Do you see how he does all of malice? To be simple, however, was the thing needed. (b) For had it been done with simplicity, he would have even welcomed his willing mind. Do you see that to have mean conceptions of great things is to sin doubly? Accordingly, two things he bids him: Repent and pray, if haply the thought of your heart may be forgiven you.
Once more he brings to light what was in the thoughts, because Simon thought to escape detection. Repent therefore of this your wickedness and pray God, if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. For I perceive the bond of inquity. Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which you have spoken come upon me.
Wherefore also Peter well calls the affair a gift: You have thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. Do you observe how on all occasions they are clean from money? For your heart is not right in the sight of God. Acts 8:21 Do you see how he does all of malice? To be simple, however, was the thing needed.
If you did know it, you ought to have known this also, that you should have nothing more to do with that profession of yours which, of itself, fore-chants the climacterics of others, and might instruct you of its own danger. There is no part nor lot for you in that system of yours.
