Even Man Who Hears (Simon) believed and participated in the ceremony. After the ceremony he stayed close to Lover of Horses (Philip), for he was amazed at the powerful signs and miracles he saw.
He answered them, “I did one work. I healed a man. You were amazed to see such power, but you were offended because this was done on the Day of Resting.
“The rocky ground represents the ones who hear and receive the teaching with glad hearts, but because they have no roots, their faith is shallow and does not last. As soon as the teaching brings them trouble or opposition, they stumble and fall away.
“Powerful signs will follow the ones who follow me. Here are some of the things they will do in my name, representing who I am: They will force out evil spirits,
and saw that he was the same one who sat and asked for handouts at the gate. Wonder and amazement swept through the crowd like a wildfire when they saw him healed and strong.