Series: Action [#18]
COUNTERFEIT CHRISTIANS
Acts 8:9-25
Introduction:
In the previous verses we saw city wide revival. Miracles were performed, souls saved. Here’s a Scriptural principle: Wherever God sends genuine revival, Satan attempts to send counterfeit revival. For all God has, Satan has a counterfeit. Simon is a classic example of a counterfeit Christian.
Acts 8:9-12
A counterfeit Christian…
1. Takes care of themself first.
He promoted himself. He had a following from the power of what he had done. His life was centered upon himself and what he could do. He was making a living off of a lie.
Acts 8:13, 21-24
A counterfeit Christian…
2. Talks about their profession of faith.
Just because someone walks the aisle and says that they have made a profession of faith doesn’t mean they really did. Only God knows our hearts. Jesus said that the evidence of our salvation is by the fruit of our lives; but before we go to judging people’s salvation we need to be reminded that there will be people that make it into Heaven as by fire which means there was no evidence of salvation in their life, but they were saved.
We need to notice that Simon didn’t seemed concerned about living a Christian life, he just wanted to avoid something bad happening to him.
Acts 8:14-20
A counterfeit Christian…
3. Tries to work or pay for their salvation.
When Simon saw that these new believers had received the Holy Spirit, he wanted the same. When a person is saved, they receive the Holy Spirit. Just saying you believe and being baptized in water will not save you. This is the only time we see the laying on of hands by the Apostles to receive the Holy Spirit.
We must be careful not to think that a person cannot receive the Holy Spirit unless an Apostle lays hands on them. In this instance, this happened, (I believe) in order to show Simon’s heart and intent. Simon wanted to buy the power to give others the Holy Spirit. Simon shows who he is. He wants this to be about him and not the power of God.
There are still many who are trying to buy their way into Heaven. If they just give enough money to the Church, or to the needy, or to charities; they will be saved.
There are still many who are trying to work their way into Heaven. If they do enough ministry or they are just a good person; they will be saved.
Conclusion:
Is your relationship with Jesus real? Only you and God know your heart. I am not here to judge that. I am called to ask you the question and encourage you to consider your salvation with fear and trembling.
Philippians 2:12-13
Take your salvation serious. Do not play “Russian Roulette” with your salvation. Christians, we need to do what Peter and John did after this experience- Keep lifting up Jesus and proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Acts 8:25
