Simon the Sorcerer

(Deuteronomy 18:9–14)

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] from the least to the greatest they heeded [ his words ][fn] [and] said,“This [man] is the great power of God.[fn]” 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. vvv He followed Philip {closely} and was astounded [by the] miracles and signs[fn] 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 vvv 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 Jesus Christ.[fn] 17 Then [Peter and John] laid [their] hands on them, and they received [the] Holy Spirit.

18 

[When] Simon saw that the Holy[fn] 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 in the sight of God.[fn] 22 Repent, therefore, of your wickedness, and pray to God.[fn] vvv 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[fn] 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.

26