Central Truth

God's power cannot be purchased; it is a free gift given by Him.

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Reflections

In Acts 8:4-24, Jesus' proclamation of Acts 1:8 continues to be fulfilled as the Church grows from Jerusalem, into Judea, and then into Samaria, as a result of persecution, notably the persecution from Saul, who is breathing murderous threats against believers (Acts 9:1). Yet, God uses intended evil to spread the good news of salvation.

Philip preaches in Samaria, and many lives are changed as God works.  The miraculous activity of God's Spirit attracts Simon Magus, a sorcerer who has a following in the area because of his magical powers. Simon Peter and other apostles come to Samaria to recognize the work of God's Spirit there, and more miracles occur. Seeing the power of God, Simon Magus requests a franchise, offering money for divine power. Simon Peter's direct response: "To hell with your money, and also with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God!" (Acts 8:20, my own loose translation). Simon Peter's negative response has a positive effect on Simon Magus; he repents and asks forgiveness (opinion is divided on the permanence of his repentance).

But there is more to this passage than a clash of Simons; it reveals a deep theme found throughout Scripture. Peter's harsh response to a man offering to buy God's gift may stem from the Church's earlier encounter with others who thought they could impress God and believers with money: Ananias and Sapphira (cf. Acts 5). Jesus Himself warned believers, "No one can serve two masters" (Matthew 6:24).  The Church still finds itself tempted by money and the power money brings. Do we grant recognition to the wealthy, to those who want to be known for their power, because they have been able to purchase it? Or do we freely accept all because we too have been made right with God, not through our powerful actions but by God's saving power on the cross of Christ? We are all poor sinners who need God's riches that can be given only by God. Simon Peter throws down the gauntlet:  God's grace, a free gift, cannot be bought by grifters.

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Discussion Questions

1. What does this passage say to you about the power of money versus the power of God? How can you rely more on God's power, not only in times of financial difficulties or setbacks but also in times of financial success?   

2. Have you ever been in a situation where you thought your motives were pure, that you believed you were doing the right thing, only to discover you wanted something for the wrong reasons? How was your inappropriate desires or motivation pointed out to you? What changes in your behavior resulted?

3. Have you ever had to "confront" someone about their actions and/or motives? Did you do this out of love and mercy, keeping Galatians 6:1 in mind?

4. How has something apparently bad in your life led to a widening of God's mercy? (Think about Joseph's story in Genesis, and Joseph's view of his situation, as stated in Genesis 50:20)

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