Reference: Acts 8:17-22
18 And when Simon saw that through alaying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,
19 Saying, Give me also this apower, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.
21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not aright in the sight of God.
22 Repent therefore of this thy awickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the bthought of thine cheart may be forgiven thee.
When Simon saw the apostles giving the Holy Ghost, he offered them money that he might have not only the power of the Holy Ghost, but also the power to give it. It is possible that he even desired to sell it himself. Even though Simon was right to realize that the Holy Ghost is a desirable thing to have, he did not fully comprehend its power or the power of God. He did not understand that God works in His own ways, not in the ways of man. I know that the power of the Holy Ghost is both miraculous and essential to our mortal lives and our eternal salvation. However, in order to have its presence with us always we must earn that right through obeying the commandments. We cannot obtain it any other way.
When Simon saw the apostles giving the Holy Ghost, he offered them money that he might have not only the power of the Holy Ghost, but also the power to give it. It is possible that he even desired to sell it himself. Even though Simon was right to realize that the Holy Ghost is a desirable thing to have, he did not fully comprehend its power or the power of God. He did not understand that God works in His own ways, not in the ways of man. I know that the power of the Holy Ghost is both miraculous and essential to our mortal lives and our eternal salvation. However, in order to have its presence with us always we must earn that right through obeying the commandments. We cannot obtain it any other way.
2 comments:
Thank you for your comments. This also struck me as interesting. It was included in the Acts of the apostles and therefore must have relevance for our time. I was thinking about how many times, in our day, doing the work of God has become a monetary act. Too many people have made financial gain off of the faith of others. The power of God CAN NOT be purchased by money. "only upon principles of righteousness". It is sad how many people try to sale "salvation", forgivness and healing. Christ offers this to all willingly.
Thanks for the original post and the comment by Josh. I'm always amazed at those in the world who, even with this scripture, continue to believe salvation and powers of God can be purchased. I second Josh with "the power of God CANNOT be purchased by money." God wants things from us, but it's of course not our silver and gold. He wants our hearts, our faith; those things that anyone can give, whether rich or poor. And as a college student I'm glad for this, since I wouldn't have much money to give anyway.
Post a Comment