Acts 8:23

KJV

For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and [in] the bond of iniquity.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} I perceive {G3708} that thou {G4571} art {G5607} in {G1519} the gall {G5521} of bitterness {G4088}, and {G2532} in the bond {G4886} of iniquity {G93}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For I see that you are extremely bitter and completely under the control of sin!”

Berean Standard Bible

For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and captive to iniquity.”

American Standard Version

For I see that thou art in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Acts 8:23, the Apostle Peter delivers a piercing spiritual diagnosis to Simon the sorcerer, declaring, "For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity." This verse encapsulates Peter's profound discernment, revealing that despite Simon's outward profession of faith and baptism, his heart remained corrupted by a deep-seated, poisonous malice and was enslaved by unrighteous desires, manifesting in his attempt to purchase the power of the Holy Spirit.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Acts 8:23 is the culmination of Peter's sharp rebuke of Simon, a Samaritan sorcerer who had previously professed belief and been baptized by Philip. Following the arrival of Peter and John in Samaria to impart the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, Simon, witnessing this unique spiritual manifestation, attempted to buy this divine power with money, saying, "Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost" ([Acts 8:18-19](/acts/8-18-19 "Acts 8:18-19 - Simon's Attempt to Buy the Spirit")). Peter immediately recognized the heinous nature of Simon's proposal, condemning his heart as "not right in the sight of God" ([Acts 8:21](/acts/8-21 "Acts 8:21 - Peter's Rebuke of Simon")). Verse 23 serves as the definitive spiritual indictment, explaining *why* Simon's heart was not right, exposing the true, insidious state of his soul beneath the veneer of religiosity.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The early church in Acts was rapidly expanding, moving beyond Jerusalem to Judea and Samaria, fulfilling the mandate of [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Great Commission"). Samaria, a region historically at odds with Judea, was fertile ground for the gospel, but also for syncretism and magical practices, as evidenced by Simon's prior influence as a sorcerer whom the people called "the great power of God" ([Acts 8:9-10](/acts/8-9-10 "Acts 8:9-10 - Simon the Sorcerer")). In this environment, spiritual discernment was crucial to distinguish genuine conversion from superficial adherence or attempts to exploit spiritual power for personal gain. The concept of "gall" and "bitterness" has Old Testament roots, often associated with rebellion, idolatry, and spiritual corruption, as seen in [Deuteronomy 29:18](/deuteronomy/29-18 "Deuteronomy 29:18 - A Root Bearing Gall and Wormwood") or [Lamentations 3:19](/lamentations/3-19 "Lamentations 3:19 - Remembrance of Affliction and Bitterness"). The "bond of iniquity" speaks to a common understanding of sin as a form of spiritual slavery, a concept deeply rooted in both Jewish and Hellenistic thought.

* **Key Themes:** This passage powerfully highlights several critical themes. Firstly, it underscores the vital importance of **spiritual discernment**, particularly for church leaders, to identify and confront insincere motives and hypocrisy within the community of faith, protecting its integrity. Secondly, it serves as a stark warning against the **danger of hypocrisy and false motives** in religious practice; Simon's story illustrates that outward religious acts without a transformed heart are spiritually perilous. Thirdly, the phrase "bond of iniquity" vividly portrays the **enslaving nature of unrepented sin**, demonstrating that true freedom is found not in outward religious observance but in genuine repentance and faith in Christ. Finally, the narrative emphasizes the **insidious nature of unaddressed sin**, showing how deep-seated bitterness and unrighteous desires can corrupt a person's spiritual life, even when they are outwardly associated with God's people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **perceive (Greek, _horáō'_):** This verb signifies more than mere physical sight; it implies a clear, discerning understanding, often of a spiritual or mental nature. Peter's "perception" here is not an assumption but a divinely granted insight into the true, hidden condition of Simon's heart. It speaks to a spiritual intuition that apprehends the deeper reality beyond outward appearances.
* **gall (Greek, _cholḗ'_):** Literally referring to bile or a bitter, greenish fluid, "gall" is used here metaphorically to denote something extremely bitter, poisonous, or malign. In ancient understanding, gall was associated with venom or a deadly poison. When combined with "bitterness," it paints a vivid picture of a deeply rooted, toxic corruption within Simon's inner being, a spiritual poison that has permeated his character and motives.
* **bond (Greek, _sýndesmos'_):** This term literally means a joint tie or ligament, something that binds or holds together. Figuratively, it denotes a chain, a fetter, or a principle that controls or unites. In this context, it powerfully conveys the idea of spiritual enslavement. Simon is not merely committing acts of iniquity; he is held captive, bound by his unrighteousness, unable to break free from its grip.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For I perceive that thou art":** Peter asserts his spiritual insight, indicating that his following declaration is not an accusation based on mere observation but a divinely informed understanding of Simon's inner state. This "perception" highlights the Holy Spirit's role in revealing hidden spiritual realities.
* **"in the gall of bitterness":** This powerful metaphor describes Simon's core spiritual condition. "Gall" (cholḗ) and "bitterness" (pikría) together signify a deep-seated, acrid, and poisonous evil or malice within his heart. It suggests a profound corruption, a malevolent disposition that contaminates his intentions and actions, even his professed faith. This is not a superficial flaw but a fundamental spiritual disease.
* **"and in the bond of iniquity":** This second phrase complements the first, explaining the consequence and manifestation of the "gall of bitterness." Simon is not free but is enslaved by his sin ("iniquity" - adikía, meaning unrighteousness or injustice). His desire to buy spiritual power reveals that he is held captive by unrighteous motives, demonstrating that his outward conversion was superficial and his heart remained shackled by sin. He is bound by his own ungodly desires and practices.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 8:23 is rich in **Metaphor** and **Imagery**. The phrase "gall of bitterness" employs a vivid **Metaphor** drawing from the physical world (bitter bile or poison) to describe a spiritual reality: a deep-seated, toxic corruption of the soul. This **Imagery** evokes a sense of internal decay and malevolence, suggesting that Simon's motives are poisoned at their very root. Similarly, "the bond of iniquity" uses the **Metaphor** of a physical chain or fetter to illustrate spiritual enslavement. This **Imagery** powerfully conveys the idea that Simon is not truly free but is held captive by his unrighteous desires and actions. The use of these strong, visceral images makes Peter's rebuke unforgettable and underscores the severity of Simon's spiritual condition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Acts 8:23 profoundly illuminates the biblical truth that true faith involves a transformed heart, not just outward religious acts or intellectual assent. Peter's discernment reveals that the heart can harbor deep-seated corruption ("gall of bitterness") and remain enslaved to sin ("bond of iniquity") even when outwardly engaging in Christian rituals like baptism. This highlights the critical distinction between genuine conversion, which brings spiritual freedom and purity of motive, and superficial adherence, which leaves one bound by unrighteousness. The passage underscores God's demand for sincerity and purity of heart in worship and service, warning against the spiritual peril of hypocrisy and the desire to manipulate divine power for selfish gain. It also emphasizes the necessity of true repentance, which alone can break the "bond of iniquity" and cleanse the "gall of bitterness."

* [Deuteronomy 29:18](/deuteronomy/29-18 "Deuteronomy 29:18 - A Root Bearing Gall and Wormwood")
* [Hebrews 12:15](/hebrews/12-15 "Hebrews 12:15 - Root of Bitterness")
* [Romans 6:16](/romans/6-16 "Romans 6:16 - Slaves to Righteousness or Sin")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Acts 8:23 serves as a timeless mirror for self-examination, urging us to look beyond the surface of our religious activities to the true condition of our hearts. Are our motives for serving God and others truly pure, driven by love for Him and His glory, or are we secretly propelled by selfish ambition, a desire for recognition, or even a subtle attempt to manipulate spiritual power for personal advantage? This verse reminds us that unaddressed bitterness, resentment, or hidden sin can become a spiritual "bond," hindering our relationship with God and others, and preventing us from experiencing the true freedom found in Christ. It calls us to an ongoing process of honest self-assessment, confession, and genuine repentance, allowing the Holy Spirit to expose and cleanse any "gall of bitterness" or "bond of iniquity" that may linger within us, ensuring that our faith is authentic and our hearts are fully devoted to God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What hidden motives might be influencing my spiritual service or religious practices?**
* **Are there any areas of unaddressed bitterness or unconfessed sin in my life that might be forming a "bond of iniquity"?**
* **How can I cultivate greater spiritual discernment to recognize genuine faith versus superficial adherence in myself and others?**
* **What steps can I take today to ensure my heart is truly right with God, free from the "gall of bitterness" and the "bond of iniquity"?**

### FAQ
**What is the "gall of bitterness" in Acts 8:23?**

Answer: The "gall of bitterness" is a powerful metaphor used by Peter to describe Simon the sorcerer's inner spiritual state. "Gall" (Greek: _cholḗ_) refers to bile or a bitter, poisonous substance, while "bitterness" (Greek: _pikría_) denotes acridity, rancor, or malice. Together, they signify a deep-seated, toxic, and corrupt nature within Simon's heart. It implies a profound spiritual poison, a malevolent disposition that tainted his motives and actions, despite his outward profession of faith and baptism. This phrase suggests a core of resentment, wickedness, or spiritual corruption that had not been genuinely dealt with through repentance.

**What does "the bond of iniquity" mean in this context?**

Answer: "The bond of iniquity" (Greek: _sýndesmos adikías_) refers to a state of spiritual enslavement to unrighteousness or sin. "Bond" (Greek: _sýndesmos_) means a tie, ligament, or chain, implying something that binds or holds fast. "Iniquity" (Greek: _adikía_) means unrighteousness, injustice, or wrongdoing. Therefore, the phrase means Simon was not truly free in Christ but was still held captive by his sinful desires and practices. His attempt to purchase spiritual authority revealed that he remained entangled in the very unrighteousness from which he ostensibly turned, demonstrating that his heart was still bound by sin, requiring genuine repentance as Peter urged in [Acts 8:22](/acts/8-22 "Acts 8:22 - Peter's Call to Repentance").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Acts 8:23, while a stark diagnosis of Simon's spiritual corruption, ultimately points to the profound necessity and power of Christ's redemptive work. Simon's state of being "in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity" vividly illustrates humanity's fallen condition—a heart poisoned by sin and enslaved by its power. This condition is precisely what Jesus came to address. He is the one who tasted the bitter cup of suffering and death, bearing the full "gall of bitterness" of humanity's sin on the cross, so that we might be freed ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - Wounded for Our Transgressions")). Furthermore, Christ's death and resurrection decisively break the "bond of iniquity," liberating those who believe from sin's dominion ([Romans 6:6-7](/romans/6-6-7 "Romans 6:6-7 - Freed from Sin")). Through faith in Him, we are no longer slaves to sin but servants of righteousness ([Romans 6:18](/romans/6-18 "Romans 6:18 - Made Free from Sin")). The Holy Spirit, which Simon sought to buy, is freely given by Christ to transform our hearts, replacing bitterness with the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, and goodness ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")). Thus, Simon's tragic state underscores the glorious truth that only through Christ's atoning sacrifice and the regenerating power of His Spirit can one truly be delivered from the poisonous grip of bitterness and the enslaving chains of iniquity.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 58:6

[Is] not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?

Proverbs 5:22

His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.

John 8:34

Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.

Hebrews 12:15

Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled;

Jeremiah 4:18

Thy way and thy doings have procured these [things] unto thee; this [is] thy wickedness, because it is bitter, because it reacheth unto thine heart.

Job 20:14

[Yet] his meat in his bowels is turned, [it is] the gall of asps within him.

Psalms 116:16

O LORD, truly I [am] thy servant; I [am] thy servant, [and] the son of thine handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.