SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1125

“In the Gall and Bond”

For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity. – Acts 8:23

These words were spoken by Peter to a man named Simon, a magician who had proclaimed himself to be someone great. He loved being the center of attention in his community.

But there was a man named Simon, who had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he himself was somebody great. They all paid attention to him, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the power of God that is called Great.” And they paid attention to him… – Acts 8:9-11

So now Philip comes on the scene and in the power of the Holy Spirit is performing miracles.

And the crowds with one accord paid attention to what was being said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs that he did. For unclean spirits, crying out with a loud voice, came out of many who had them, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed… – Acts 8:6-8

Simon also accepted the Gospel message and was baptized by Philip and followed him around.

Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed. – Acts 8:13

Now Peter and John arrive to lay hands on the baptized believers that they might receive the Holy Spirit. This is when Simon’s true character is revealed which prompted Peter’s sharp rebuke.

Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” But Peter said to him, “May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. – Acts 8:18-21

How many Pastors in how many churches have had to deal with people of means and position from the local community as members of their church who are like Simon of Samaria? They tithe and donate to church programs – but sometimes with strings attached. They may not be seeking to buy the power of the Holy Spirit as Simon was but they may seek positions of prominence and authority. They may seek to influence church direction and decisions ‘or else their tithes and offerings will leave with them’.

Rather than give in out of fear of impacting church finances, Pastors need to call them to repentance in love as Peter did. Repent, therefore, of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you… – Acts 8:22

Peter’s bold discernment and rebuke constitutes tough love in faith and trust that the Lord will provide for His church. As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty…They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share... – 1 Timothy 6:17-19

This Christmas reflect upon Jesus’ example of humility and servitude. If we are blessed with means and societal position it is a blessing of God and a call to obediently and humbly serve in the church as well as in our communities.  God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. – James 4:6