How can we apply the principle of laying hands in our church today? A Picture from the Wilderness “ You are to present the Levites before the LORD, and the Israelites are to lay their hands on them.” (Numbers 8:10) • Israel’s tribes physically touched the Levites to show joint ownership of the work God was assigning. • The act symbolized identification, blessing, and transfer of responsibility. A Thread through Scripture • Leviticus 1:4 – a worshiper lays a hand on a sacrifice, confessing sin and identifying with the offering. • Mark 10:16 – Jesus “took the children in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them.” • Acts 6:6 – the apostles “laid their hands on” newly appointed deacons. • Acts 13:3 – church leaders commission Paul and Barnabas “after fasting and prayer, they laid their hands on them.” • 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6 – spiritual gifts recognized “through the laying on of my hands.” • Hebrews 6:1-2 – “instruction about washings, the laying on of hands” is listed among elementary doctrines. Across covenant lines, laying on hands signifies blessing, commissioning, healing, and impartation. Practical Ways to Lay Hands Today Commissioning and Ordination • Pastors, elders, deacons, missionaries, ministry leaders—gather the church, explain the biblical precedent, lay hands while praying for the Spirit’s power, purity, and perseverance. Sending Short-Term Teams • Before departure, invite the congregation to stand with outstretched hands or form a circle of touch, visually declaring shared mission and support. Prayer for the Sick • Following James 5:14, elders lay hands on the ill, anoint with oil, and pray in faith for healing. Blessing Children and Families • Parents and leaders place hands on children during baby dedications or family blessings, echoing Mark 10:16. Restoration of the Repentant • When church discipline ends and repentance is evident, laying on hands publicly restores and reaffirms fellowship. Guardrails and Wisdom • 1 Timothy 5:22 – “Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands.” Vet character and doctrine first. • Maintain appropriate physical boundaries; seek consent, especially with the vulnerable. • Keep Christ central—hands themselves do not wield mystical power; God works through obedient faith. • Pair the gesture with clear teaching so it remains meaningful, not a hollow ritual. Encouragement to Act Laying on hands tangibly unites a body of believers around God’s call, reminds the commissioned of heaven’s authority, and invites the Spirit’s empowering presence. When practiced thoughtfully, it revives an ancient, grace-filled tradition that still builds the church today. |
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