Bible Verses About Simon: 8. A sorcerer, converted by Philip; rebuked by Peter

Prior to that time, a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and astounded the people of Samaria. He claimed to be someone great,

and all the people, from the least to the greatest, heeded his words and said, “This man is the divine power called the Great Power.”

They paid close attention to him because he had astounded them for a long time with his sorcery.

But when they believed Philip as he preached the gospel of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip closely and was astounded by the great signs and miracles he observed.

When Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money.

“Give me this power as well,” he said, “so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”

But Peter replied, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money!

You have no part or share in our ministry, because your heart is not right before God.

Repent, therefore, of your wickedness, and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive you for the intent of your heart.

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

Then Simon answered, “Pray to the Lord for me, so that nothing you have said may happen to me.”