Because of the persecution that began after Stephen’s death, many people left Jerusalem and scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Philip was one of these people. Philip was full of Holy Spirit and wisdom. He was one of the chosen first deacons to serve the Grecian widows and a powerful missionary. Philip went to Samaria.
There was in that city a man, Simon, famous for his sorcery. Many there called him “The Great Power.” However, when Philip came they got to know the true Great Power, Jesus. They saw what true miracles looked like and were converted and baptized. Even Simon was baptized.
This story reminds me of Jesus’ story of The Sower. The persecution had the affect of the sower sowing seeds. In effect, God scattered His people and they began scattering the seeds of God’s Word, the Good News (Gospel) about Jesus, to people far and wide. Some seed fell on good soil and some on shallow, weedy, or hard soil. Was Simon in this condition? Did he stay in this condition? Here in lies the lesson.
One of the activities is to prepare simple pamphlets to attach to seed packets and share with others.
