I forgot

Every Tuesday at 4:00 I meet with two other guys to read and study the Scripture. We've been meeting for quite some time now and have slowly made our way through the pastoral letters of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. We are now trudging through the account of the early church in the book of Acts. As we read through chapter 8, I was reminded of something that I forgot to bring out in my message this past week.

Some of you may recall the encouragement that was given to be cautious of FAKE healers. For those readers not able to be here in attendance, allow me to recap.

1. Be cautious of those who are constantly casting out demons of ashma, blindness, cnacer, diabetes, and post nasal drip.
2. Be cautious of those who promise healing for every disease.
3. Be cautious of those who make miracles the main ministry.
4. Be cautious of those who use healing as a money maker.
5. Be cautious of those who make light of medical treatment.

It's the fourth caution that I was reminded of during my small group study. Check this!

9Now for some time a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and amazed all the people of Samaria. He boasted that he was someone great, 10and all the people, both high and low, gave him their attention and exclaimed, "This man is the divine power known as the Great Power." 11They followed him because he had amazed them for a long time with his magic. 12But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13Simon himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw.

18When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money 19and said, "Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit."

20Peter answered: "May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin."

That's serious business!!! I love that part that when Peter suggest that perhaps Simon should pray and perhaps the Lord will forgive you.