Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 8:17-19 NKJV
This story has lots of interesting aspects. It’s the second episode where the Holy Spirit came on people after conversion. In this case it’s in Samaria where Philip had preached the Gospel with signs and wonders following, and many responded: “But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women” (Acts 8:12 ESV). When the Apostles in Jerusalem heard of the event, Peter and John came and laid hands on the converts. Though they had believed and been baptized, the Spirit “had not yet fallen on any of them.” (V.16)
One of those converts was a well-known sorcerer named Simon. He was familiar with spiritual things and was amazed at the miracles done through Philip. When he saw that the Holy Spirit was given through the laying on of hands, he got really excited and wanted desperately to be able to do this amazing feat. Here’s my question: What did Simon see when the Holy Spirit came on these people? I personally believe they spoke with tongues. I could be wrong, but this well-known ex-sorcerer saw something so different that it inspired spiritual envy in him.
A couple of things occur to me:
- Signs and wonders accompany the preaching of the Gospel, even if you’re not an apostle.
- Something tangible happens when the Holy Spirit comes upon believers.
As we gather with the saints today, let’s come expecting. Pray that the Gospel will be preached with accuracy, simplicity and confirming signs. Let’s expect the Holy Spirit to manifest His Presence in such a way that even the sorcerers will have to say, “Wow!” This ain’t a lecture, it’s the power and Presence of God. You can see it!
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