This sentence uses a double negative to create emphasis of the positive equivalent. AT: "A prophet is always honored, except" or "The only place a prophet is not honored is" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
# to lay his hands on a few sick people
"Laying on hands" refers to a prophet or teacher placing his hands on someone and imparting either healing or a blessing. In this case, Jesus is healing people.