So far, the book of Acts has been characterized by great addition. The same trend now continues outside of Jerusalem. Luke testifies to the power of the preached word of God as great numbers of people turn to God.
But now see the principle of subtraction. One of the new members, Simon the Sorcerer is excommunicated.
Why does Luke tell this story? Surely he doesn't tell EVERY story of the early church. Why this one? Of course, it was interesting. It isn't every day that a magician joins your church and then shows himself to be a hypocrite. But Luke is doing more than relating an interesting tale. He seems to be using Simon to teach on the difference between true and false professions of faith. The apostles came from Jerusalem to inspect the fruit of Philips preaching since many had believed.
The story has both good and bad news. The bad news is that there are hypocrites in the church. The good news is that hypocrisy isn't an asymptomatic disease. It is possible to distinguish hypocrites from sincere but inconsistent believers. And even hypocrites are able to repent and forgiven.
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