John Calvin Commentary Acts 8:6

"And the multitudes gave heed with one accord unto the things that were spoken by Philip, when they heard, and saw the signs which he did." — Acts 8:6 (ASV)

And the multitude gave ear. Luke declares how the Samaritans embraced Philip’s doctrine. For he says that they heard, by which they got some initial experience; there was also another stimulus by which they were urged forward, and that was miracles; finally, attentiveness followed. This is the right progression toward faith; for those who refuse doctrine they have not heard, how is it possible that they should ever come to faith, which comes by hearing? (Romans 10:14).

Therefore, since they were ready to hear, that was the first step toward reverence and attentiveness. And therefore it is no wonder if faith is so rare, and almost non-existent in the world; for how many are there who deign to listen when God speaks? As a result, the majority reject the truth before they know it, and have not so much as lightly tasted it.

And as hearing is the beginning of faith, so it is not sufficient by itself, unless the majesty of doctrine also moves their hearts. And surely, whoever considers that he has to do with God cannot hear him contemptuously when he speaks; and the very doctrine contained in his word will acquire authority for itself, so that attentiveness will flow naturally from hearing.

Regarding miracles, we know that they have a twofold use: they serve to prepare us to hear the gospel, and to confirm us in the faith of it. The adverb, with one accord, may be joined with hearing as well as with attentiveness. I prefer the latter, that they were attentive with one accord; and in this Luke commends the force and efficacy of Philip’s preaching, because a great number of people were suddenly won to hear attentively with one consent.