Why do some Christians raise their hands in church?

Answer 1

i think it's something to with the fact that they believe God is in Heaven and so they raise their hands to reach out to him, show that they believe he is there or to praise him. it could be a mix or all of these :).

Answer

The majority of Christians do not do this. Raising one's arms in the air is much more common in more charismatic churches of many denominations, but is partially absent in many denominations - and totally absent in some.

The practice stems from wishing to use the whole body to praise God. This is seen in some churches (eg in the African Church especially) in the use of dance to express praise - or even drama. Others, such as the Methodist Church and the Salvation Army use rousing hymns and songs that are sung with great gusto to praise God. Others might even use simple, contemplative silent prayer such as the Quakers. Others, such as the Anglican Church, use high quality instrumental music and singing (such as that seen in Anglican cathedrals) to praise God. In fact there are as many ways of praising God, it seems, as the number of people wishing to praise him. It just so happens that one practice - raising your arms - is just another manifestation of that praise. If you don't raise your arms in church (like I don't) that does not mean that you are praising God any less than those that do because it is what is in one's heart that matters and not one's posture. However, some feel that this is their expression of praise whilst others do not - it's just a matter of with what you are comfortable.

Answer 2

Moses raised his hands in surrender to God.

The raising of hands is traditionally a sign of surrender. That is to yield to the possession or power of another, to give yourself up, as into the power of another; submit or yield.

Although the act of raising your hands can also be a symbol of praise and/ or worship.

For example:

'Ezra praised the LORD, the great God and all the people lifted their hands and responded, "Amen! Amen!" Then they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground'Nehemiah 8:6

'Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place'. Psalm 28:2

'He said, "For hands were lifted up to the throne of the LORD'. Exodus 17:16

'Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the LORD'. Psalm 134:2

'I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands'. Psalm 63:4

'May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice'. Psalm 134.2

Answer 3

It is a sign of surrender to God. It also shows respect and reverence for God.