That this laying on of the hands of the apostles was not intended here as any rite whereby the apostles did confirm some, or ordain others, seems evident from the context. They received the Holy Ghost; the power of speaking with tongues, and working of miracles; which throughout this book is so often spoken of in this acceptation.
Related Commentaries of Acts 8:17
Acts 8:17
17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.