The Foundation of the Church (Part 3): Laying on of Hands | Spiritual Gifts for Servitude & Persecution
In Hebrews 6:1-2, we are reminded that the laying on of hands is part of the very foundation of Christian life—alongside repentance, faith, baptisms, resurrection, and judgment. If it is this foundational, then it is crucial for us to understand its meaning and purpose—especially in preparing for service during times of persecution.
Why This Foundation Matters
Think of the classic scene from Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark. A swordsman shows off with a massive blade, twirling it confidently, while Indiana Jones simply pulls out a pistol and ends the fight instantly. The swordsman looked strong, but he was unprepared for the real battle.
The same is true spiritually. Christians who lack spiritual preparation can look strong outwardly but fall quickly when the enemy strikes. The laying on of hands is one of God’s ways of equipping believers with spiritual weapons to stand strong in the fight.
The Biblical Uses of Laying on of Hands
Throughout Scripture, the laying on of hands served as a visible act of spiritual impartation and recognition:
1. Blessing
Jacob blessed Joseph’s sons by laying hands on them (Genesis 48:14).
Jesus blessed the children by laying His hands on them (Mark 10:16).
2. Healing
Jesus healed many by laying His hands on them (Luke 4:40).
Believers were promised this same authority: “They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover” (Mark 16:18).
3. Commissioning & Appointment
The seven deacons were appointed by prayer and laying on of hands (Acts 6:6).
Paul and Barnabas were sent out through fasting, prayer, and laying on of hands (Acts 13:3).
4. Imparting Spiritual Gifts
Paul (An Apostle) laid hands on believers, and they received the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues (Acts 19:6-7).
Timothy received gifts through the laying on of hands by elders (1 Timothy 4:14) and Paul himself (2 Timothy 1:6).
In every case, two things were happening:
Impartation – Something spiritual was being given.
Not just by Apostles
By elders as well
Recognition – What God was doing was being affirmed publicly.
The Source of the Gifts
Importantly, the gifts do not come by human command. They are distributed by the Spirit “just as He wills” (1 Corinthians 12:11). The early church prayed and asked for God’s will (Acts 8:14-15), showing that spiritual power is received in submission, not control of human will. Simon the sorcerer learned this the hard way when he thought he could buy or manipulate the Spirit.
Why God Gives Spiritual Gifts
Spiritual gifts are not for self-promotion. They are given for:
Serving one another (1 Peter 4:10-11)
Equipping the saints for ministry (Ephesians 4:11-12)
Building up the body of Christ (1 Peter 4:10–11)
You have been blessed, gifted, healed, and commissioned—all for the purpose of serving and strengthening the church.
Serving Brings Persecution
Jesus was clear: “All nations will hate you because you are my followers” (Matthew 10:22). Paul echoed this truth: “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12).
Persecution is not optional; it is inevitable. If everyone speaks well of us, Jesus warns, we may be walking the path of false prophets (Luke 6:26).
Why does persecution come? Because your life challenges the world’s values. When unbelievers see your holiness, they feel convicted, even without a word. The result is slander, ridicule, and pressure to compromise. But this should not surprise us—“If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:20).
Courage in the Midst of Opposition
Jesus comforts His disciples in Matthew 10:26-31:
Do not fear men—they can only touch the body.
Fear God, who alone holds eternity.
Remember your value—you are worth more than sparrows, and God knows every hair on your head.
Persecution is painful, but it cannot steal your true security in Christ.
Equipped for the Battle
The laying on of hands reminds us that we are not left unarmed. God equips us with:
Truth – “Your word is truth” (John 17:17).
Spiritual Gifts – For the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 14:12).
Encouragement & Strength – To endure faithfully in the face of trials.
Takeaway for Your Life
Expect persecution, but do not fear it. If you are truly serving Christ, opposition will come—but it confirms that you are walking in His steps.
Remember:
Your life itself is a testimony.
Holiness shines light in the darkness, even when it offends.
God equips you through His Spirit, His Word, and the body of Christ.
Through the laying on of hands, God blesses, heals, commissions, and gifts His people so that we are fully prepared to serve Him—even in the fire of persecution.
