Exodus 40:15

Anoint them just as you anointed their father, so that they may also serve Me as priests. Their anointing will qualify them for a permanent priesthood throughout their generations."

Study Bible

Anoint them
The act of anointing in the Hebrew context, derived from the root word "mashach," signifies consecration and setting apart for a holy purpose. Anointing with oil was a symbolic act that represented the Holy Spirit's empowerment and sanctification. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, anointing was also a sign of hospitality and honor, but in the biblical context, it specifically denotes divine selection and blessing. This act of anointing Aaron's sons signifies their dedication to God's service, marking them as chosen vessels for His work.

just as you anointed their father
This phrase refers to the anointing of Aaron, the first high priest, as described earlier in Exodus. Aaron's anointing was a significant event, symbolizing the establishment of the priesthood and the beginning of a new covenantal relationship between God and His people. By anointing Aaron's sons in the same manner, God ensures the continuity of the priestly line and the perpetuation of the sacred duties entrusted to them. This continuity underscores the importance of tradition and obedience to God's commands in maintaining a holy and consecrated community.

so that they may also serve Me as priests
The role of a priest in ancient Israel was to mediate between God and the people, offering sacrifices and prayers on their behalf. The Hebrew word for priest, "kohen," implies a position of service and responsibility. By anointing Aaron's sons, God is not only appointing them to a position of honor but also entrusting them with the solemn duty of serving Him and the community. This service is not merely a ritualistic function but a profound spiritual calling that requires dedication, purity, and a heart aligned with God's will.

Their anointing will bring them into a perpetual priesthood
The concept of a "perpetual priesthood" emphasizes the eternal nature of God's covenant with the priestly line. The Hebrew word "olam," translated as "perpetual," conveys the idea of timelessness and continuity. This promise of an everlasting priesthood foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the eternal High Priest, who intercedes for humanity. The perpetual nature of the priesthood highlights God's unchanging faithfulness and His desire for a lasting relationship with His people.

throughout their generations
This phrase underscores the generational aspect of God's covenant with the priestly line. It reflects the biblical principle of legacy and the transmission of faith and responsibility from one generation to the next. The priesthood was not just a temporary arrangement but a lasting institution meant to guide and instruct the people in the ways of God. This generational continuity serves as a reminder of the importance of teaching and nurturing faith within families and communities, ensuring that God's truth and love are passed down through the ages.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to deliver His people from Egypt and to lead them through the wilderness. He is the one instructed to anoint Aaron and his sons.

2. Aaron
The brother of Moses, appointed as the first high priest of Israel. His anointing signifies his consecration to serve God in the tabernacle.

3. Aaron's Sons
They are to be anointed alongside Aaron, signifying the establishment of a hereditary priesthood.

4. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence among the Israelites, where the priests would perform their duties.

5. Anointing
A ceremonial act involving the application of oil, symbolizing consecration and the Holy Spirit's empowerment for service.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Anointing
Anointing signifies being set apart for God's service. In the Old Testament, it was a physical act, but in the New Testament, it represents the Holy Spirit's work in believers' lives.

Generational Faithfulness
The anointing of Aaron's sons highlights the importance of passing down faith and responsibilities to future generations. Parents and leaders should be intentional in teaching and preparing the next generation for service to God.

Priesthood of Believers
While the Levitical priesthood was specific to Aaron's lineage, all believers are now called to be priests, serving God and others. This calls for a life of holiness and dedication.

Symbolism of Oil
Oil in the Bible often symbolizes the Holy Spirit. Just as the priests were anointed with oil, believers are anointed with the Holy Spirit, empowering them for ministry and service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the anointing of Aaron and his sons in Exodus 40:15 relate to the concept of being set apart for God's service today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our faith and responsibilities are passed down to future generations, as seen in the establishment of a hereditary priesthood?

3. How does the New Testament concept of the "priesthood of all believers" change our understanding of service and ministry in the church?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out our anointing by the Holy Spirit in our daily lives?

5. How does the symbolism of oil as the Holy Spirit in the Bible encourage us in our spiritual walk and service to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 8
Describes the detailed process of the consecration of Aaron and his sons, providing a fuller picture of the anointing ceremony.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood of Jesus Christ, contrasting the temporary Levitical priesthood with the eternal priesthood of Christ.

1 Peter 2:9
Refers to believers as a "royal priesthood," connecting the Old Testament priesthood to the New Testament concept of all believers being priests.