Luke recorded by The Holy Spirit in Acts chapter 8:
9 Now, there was a man who lived Samaria who was steeped in sorcery. For some time he had astounded the people of Samaria with his magic, boasting to be someone great.
10 Everyone, from the least to the greatest among them, was dazzled by his sorcery, saying, “This man is the greatest wizard of all! The divine power of God walks among us!”
11 For many years everyone was in awe of him because of his astonishing displays of the magic arts.
Simon had a reputation as a sorcerer with lying signs and wonders.
12 But as Philip preached the wonderful news of God’s Kingdom realm, and the name of Jesus the Anointed One, many believed his message and were baptized, both men and women.
13 Even Simon believed and was baptized (in water)! Wherever Philip went, Simon was right by his side, astounded by all the miracles, signs, and enormous displays of power that he witnessed.
From this passage, we can conclude that Philip did not know how to deal with Simon, the sorcerer as well as ministering the Baptism of The Holy Spirit. Philip would need some instructions/training in dealing with him.
14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that the Samaritans had accepted God’s message of Life, they sent Peter and John
15 to pray over them so that they would receive the Holy Spirit.
16 For they had only been baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus and were yet to have the Holy Spirit fall upon them.
It is clear that the Baptism of The Holy Spirit was evidenced by speaking in Tongues.
17 As soon as Peter and John arrived, they laid their hands on the Samaritan believers, one after another, and the Holy Spirit fell and filled each one of them!
It was now time to deal with Simon the sorcerer and Peter discerned what to do concerning him:
18 When Simon saw how the Holy Spirit was released through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he approached them and offered them money,
19 saying, “I want this power too. I’m willing to pay you for the anointing that you have, so that I also can lay my hands on everyone to receive the Holy Spirit.”
Wealthy people tend to believe that their money can buy them anything… wrong!
20 Peter rebuked him and said, “Your money will go with you to destruction! How could you even think that you could purchase God’s Supernatural gift with money?
21 You will never have this gift or take part in this ministry, for your heart is not right with God.
22 Repent this moment for allowing such wickedness to fill you. Plead with the Lord that perhaps He would forgive you the treachery of your heart.
23 For I discern that jealous envy has poisoned you and binds you as a captive to sin.”
Peter put the “Fear of GOD” in Simon’s heart. What a strong rebuke! Simon became desperate and responded:
24 Simon begged, “Peter, please pray to God for me. Plead with HIM so that nothing you just said over me may come to pass!”
These examples are given for our instruction in dealing with the adversary’s actors who use his devices of deception. We must not allow ourselves to be passive in dealing with these situations. Philip was not equipped at that point to deal with Simon the sorcerer, Peter was!