“But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great, to whom they all gave heed, And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money ! Acts 8:9-20
Simon the sorcerer was some grand persona that has mastered the command of the handle of the wheel of darkness to his advantage through the use of sorcery. It is astonishing that his skills seem to have placed him above the political authorities in his country. Single-handedly he commanded the respect of all regardless of age, skills, or experience. His prowess curved him a niche with the gods as he is referred to as "the great power of God". This man was consistent in his artwork thus keeping the whole country bewildered and within his control throughout.
It is important to note that the Bible does not emphasize that he was using his dark skills to do evil ; it is possible that he was also using it to what would be perceived as doing good to gain acceptance in some social circles as well. This venture continued until when matched with the thunderous power of Philip, the evangelist. Simon realized that his days are over and thus used a stratagem to deceive Philip into believing he has now switched to the kingdom of God. He was so meticulous, consistent, and assiduous in taking the baptism classes therefore qualifying as a believer. His well-thought science was to infiltrate the newly created church with divination, thus crippling it into syncretism.
While the plot was ongoing after the departure of Philip, comes another Simon on the scene. The kingdom of God and the kingdom of the devil are in constant warfare. Simon Peter will quickly dismantle the evil plan of Simon the sorcerer through the gift of discernment. The lack of discernment can push believers into accepting something that looks like light. Our prayer this day should be for God to lift the veil by heightening our discernment in our workplaces, businesses, political arena, and wherever he has called us to serve in order to bring light into darkness.