An open KJV Bible with golden light illuminating praying believers as a minister lays hands on another believer, symbolizing the biblical impartation of spiritual gifts.
A Comprehensive Biblical Study
The Impartation of Spiritual Gifts: What Does the Bible Actually Teach?
The Bible teaches that spiritual gifts are given by the Holy Ghost to believers for the edification of the Church, the advancement of God’s Kingdom, and the work of the ministry.
Scripture also teaches that spiritual gifts can be imparted through the laying on of hands, that believers should earnestly desire spiritual gifts, and that the gifts operate according to the will and power of the Holy Ghost.
There is an important distinction we must understand: God is the giver of spiritual gifts. A minister may be used by God as an instrument through the laying on of hands, but no man possesses the authority to manufacture, control, or independently transfer the gifts of the Holy Ghost.
1. What Is Spiritual Impartation?
Spiritual impartation is the biblical concept of God communicating or enabling a spiritual grace, gift, calling, or ministry through the operation of the Holy Ghost.
One of the clearest examples is Paul’s desire to impart a spiritual gift to the believers in Rome.
“For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;
That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.”
Notice three important things:
- Paul desired to impart a spiritual gift.
- The purpose was to establish believers in their faith.
- The impartation was connected with mutual encouragement and the work of God.
This demonstrates that the concept of spiritual impartation is found directly in Scripture.
2. The Laying on of Hands and Impartation
The laying on of hands is one of the biblical ways through which God worked in the lives of believers and ministers.
“Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.”
Paul reminds Timothy that the gift of God was in him through the laying on of Paul’s hands.
Notice that Paul does not say the gift belonged to him. He calls it the gift of God.
“Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.”
“Now 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:
(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.”
“When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.”
These passages demonstrate that the laying on of hands was used in the ministry of the early Church. However, Acts 8 also makes clear that the Holy Ghost is not controlled by human beings. Simon attempted to purchase the power to impart the Holy Ghost, and Peter strongly rebuked him (Acts 8:18-23).
3. Spiritual Gifts Are Given by the Holy Ghost, Not by Man
This is one of the most important biblical principles concerning impartation.
“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.”
The important lesson: The Holy Ghost distributes spiritual gifts according to His will. We cannot demand a particular gift, purchase it, or claim ownership over the power of God.
4. Can Believers Receive Spiritual Gifts Through Prayer?
Absolutely. The Bible encourages believers to desire spiritual gifts and seek God.
“Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.”
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
“If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
We should approach God with humility, faith, and a sincere desire to serve others rather than seeking spiritual gifts for personal recognition.
5. Biblical Examples of Spiritual Impartation
Moses and Joshua
Numbers 27:18-23; Deuteronomy 34:9
Moses laid his hands upon Joshua, and Joshua was filled with the spirit of wisdom. This was part of God’s appointment and preparation of Joshua to lead Israel.
David’s Anointing
1 Samuel 16:12-13
Samuel anointed David, and the Spirit of the LORD came upon him from that day forward. This demonstrates God’s empowering for a particular calling.
Paul and Timothy
1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6
Timothy received a spiritual gift associated with prophecy and the laying on of hands by the presbytery. Paul also reminded him of the laying on of his own hands.
Peter and John in Samaria
Acts 8:14-17
The apostles prayed and laid hands upon the Samaritan believers, who received the Holy Ghost.
Paul at Ephesus
Acts 19:1-7
Paul laid hands on the disciples, and the Holy Ghost came upon them. They spoke with tongues and prophesied.
6. The Different Spiritual Gifts Described in the Bible
The Bible identifies several gifts and ministry functions. They are not all identical, and not every believer has the same gift.
The Nine Manifestations of the Spirit β 1 Corinthians 12:8-10
| Spiritual Gift | Biblical Reference |
|---|---|
| Word of wisdom | 1 Corinthians 12:8 |
| Word of knowledge | 1 Corinthians 12:8 |
| Faith | 1 Corinthians 12:9 |
| Gifts of healing | 1 Corinthians 12:9 |
| Working of miracles | 1 Corinthians 12:10 |
| Prophecy | 1 Corinthians 12:10 |
| Discerning of spirits | 1 Corinthians 12:10 |
| Divers kinds of tongues | 1 Corinthians 12:10 |
| Interpretation of tongues | 1 Corinthians 12:10 |
The Gifts of Grace β Romans 12:6-8
- Prophecy.
- Ministry or serving.
- Teaching.
- Exhortation.
- Giving.
- Ruling or leadership.
- Showing mercy.
The Ministry Offices β Ephesians 4:11-12
- Apostles.
- Prophets.
- Evangelists.
- Pastors.
- Teachers.
These ministry functions are given for the perfecting of the saints and the edifying of the body of Christ.
Other Spiritual Gifts and Abilities
- Hospitality β 1 Peter 4:9.
- Speaking and ministering β 1 Peter 4:10-11.
- Helps and governments β 1 Corinthians 12:28.
- Celibacy β 1 Corinthians 7:7.
- Administration and service β Romans 12:7-8; 1 Corinthians 12:28.
7. Can Spiritual Gifts Be Stirred Up?
Yes. Timothy is specifically instructed not to neglect the gift of God.
“Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
This teaches us something important: receiving a gift does not mean we should neglect it.
Believers must develop, exercise, and faithfully use what God has entrusted to them.
Additional Scripture:
- 1 Timothy 4:14-16 β Do not neglect the gift; give yourself wholly to the work.
- 1 Corinthians 14:12 β Seek to excel in edifying the Church.
- 2 Peter 1:5-8 β Grow in spiritual character and fruitfulness.
- 2 Timothy 2:15 β Study to show yourself approved unto God.
8. Spiritual Impartation Must Be Accompanied by Discernment
The Bible also provides warnings.
“Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.”
The laying on of hands should not be treated as a careless religious ritual.
We must exercise discernment regarding those who minister, those who receive prayer, and the spiritual claims being made.
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
“Quench not the Spirit.
Despise not prophesyings.
Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”
Spiritual manifestations must be tested against Scripture. No prophetic declaration, minister, or spiritual experience is above the authority of God’s Word.
9. A Comprehensive Scripture Reference List on Impartation and Spiritual Gifts
Here is an extended study list organized by subject. These passages cover the principal biblical teachings about receiving, imparting, exercising, discerning, and developing spiritual gifts.
A. Direct References to Impartation and Laying on of Hands
- Numbers 11:16-17, 24-25
- Numbers 27:18-23
- Deuteronomy 34:9
- 1 Samuel 16:12-13
- Acts 6:5-6
- Acts 8:14-23
- Acts 9:10-18
- Acts 13:1-3
- Acts 19:1-7
- Romans 1:11-12
- 1 Timothy 4:14-16
- 2 Timothy 1:6-7
- Hebrews 6:1-2
B. Receiving the Holy Ghost and His Power
- Luke 11:9-13
- Luke 24:49
- John 7:37-39
- John 14:16-17
- John 14:26
- John 15:26
- John 16:7-15
- Acts 1:4-8
- Acts 2:1-4
- Acts 2:16-18
- Acts 2:38-39
- Acts 4:29-31
- Acts 10:44-48
- Acts 11:15-17
- Acts 15:7-9
- Galatians 3:2-5
- Ephesians 1:13-14
- Ephesians 5:18
C. The Nine Manifestations of the Holy Ghost
- 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
- 1 Corinthians 12:27-31
- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
- 1 Corinthians 14:1-40
- Hebrews 2:3-4
D. Gifts of Grace and Ministry
- Romans 12:3-8
- 1 Corinthians 12:4-31
- Ephesians 4:7-16
- 1 Peter 4:8-11
- 1 Corinthians 7:7
- 1 Corinthians 12:28
E. Desiring, Developing, and Exercising Spiritual Gifts
- Matthew 7:7-11
- Luke 11:9-13
- John 15:1-8
- Romans 12:1-2
- 1 Corinthians 14:1
- 1 Corinthians 14:12
- 1 Corinthians 14:26
- 2 Timothy 1:6-7
- 1 Timothy 4:14-16
- 2 Peter 1:5-8
F. Discernment, Character, and Proper Use
- Matthew 7:15-20
- Galatians 5:22-23
- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
- 1 Corinthians 14:26-33
- 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22
- 1 Timothy 5:22
- 1 John 4:1-3
- 1 John 2:20-27
- James 3:13-18
Christian Teaching and Bible Study
THE IMPARTATION OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS: RECEIVING, STIRRING UP, AND WALKING IN THE POWER OF THE HOLY GHOST
By Pastor Joel – Open Heaven Christian Church – Fisher, Arkansas
Introduction: God Has Given Gifts to His Church
One of the most fascinating and powerful subjects in the Word of God is the impartation of spiritual gifts.
Throughout Scripture, we discover that God desires His people to be equipped, strengthened, empowered, and prepared for the work of the ministry. He has not called His Church to operate solely through human ability, intellectual understanding, or natural talent. He has provided the supernatural working of the Holy Ghost to accomplish His purposes.
The Bible speaks directly about impartation, the laying on of hands, prophecy, the receiving of spiritual gifts, and the importance of stirring up the gifts God has placed within us.
The Apostle Paul wrote:
“For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established;”
Notice that Paul specifically speaks about imparting a spiritual gift to believers so they might become established.
This is not a man-made concept or a modern religious invention. The subject of spiritual impartation has a foundation in the Scriptures.
However, we must understand that spiritual gifts originate with God. Ministers may be used as instruments through prayer, prophecy, and the laying on of hands, but the Holy Ghost remains the One who distributes the gifts according to His will.
1. What Does It Mean to Impart a Spiritual Gift?
The word impart means to give, communicate, or share something.
In Romans 1:11, Paul expresses his desire to impart a spiritual gift to the believers in Rome.
His purpose was not to establish his own importance, build a personal following, or demonstrate superiority over other believers. His desire was that the Church would be established and strengthened.
“That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.”
This is important because spiritual impartation should never be about personal recognition.
The purpose of spiritual gifts is to strengthen believers, equip the Church, minister to others, and bring glory to Jesus Christ.
God does not distribute spiritual gifts so that people can boast about their anointing. He gives them so that His work can be accomplished.
2. The Biblical Principle of Laying on of Hands
One of the clearest biblical examples of impartation is found in Paul’s relationship with Timothy.
“Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.”
Paul reminds Timothy that the gift of God was in him through the laying on of his hands.
We also find another important reference:
“Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.”
Here we discover three important elements:
- A spiritual gift was given to Timothy.
- The gift was associated with prophecy.
- The elders laid their hands upon him.
These passages demonstrate that the laying on of hands was an important part of the ministry of the early Church.
It was used in prayer, the appointment of ministers, and particular occasions when God worked through His servants.
However, we must never confuse the instrument with the source. The hands of a minister do not independently possess the power to manufacture spiritual gifts. God is the source of every genuine spiritual gift.
3. The Holy Ghost Is the Giver of Spiritual Gifts
Perhaps the most important chapter in the Bible concerning spiritual gifts is 1 Corinthians 12.
Paul explains that there are different gifts, different administrations, and different operations, but the same Spirit, the same Lord, and the same God.
“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.”
The Church must understand that spiritual gifts do not originate with human beings.
A pastor cannot manufacture a gift. An apostle cannot independently create an anointing. A prophet cannot control the Holy Ghost.
God distributes His gifts according to His own will.
“But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.”
This verse establishes the authority of the Holy Ghost over the distribution of spiritual gifts.
We can pray, seek God, desire spiritual gifts, and make ourselves available for His service, but we must always submit to His will.
4. Can Spiritual Gifts Be Received Through Prayer?
The Bible encourages believers to seek God and desire spiritual gifts.
“Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.”
Notice that Paul does not tell believers to ignore spiritual gifts. He encourages them to desire them.
Jesus also taught His disciples about asking the Father.
“If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?”
Prayer is an important part of our relationship with God.
We should ask Him to fill us, guide us, equip us, and use us for His glory.
We should never seek spiritual gifts simply to impress people or establish a reputation.
5. Biblical Examples of Spiritual Impartation
Moses and Joshua
Numbers 27:18-23; Deuteronomy 34:9
Moses laid his hands upon Joshua, and Joshua was filled with the spirit of wisdom.
God was preparing Joshua to lead the children of Israel.
David’s Anointing
1 Samuel 16:12-13
Samuel anointed David, and the Spirit of the LORD came upon him from that day forward.
David’s anointing demonstrates God’s empowerment for the calling He had placed upon his life.
Peter and John in Samaria
Acts 8:14-17
Peter and John traveled to Samaria, prayed for the believers, and laid their hands upon them so that they might receive the Holy Ghost.
This is one of the clearest examples of the apostles ministering through the laying on of hands.
Paul and the Disciples at Ephesus
Acts 19:1-7
Paul encountered disciples who had not received the Holy Ghost in the manner described in the passage.
After explaining the Gospel to them, Paul baptized them in the name of the Lord Jesus and laid his hands upon them.
The Holy Ghost came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.
Paul and Timothy
1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6
Timothy’s spiritual gift was associated with prophecy and the laying on of hands.
Paul later encouraged him to stir up that gift and not allow it to become neglected.
These examples demonstrate that God has worked through prayer, prophecy, anointing, and the laying on of hands throughout biblical history.
6. Spiritual Gifts Must Be Stirred Up
Receiving a spiritual gift is not the end of the journey.
Paul told Timothy:
“Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
The expression “stir up” gives us the picture of rekindling a fire.
Timothy was being encouraged to exercise what God had placed within him.
Sometimes believers become discouraged. Sometimes they become distracted by the things of this world. Sometimes fear, doubt, or a lack of spiritual discipline causes them to neglect their calling.
But we must not neglect what God has entrusted to us.
We must remain prayerful, study the Scriptures, walk in obedience, and faithfully exercise our spiritual gifts.
7. Spiritual Gifts Must Operate Through Love
There is something that every believer must understand.
Spiritual gifts without love are worthless.
Paul devotes an entire chapter to this truth.
“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.”
This is a powerful warning.
A person may speak in tongues, prophesy, demonstrate great faith, or operate in spiritual gifts, but if love is absent, something is seriously wrong.
Spiritual maturity is not measured merely by supernatural manifestations.
It is also demonstrated through humility, patience, compassion, forgiveness, obedience, and love.
The gifts of the Spirit must never become an excuse for pride, manipulation, or spiritual superiority.
8. We Must Exercise Discernment When Receiving Ministry
Not everyone who claims to operate in the gifts of the Holy Ghost is necessarily operating under the direction of God.
The Bible instructs us to exercise discernment.
“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
We must test spiritual claims against the Word of God.
We must also remember the warning given in Acts 8:18-23 when Simon attempted to purchase the power to impart the Holy Ghost.
Peter rebuked him because the gift of God cannot be purchased with money.
We should never allow anyone to manipulate us into believing that we must pay money to receive a spiritual gift, an anointing, or the power of the Holy Ghost.
“Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.”
The laying on of hands should be approached with reverence, prayer, and spiritual discernment.
God’s power is holy, and His gifts must be treated with respect.
9. The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts Is to Edify the Body of Christ
Why does God give spiritual gifts?
The answer is found in Ephesians 4.
“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:”
God gives ministry gifts to equip His people.
He wants believers to grow in spiritual maturity, become established in the faith, and work together as members of the body of Christ.
“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”
We are not supposed to keep our gifts to ourselves.
We are called to minister to one another.
A gift of teaching should be used to teach. A gift of encouragement should be used to encourage. A gift of mercy should be used to show mercy.
Whatever God has entrusted to us should be used faithfully.
10. How Should We Seek Spiritual Impartation Today?
Based upon the Scriptures, there are several biblical principles we should follow.
First, Seek God Sincerely
Develop a genuine relationship with the Lord through prayer, worship, obedience, and the study of His Word.
Second, Desire Spiritual Gifts
1 Corinthians 14:1 encourages believers to desire spiritual gifts.
Third, Remain Open to the Laying on of Hands
Acts 8:14-17, Acts 19:1-7, 1 Timothy 4:14, and 2 Timothy 1:6 demonstrate that God has used this ministry throughout Scripture.
PLEASE ALSO NOTE: Do NOT allow just anyone to lay hands upon you and pray pray for you. Only allow those who God shows you are anointed by God to pray for you. Many today ignore the following verse and do not realize that their are people who are not anointed by God, and they allow them to pray and “lay-hands” upon them. Be discerning as to who you allow to lay hands on you to pray for you.
“Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure” 1 Timothy 5:2
Fourth, Exercise Discernment
Never accept every spiritual claim without testing it against the Word of God.
Fifth, Stir Up the Gift God Has Given You
Do not neglect your calling. Develop what God has entrusted to you.
Sixth, Operate Through Love
Remember that spiritual gifts are given to serve others, not to elevate ourselves.
Seventh, Give God All the Glory
The gifts belong to God, and the glory belongs to Jesus Christ.
Conclusion: Do Not Neglect the Gift of God
The Bible clearly teaches that spiritual gifts are an important part of the life and ministry of the Church.
We see examples of impartation through the laying on of hands, prophecy, prayer, and the sovereign operation of the Holy Ghost.
We also discover that believers are instructed to desire spiritual gifts, exercise them faithfully, and never neglect what God has entrusted to them.
However, we must always remember that the Holy Ghost is the source of every genuine spiritual gift.
No man can manufacture the power of God, sell the anointing, or control the distribution of spiritual gifts.
Our responsibility is to seek the Lord, remain obedient to His Word, walk in love, and make ourselves available for His service.
Let us never become a Church that merely talks about spiritual gifts while neglecting the power, purpose, and character of the Holy Ghost.
May we become a people who earnestly seek God, faithfully exercise the gifts He has given us, and use everything He has entrusted to us to glorify Jesus Christ.
“Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.”
May the Lord Jesus Christ strengthen His Church, stir up the gifts within His people, and empower believers to accomplish the work of the Kingdom of God. Amen.
Scripture Study References
Romans 1:11-12; Numbers 11:16-17; Numbers 27:18-23; Deuteronomy 34:9; Acts 8:14-23; Acts 19:1-7; Acts 13:1-3; 1 Corinthians 12:1-31; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; 1 Corinthians 14:1-40; Romans 12:3-8; Ephesians 4:7-16; 1 Timothy 4:14-16; 2 Timothy 1:6-7; Hebrews 6:1-2; 1 Peter 4:10-11.