The concept of impartation in the Bible is a powerful and transformative one, as seen in various verses throughout the scriptures. One such verse that highlights the importance of impartation is found in
2 Timothy 1:6 (NIV):
“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”
This verse underscores the idea that through the laying on of hands, believers can receive a specific gift or anointing from God. This impartation is not merely symbolic but serves as a tangible means through which God imparts His blessings and empowerment to His people. Impartation in the Bible is not limited to spiritual gifts or anointing, as it also plays a crucial role in strengthening one’s faith and building a community of believers.
Romans 1:11 (NIV):
“I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong.”
This verse reveals the desire of Paul to impart a spiritual gift to the believers in Rome in order to strengthen them in their faith. The act of impartation is a demonstration of love and unity among believers, as they share and receive blessings from one another. The practical application of impartation principles in daily life involves being open to receiving from others and actively seeking opportunities to impart blessings to those around us. By embracing the concept of impartation in the Bible, we can experience a deeper sense of community, growth, and empowerment in our spiritual journey.
Understanding the Concept of Impartation in Biblical Context
Understanding the concept of impartation in the biblical context is essential for believers seeking to grow spiritually and fulfill their calling. Impartation is the act of transferring spiritual gifts, anointing, or blessings from one person to another through prayer, laying on of hands, or a prophetic declaration.
Impartation in the Bible:
1. **The impartation of the Holy Spirit:** In Acts 8:14-17, we see how Peter and John laid hands on believers in Samaria, and they received the Holy Spirit. This act of impartation empowered the new believers to walk in the fullness of the Spirit and carry out their ministry effectively.
2. **Impartation of spiritual gifts:** 1 Timothy 4:14 speaks of the impartation of spiritual gifts through the laying on of hands by the elders. This shows the importance of spiritual authority and the transfer of anointing for ministry.
3. **Impartation of blessings:** In Genesis 27, we read about Isaac blessing his son Jacob. Despite the deception involved, the impartation of the blessing had a significant impact on Jacob’s life and destiny. This highlights the power of impartation through spoken words.
Biblical Examples of Impartation:
1. **Elisha and Elijah:** In 2 Kings 2:9-15, we see how Elijah imparted a double portion of his anointing to Elisha before he was taken up to heaven. This impartation equipped Elisha to continue the prophetic ministry with even greater power.
2. **Jesus and His disciples:** Throughout the gospels, we see how Jesus imparted wisdom, authority, and the Holy Spirit to His disciples. This impartation transformed their lives and enabled them to carry out the Great Commission after His ascension.
Benefits of Impartation:
– Empowerment for ministry
– Spiritual growth and maturity
– Activation of spiritual gifts
– Strengthening of faith
– Alignment with God’s purposes and plans
Conclusion:
Impartation is a vital aspect of the Christian faith that carries the power to transform lives, release destiny, and advance the Kingdom of God. By understanding and seeking impartation in a biblical context, believers can walk in greater anointing, authority, and effectiveness in their Christian walk. Through the examples and principles found in the Bible, we can learn how impartation plays a crucial role in the spiritual journey of every believer.
Impartation of Spiritual Gifts and Anointing in the Bible
The Bible is filled with stories of the impartation of spiritual gifts and anointing from God to His chosen people. Through these stories, we see how God equips individuals with specific gifts and anointing for His purposes. Let’s explore some of these stories and the relevant Bible verses that highlight the importance of .
1. **Elisha Receives a Double Portion of Elijah’s Spirit**
In 2 Kings 2:9-10, we read about Elisha asking Elijah for a double portion of his spirit before Elijah is taken up to heaven. This request shows Elisha’s desire to receive a greater measure of the anointing that was upon Elijah. Through this impartation, Elisha went on to perform many miracles and fulfill his calling as a prophet.
2. **Jesus Imparts the Holy Spirit to His Disciples**
In John 20:22, after His resurrection, Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” This act of impartation marks the beginning of the disciples’ ministry empowered by the Holy Spirit. They went on to preach the gospel with boldness and perform signs and wonders, demonstrating the power of God at work in them.
3. **Paul Imparts Spiritual Gifts to Timothy**
In 2 Timothy 1:6, Paul reminds Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” Here, we see Paul imparting spiritual gifts to Timothy through the laying on of hands, encouraging him to use these gifts for the advancement of the gospel.
4. **Philip Imparts the Holy Spirit to the Samaritans**
In Acts 8:17, we see Philip laying hands on the Samaritan believers, and they receive the Holy Spirit. This act of impartation demonstrates how God’s anointing can be passed from one person to another, leading to a deeper spiritual experience and empowering them for ministry.
5. **Ananias Imparts Healing to Saul (Paul)**
In Acts 9:17-18, Ananias lays hands on Saul (later known as Paul), and he receives his sight back and is filled with the Holy Spirit. This impartation not only brings physical healing to Paul but also initiates his transformation from a persecutor of Christians to a powerful apostle spreading the gospel to the Gentiles.
6. **The Ephesian Believers Receive the Holy Spirit through Paul**
In Acts 19:6, we see Paul laying hands on the Ephesian believers, and they are filled with the Holy Spirit and speak in tongues. This impartation of the Holy Spirit not only confirms their faith but also empowers them for effective ministry in their community.
Through these stories and Bible verses, we see how the impartation of spiritual gifts and anointing is a vital aspect of God’s work in the lives of His people. It is through these gifts and anointing that individuals are equipped, empowered, and commissioned to fulfill their unique callings and advance the kingdom of God on earth.
Role of Impartation in Strengthening Faith and Building Community
Impartation plays a crucial role in strengthening faith and building community among believers. Through the sharing of gifts, wisdom, and spiritual understanding, individuals can grow in their faith and unity with one another. Let us explore the significance of impartation using examples from the Bible.
Abraham Imparts His Faith to Isaac
- Abraham’s unwavering faith in God was passed down to his son, Isaac.
Genesis 25:5
And Abraham gave all that he had to Isaac.
Genesis 26:4-6
And I will make your descendants multiply as the stars of heaven; I will give to your descendants all these lands; and in your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed; because Abraham obeyed My voice and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws.”
Jesus Imparts His Spirit to His Disciples
- Before ascending to heaven, Jesus imparted his spirit to his disciples, empowering them for ministry.
John 20:22
And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 1:8
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Paul Imparts Spiritual Gifts to Timothy
- Paul encouraged Timothy to use his spiritual gifts for the benefit of the community.
2 Timothy 1:6
Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
1 Timothy 4:14
Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.
The Early Church Shares Resources
- The early church in Acts exemplified community through the sharing of resources and supporting one another.
Acts 4:32
Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.
Acts 2:44-45
Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.
| Key Point | Verse |
|---|---|
| Strengthens Faith | 2 Timothy 1:6 |
| Empowers for Ministry | Acts 1:8 |
| Promotes Unity | Acts 4:32 |
Practical Application of Impartation Principles in Daily Life
The
Impartation principles, as seen in the Bible, are key to developing and growing in our Christian walk. These principles not only apply to spiritual matters but can also be used in our daily lives to bring about positive change and transformation. Let’s explore some Bible stories and verses that illustrate the practical application of impartation principles.
1. Surrounding Ourselves with Wise Counsel
One practical application of impartation principles is surrounding ourselves with wise counsel. Proverbs 13:20 states,
“Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” (NIV)
This is seen in the story of King Rehoboam, who rejected the wise counsel of the elders and instead listened to his peers, leading to the division of the kingdom.
2. Learning from Mentors
Another practical application is learning from mentors. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul instructs Timothy,
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” (NIV)
Just as Elisha learned from Elijah and Timothy learned from Paul, we should seek out mentors who can impart knowledge and wisdom to us.
3. Receiving Anointing and Blessings
One of the most well-known stories of impartation principles is the transference of anointing from Elijah to Elisha. In 2 Kings 2:9, Elisha asks for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit, and
“he saw Elijah being taken up to heaven.” (NIV)
Elisha then receives Elijah’s mantle and goes on to perform even greater miracles.
4. Embracing Spiritual Gifts
When it comes to spiritual gifts, 1 Corinthians 12:7 reminds us,
“Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (NIV)
Just as the early church received the gift of tongues on Pentecost, we should also embrace and use our spiritual gifts for the benefit of others.
5. Walking in Faith and Boldness
Finally, a key principle is walking in faith and boldness. Joshua 1:9 encourages us,
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (NIV)
Just as Joshua had to take on the leadership of Israel with boldness, we should also step out in faith and trust in God’s presence.
| Impartation Principle | Practical Application |
|---|---|
| Surrounding Ourselves with Wise Counsel | Seek out mentors and wise advisors for guidance. |
| Learning from Mentors | Embrace the teachings and wisdom of those who have gone before. |
| Receiving Anointing and Blessings | Be open to receiving God’s anointing and blessings through others. |
| Embracing Spiritual Gifts | Use your spiritual gifts for the benefit of others and the church. |
| Walking in Faith and Boldness | Step out in faith and trust God’s presence in all situations. |
In conclusion, the concept of impartation in the Bible is a powerful and transformative one. Whether it be through the laying on of hands, the passing down of wisdom from one generation to the next, or the work of the Holy Spirit, the act of impartation has the ability to leave a lasting impact on those who receive it. As we delve deeper into the scriptures, may we seek to understand and embrace the significance of impartation in our own lives, allowing it to shape and mold us into the vessels of God’s love and grace. Let us continue to seek after the heart of God, pursuing impartation as a means of drawing closer to Him and fulfilling His purposes for our lives.