“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands..”

-Hebrews 6:1-2a. 

  Notes: 

The fourth foundational principle for the believer in the passage above is the laying on of hands.  If you would ask most believers today what are the most important aspects of being a Christian, laying on of hands would probably be at the bottom of the list, but it is listed in the Bible as one of the most important.  It must be said that there is no inerrant power within us except the Spirit who dwells in us; therefore the laying on of hands is simply a transfer of grace/power through a willing vessel to touch the need of another individual. 

In the New Testament there are 5 purposes for the laying on of hands: 

1. Ministry of healing- Before Jesus’ ascended into Heaven, He told us that those that believe in the gospel and are baptized will also be able to lay hands on the sick in His name and they will recover. There are many examples in scripture healing taking place through the hands of Jesus and His disciples. 
2. To impart the Holy Spirit- We talked yesterday about the baptism of the Holy Spirit. In the examples that were recorded, The Holy Spirit was ministered with the laying on of hands in 3 of these 5 instances. That is more than 50% of the time.

2. Impartation of spiritual gifts– “Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.” -1 Timothy 4:14.  Timothy received a gift that was given prophetically and confirmed and imparted by the laying on of hands of the presbytery (elders) and by Paul.

3. To commission ministers– (2) As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, “Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them”. (3) And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. –Acts 13:2-3.  The leaders laid hands on Paul and Barnabas confirming their specific calling for ministry/service at the time.

4. To commission Elders and Deacons- In Acts 6:2-6, the apostles laid hands upon the deacons whom were chosen to be full of wisdom and of the Holy Spirit. 

  The Bible warns us not to lay hands suddenly on anyone.  We must use discernment and exercise judgment. However, we cannot neglect it altogether either. There must be balance.  For this reason, the guidance of the Holy Spirit should be sought at every stage. 

  Willing to Take the Challenge? 

One of the greatest things that hinder believers from laying hands on others is false traditions. We cannot let the traditions of men get in the way of the will of God outlined in His written Word.  When you sense the Holy Spirit prompting you to lay hands on someone, approach them with humility and love, and you will see the power of the Lord come to pass