In the list of foundational items which Paul gives us in Hebrews 6:1-2, we come to the “laying on of hands.” As we saw in another study, this is done by “the eldership” (1 Timothy 4:14).
Many Christians in this day and age claim no membership of a church. Often such Christians are resolute that they do not want to be members of any church. They are stand alone Christians, part of the body of Christ, the true and only Church, but have no need of any human institution.
In other symbolism Paul likens marriage between husband and wife as the relationship between Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:23). In human society, many today survive in one-parent families. And even orphans can succeed in life. But most agree the best model for the nurturing of children is the standard two-parent family. And the same is true of the new creation that is the new Christian. Christians need both Christ and the church. And not least for the laying on of hands and the impartation of the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Could God have done this another way, without involvement of the elders of a church? Yes, he could. But he has chosen not to do so. And we do best within the methods and manner that God has set out for us. And that has to be foundational for the success of any new Christian.
Heavenly Father, when you told us that you would never leave us as orphans but would come to us, you have honoured that pledge both with the Holy Spirit and the church. We give you thanks for the human institution of the church, despite seemingly fragmented among all the various denominations. Still, collectively it is the body of Christ. In Jesus’ name we pray.
John Stettaford is an Elder in the Reading Congregation of the Worldwide Church of God UK.