The Sorcerer’s Profession of Faith

9 But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously gpracticed 2sorcery in the city and hastonished the 3people 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 4sorceries for a long time. 12 But when they believed Philip as he preached the things iconcerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized. 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.

The Sorcerer’s Sin

14 Now when the japostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, 15 who, when they had come down, prayed for them kthat they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For las yet He had fallen upon none of them. mThey had only been baptized in nthe name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then othey laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

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.”

20 But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because pyou thought that qthe gift of God could be purchased with money! 21 You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your rheart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God sif perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are tpoisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”

24 Then Simon answered and said, u“Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.”