Commissioned for Service

Acts 6:6

They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

Thoughts for Today:

Earlier, we studied a problem with equal distribution of food to widows which the apostles delegated to men within the body of believers "who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom." This is the first recorded practice for the selection and qualifications of deacons (the Greek verb for serving corresponds to the noun, deacon). So what happens next -- in other words: How do you get started in your ministry area? Watch carefully: "They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid hands on them." Notice the sequence: they presented, then they prayed and laid hands. So often we start working before we present or pray. What we need to do is prayerfully present our choices (and/or direction) -- first -- then begin, once we are commissioned for service.

This practice of commissioning through "laying on hands" dates back to Numbers 27:22-23, when Moses was instructed by God to lay his hand upon Joshua to entrust him with the authority to lead the children of Israel into the promised land, "Moses did as the LORD commanded him. He took Joshua, and had him stand before Eleazar the priest, and the whole assembly. Then he laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the LORD instructed through Moses."

In the same way, the apostles "who prayed and laid their hands on them" symbolized the impartation of those gifts necessary to perform the duties to which these men were now entrusted.

Questions to Ponder:

Do you think "laying on hands" has a practical purpose in the modern church? Is it practiced regularly in your church? When someone new enters your ministry area, do you lay hands on them as well?