Good morning!Today, we continue our reading in Acts chapter eight. In our reading, we will find two men on a mission, but only one mission will prevail. Join me as we continue our reading. Enjoy your day.

Bible verse:

“⁹ A man named Simon had been a sorcerer there for many years, amazing the people of Samaria and claiming to be someone great. ¹⁰ Everyone, from the least to the greatest, often spoke of him as “the Great One—the Power of God.”  ¹¹ They listened closely to him because for a long time he had astounded them with his magic.

¹² But now the people believed Philip’s message of Good News concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. As a result, many men and women were baptized. ¹³ Then Simon himself believed and was baptized. He began following Philip wherever he went, and he was amazed by the signs and great miracles Philip performed.” – Acts 8:9-13 NLT

Key points:

• Simon the sorcerer was introduced.

• He used magic to astound the people and to maintain a great status in Samaria.

• People turned from Simon to Philip and began to believe the message of the Good News.

• Men and women (including Simon) believed and were baptized.

Reflection:

Simon the sorcerer used demonic powers to convince people of his greatness. He had a number of followers who sought after him because of who he claimed to be and the magic he performed.

But Philip was different from Simon the sorcerer. Philip preached the Good News – proclaiming Christ – drawing attention to the gospel. Philip performed miracles by the power of God. People were converted to Christ because of Philip’s decision to continue proclaiming Christ despite persecution.

The power of God and the message of Jesus Christ changed the people and even a sorcerer. Those who were following the sorcerer began to believe and were baptized.

Philip didn’t stop his ministry because of persecution or the demonic powers used by another person. Philip remained committed to God, the call on his life, and continued to preach the Good News of Jesus Christ. Although Philip had scattered, God made sure another group of people who were being led by demonic power heard the message of Christ, believed, and were saved.

Sisters and brothers, maybe you know someone who doesn’t believe, don’t give up. Keep believing in the name of Jesus Christ who saves. Keep praying for those who don’t know the Lord. Keep praying for those who have heard but have not believed. Keep praying for those who believe but don’t walk in their belief. Keep praying for those who once believed and turned away. Continue to be an example of Christ in the way that you live. God is still in the business of changing hearts, leading people out of the deserts/wilderness, and saving lives.

Who are you praying for today, this month? ____________

Prayer:

Father God, thank you for your love toward us. Father, we thank you because no weapon formed against will prosper. Father, you walk with us and talk with us, and we thank you for your presence amongst us. Lord, you have given us so much to be grateful for that we sometimes forget our blessings come from you. Lord, forgive us for the times when we overlooked You – the source of our joy, salvation, protection, and provisions. Lord, you are always with us. You make a way even when things seem impossible. Lord, we pray for healing in our nation and land. Lord, we pray for peace, reconciliation, and comfort for those who are grieving. Lord, may Your word, work, and presence be found everywhere. Protect the innocent, unveil the eyes of the blind, open the ears of the deaf, and renew a right spirit within us all. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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