Simon the Sorcerer was one of the great sorcerers of all time (Acts 8:9-24). He was Merlin class. There are still sorcerers, witches, psychics, occultists, and their ilk in the world today. We look at Simon's story, as well as some similar stories in Acts, to learn four important facts about those who practise the magic arts.
Simon the Sorcerer
1 Showing Amazing Powers
"Astonishing the people"(Act 8:9,11).
"Great signs and wonders"(Mtt 24:24).
In some cases power is result of demon possession (Act 16:16-19).
In some cases there is no power but only deception (2Tm 3:13)
2 Giving Glory to Self
"This man is called The Great Power of God"(Act 8:10).
Apostles glorified Christ (Act 3:12-16)
Example: Paul and Barnabus deny they are gods (Act 14:8-15).
While some who practise the magic arts express humility, we must remember that "Satan disguises himself as an angel of light"(2Co 11:14-15).
3 Captive of Evil
"In the gall of bitterness and bond of iniquity"(Act 8:23).
Deceived by antichrist —lack"the love of the truth"(2Th 2:9-12).
4 No Match for Jesus
Simon amazed the people, but he himself was amazed at apostles' miracles which were beyond anything he could do (Act 8:13)
Similar story: Seven sons of Sceva (Act 19:11-20)
Another similar story: Bar Jesus [Elymas] (Act 13:6-12)
The powers of darkness are no match for Jesus (Eph 6:13-14, Rev 21:5-8).
