Jesus took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. – Mark 10:16
Bible Verses About Laying On Of Hands
Significance of Laying On of Hands
When we lay hands on others, we are partaking in a powerful biblical tradition that signifies blessing, healing, and impartation. This act has deep roots in the scriptures, where it symbolizes the transfer of authority, healing, and the Holy Spirit. In our faith journey, we recognize how laying on of hands was a means by which Jesus and His apostles imparted God’s grace and power upon individuals. It connects us as a community, reminding us of our responsibility to support others in their journey and to display God’s love through our actions. Whether it is during prayer, healing, or blessing, the act of laying on of hands has tremendous impact and potential to facilitate transformation in our lives and the lives of others.
Hebrews 6:2
Instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. – Hebrews 6:2
Acts 8:17
Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. – Acts 8:17
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
Acts 19:6
When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. – Acts 19:6
Luke 4:40
When the sun was setting, all who had any sick with various diseases brought them to him; and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. – Luke 4:40
Healing Through Laying On of Hands
In moments of sickness or distress, laying on of hands holds a special place in our hearts and lives as believers. It is our way to seek and offer healing, aligning us with God’s purpose for restoration. Throughout the Bible, we witness how Jesus performed miracles through the hands of his followers. By laying hands on the sick, not only do we physically connect with them, but we also spiritually open a channel for God’s miraculous healing to flow. As we engage in this practice, we can expect blessings and breakthroughs in the lives of those we are praying for, because we are placing our faith in the One who has the power to heal.
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 pick up snakes; 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 16:18
Matthew 9:18
While he was saying this, a synagogue leader came and knelt before him and said, “My daughter has just died. But come and put your hand on her, and she will live.” – Matthew 9:18
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 4:30
Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus. – Acts 4:30
Imparting Blessings Through Laying On of Hands
As we lay hands on others, we are engaging in an act of imparting blessings and encouraging one another in our faith. It is a beautiful way to share our love and support within our community. The practice reminds us of God’s promises for blessings over our lives and shows how He operates through us to bless others. The empowerment that comes with laying on of hands is not just for our benefit; it spreads throughout the body of Christ, creating a network of encouragement, love, and spiritual growth. No matter the circumstance, putting our hands on someone in prayer can uplift, inspire and administer God’s blessings as we stand together in faith.
Genesis 48:14
But Israel 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
Numbers 27:18
So the Lord said to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership, and lay your hands on him.” – Numbers 27:18
Mark 10:16
And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. – Mark 10:16
Matthew 19:13
Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them. – Matthew 19:13
Luke 8:54
But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” – Luke 8:54
Receiving the Holy Spirit Through Laying On of Hands
The act of laying on of hands is not only a physical gesture but a spiritual connection. It often represents the moment that believers receive the Holy Spirit, empowering them for ministry and work in God’s Kingdom. In the early church, this practice was actively engaged, as believers prayed for one another to receive the Holy Spirit. When we engage in this act, we open ourselves to a deeper relationship with God and invite His Spirit to empower us. It is an essential part of our faith journey, helping us discover our gifts and embrace our purpose.
Acts 2:4
All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. – Acts 2:4
Acts 10:44
While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. – Acts 10:44
Acts 11:15
As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning. – Acts 11:15
Acts 8:18
When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money. – Acts 8:18
Acts 19:2
And asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” – Acts 19:2
Encouragement Through Laying On of Hands
Laying on of hands is a beautiful way of offering encouragement to each other. In a world that can sometimes feel discouraging and heavy, this practice reminds us that we are never alone. By physically placing our hands on someone in prayer or affirmation, we are embodying the love of Christ, extending hope, and igniting faith. It becomes an act of solidarity and encouragement, showing others that we believe in them and stand by their side. This simple yet powerful gesture can change hearts and bring about the strength needed to overcome challenges.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
1 Peter 5:14
Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ. – 1 Peter 5:14
Colossians 3:16
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. – Colossians 3:16
Galatians 6:2
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ. – Galatians 6:2
Romans 15:1
We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. – Romans 15:1
Authority in Laying On of Hands
The theme of laying on of hands also encompasses authority in the church. This means that it is important for us to respect the spiritual leadership within our community, as they guide us in faith and prayer. As believers, we believe that God gives certain individuals authority to lead, teach, and impart spiritual gifts through the laying on of hands. This not only enriches our lives but serves as a reminder that we, too, are called to support and encourage those in leadership roles. By participating in this practice, we affirm the leadership given by God and embrace the unity it brings to our faith community.
Ephesians 4:11
So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers. – Ephesians 4:11
1 Timothy 2:8
Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing. – 1 Timothy 2:8
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 Corinthians 12:28
And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. – 1 Corinthians 12:28
Final Thoughts
As we consider the practice of laying on of hands, we realize how meaningful it can be in our community and personal lives. We are called to draw upon this powerful biblical tradition to heal, encourage, and empower one another. We can ignite the spiritual gifts within ourselves and others by laying hands on those around us. It brings us closer to God and strengthens our bonds with one another. Let’s embrace this act in faith, trusting in the transformative power it carries. Whether we are praying for healing, imparting blessings, or simply offering encouragement, may our hands be instruments of God’s love and grace.
We can continue to grow together as a community that supports one another in faith. If you’re interested in diving deeper into the scriptures, I encourage you to explore other topics such as the lessons from Leviticus 13 or the significance of Leviticus 14.