” 11 They paid close attention to him because he had astounded them for a long time with [his] sorcery.

12 But when they believed Philip as he preached the gospel of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip {closely} and was astounded [by the] great signs and miracles he observed

14 [When] the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. 15 On their arrival, they prayed for them to receive [the] Holy Spirit. 16 For [the Holy Spirit] had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then [Peter and John] laid [their] hands on them, and they received [the] Holy Spirit.

18 [When] Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money. 19 “Give {me} this power as well,” he said, “so that everyone on whom I lay [my] hands may receive [the] Holy Spirit.”

20 But Peter replied “{May} your silver perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21 You have no part [or] share in [our] ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent, therefore, of your wickedness, and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive you for the intent of your heart. 23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and captive to iniquity.”

24 Then Simon answered Pray to the Lord for me, so that nothing you have said may happen to me.”

25 And after [Peter and John] had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many of the Samaritan villages.