Acts 8:21 (NKJV) 21 You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God.
Now Simon was a magician in the city of Samaria, and people were amazed by his sorcery. He had a large following.
He saw the incredible power of the Holy Spirit move on believers when Peter and John lay hands on them.
And what did Simon do?
He offered them money to have such power, so that he could touch people and they would receive the Holy Spirit.
Acts 8:18-19 (NKJV) 18 And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
Peter told Simon his heart was in the wrong place thinking he could buy God’s gifts. He needed to go and repent.
Acts 8:22 (NKJV) 22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.
The condition of Simon’s heart was laid bare. And Peter told him right out, repent for your wickedness.
His reason for wanting the gift of the Holy Spirit was wicked. The Holy Spirit showed Peter what his motive was.
Our heart must be right in the sight of God if we want to walk in the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
People of God, if we want the gifts of God flowing through us, we must walk humbly before Him.
It takes a sincere heart of repentance and humility.
Acts 2:38 (NKJV) 38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Pastor Curt & Pastor Ellie
Seven Seas Ministries
49 N Lamplighters Walk
Hampstead, NC 28443
401-439-3780
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