Principles of the Doctrine of Christ: Laying on of Hands (continued)

Beloved, in continuance of our theme from the “Principles of the Doctrine of Christ” series, entitled “The Laying on of Hands” – the scripture teaches us that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ breathed on the disciples and said unto them, “Receive ye the Holy Ghost” (John 20:22). We know that this happened on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4). Scripture also records (Acts 8:14-15) that “when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost” [they laid their hands on them]. Beloved, we are taught that a man by the name of Simon desired to buy this power of “laying on of hands” when he saw people being filled with the Holy Spirit as Peter and John laid hands on them (Acts 8:18-19). Peter rebuked Simon and said, “Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money” (Acts 8:20). Beloved, this teaches us the source of many problems in the church today! There are many church leaders who don’t have the gift of “laying on of hands.” These leaders feel that they have purchased the gift of God because God has allowed them to amass a great following (in terms of numbers). Saints, an individual’s monetary success is not proof that his proclaimed “gift from God” is truly valid. Remember, Simon had money, but his wealth perished as soon as he thought to misuse it in God’s Kingdom. All of the false prophets who have misused their money to deceive people into believing that they can “lay hands” and receive an answer from God, will soon die, and in hell they will lift up their eyes.

Chosen Ones, don’t be deceived – if someone really has the gift of “laying on of hands,” God will confirm it by manifesting blessings that only He can give. Anyone can fake a healing, but you cannot fake receiving the Holy Ghost. Those who are filled with the Holy Ghost cannot be deceived. Paul really had the gift of “laying on of hands.” When the believers at Ephesus heard the teaching of Paul and were baptized, Paul “laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied” (Acts 19:6).

Precious Ones, I can’t tell you how many people the Lord Jesus Christ has allowed to receive the Holy Spirit when I “laid hands on” them. This is just one of many spiritual virtues that one must possess in order to have the gift of “laying on of hands.”

Children of God, I will write more on this subject later. For now, know this: Don’t allow anyone to “lay their hands” on you unless they have proven to you that God uses their hands to do works that only He can do.

I love you all SO very much,
In His Love,

Pastor William L. McCoy