The Irresistible Desire to Control God and People (Acts 8:1-25)

Samaria, the Spirit and Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:1-25). 

1. Given the history between the Jews and Samaritans (Jn 4:9; Lk 9:52-54), what was remarkable about Philip's preaching and the response (Ac 8:5-8)? What opened the door to his ministry (Ac 8:1-4; 2 Tim 3:12)? Has God used seemingly negative circumstances in your life to advance the gospel?
2. Though Philip [and Stephen] were chosen to serve tables (Ac 6:5) how and why do you think they got into evangelism?
3. What aspect of Philip's activity likely captivated Simon (Ac 8:6-8, 13)? What changed Simon the sorcerer (Ac 8:9-12)? Was he "converted" (Ac 8:13)?
4. What happened when the apostles baptized the Samaritan believers (Ac 8:14-17)? What happens when one receives the Holy Spirit (Ac 2:4; Jn 15:26; 16:8-11, 13; Gal 5:22-23)?  What did Simon see that caused him to be even more intensely interested (Ac 8:18; 2:4; 10:44-46)? What did he really want or desire (Jn 12:43; Gen 3:5; Rom 1:21)? 
5. Why did Peter rebuke Simon so strongly (Ac 8:20-23)? What was Simon's problem (Ac 8:23; Dt 29:18; Heb 12:15)? Is Peter's rebuke applicable to us? How might we be tempted to use God to get what we want? How do you guard against this (Phil 4:11-13; Jn 8:31-32)?
6. What influence does the Holy Spirit have over you? How can you be sure (Prov 1:7; 9:10)?