Week #23 — Confederacy of the Humbled
This week’s passage introduced us to “Simon the Sorcerer” of Samaria (that’s a tongue twister). Simon comes to faith through Philip’s preaching, along with many other Samaritans. As a man who sought and held the attention of crowds because he was “great,” Simon has difficulty reorienting his life and following Christ, the true Great One. He tries to buy off the disciples rather than learn from them. He wants to control the power of the Holy Spirit for himself rather than submit to the Spirit’s sanctifying work in his own life. But at Peter’s strong rebuke, Simon repents and asks for prayer.
Read Acts 8:9-25 together, and then go through the discussion questions. As you do, consider in what ways you, even as a Christ follower, are tempted to approach the Lord a bit like Simon.
In Christ,
Pastor Ken
Week #23 — Questions
- Before Philip arrived, the people “paid attention” to Simon because he displayed power (v9-11). What does this reveal about how easily people are drawn to spectacle rather than truth? Where do you see this in our place and time?
- Luke contrasts the crowd’s fascination with Simon and their later belief in Philip’s preaching about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus (v12). What does this shift teach us about the difference between attraction to power and submission to the gospel?
- Simon wants the ability to give the Holy Spirit through laying on of hands (v18-19). Why is this desire so serious? What does it reveal about Simon’s (mis)understanding of God, grace, and authority? Was Simon even a Christian at this point? Why or why not?
- The Holy Spirit does not come until Peter and John arrive from Jerusalem (v14-17). Why might God have delayed the Spirit’s coming in Samaria? How does this moment guard the unity of the early church across ethnic and historical divides?
- Where do you see the modern “Simony” of today? How can believers guard their hearts from treating God as a means rather than the end?
- What kinds of voices, personalities, or displays most easily capture your attention? How does this passage challenge you to evaluate whether your focus is shaped by truth or by impressiveness and entertainment?
- Peter calls Simon to repent, showing that grace is still available even after serious sin (v22-23). What does this teach us about the patience of God and the hope of restoration?
- The people viewed Simon as “someone great” (v9). How can the repentance—or even the humbling—of a prominent or admired person serve as a powerful witness to the truth of the gospel today?