Discipline

Humanities And Social Science

Abstract

The act of laying on of hands has been a significant practice in both the Old and New Testaments, but its meaning and purpose have been debated. While some argue that it relates to ordination, others believe it is simply a symbolic act to commission individuals to their ministry. The appointment of the seven men in Acts 6:6 is seen as an example of the delegation of responsibilities and effective organization in the early Christian church. The hand is a powerful image in biblical imagery, reflecting the will and purpose of the entire person. In the passage, the laying on of hands is not a reference to ordination as practiced by the church today, but rather it is related to commissioning individuals for their ministry. This practice is a significant ritual in the Christian church, representing a transfer of authority and commissioning to serve God. The act of laying on of hands is frequently associated with the apostles and larger church community in the New Testament, used to confer spiritual gifts and ordain people for ministry. It is essential for the church to remain faithful to the Gospel message while also being open to new ways of serving the community

Keywords

laying on of hands, ordination, commission, and church.