How should we understand the story of Simon in Acts 8? Simon heard the preaching of Philip and believed and was baptized along with many other Samaritans. But when he saw the Holy Spirit given through the laying on of the apostles hands he asked to buy the power to bestow the Holy Spirit. Peter's answer is bold and terrifying. He makes it clear that Simon is excluded from salvation and needs to repent.
How is it possible that someone who has believed and been baptized should be considered to be outside of salvation?
This story gives us an opportunity to consider the doctrine of the Perseverance of the Saints and the truth it reveals. What is certain is that all those who are in Christ cannot be lost; but there are many who are not in Christ, but have distorted the gospel in a way that makes their faith of no effect. They are not in Christ, but in delusion.
Featuring a sermon puts it on the front page of the site and is the most effective way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands including all mobile platforms + newsletter.
Text-Featuring a sermon is a less expensive way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands on the right bar with optional newsletter inclusion. As low as $30/day.