ACC ~ Acts 8 v23

FAITH COMES THROUGH REPENTANCE. CHRYSOSTOM: “For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity.” These are words of strong disapproval, but otherwise he [Peter] did not punish him [Simon], because he did not want faith hereafter to come from compulsion or to appear ruthless in his treatment of the affair, but rather to introduce the subject of repentance. It is sufficient, for the purpose of correction, to convince him, to say what was in his heart. It is sufficient for him to confess he was caught. HOMILIES ON THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES 18.

SIMON’S HEART WAS NOT LIKE THE DOVE. BEDE: The Holy Spirit descended as a dove in order to teach those who wanted to receive him to be simple. Now one who keeps the gall of bitterness in his heart, although he may appear to be baptized, is not freed from the chains of his iniquity; but as if he was cleansed at one moment, the time of his baptism, he is soon seven times more harried by a fierce demon. In vain, therefore, did this man try to buy the gift of the Spirit, since he did not take care to rid himself of his raven-like mind. COMMENTARY ON THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES 8.23.