Laying on of Hands
Since the earliest times
the laying on of hands was recognized as a means whereby
blessing was imparted to people. Its relevance carries through
to Jesus times, where we find throughout the gospels that Jesus
laid His hands on the people to heal them.
The laying on of hands is one of the most basic and fundamental
doctrines of the Christian Faith.
There is a definite impartation to be received through the
laying on of hands.
A distinct transformation took place in the life and ministry of
Joshua the son of Nun after
Moses laid his hands upon Him and gave him authority over the
people of God. (Deut 34:9; Num 27:18-23)
There must have been a visible manifestation of power evident in
the laying on of hands in the early church for even Simon the
sorcerer recognized the reality of a power behind it (Acts 8:18)
Many occasions are given in the scriptures for the laying on of
hands:
Physical healing : Mathew 20:34; Mark 1:41; 6:5;7:33; 8:23-25;
Luke 4:40; 13:13; 20:50,51; Acts 9:10-12, 17; 28:8; James 5:11
Spiritual deliverance : Luke 4:40; 13:11-13
Baptism in the Holy Spirit : Acts 8:17,18; 19:6; 5:17
The impartation of the gifts of the Holy Spirit: I Timothy 4:14;
II Timothy 1:6
Separation for ministry : Numbers 8:10; 27:18, 20-23; Acts 6:6;
13:3
Raising the dead : Mathew 9:18
Impartation of spiritual authority for leadership : Number
27:16-23
Impartation of spiritual blessing : Mark 10:13,16; Mathew 19:13
Performing of various miracles: Acts 14:3
Impartation of strength : Daniel 10:16-19
From this basic study it can be understood that laying on of
hands is not just a CEREMONY but like all other doctrines it is
a basic foundation.
Some practical points:
In laying hands on a person we are seeking to impart an
anointing, a gift or a blessing. Before ministering to them,
there must be a definite looking to the Lord to receive. Acts
3:6
If there is receiving from the Lord then there should be a faith
exercised that as the hands are laid upon the person something
will happen.
When laying hands on a person look for a 'word of
prophecy/wisdom/knowledge'.
There is however, a great need for wisdom to be exercised in
ministering through the laying on of hands. Numbers 27:18
Hands should be laid upon those on whom is the Holy Spirit.
The Apostle Paul exhorts us to " lay hands suddenly on no man "
I Timothy 5:22
DO NOT BE CARELESS OR LIGHT HEARTED IN LAYING ON OF HANDS AND
FOR THE SAME REASON BE CAREFUL WHO LAYS HANDS ON YOU.