Who was Simon Magus?

We first read about Simon in chapter 8 of the book of Acts. He practiced sorcery in the city of Samaria. In fact, the word magus means “sorcerer” or “magician.” When he heard the preaching of Phillip, concerning the Kingdom of God, he believed and was baptized. He then offered money to Peter to purchase the Holy Spirit (18-19).

Peter rebuked him, saying, “Your money perish with you, because you have thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. You have neither part nor lot in this matter: for your heart is not right in the sight of God” (20-21).

Simon went on to start a new religion, mixing parts of his Babylonian Mystery Religion with true Christian doctrine and calling it “Christian.” It spread throughout the world with remarkable acceptance.

Summarizing the work of Simon and his followers, Jude 4 is to the point: “For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.”

If you would like more information on Simon Magus and the false religion he started, read our free book Where Is the True Church? – and Its Incredible History!. It is both informative and enlightening.