One of the most ancient of biblical rituals, laying on of hands signifies an ordination or setting apart. It is performed by ordained elders of the church during prayer for the receipt of the Holy Spirit following baptism, for anointing of the sick, for ordination into an office, for marriage, for the blessing of little children and for requesting special gifts of God.
Scripture References:
Genesis 48:12-14; Matthew 19:13-15; Acts 6:5-6; 8:15-17; 13:3; 19:5-6; I Timothy 4:14; Hebrews 6:2; James 5:14-15
From the Library: Laying On of Hands
Basic Doctrines: The Laying On of Hands
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsGod's use of the laying on of hands symbolizes the bestowal of blessings, authority, and distinctiveness, representing God Himself setting a person apart for a holy purpose, whether for service, healing, protection, guidance, or blessing. In the Old Testament, this act played a significant role in offering sacrifices, as seen …
What Is 'Laying on of Hands' (Hebrews 6:2)?
Bible Questions & AnswersThe laying on of hands is a symbolic act that sets individuals apart and signifies the imparting of spiritual blessings, authority, and/or power. In the Old Testament, a blessing was often conferred through this act, as seen when Jacob laid his hands on Ephraim and Manasseh to pass on blessings from God. In the New Testament, …
Should All Believers Lay Hands on the Sick?
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeThere is a diversity of gifts, but not everyone in the Body has the same gifts. It is presumptuous to attempt to use gifts one has not received from God.
Why Two Goats on Atonement? (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIn the ritual of the sin offering as outlined in Leviticus 4, a significant step involved the guilty party laying his hands on the sacrificial animal. This act symbolized the innocent animal taking the place of the sinner, figuratively transferring the guilt of the person to the animal. Through this process, the transgressor was …
Who Fulfills the Azazel Goat—Satan or Christ? (Part One)
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeSome say the scapegoat (azazel) prefigures the Devil, others say it has been fulfilled by Jesus. Tradition teaches one thing; Scripture reveals another.
The Source of Church Characteristics (Part One)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The seven churches of Revelation 2-3 all existed simultaneously and the characteristics of five of them will apparently be extant at the return of Christ.
Why Two Goats on Atonement? (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeIn the Day of Atonement ritual, the first goat's blood cleansed the altar of sin while the azazel goat took them away. Christ fulfilled both roles.
Basic Doctrines: Doctrine
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsIn these days of psychology and feeling, doctrine is not very popular. But it is absolutely necessary for the salvation! Here are the basic doctrines.
For more resources, please see the library topic for Laying On of Hands