Ambition

In Acts 8, we meet a man named Simon who told everyone in Samaria that he was great. He was a magician (some translations say sorcerer) who gained popularity through his craft. According to the text, Simon is inspired by the good news of Jesus, is baptized, and becomes a follower of Philip. He’s even amazed at the miracles Philip performs by the power of Holy Spirit. However, he sees this power not as a sign of increasing faith in Jesus, but more so an asset to give his magic career a bigger audience. Later, he offers Peter money so that he might receive the Holy Spirit’s power. Peter doesn’t hold back in calling him out and Simon walks away repentant. It’s a crazy story; and it speaks to an issue many of us secretly wrestle with: ambition.To read the full post, check it out on CCW's The Gathering.