Phillip preaches.

Monday, April 12, 2010: Acts 8:4–7

Therefore those who were scattered went everywhere preaching the word. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed.
Background: Phillip has a chapter about his work with the Holy Spirit in Acts.
What did the people of Samaria do when they saw the miracles? They believed Phillip’s message about the gospel.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010: Acts 8:9–10

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, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.”
What was the difference between and Simon? Simon claimed greatness by his powers; Phillip didn’t.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010: Acts 8:12–13

But when they believed Philip as he preached the things concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized. 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.
Why was Simon amazed? Because the miracles he saw were real: his were fake.

Thursday, April 15, 2010: Acts 8:14–17

Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
What do you make of these verses? Phillip baptized them in the name he preached: Jesus Christ. The ministry of the Peter and John was different. (Beyond this, I am open for your comments.)

Friday, April 16, 2010: Acts 8:18–20

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!
What was the striking part of the Apostle’s attitude? They were not concerned about money.