THE OBSESSION OF THE SORCERER

Simon from Samaria had long been the center of attention and he enjoyed it. He had been practicing sorcery for a long time, and all the people of Samaria were amazed by him. They followed and praised him. Until one day Philip, one of the followers of Jesus, came to Samaria and preached the Gospel. Many people in Samaria believed and were baptized, including Simon the sorcerer. Even Simon always accompanied Philip and witnessed various miracles that he performed.

Then the Apostles Peter and John came to Samaria and completed what was lacking in Philip's teachings. When the two apostles laid their hands on the people of Samaria, the Holy Spirit was poured out on them. Simon was fascinated by this. He desired such power. Perhaps he thought that the apostles had high-level sorcery knowledge, and he was obsessed with obtaining it. He offered a sum of money to have that power. Then Apostle Peter rebuked him very strongly and asked him to repent. Thankfully, Simon listened to the rebuke.

When someone witnesses a spiritual experience, they may interpret it differently and relate it to their past experiences. That is why it is necessary to provide proper teaching according to the word of God so that they do not interpret it arbitrarily. An explanation that helps them understand what is happening needs to be given. Without understanding the correct teachings, someone can deviate from the word of God and go astray. Therefore, we really need to learn, understand, and teach the right understanding in line with His word. --HT/www.renunganharian.net