God And His Word - A Question And Answer Approach To Understanding The Bible

LESSON 8: CONFIRMATION AND THE LAYING ON OF HANDS 1. WHAT IS CONFIRMATION? The dictionary defines "confirmation" as an act of being made firm or firmer; being established or strengthened. The religious definition, which we will use, is as follows: "Confirmation is a solemn rite of the church whereby members are settled, strengthened and established in the faith as it is in Christ Jesus." Acts 15:41 - "Judas and Silas…exhorted…and confirmed them." 1 Corinthians 1:5, 6 - "Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed." 2. HOW IS THE RITE OF CONFIRMATION ADMINISTERED? The rite of confirmation is administered through the laying on of the hands of the presbytery; the presbytery is composed of the governing body of ministers (elders) of the Church. Acts 6:6 - "When they had prayed, they laid their hands on them." Acts 13:3 - "When they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands…" 1 Timothy 4:14 - "The gift…with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery." Acts 14:21, 22 - "Confirming the souls of the disciples."

3. WHO MAY BE CONFIRMED?

Spirit-filled believers may be confirmed after they have been instructed in the doctrine and ordinances of the

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