1. Laying on of hands 2 Timothy 1:6
“ Stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands”

2. Laying on of hands The need for strong foundations – Hebrews 6:1 – 2
Laying on of hands is seen in both the OT and NT
Four main uses in scripture:
impartation
transference
transmission
empowerment

3. Laying on of hands IMPARTATION Impartation of blessing (Genesis 48:14)
Jacob prays for blessing on Joseph’s sons
He deliberately placed his right hand on Ephraim’s head signifying a greater blessing for the younger son

4. Laying on of hands IMPARTATION
Impartation of spiritual benefits or gifts - men and women with authority in God’s Kingdom are able to impart spiritual gifts to others through the laying on of hands (often their own gift)
Joshua had the same wisdom as Moses – Numbers 27:18, Deuteronomy 34:9
Timothy received a spiritual gift –
2 Timothy 1:6 and 1 Timothy 4:14

5. Laying on of hands TRANSFERENCE
In the OT the priest would lay hands on the sacrifices as a symbol that he was transferring his and the peoples’ sins onto the animal – see Leviticus 1:4
The animal became the substitute offering, the atoning sacrifice
We no longer carry out these sacrifices because Jesus became the once for all atoning sacrifice for our sins

6. Laying on of hands TRANSMISSION
The healing power of God is transmitted by believers through the laying on of hands –
Jesus sometimes healed through laying on of hands – Luke 4:40
He also cast out demons by laying on hands – Luke 4:41
Jesus commanded the disciples to lay hands on the sick – Mark 16:18
James teaches that elders should pray over the sick (and anoint with oil) – James 5:14

7. Laying on of hands EMPOWERMENT
Believers can receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands – Acts 8:14 – 17
Church officers are empowered to equip them to serve in the Kingdom – Acts 6:6
Ministries can be released through the laying on of hands – Acts 13:3 – 4
Be aware that this should not be done in haste – 1 Timothy 5:22

8. Laying on of hands CONCLUSION
The laying on of hands should be a natural part of the life of a church
It is often accompanied by prayer or prophecy concerning the recipient
We should not shy away from laying hands on people but we also should not be hasty when it comes to the appointing of church officers and ministries – the guidance of the Holy Spirit is essential
Let’s use every means of blessing available to us that has been provided for us by God Ll