FAITH CAPSULE: Many are followers, but their hearts are not after Jesus.

Acts 8: 5-25

After Jesus’ ascended to heaven, persecution caused His disciples to be scattered to different parts of the world. Philip went to the city of Samaria and began to witness Christ. As Philip was witnessing, many were converted when they saw the miracles by the hand of Philip. The witnessing of Philip brought healing over paralysis and deliverance from unclean spirits. While Philip was in Samaria, Simon who had previously practiced sorcery in the city gave his life to Christ. Before the arrival of Philip, Simon was regarded as a great man with the great power of God. It is written, “Then Simon himself also believed; and when he was baptized he continued with Philip, and was amazed, seeing the miracles and signs which were done.” (Acts 8:13) The message of Philip and the manifestation of miracles brought Simon to believe and followed Philip. As Simon continued to follow Philip, his kind of heart was exposed when he encountered Peter. Although he was converted but the kind of heart which Simon carried was not revealed. Which kind of heart do you carry in following the Lord Jesus? Time will tell regardless of how long you have been carrying a different mind from that of true followers; one day it will come to light.

This passage is a testimony to the fact that today, many are followers, but their hearts are not after Jesus. In the process of time, Peter was in location to expose Simon. Simon witnessed the apostles giving the Holy Spirit to people by the laying of hands and he desired such power demonstration. His desire prompted him to offer money for the manifestation of such power in his life, “Saying, ‘Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.’”  (Acts 8:19) The power of God cannot be purchased by money, but is only receivable if you make yourself available for Him. Peter exposed Simon by saying; “You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.” (Acts 8:21-23) Simon was a believer just like many but his heart was poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity. Simon’s true heart was not revealed until he had an encounter with Peter. How is your heart? Can you give yourself a reality heart checkup to identify where your heart belong? It will not take forever before the truth reveals itself. Are you a modern day Simon the sorcerer? Deception, lying and manipulation can only last for a moment because God cannot be deceived.

Prayer for today: Ask God to give you a clean heart and a steadfast spirit to follow truly.