Simon the Sorcerer appears in only one chapter of the New Testament (Acts 8:9-24). Also known as Simon Magus or Simon the magician, he is described as a sorcerer who had been in the city of Samaria for many years. Because of his magic, the people often referred to him as, “the Great One – the Power of God.”
Philip, the Gospel, and Miracles
The disciple Philip came preaching the Gospel to the city of Samaria, along with miraculous signs. Evil spirits were being cast out of people and others were being healed. Many people, including Simon the Sorcerer, believed Philip’s message and were baptized. Simon began following Philip around wherever he went, being amazed by the signs and miracles Philip performed.
Peter and John arrived in Samaria and prayed for the new believers to receive the Holy Spirit. They had been baptized but had not received the Holy Spirit yet. Peter and John laid their hands on the believers and they received the Holy Spirit.
Simon The Sorcerer Offers Money For Power
Simon saw the Spirit being given when the disciples laid their hands on people and offered them money to buy the power to be able to do same. Peter replied to him, “May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God’s gift can be bought!”
Peter told Simon his heart was not right with God. He was instructed to repent and pray that God might forgive his jealousy and evil thoughts. Simon responded by asking Peter to pray that these terrible things would not happen to him. This is the last reference made to Simon in the Bible.
There are a number of extrabiblical text and sources that some believe may refer to the same Simon. None of these accounts however have proven to be reliable and trustworthy.
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