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

But there was a man named Shim‘on in the city who for some time had been practicing magic and astonishing the nation of Shomron, claiming to be somebody great.

Everyone gave heed to him, from the lowest to the highest, saying, “This man is the power of God called ‘The Great Power’.”

They followed him because for a considerable time he had amazed them with his magic.

But when they came to believe Philip, as he announced the Good News concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Yeshua the Messiah, they were immersed, both men and women.

Moreover, Shim‘on himself came to believe; and after being immersed, he attached himself closely to Philip; and he was amazed as he saw the miraculous signs and great works of power that kept taking place.

Shim‘on saw that the Spirit was given when the emissaries placed their hands on them, and he offered them money.

“Give this power to me, too,” he said, “so that whoever I place my hands on will receive the Ruach HaKodesh.”

But Kefa said to him, “Your silver go to ruin — and you with it, for thinking the free gift of God can be bought!

You have no part at all in this matter; because in the eyes of God, your heart is crooked.

So repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord. Perhaps you will yet be forgiven for holding such a thought in your heart.

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

Shim‘on answered, “Pray to the Lord for me, so that none of the things you have spoken about will happen to me.”