Bible Commentary

For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and [in] the bond of iniquity. 23. For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity ] The preposition in makes a great difficulty in this verse. The word in the original means into or for. … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:23”

Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. 22. Repent therefore, &c.] On this condition not only could the stern wish of Peter be averted, but the anger of God also. We see therefore that the words of the Apostle in Act 8:20 … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:22”

Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 21. Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter (or word)] By the word “lot” the thought is carried back to the election of Matthias (Act 1:26). In that case the choice had been … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:21”

But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. 20. But Peter said unto him, Thy money [silver] perish with thee ] It is clear from what follows that this terrible invocation of doom upon this offender is to be … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:20”

saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. 19. saying, Give me also this power ] The character of the man is shewn by what he asks for. He does not desire the Holy Ghost for himself as a spiritual gift to seal his baptism, … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:19”

And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, 18. And when Simon saw, &c.] Simon’s conduct now makes it clear how limited his faith had been. As he offered to buy the power, so we may be sure he meant to sell … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:18”

Then laid they [their] hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. 17. Then laid they their hands on them ] That there might be some outward sign of this imparted grace. So Ananias (Act 9:17) laid his hands on Saul, and he received the Holy Ghost. But on Cornelius and his companions (Act … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:17”

(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 16. they were baptized in [into] the name, &c.] The preposition, which is the same that is used by Christ (Mat 28:19) at the institution of the Sacrament, implies the tie by which the … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:16”

Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 15. who, when they were come down, &c.] It is clear from the whole history that the special gift of the Holy Ghost, bestowed at this period on the Christian converts in various places, was not given except through … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:15”

Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 14 25. Peter and John sent down to Samaria. Conduct of Simon Magus 14. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem ] The whole twelve still abiding there ( Act … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Acts 8:14”