When Simon perceived that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money. He said, “Give me this authority too so that anyone on whom I lay my hands will receive the Holy Spirit.” Peter responded, “May your money be condemned to hell along with you because you believed you could buy God’s gift with money! You can have no part or share in God’s word because your heart isn’t right with God. Therefore, change your heart and life! Turn from your wickedness! Plead with the Lord in the hope that your wicked intent can be forgiven, for I see that your bitterness has poisoned you and evil has you in chains.” Simon replied, “All of you, please, plead to the Lord for me so that nothing of what you have said will happen to me!” (Acts 8:18-24, CEB)
What God gives to each of us is a free gift that we can not buy or earn. We can make requests but it is ultimately the gift giver that decides what gifts are given.
We can not earn an inheritance nor can we earn grace.
I do feel Peter’s response is a little much and I hope he prayed for Simon’s forgiveness, as Simon requested.
God decides who is in and out and who gets what or doesn’t get that.
We have no say.
Know you are loved because God wants to and gives you gifts and grace to share with others.
Loving People. Loving God.
aSacredRebel 