In this incident with the twelve believers we have similarities with the story of Apollos (18 v24-28). Paul saw there was something lacking in their lives and asks about the Holy Spirit (v1-3).

These people had come to faith through the ministry of John or his disciples prior to Pentecost and the coming of the Spirit. So, in regards their experience they were basically Old Testament believers without the indwelling power of the Spirit that New Testament believers had.

Paul baptises them in the name of Jesus and through the laying on of hands they received the Spirit (v4-7).

We need to realise that this was quite a unique situation and not something we are to expect today when all believers have the Spirit (Romans 8 v9).

We do though need to ask if we are experiencing the presence and power of the Holy Spirit as we should? We are to keep on being filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5 v18) and we are not to grieve or quench the Spirit (Ephesians 4 v30; 1 Thessalonians 5 v19). Pray about this.