[CynicalBear]

The Catholic Church sure does like to take one verse and create some meaning that gives them exclusive power don't they. The first verse I gave you, Acts 15:8 tells us that all true believers are given the Holy Spirit. Not those who had hands laid on them. Acts 10:44 tells us that Paul was simply preaching the word and all who heard the word were given the Holy Spirit.

The "elders" of the ekklesia were to be chosen from among that group and were given specific requirements for that position. Not one of the Catholic Leadership today qualify. So for Catholics to play the game of "how it's done" is ridiculous.

[edwinland]

I agree that the quotes you supplied mean what you say they mean, ie that all believers receive the Holy Spirit.

So what was the point of laying on hands? Let's assume that it has nothing to do with authority. Does it mean anything at all? Or is that passage of Scripture superfluous? If it is, why are there all those passages about Apostles laying on hands?

Acts 8:17 Then they began laying their hands on them, and they were receiving the Holy Spirit.

Acts 6:6 And these they brought before the apostles; and after praying, they laid their hands on them.

2 Timothy 1:6 For this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

Acts 13:3 Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.