Ordination is a critical milestone in the life of a minister. It is much more than a ceremonial rite or a formal recognition by a church or religious body. Ordination represents a profound spiritual transition, a gateway into a new realm of divine responsibility, authority, and empowerment. It is a sacred moment of spiritual transference where the calling, anointing, and authority of God are imparted through the laying on of hands. However, this transition comes with caution: beware who lays hands on you. The legitimacy, spiritual authority, and power imparted during ordination depend heavily on the one who ordains you.
In this writeup, we will explore the spiritual nature of ordination as a transition and transference of spirit. We will examine biblical foundations, the significance of the laying on of hands, the dangers of improper ordination, and how to discern the true spiritual authority behind your ordination.
Understanding Ordination As A Spiritual Transition:
Ordination marks the passage from one spiritual state to another. It is a transition from being a believer or servant in the church to being an officially recognized minister with divine authority and responsibility. This transition is not just institutional, it is deeply spiritual.
The Bible provides clear examples of ordination as a spiritual transition:
Moses and Joshua: When Moses laid hands on Joshua, he was not just appointing him to a leadership role but transferring spiritual authority and blessing to lead Israel into the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 34:9). This was a transition of leadership and spiritual responsibility.
The Apostles and the Seven Deacons: In Acts 6:1-6, the apostles laid hands on seven men chosen to serve, marking their transition into ministry roles empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Timothy’s Ordination: Paul’s laying on of hands on Timothy (1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6) was a spiritual act that imparted gifts and authority for ministry, signaling Timothy’s transition into pastoral leadership.
These examples show that ordination is not merely a public announcement. It is a spiritual transfer—a divine commissioning that transforms the individual’s spiritual identity and empowers them for their calling.
The Transference of Spirit in Ordination:
At the heart of ordination is the transference of spirit. This refers to the impartation of the Holy Spirit’s gifts, anointing, and authority through the laying on of hands.
What Is Transference of Spirit?
Transference of spirit means that the spiritual power, grace, or gifting from one person (often an elder, apostle, or recognized spiritual leader) is passed on to another. It is a spiritual bestowal, enabling the ordained minister to fulfill God’s purpose with supernatural empowerment.
This is not symbolic but real. The Spirit’s presence and power are imparted to equip the minister for:
Preaching and teaching the Word of God
Shepherding the flock
Performing spiritual gifts such as healing, discernment, and miracles
Leading the church with wisdom and authority
The Role of the Laying on of Hands:
The physical act of laying on hands is the biblical method of facilitating this spiritual transference (Hebrews 6:2; 1 Timothy 4:14). It serves as a tangible sign of spiritual impartation, commissioning, and blessing.
The laying on of hands involves:
Recognition of God’s calling on the individual
A prayerful invitation for the Holy Spirit to empower
The transference of spiritual gifts and authority
The public affirmation of the minister’s new role
The spiritual reality behind this action is that God honors this moment to anoint and empower the minister.
The Importance of Who Lays Hands on You
While the act of ordination is powerful, it is crucial to understand that the spiritual authority and legitimacy of the ordination depend on who lays hands on you. The spiritual transfer is only as authentic as the spiritual authority of those performing it.
The New Testament consistently shows that ordination is performed by those with spiritual authority:
The apostles ordained elders and deacons (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5).
Elders laid hands on Timothy to confer spiritual gifts (1 Timothy 4:14).
Paul admonished the importance of recognized leaders in ordaining others.
This establishes a pattern: ordination is a spiritual transmission carried out by those who themselves have been called, anointed, and authorized by God.
Why This Matters
Spiritual Authority: The person or group ordaining you must have spiritual authority granted by God and recognized by the Church. Without this, the ordination may lack divine endorsement.
Legitimacy and Accountability: Proper ordination connects you to a spiritual community and lineage, providing accountability and support.
Authentic Impartation: Spiritual gifting and empowerment flow through ordained authority. If those laying hands on you lack genuine anointing, the impartation may be ineffective or counterfeit.
Transferance of spirit: ordination is the gateway to transfer of spirit, that is why you must be very careful who lays hands on you. The way who lays hands on you. Don’t just submit your head to any kind of person, no matter how anointing is flowing. Many people have contacted the wrong spirit true laying of hands. Many ministers are struggling today in ministry because of the man that laid hands on them. What follows the man that laid hands on you follows you the moment you submit your head to him.
Beware of Improper or Questionable Ordination:
In today’s age, ordination can sometimes be obtained without due process or spiritual oversight, through self-ordination, online certificates, or unrecognized groups. These may lack the spiritual authority and accountability necessary for true ministerial empowerment.
Beware of:
Self-ordination or ordination through dubious online platforms without spiritual oversight.
Ordination by groups promoting unbiblical teachings or practices.
Ordination motivated by financial gain rather than spiritual calling.
The Spiritual Dangers of Improper Ordination:
Ordination is a sacred spiritual event with profound implications. When it is treated lightly or conducted by unqualified persons, serious spiritual consequences can arise.
1. Lack of Genuine Spiritual Empowerment
Without legitimate spiritual authority behind the laying on of hands, the minister may lack the true impartation of gifts and anointing. This can lead to ineffective ministry, frustration, and burnout.
2. Vulnerability to Deception and Spiritual Attack
Improper ordination can open the door to spiritual confusion, deception, and demonic influence. The enemy often targets ministers who lack proper spiritual covering and authority.
3. Damage to Reputation and Ministry
Ministers ordained without recognized authority may face rejection or lack of trust within the broader Christian community. This can limit their effectiveness and cause division.
4. Disconnection from the Body of Christ
True ordination connects the minister into the wider church family and apostolic lineage. Improper ordination isolates the minister, risking spiritual loneliness and error.
How to Discern True Ordination and Spiritual Authority:
Given the importance of who ordains you, it is vital to discern genuine spiritual authority.
1. Examine the Ordaining Body
Are they biblically grounded and doctrinally sound?
Do they have a history of faithful, Spirit-led ministry?
Are they accountable and transparent?
Do they have recognized spiritual leaders and elders?
2. Seek Confirmation from God
Prayer and fasting are crucial. Ask God to confirm your ordination and calling. The Holy Spirit will guide and affirm your path.
3. Seek Counsel from Mature Believers
Consult trusted pastors, mentors, or spiritual leaders who can provide wisdom and oversight.
4. Look for Spiritual Fruit
True ordination will produce fruit, holy living, spiritual gifting, effective ministry, and peace from God.
The Minister’s Responsibility Post-Ordination
Ordination is not the end but the beginning of a sacred journey. The minister now carries the responsibility to:
Serve God and His people faithfully
Preach the Word in truth and love
Maintain humility and accountability
Grow in spiritual maturity and dependence on the Holy Spirit
Walk in holiness and integrity
Remember, ordination is a spiritual transition but also a lifelong commitment to God’s service.
The Sacredness of Ordination and the Need for Discernment:
Ordination is a profound spiritual transition and transference of spirit. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in a minister’s life, filled with divine empowerment, authority, and responsibility. Yet, this transition is sacred and powerful only when conducted by those with true spiritual authority.
Beware who lays hands on you. Seek ordination through recognized, biblically sound, Spirit-filled leaders who can impart genuine anointing and connect you to the Body of Christ. Avoid shortcuts or dubious ordinations that lack spiritual legitimacy.
When you enter into ordination rightly, with discernment and faith, you step into God’s divine plan, empowered to fulfill your calling with boldness, grace, and effectiveness.
Yours In His Service
C. C. RAYMOND
This is really a helpful information for new awakeners Thanks to c.c Raymond