Impartation through the Spirit
Impartation is a significant Biblical concept where God transfers His Spirit from one person to another for the purpose of empowering them for ministry.
And I will come down and talk with you there. And I will take some of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them, and they shall bear the burden of the people with you, so that you may not bear it yourself alone."
- Numbers 11:17
The Role of Laying on of Hands
The laying on of hands is a biblical method for imparting spiritual gifts and blessings. This practice is evident in the leadership transition from Moses to Joshua, where Moses lays his hands on Joshua, filling him with the spirit of wisdom (Deuteronomy 34:9).
In the New Testament, Paul reminds Timothy of the gift he received through the laying on of hands by the council of elders (1 Timothy 4:14). This tradition signifies a tangible transfer of spiritual authority and empowerment..
"And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him. So the people of Israel obeyed him and did as the Lord had commanded Moses." - Deuteronomy 34:9 ESV
Encouragement to Use Spiritual Gifts
Paul’s letters to Timothy emphasise the importance of recognizing and using the spiritual gifts received through impartation. In 1 Timothy 4:14, Paul urges Timothy not to neglect the gift given to him by prophecy and the laying on of hands. Similarly, in 2 Timothy 1:6-7, Paul encourages Timothy to fan into flame the gift of God, reminding him that God gave a spirit of power, love, and self-control. These exhortations highlight the responsibility to actively cultivate and use the gifts
imparted to us.
"Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you."
- 1 Timothy 4:14 ESV
"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, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
- 2 Timothy 1:6-7 ESV
Embracing Impartation and Spiritual Gifts
Impartation and the laying on of hands are Biblical practices that empower believers for ministry and service. By understanding and embracing these practices, we can ensure the effective use of our spiritual gifts to build up the body of Christ. Let us encourage one another to recognize, cultivate, and use our spiritual gifts for the glory of God and the growth of His kingdom.
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works."
- Hebrews 10:24
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