Acts 8:19
Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost.
Original Language Analysis
λέγων,
Saying
G3004
λέγων,
Saying
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 15
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Δότε
Give
G1325
Δότε
Give
Strong's:
G1325
Word #:
2 of 15
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
κἀμοὶ
me also
G2504
κἀμοὶ
me also
Strong's:
G2504
Word #:
3 of 15
so also the dative case ????? <pronunciation strongs="kam-oy'"/>, and accusative case ???? <pronunciation strongs="kam-eh'"/> and (or also, even, etc.
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐξουσίαν
power
G1849
ἐξουσίαν
power
Strong's:
G1849
Word #:
5 of 15
privilege, i.e., (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely, magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token o
ταύτην
G3778
ταύτην
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
6 of 15
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
ᾧ
whomsoever
G3739
ᾧ
whomsoever
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
8 of 15
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
τὰς
G3588
τὰς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
χεῖρας
hands
G5495
χεῖρας
hands
Strong's:
G5495
Word #:
12 of 15
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
λαμβάνῃ
he may receive
G2983
λαμβάνῃ
he may receive
Strong's:
G2983
Word #:
13 of 15
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
Historical Context
Simon's background in sorcery likely influenced his transactional view of spiritual power. In the ancient world, magical power was thought to be transferable through payment, ritual, or acquisition of secret knowledge. Simon applied this pagan framework to the Holy Spirit.
Questions for Reflection
- How does desire for spiritual power for self-advancement indicate an unregenerate heart?
- In what subtle ways do we try to control or manipulate God's gifts?
- What is the proper attitude toward spiritual gifts and power?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Simon's request 'give me also this power' exposes his desire for authority over the Spirit's distribution. He wanted apostolic power for himself, not to serve God but to enhance his own influence and prestige. The offer of money shows he viewed spiritual gifts as commodities to be traded. Reformed theology sees this as the essence of carnality - seeking to control and manipulate God's gifts for selfish ends. True spiritual power comes through humble submission to God's sovereignty, not through human acquisition or merit.