The Great Power of God

Listen to our friend Mesuli tell about the magician who tried to manipulate God’s power.

Simon the magician used tricks, incantations, and illusions to impress and manipulate his followers. He embraced his reputation as “the Great Power of God.” But then Simon heard Philip’s message about the good news of the kingdom of God, and he was baptized. Simon was amazed by God’s power in Philip. When he later saw Peter and John lay hands on and pray for the new believers in his city to receive God’s Holy Spirit, Simon wanted that power and was ready to pay for it. Simon wanted to blend the Holy Spirit’s power with his traditional religious practices so he could manipulate God for his own purposes. Peter quickly condemned Simon for his evil plan.

Scholars debate whether Simon was a true convert. He declared faith and was baptized, yet he immediately sought power and prestige rather than repenting of his sin. Manipulating God for personal benefit is the root of idolatry. Simon idolized himself by pursuing personal glory and power, but he could have had so much more. Philip had proclaimed true prosperity to Simon: the kingdom of God was near. Simon needed only to turn away from his evil ways and turn to live in God’s kingdom instead of his own. And because Jesus had died for Simon’s sin, he could be forgiven. Yes, even the man who paraded around as if we he were “the Great Power of God” could be forgiven. It was the great power of God to invite Simon into God’s kingdom. This was the true prosperity God offered Simon. He couldn’t buy that.