In our discussion on what the writer of Hebrews calls “milk” we’ve looked at Repenting from Evil Deeds, Placing our Faith in God, and Baptisms. In this post we’ll look at what the Bible says about the laying on of hands. This is such a powerful
teaching. It is something that is so foundational. It’s something we often gloss over. So I don’t mind taking a look at it now. Check out the verses.
In the New Testament four things come through the laying on of hands:
A. Blessing is done through laying on of hands with prayer Mt 9:13-15; cf. Mk 10:13-16; Lk 18:15-17
B. Healing comes by the laying on of hands Mt 9:18,25; Mk 6:5; Lk 4:40; Lk 13:13; Mk 16:15-20, Ac 5:12; 28:8, Ac 9:12,17
C. Impartation of Spiritual Gifts comes by the laying on of hands Ac 8:14-17; Ac 19:6; 1Ti 4:14; 2Ti 1:6
D. Setting Apart for Ministry occurs with the laying on of hands. Ac 6:1-6; Ac 13:1-3
We’re told be cautious regarding the laying on of hands (1Ti 5:22; 1Ti 5:19-21) So I believe it’s something we need to consider seriously. There are times I pray with people I won’t lay my hands on them. If I lay my hands on someone I don’t know, I’ve learned to ask there permission first and explain quickly why I’m doing it.
We transfer power; we transfer healing; we transfer blessing; we transfer destiny through the laying on of hands. So we can’t do it flippantly. We can’t do it ceremonially. We shouldn’t do it religiously.
What’s your experience with laying on hands? Is it something you practice?
photo credit: Tarter Time Photography
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trev,
as a pastor, I’ve had the blessing of laying on hands each of the above instances. It’s been a huge blessing and sobering responsibility! As a youth pastor, we’ve ordained lots of students to ministry over the years. Most recently, we had a man in our church call on the church staff/deacons (in accordance with James5) to lay hands, anoint with oil, and pray for healing. (Which God faithfully provided!)
I get the same sense as Paula in her ‘gifts for a season’ comment…it seems to be that way in my life as well. Thanks, Paula, for bringing that up.
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I’ve had hands laid on me for healing and for ministry and I’ve done in return; like you, I also ask permission to touch. I have seen miracles in my life and miracles happen in others that I’ve been privileged to pray with and for. I have had very few personal healing prayers answered but then the Lord has called me to pray for the ill and when I do, I receive. It’s a blow back effect, one I understand and embrace. I also find the most effective prayers on ones using the actual Word of God in the prayer.
Another thing I have found in my walk is that I have certain gifts for a season to use but my main gift {I asked for it because of God’s healing in my life and I wanted to give back}is laying on of hands in healing.
Thanks Paula. I’ll be laying hands on people tonight who want and impartation and to impart hope. Appreciate the prayers.