12. But when they believed the good news (the Gospel) about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ (the Messiah) as Philip preached it, they were baptized, both men and women.
13. Even Simon himself believed [he adhered to, trusted in, and relied on the teaching of Philip], and after being baptized, devoted himself constantly to him. And seeing signs and miracles of great power which were being performed, he was utterly amazed.
14. Now when the apostles (special messengers) at Jerusalem heard that [the country of] Samaria had accepted and welcomed the Word of God, they sent Peter and John to them,
15. And they came down and prayed for them that the Samaritans might receive the Holy Spirit;
16. For He had not yet fallen upon any of them, but they had only been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.
17. Then [the apostles] laid their hands on them one by one, and they received the Holy Spirit.
18. However, when Simon saw that the [Holy] Spirit was imparted through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he brought money and offered it to them,
19. Saying, Grant me also this power and authority, in order that anyone on whom I place my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.
20. But Peter said to him, Destruction overtake your money and you, because you imagined you could obtain the [free] gift of God with money!
21. You have neither part nor lot in this matter, for your heart is all wrong in God's sight [it is not straightforward or right or true before God]. [Ps. 78:37.]
22. So repent of this depravity and wickedness of yours and pray to the Lord that, if possible, this contriving thought and purpose of your heart may be removed and disregarded and forgiven you.
23. For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in a bond forged by iniquity [to fetter souls]. [Isa. 58:6.]
24. And Simon answered, Pray for me [beseech the Lord, both of you], that nothing of what you have said may befall me!
25. Now when [the apostles] had borne their testimony and preached the message of the Lord, they went back to Jerusalem, proclaiming the glad tidings (Gospel) to many villages of the Samaritans [on the way].
26. But an angel of the Lord said to Philip, Rise and proceed southward or at midday on the road that runs from Jerusalem down to Gaza. This is the desert [route].