LAYING ON OF HANDS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 8:17
"Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost." –
Supporting Texts:
Numbers 27:18-23, Mark 16:17-18, 1 Timothy 4:14, Hebrews 6:1-2, James 5:14
INTRODUCTION
Laying on of hands is a significant biblical practice that represents the transfer of spiritual blessings, authority, healing, and empowerment. It is one of the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith, as mentioned in Hebrews 6:1-2. Throughout the Bible, we see the laying on of hands used in various contexts, including blessings, ordination, healing, and impartation of spiritual gifts.
In the Old Testament, Moses laid hands on Joshua to transfer leadership and wisdom (Numbers 27:18-23). In the New Testament, Jesus frequently laid hands on the sick, and His disciples continued this practice in their ministry. This act is not just a ritual but a powerful spiritual channel through which God’s grace flows into the lives of His people.
Understanding the significance of laying on of hands will help believers embrace this divine practice with faith and expectation. In this study, we will explore its biblical meaning, its various applications, and its relevance to believers today.
1. LAYING ON OF HANDS FOR BLESSINGS
a) God’s blessings can be transferred through touch (Genesis 48:14-16)
Jacob laid hands on Ephraim and Manasseh to bless them.
b) Parents should lay hands on their children (Mark 10:13-16)
Jesus laid hands on little children and blessed them, setting an example for us.
c) It symbolizes divine favour and impartation (Deuteronomy 34:9)
Joshua received wisdom when Moses laid hands on him.
d) The act requires faith and obedience (Hebrews 11:20-21)
Isaac and Jacob blessed their children by faith through laying on of hands.
e) Biblical Example: Jacob Blessing Joseph’s Sons (Genesis 48:14-16)
He placed his hands on them, passing down the covenant blessings.
2. LAYING ON OF HANDS FOR HEALING
a) Jesus healed the sick by laying hands on them (Mark 6:5)
Healing power flowed through His touch.
b) Believers have the authority to lay hands on the sick (Mark 16:17-18)
This is part of the Great Commission.
c) It is a biblical method of divine healing (Luke 4:40)
Jesus healed many by the laying on of hands.
d) It requires faith from both the one ministering and the receiver (Acts 28:8)
Paul laid hands on the sick and they recovered.
e) Biblical Example: Jesus Healing a Blind Man (Mark 8:22-25)
Jesus laid His hands on the blind man, and his sight was restored.
3. LAYING ON OF HANDS FOR IMPARTATION OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS
a) The Holy Spirit can be imparted through laying on of hands (Acts 8:17)
The Samaritans received the Holy Ghost when the apostles laid hands on them.
b) It activates spiritual gifts in believers (1 Timothy 4:14)
Paul urged Timothy not to neglect the gift imparted through laying on of hands.
c) Ministers are commissioned through this practice (Acts 13:2-3)
The church at Antioch laid hands on Paul and Barnabas before sending them forth.
d) It strengthens believers for ministry (2 Timothy 1:6)
Spiritual gifts are stirred up through this practice.
e) Biblical Example: Paul Imparting the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:6)
Paul laid hands on believers, and they received the Holy Ghost and spoke in tongues.
4. LAYING ON OF HANDS FOR COMMISSIONING AND ORDINATION
a) It signifies divine selection for leadership (Numbers 27:18-20)
Moses laid hands on Joshua to appoint him as his successor.
b) It is used for appointing leaders in the church (1 Timothy 5:22)
Paul instructed Timothy to lay hands carefully when ordaining people.
c) It establishes spiritual authority and anointing (Acts 6:5-6)
The apostles laid hands on deacons before commissioning them.
d) It brings divine empowerment for service (Deuteronomy 34:9)
Joshua was filled with the spirit of wisdom after Moses laid hands on him.
e) Biblical Example: The Appointment of the Seven Deacons (Acts 6:5-6)
The apostles laid hands on them, setting them apart for service.
CONCLUSION
The laying on of hands is a biblical act with profound spiritual significance. Whether for blessings, healing, impartation of spiritual gifts, or commissioning for service, this practice is a divine channel for transferring God’s power. Jesus Himself used it, and He commanded His disciples to do the same.
As believers, we must understand and embrace this practice with faith, knowing that when hands are laid in accordance with God's word, His power is released. May we walk in this revelation and experience divine encounters through the laying on of hands.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, anoint my hands to be a channel of blessings and healing.
2. Father, impart spiritual gifts upon my life for greater service.
3. Lord, let the power of the Holy Spirit flow through me as I minister.
4. Father, release divine favour upon my life through impartation.
5. Lord, strengthen and commission me for greater works in Your kingdom.
