July 17
Bible Reading: Acts 8:9-25
Acts 8:18-20, “Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, saying, ‘Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.’ But Peter said to him, ‘May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!”
I heard a commercial the other day for a psychic outfit that was encouraging listeners to “connect with one of (their) specialized advisors to get the clarity and guidance you need.” Their service even comes with a satisfaction guarantee: “If it’s not the best reading you’ve ever had, it’s free!” It’s sad to realize that there are folks who call them when God has extended an open invitation of salvation to whoever will call upon His name. Only in Him can one find true clarity and guidance—and eternal life!
Simon had gained quite a following in Samaria! The people, from the least to the great, “paid attention to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic” (Acts 8:11). They even thought his magic powers to be from God! He touted himself to be “somebody great” (Acts 8:9).
But then Philip came to town bearing something far more powerful—”the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 8:12). The gospel message is “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). The people believed Philip’s message and were saved.
Simon provided entertainment. The gospel message brought changed lives. Simon’s magic drew attention to himself. Philip’s message was all about Jesus. Simon later asked to be given the power to lay hands on folks that they might receive the spirit (Acts 8:18-19). His request coined a term that has been with us ever since. “Simony” is the act of selling church offices or roles or sacred things. That’s his legacy. Philip’s gospel worked to save and change lives, and even transform a city for good, in the cause of Christ. Philip neither professed nor sought greatness, but his legacy lives on in the example he set.
The gospel alone has the power to save and transform lives.
CLEANSE ME
Search me, O God, and know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from ev’ry sin and set me free.
I praise thee, Lord, for cleansing me from sin;
Fulfill thy Word, and make me pure within.
Fill me with fire where once I burned with shame;
Grant my desire to magnify thy name.
Lord, take my life and make it wholly thine;
Fill my poor heart with thy great love divine.
Take all my will, my passion, self, and pride;
I now surrender; Lord, in me abide.
LookingtoJesus 