Theophylact of Ohrid, on Acts 8:13

“Then Simon himself believed also; and being baptized, he adhered to Philip. And being astonished, wondered to see the signs and exceeding great miracles which were done.”

“"Simon himself also believed." He believed not for the sake of faith, but so that he too might work miracles. How did he think to work miracles? He himself deceived, and also subdued the demon-possessed, and therefore thought that the apostles likewise made use of some art. That is why he also offered money. Again for the same reason, so as not to be deprived of this gift, he constantly stayed near Philip.”

Imported from an open dataset — not yet checked against the printed edition.