After Stephen is martyred, the disciples are scattered and Philip brings the gospel to Samaria, where amazing works are done through his ministry. At this point, Luke introduces us to Simon to bring our attention to the danger of self-importance. Simon and Philip illustrate a contrast between promoting our own influence or for the influence of the gospel. Who are you preaching through your life? In Simon, we have a warning to not use the gospel to advance our goals. God is not a way to have life; He is life. We can become like Simon when there are motives in our heart other than the gospel. If this is us, we can repent, make our lives about Christ and be filled with rest in Him!