Acts 8:13
What does Acts 8:13 mean?
A plain-English look at Acts 8:13 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Acts 8:13 means
Even Simon, the former sorcerer, professed belief in Philip's message and was baptized. He then attached himself to Philip, closely observing the genuine signs and great miracles that Philip performed. Simon himself was astonished by these truly divine works, suggesting that even his practiced eye recognized a power far exceeding his own magical arts. While outwardly he appeared to convert, his amazement points to a potentially superficial faith, captivated more by power than by true repentance.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And Simon also himself believed: and being baptized, he continued with Philip; and beholding signs and great miracles wrought, he was amazed.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And Simon also himself believed: and being baptized, he continued with Philip; and beholding signs and great miracles wrought, he was amazed.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And Simon himself had faith and, having had baptism, he went with Philip and, seeing the signs and the great wonders which he did, he was full of surprise.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and Simon also himself did believe, and, having been baptized, he was continuing with Philip, beholding also signs and mighty acts being done, he was amazed.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Then Simon himself believed also and, being baptized, he adhered to Philip. And being astonished, wondered to see the signs and exceeding great miracles which were done.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And Simon also himself believed; and, having been baptised, continued constantly with Philip; and, beholding the signs and great works of power which took place, was astonished.
Context
This verse details Simon's immediate personal response to Philip's ministry, following the community's conversion in verse 12. His belief and baptism initially present him as part of the new Samaritan church. However, the mention of his being "amazed" by Philip's signs, rather than by the Gospel itself, foreshadows his deeper spiritual issues that will become evident when Peter and John arrive in verses 18-23.
v.12But when they believed Philip preaching good tidings concerning the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
v.13This passage
v.14Now when the apostles that were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 5:20
For the Father loveth the Son, and showeth him all things that himself doeth: and greater works than these will he show him, that ye may marvel.
- James 2:19
Thou believest that God is one; thou doest well: the demons also believe, and shudder.
- John 8:30
As he spake these things, many believed on him.
- Luke 8:13
And those on the rock are they who, when they have heard, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
- Habakkuk 1:5
Behold ye among the nations, and look, and wonder marvellously; for I am working a work in your days, which ye will not believe though it be told you.
- Psalms 106:12
Then believed they his words; They sang his praise.
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