But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. -- Acts 8:20 (KJV)
Some Great One
Before Philip arrives, Simon has the city's attention. He has used sorcery there for a long time, "giving out that himself was some great one," and the people agree with him. From the least to the greatest they say, "This man is the great power of God."
Then they believe Philip's preaching about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, and they are baptized, both men and women. Simon believes also and is baptized. He continues with Philip and wonders at the miracles and signs.
When the apostles at Jerusalem hear that Samaria has received the word of God, they send Peter and John. The two pray for the new believers to receive the Holy Ghost, "for as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus." The apostles lay their hands on them, and they receive the Holy Ghost.
Simon sees it and offers money. "Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost." For years the city had looked to him. Now he is looking at something he does not have, and he reaches for his purse.
Peter's answer rests on the word gift. What God gives cannot be purchased, and the thought that it could comes from a heart that "is not right in the sight of God." Peter goes further than rebuke. "Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee." Simon asks the apostles to pray for him, and Luke tells us nothing more about him.
Paying Without Money
Few of us would bring silver. We bring years of attendance, a record of giving, a hard season endured without complaint, and an unspoken expectation that God now owes us an answer. Service offered that way has turned into a price.
Where have you been showing God what you have done and waiting for what you think it earned? Peter's command is as open to you as it was to Simon: repent, and pray.
The Samaritans paid nothing. They believed, they were baptized, and they received what God gave.
