Simon’s earning attitude (trying to buy God’s gift) contrasts with Jesus’ invitation to take the water of life without cost. Thinking we have to be obedient enough to acquire grace is NOT a “safe” way to be saved. The warning sign of an earning attitude is one’s own inability to be at peace with others, (regardless of whether or not they are at peace with us, Rom 12:18) while still loving them enough to tell them the truth, as Peter told Simon. Either grace or truth without the other is madness.
“Your heart’s intent” is the key phrase in this account. The intent of Simon’s heart was dark and corrupted. Conversely, it is possible for some people with good hearts to commit sin, largely out of ignorance (see 2 Chron. 30:18-20). God can work with the latter, not the former.
Thank you for sharing! Yes we need to remember who Jesus is! He’s not a magician when he heals! He’s the Son of God the Father… God made flesh who dwelt among us, loves us, taught us and died for us in our place for our sins! Praise God for Sharia g Jesus with us, and for the Salvation through believing Jesus as our Savior and Lord!
"Not all sin is the same. Weakness and rebellion are not equal"
Amen.
Sin is "missing the mark", and we can miss it in two ways: we can miss it while aiming toward God's holiness, and we can miss it by intentionally aiming away from it.
Simon’s earning attitude (trying to buy God’s gift) contrasts with Jesus’ invitation to take the water of life without cost. Thinking we have to be obedient enough to acquire grace is NOT a “safe” way to be saved. The warning sign of an earning attitude is one’s own inability to be at peace with others, (regardless of whether or not they are at peace with us, Rom 12:18) while still loving them enough to tell them the truth, as Peter told Simon. Either grace or truth without the other is madness.
“Your heart’s intent” is the key phrase in this account. The intent of Simon’s heart was dark and corrupted. Conversely, it is possible for some people with good hearts to commit sin, largely out of ignorance (see 2 Chron. 30:18-20). God can work with the latter, not the former.
For the life of me I can't understand why some refuse to see what I'm saying. I'm not sure I could say it more clearly. It's mind-boggling.
Excellent article!
I get it!
True repentance is not godly sorrow.
But, produces godly sorrow!
But…. it goes on to say…..
Thanks for writing back. I like that -- godly sorrow is the fruit of true repentance.
Thank you for sharing! Yes we need to remember who Jesus is! He’s not a magician when he heals! He’s the Son of God the Father… God made flesh who dwelt among us, loves us, taught us and died for us in our place for our sins! Praise God for Sharia g Jesus with us, and for the Salvation through believing Jesus as our Savior and Lord!
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts! Blessings!
"Not all sin is the same. Weakness and rebellion are not equal"
Amen.
Sin is "missing the mark", and we can miss it in two ways: we can miss it while aiming toward God's holiness, and we can miss it by intentionally aiming away from it.
Thank you. The responses I've been getting on FB are typical. Appreciate your encouragement!