12/13/2023 0 Comments Simon the sorcerer holy spirit![]() The manual Confronting the Powers was written by the well-known leader mentioned above to explain this type of spiritual warfare. This potentially dangerous practice directly rebuking powerful demonic beings in the heavenlies is not clearly supported by Scripture. Incredibly, this is the motivation and origin of the practice known in many circles of the Church today as “strategic-level spiritual warfare.” In New Testament Scripture the Lord Jesus did not command His disciples or us to address territorial spirits directly, rebuking them and commanding them to leave geographic areas being evangelized. Above all, do not let bitterness gain a foothold in your life it will corrupt you and others.Interestingly, a well-known leader in the Church today feels that witchcraft has something to offer to the Church, and is willing to experiment with practices derived from studying “shamans, witch doctors, practitioners of Eastern religions, New Age gurus” (see below for the references), and so forth. If you see it in others, gently seek to restore them to the humility of Christ ( Galatians 6:1-2). Repent and plead for God's mercy before it is too late. Where such wickedness lies in us, we need to take this passage to heart. ![]() Bitterness lurks beneath the surface of so many people who go to church: it is a bad disease which spreads. And yet self-motivated spiritual celebrities need to hear Peter's rebuke. We do not know whether or not he repented. When Simon realised that the possibility of God's judgement was real ( Acts 5:1-11) Simon asked the apostles to intercede with God on his behalf. Whatever relationships or events in his background may have fomented bitterness, the only remedy for wickedness is repentance and God's mercy. Peter discerned its source as the enslaving grip of bitterness, which is a spiritually contagious disease which is able to destroy fellowship and hinder the gospel ( Deuteronomy 29:18 Hebrews 12:15). Simon's desire to control people was not described as 'enthusiasm', 'misunderstanding' or 'immaturity' but 'wickedness'. Although Simon wanted to be part of the apostolic team, Peter bluntly told him that he could have no part in their ministry because his heart was not right before the Lord: and both Simon and his money would perish. Peter rebuked Simon strongly for his self-centred desire and for insulting God who gives His Spirit freely to those who repent ( John 3:34). ![]() His motive was exposed when he offered payment to the apostles so that he could buy their power ( Acts 8:18-19). Simon claimed to believe in Jesus, but really wanted to be a spiritual celebrity. As they laid hands on the new believers, Simon saw manifestations of God's power, and he wanted to have that sort of influence over people. It came to light when Peter and John came from Jerusalem, teaching that all who believed in Jesus should also welcome His Holy Spirit ( Acts 8:14-17). But there was something wrong in the heart of this man who craved public recognition, presumably making money from his 'magic powers' ( Acts 8:4-11). As people believed, they were baptised Simon among them. Philip the Evangelist was preaching the gospel in Samaria, when Simon the Sorcerer was attracted to hear what he had to say.
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