Pastor Mark Schwarzbauer PhD Family Worship Center

Hebrews 6:1-2 “Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, 2 of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.”

Part One: Laying on of Hands

The laying on of hands is a biblical practice transmitting authority, spiritual, physical or psychological blessing to a person. Sometimes it publicly acknowledges a spiritual blessing or God given authority. It can also be done to commit a person to a task or ministry. Of course, it may also be a combination of the above. The laying on of hands is often accompanied by prayer for the person and sometimes a word from God for the person.

Deuteronomy 34:9 “Now Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him; so the children of Israel heeded him, and did as the Lord had commanded Moses.”

In the New Testament there are six purposes for “laying on of hands”

1- The laying on of hands for physical healing Jesus often laid hands on the sick when He healed them- Mark 6:5, 7:32; Luke 4:40; 13:13. Jesus in Mark 16:17–18 called us to “lay hands on the sick” for healing. James 5:14–15 anointing with oil and praying over the sick.

Laying on of hands isn’t indispensable or required for healing, but it is called for as it builds faith, community and transfers blessings

2- The laying on of hands to bless Mark 10:16 “And He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them.” Often seen in Old Testament blessings of children. Next week I will share more about THE BLESSING and YOU!

3- The laying on of hands to impart the Baptism in the Holy Spirit Acts 8:17 “Then they began laying their hands on them, and they were receiving the Holy Spirit.” Not necessary but sometimes done by the leading of the Holy Spirit.

4- The laying on of hands to impart spiritual gifts 1 Timothy 4:14 “Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery.” 2 Timothy 1:6 “For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”

5- The laying on of hands for sending out Christian workers Acts 13:2-3 2 “As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away. Covering with the blessing, anointing and protection of God.

6- The laying on of hands for the appointment of deacons & elders Acts 6:6 “And these they brought before the apostles; and after praying, they laid their hands on them.” 1 Timothy 5:22 “Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin.”

Mark 10:16 “And He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them.”

Part Two: The Releasing of Power

Part Three: The Giving of a Blessing

The Giving of a Blessing in Laying on of Hands In agreement for faith- with consent. Having a right heart. Sensitive to the Holy Spirit.

The Touch of the Masters Hand Myra 'Brooks' Welch