1 Timothy 5:22 reads, "Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure." I've searched your Q&As at the website and also your book The Spirit, but haven't found anything that addressed this scripture. It seems Timothy had ability to lay hands on others. In what capacity? What is your take? -- Omar Clarke
I believe this refers to appointing people to leadership. It may also (though I am not certain) apply to laying hands on people in baptism.
Twice 1 Timothy warns of the dangers of premature promotion to a position of influence (3:6, 3:10). If we follow his direction, we will have fewer incidents requiring the public discipline of church leaders (5:19-20). Yet favoritism often influences us to put people into leadership too soon, or to be soft on them if they abuse their position.
