The answer is: Given Holy Spirit

Acts 8:14-17

In the riveting story found in Acts, when Peter and John made their way to Samaria, they had quite the mission ahead of them. These followers of Jesus weren’t just preaching; they were actively participating in showing that the Holy Spirit was available to all, regardless of their background. The Samaritans, long viewed with suspicion by the Jewish elite, became examples of the boundless embrace of divine grace.

When Peter and John laid hands on the new believers, something even greater than mere sympathy happened. They enabled these early Christians to receive the Holy Spirit—a gigantic leap from mere baptism. This scene not only showed the importance of community and support among believers but also echoed earlier events in Acts when the Spirit descended on the apostles at Pentecost.

Isn’t it fascinating that in the Jewish context, there were old prophecies—like Joel 2:28, which hinted at God pouring out Spirit upon all people? This event in Samaria can be seen as a fulfillment, indicating that the divine wasn’t restricted by geographic borders or cultural divides.

Plus, Samaria had a complex relationship with Judaism, making this event even more groundbreaking. By ensuring that the Samaritans received the Spirit alongside their Jewish brethren, Peter and John highlighted that God's gifts are truly for everyone, a theme that resonates throughout the whole of scripture! Embracing each other represents the spirit of unity—the ultimate message of hope and love that calls everyone to inclusivity.