“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” – Mark 16:17-18
Understanding the Act of Laying on Hands
When we talk about laying on hands, we acknowledge a powerful act rooted deeply in Christian practices. This isn’t just a physical touch but holds substantial spiritual significance. We, as a community, should recognize that this action has been used throughout the Bible for tasks such as healing, blessing, and commissioning others for service. It reflects our shared faith and the belief in the divine power that flows through us. By laying hands, we are not only connecting physically, we are also connecting spiritually, invoking God’s presence in our gatherings. It’s a reminder for us that we can be instruments of God’s grace, reaching out to those in need. The Scriptures will guide us in how this sacred act can bring healing and restoration into our lives, as well as the lives of others.
Acts 8:17
“Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.” – Acts 8:17
James 5:14
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” – James 5:14
Mark 16:18
“They will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” – Mark 16:18
Acts 19:11-12
“God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and illnesses were cured and evil spirits left them.” – Acts 19:11-12
1 Timothy 4:14
“Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.” – 1 Timothy 4:14
Healing Through the Laying of Hands
We, as believers, have a rich history of seeing God’s healing power manifest through the laying on of hands. It is a source of hope and encouragement for us, showcasing how God can work through our obedience to reach others in their time of need. Each time we extend our hands towards someone, we bring forth the potential for miraculous healings and transformative experiences. It reminds us of the authority that we possess as followers of Christ—the ability to support those who are ill or troubled. These moments of prayer and physical touch are significant, as they serve as a tangible representation of God’s love and compassion. Together, let’s embrace the practice of laying our hands on the sick and trust that God still performs miracles today.
Luke 4:40
“That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole crowd gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases.” – Luke 4:40
Matthew 9:35
“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.” – Matthew 9:35
Mark 7:32-35
“There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged Jesus to place his hand on him. After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spat and touched the man’s tongue.” – Mark 7:32-35
Matthew 8:3
“Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.” – Matthew 8:3
Acts 9:17
“Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, ‘Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.'” – Acts 9:17
Commissioning Leaders and Servants
We understand that laying on hands is also a significant practice when it comes to commissioning leaders and servants within the church. It signifies our collective agreement and support for their ministry. This beautiful act unites us and signifies the passing of God’s favor and blessing upon those we ordain for service. By participating in this tradition, we are reminded that we all play a role in God’s work and that leadership isn’t confined to one individual but shared amongst us. This helps us cultivate an environment of unity and commitment to the mission God has set before us. As we gather together for prayer and laying on hands, we honor the calling of those who dedicate their lives in service to Him.
Acts 6:6
“They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.” – Acts 6:6
Acts 13:3
“So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” – Acts 13:3
2 Timothy 1:6
“For this reason, I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” – 2 Timothy 1:6
1 Timothy 5:22
“Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.” – 1 Timothy 5:22
Acts 14:23
“Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.” – Acts 14:23
Spiritual Authority in Laying on Hands
As we approach the subject of laying on hands, it is critical to acknowledge that this act is grounded in spiritual authority given by God. It reflects the faith we possess in His ability to transform lives, set captives free, and bring healing. We are empowered to use our hands to bless and uplift others, reminding ourselves that our faith can lead to spiritual breakthroughs. Each time we lay our hands on someone, we invoke this divine authority that has been entrusted to us. It’s a great opportunity for us to align our hearts with God’s will and to be genuine vessels of His grace to our fellow brothers and sisters.
Luke 10:19
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” – Luke 10:19
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
John 14:12
“Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” – John 14:12
Matthew 10:1
“Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.” – Matthew 10:1
1 John 4:4
“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” – 1 John 4:4
Laying on Hands as a Symbol of Blessing
In our lives, laying on hands can also act as a symbol of blessing. This practice goes back to biblical times when fathers and leaders would bless their children or those under their care. When we place our hands on someone, we are symbolizing our desire for God’s favor to be bestowed upon that individual. It allows us to express our hopes and prayers for their future, and to ask the Father to fill their lives with joy and purpose. This simple act has the potential to bring comfort and courage, serving as a heartfelt demonstration of our love and support for one another. Let’s foster an environment where blessings are exchanged freely through the act of laying on hands.
Genesis 48:14
“But Jacob reached out his right hand and put it on Ephraim’s head, though he was the younger, and crossing his arms, he put his left hand on Manasseh’s head, even though Manasseh was the firstborn.” – Genesis 48:14
Mark 10:16
“And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” – Mark 10:16
Numbers 6:22-24
“The Lord said to Moses, ‘Tell Aaron and his sons, “This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: ‘The Lord bless you and keep you;’” – Numbers 6:22-24
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Hebrews 6:1-2
“Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.” – Hebrews 6:1-2
Faith Through the Laying on Hands
When we gather together and lay hands on one another, we actively show our faith in God’s goodness. Our unity during these moments can speak volumes of encouragement and hope. It serves as a reminder that we are not alone in our journey; we have friends and family who stand with us in prayer and belief. Let’s embrace our shared faith as we rely on God’s grace to uplift each other. The act of laying hands can spark a profound atmosphere of faith and love among us, drawing each person into deeper trust and connection with God. This expression of faith can ignite inspiration as we look to God for healing and miracles.
Mark 11:24
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” – Mark 11:24
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
Psalm 46:10
“He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'” – Psalm 46:10
John 15:7
“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” – John 15:7
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the biblical significance of laying on hands, we can see how this profound act connects us with God’s love and His people. From healing those who are sick to commissioning leaders, it serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to care for one another. When we reach out in faith, we open our hearts to God’s transformative power, and He can work through us in amazing ways. Let’s remember to lay hands on one another as an act of blessing, healing, and encouragement. In doing so, we can continue to embody the love and grace that our Heavenly Father extends towards us.
If this topic resonates with you, I encourage you to explore other teachings about freedom in Christ freedom in Jesus and the amazing passages available at Bible Repository. We can grow together in faith and love.