EPISODE · Jun 3, 2026 · 6 MIN
Day 39 — Simon the Magician Believes (Acts 8:9-13) | June 3
from Acts Daily Devotional Podcast · host Derek Sanford
Before Philip arrived in Samaria, a magician named Simon held the city captive with sorcery. Everyone paid attention to him, calling him the Great Power of God. When Philip showed up with genuine power, the crowds shifted. To everyone's surprise, Simon himself believed and was baptized. But what exactly did he believe? Luke gives a clue. Simon followed Philip everywhere, amazed as he observed the signs and great miracles. He wasn't amazed at Jesus. He was amazed at the power. Simon saw better magic tricks, an upgrade to his business model. You can be impressed with Christianity without being transformed by Christ. You can want what Jesus offers without wanting Jesus himself.
What this episode covers
Before Philip arrived in Samaria, a magician named Simon held the city captive with sorcery. Everyone paid attention to him, calling him the Great Power of God. When Philip showed up with genuine power, the crowds shifted. To everyone's surprise, Simon himself believed and was baptized. But what exactly did he believe? Luke gives a clue. Simon followed Philip everywhere, amazed as he observed the signs and great miracles. He wasn't amazed at Jesus. He was amazed at the power. Simon saw better magic tricks, an upgrade to his business model. You can be impressed with Christianity without being transformed by Christ. You can want what Jesus offers without wanting Jesus himself.
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Day 39 — Simon the Magician Believes (Acts 8:9-13) | June 3
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