The Laying on of Hands

HEBREWS 6:1,2

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of LAYING ON OF HANDS, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

The "laying on of hands" is one of the six foundations of the doctrine of Christ, listed in Hebrews 6:1,2.

Yet when you talk about the laying on of hands, or about things enacted by it, some people react, "Why don't you major on the majors!"

Well the "laying on of hands" is a major - it's a foundational doctrine!

It was a major part of what Jesus did; a major part of what the Apostles did; and a major part of what believers/disciples did, in the early Church.

If therefore the laying on of hands isn't a common practice in our church, it's not just something extra we're missing out on - we're missing part of our foundation.

The laying on of hands, and things enacted by it, ought to be commonly taught and practised in our churches!

I can think of a number of uses of the laying on of hands in the New Testament:

1. To Bless

Mark 10:16
Luke 2:25-35 (accompanied by the gift of prophecy)

2. To Heal the Sick

Luke 4:40,41 (accompanied by casting out devils)
Mark 16:18
Acts 9:12,17,18; Acts 28:8

3. To Impart the Holy Spirit to believers

Acts 8:17; 9:12,17; 19:6

4. To Impart a Spiritual Gift(s)

I Tim.4:14; II Tim.1:6

5. To Set-Apart for Ministry

Acts 6:6; I Tim.4:14

6. To Strengthen, Revive, Reaffirm, Re-Approve, Comfort, Console

Rev.1:17

The laying on of hands was done by:

The Lord Jesus Christ
The Twelve Apostles
Other New Testament apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers
Elders, the presbytery, bishops
Deacons (e.g., Stephen, Philip)
All believers/disciples

The laying on of hands was a major part of the doctrine and ministry of the Church. It's not something of lesser priority for us today - it's a foundational doctrine and ministry!