Understanding the Doctrine of Laying on of Hands in Christian Faith
The act of laying on of hands is a fundamental doctrine in Christian teachings, referencing miraculous powers, healing, and the bestowal of spiritual gifts. Notable biblical examples include the Apostle Paul healing Publius’ father and Ananias restoring Saul’s sight. This practice was closely associated with the apostles, who had the authority to impart spiritual gifts. However, with the passing of the apostles, many believe that these miraculous abilities ceased. This exploration seeks to clarify the theological implications, historical context, and current understanding of this significant practice.
Understanding the Doctrine of Laying on of Hands in Christian Faith
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Presentation Transcript
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands • Many today claim miraculous powers • Pentecostals, Catholics, Mormons • Heal the sick, raise the dead • Sometime we shy away A Fundamental Doctrine Hebrews 6:1, 2
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands • Our faith is bolstered • when we know the truth • Not deceived ourselves • Answer error • Bring another to the truth
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Healing The Sick Spiritual Gifts Approval
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Healing The Sick • Paul healed Publius’ father, Acts 28:1-10 • Shipwrecked • Assisted by natives • Survived snake bite • Healed by the laying on of hands
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Healing The Sick Ananias healed Saul of blindness, Acts 9:17, 18
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Spiritual Gifts • Spiritual gifts given by laying on of hands • Peter & John in Samaria, Acts 8:14-18 • Paul in Ephesus, Acts 19:1-6
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Spiritual Gifts • Lessons from Acts 8 & 19 • Spiritual gifts were given, cf. 1 Cor. 12:1-10 • Speaking in tongues • Prophesied
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Spiritual Gifts • Lessons from Acts 8 & 19 • Separate from salvation, Acts 8:12-16
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Spiritual Gifts • Lessons from Acts 8 & 19 • Only the apostles could do this • Not Philip, Acts 8:5-18 • Specific qualifications, Acts 1:15-22 • All apostles are dead • No one alive meets these • No miraculous powers bestowed today
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Spiritual Gifts • No spiritual gifts today • Gifts for revelation & confirmation, • Mk. 16:20; 1 Cor. 2:7-10 • Gifts served their purpose then disappeared, 1 Cor. 13:8-13
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Approval • Apostles approved men, Acts 6:1-6 • Respected & faithful men selected • Hands laid on them – endorsed/approved
ELEMENTARY PRINCIPLES Laying On Of Hands Approval • Paul & Barnabas approved by Christians • at Antioch, Acts 13:1-4 • Non-apostles did not grant gifts to Paul • Paul’s previous labors, Acts 9:20-30; 11:25-30