The Elder’s Ordination (6) Laying on of Hands: The Practice in Reformed Churches
This article examines the Reformed practice of laying on of hands during ministerial ordination, tracing its biblical and historical foundations while questioning why the same practice is not applied to elder ordinations. Kuiper argues that the laying on of hands is a meaningful symbol of God's impartation of the Holy Spirit to those called to office, grounded in Old Testament types and apostolic precedent.
Previous article in this series: January 15, 2016, p. 188. "Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery." I Timothy 4:14 Historically, Reformed churches have followed the practice of laying hands on ministers who are first ordained to their office. After the minister being ordained has been reminded of what the work of his office entails, has publicly professed that he believes himself called to this office, and has...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org