Thank you for the interpretative question, “When you read what Simon requested in Acts 8:24, did Peter do what was asked of him?” (NIV).
Acts 8 says this, “ 8 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money 19 and said, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 Peter answered: “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21 You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23 For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.” 24 Then Simon answered, “Pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me” (NIV).
Here are some thoughts for one’s consideration that Peter could only pray for Simon the Sorcer IF he repented of his sin.
The Apostle Peter revealed and warned Simon the Sorcer of his bitterness and captivity to sin. He wanted to retain his former recognition of fame before the people. Simon thought that he could dispense the Holy Spirit to whomever he wanted to including non-believers. Was he thinking of receiving money from those whom he would “give” the Holy Spirit? It appears so to me.
Peter reveals the answer to his bitterness. He must repent of this evil thought. His heart wasn’t right with God. It was incumbent on Simon to repent, not that Peter would pray that nothing bad would happen to him. If Simon didn’t repent of his sin, he would be continually longing to “buy” the right to give the Holy Spirit to whomever he wishes. If Peter prayed that nothing bad would happen to him and he continued in his sin, then Peter would be condoning Simon’s actions. It is important to note that Peter said that may his money perish with him, not that he will perish with his money. There was the real possibility of him facing the judgment of God for his sin. Perhaps he was aware or heard about what happen to Ananias and Sapphira. He dreaded that might happened to him..
Did Simon the sorcerer repent? I would like to think so, but it is difficult to humble oneself under the mighty hand of God. If Simon truly repented, God would forgive him of his sin (I John 1:9). It must be a genuine repentance on his part.
-Kingston