THE FOURTH RULE—LAYING ON OF HANDS.
Following the ordinance of baptism by immersion in water for the remission of sins, is that of laying on of hands for the reception of the Holy Ghost. The manner of conferring the Holy Ghost in the days of the apostles was by the ordinance of laying on of hands, as the following passages will show:
"Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost." (Acts 8: 17).
"When Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money." (Acts 8: 18).
"When Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied." (Acts 19: 6).
Those who truly believe, sincerely repent of their sins, and are baptized by one having authority are entitled to receive this ordinance of laying on of hands for the reception of the Holy Ghost. If it is performed by one called of God, that is, one having authority to administer His ordinances, the Lord will sanction the act by bestowing the gift of the Holy Ghost upon those who receive the ordinance.