Foundations of Faith

Chapter Seven: Laying on of Hands

Laying on of hands has been defined as placing one’s hands on another’s body for a definite spiritual purpose and it’s accompanied by prayer or prophecy.

Old Testament examples of laying on of hands include Moses laying his hands on Joshua to transfer some of his wisdom and authority and also Israel laying his hands on Ephraim and Manasseh the sons of Joseph in order to give them his blessing. In the New Testament laying on of hands was witnessed in Jesus’ ministry when He received children and He laid His hands on them. Additionally at the end of His ministry He commanded His disciples to continue with the practice of laying on of hands to the sick for their healing. The five reasons for laying on of hands in the New Testament include:

1. For baby dedication,

2. In commissioning Christian workers,

3. In imparting spiritual gifts,

4. To receive the Holy Spirit, and

5. For supernatural signs – miracle and healings.

There’s a caution on who should lay hands in the New Testament for it to be effective. Four categories are mentioned in the scriptures including: True Believers; Apostle; Prophets and Presbyters/Elders.