Simon the Sorcerer

Simon the Sorcerer of Samaria

Acts 8:9-13 Simon the Sorcerer

ACTS 8:9-11 9 But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great, 10 to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.” 11 And they heeded him because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time.

To whom did the Samaritans attribute Simon's powers?
"God" (Acts 8:10)

Were they right?
No, he "practiced sorcery" (Acts 8:9), so Simon was a sorcerer, whose power comes from demons and Satan.

ACTS 8:12 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.

Why did they "heed" (Acts 8:10) Simon?
"Because he had astonished them with his sorceries for a long time" (Acts 8:11).

Why did they "believe" (Acts 8:12) Philip, and what does it affirm?
Because he "he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ" (Acts 8:12). The Gospel and the name of Jesus Christ overpowers even long-held demonic strongholds.

Could demonic powers be mistaken as Godly powers today?
Jesus warned in Matthew 24:24, "For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect."

How can demonic "signs" be distinguished from Godly signs?
While both signs are supernatural, they are distinguishable by what they point to. Supernatural signs that point to, honor, serve and glorify Jesus are of God. Supernatural signs that point to, honor, serve or glorify anything or anyone else, including pastors, dead Christians, etc., are not of God.

ACTS 8:13 13 Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.

What did Simon do as he "continued with Philip" (Acts 8:13)?
He watched Philip "and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done" (Acts 8:13).

What does Simon's amazement indicate?
His 'miracles' paled in comparison to God's miracles and signs which were done by Philip.