What lessons can we learn from Simon's baptism about outward versus inward change? Simon’s Public Act: Baptism—What Happened? Acts 8:13: “Even Simon himself believed and was baptized. He followed Philip closely and was astounded by the great signs and miracles he observed.” • A famous magician sees undeniable power in the gospel. • He responds outwardly—professes belief and submits to baptism. • He attaches himself to Philip, the evangelist, amazed by miracles. The Surface Sign Versus the Hidden Heart • Baptism is a God-ordained, visible declaration (Matthew 28:19). • Yet genuine conversion involves an internal rebirth (John 3:3). • Simon’s later request to “buy” the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:18-19) exposes a heart still chained to pride and self-promotion. • 1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, “Man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” Warning Signs in Simon’s Story Acts 8:20-23 records Peter’s rebuke: • “Your heart is not right before God” (v. 21). • “You are poisoned by bitterness and captive to iniquity” (v. 23). Indicators of a merely outward change: 1. Fascination with power more than with Christ (v. 13, v. 19). 2. Attempting to control or manipulate spiritual gifts (v. 18-19). 3. Lack of repentance—Peter calls him to “repent of this wickedness” (v. 22). Core Lessons for Today • Outward signs are essential but never sufficient. ‑ Romans 10:9-10 pairs confession with heart-belief. • True faith produces repentance and new desires. ‑ 2 Corinthians 5:17: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” • Spiritual gifts cannot be bought, earned, or hijacked; they are bestowed by God’s grace (1 Corinthians 12:11). • Spiritual leaders must lovingly confront hypocrisy, as Peter did (Galatians 6:1). • God sees through every religious façade (Hebrews 4:13). Cultivating Genuine Inward Change • Examine the heart regularly (Psalm 139:23-24). • Treasure Christ above His gifts (Philippians 3:8). • Pursue ongoing repentance, not a one-time event (Luke 9:23). • Submit to the Spirit’s transforming work, evidenced by fruit—love, joy, peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22-23). • Stay accountable within the body of believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). Simon’s baptism shows that water can wet the body without washing the heart. Only a surrendered, Spirit-changed life confirms the reality that outward confession matches inward transformation. |
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