The concept of being "anointed for service" is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, signifying a divine selection and empowerment for a specific role or task within God's redemptive plan. The act of anointing, typically involving the application of oil, symbolizes consecration, sanctification, and the impartation of the Holy Spirit's power and presence.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, anointing was a common practice for consecrating individuals to specific offices, such as prophets, priests, and kings. The Hebrew word for anointing, "mashach," conveys the idea of being set apart for a holy purpose.

1. Priests: The anointing of Aaron and his sons as priests is a foundational example. In Exodus 28:41, God commands Moses, "You are to anoint them, ordain them, and consecrate them, so that they may serve Me as priests." This anointing signified their sanctification and readiness to mediate between God and the people.

2. Kings: The anointing of kings is another significant aspect. Saul, Israel's first king, was anointed by the prophet Samuel as recorded in 1 Samuel 10:1: "Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?'" Similarly, David was anointed, marking him as God's chosen leader (1 Samuel 16:13).

3. Prophets: Prophets were also anointed, though less frequently mentioned. Elijah was instructed to anoint Elisha as his successor (1 Kings 19:16), indicating the transfer of prophetic authority and responsibility.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament reveals the ultimate fulfillment of anointing in the person of Jesus Christ, whose title "Christ" (Greek: Christos) means "Anointed One." Jesus' anointing is both literal and spiritual, as He embodies the roles of prophet, priest, and king.

1. Jesus as the Anointed One: At the outset of His ministry, Jesus reads from Isaiah in the synagogue, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor" (Luke 4:18). This proclamation affirms His divine mission and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

2. Believers' Anointing: The New Testament extends the concept of anointing to all believers, signifying their role in God's kingdom. In 2 Corinthians 1:21-22, Paul writes, "Now it is God who establishes both us and you in Christ. He anointed us, placed His seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a pledge of what is to come." This anointing equips believers for service and witness.

The Holy Spirit's Role

The anointing is closely associated with the Holy Spirit's work. In Acts 10:38, Peter describes Jesus as one "anointed with the Holy Spirit and with power," emphasizing the Spirit's role in empowering Jesus' ministry. Similarly, the Holy Spirit empowers believers for service, as seen in the early church's activities in the Book of Acts.

Symbolism and Practice

Anointing with oil remains a symbolic act in many Christian traditions, representing the Holy Spirit's presence and blessing. James 5:14 encourages the anointing of the sick with oil in the name of the Lord, highlighting its continued significance in the life of the church.

In summary, the biblical theme of being "anointed for service" underscores God's sovereign choice and empowerment of individuals for His purposes. It is a testament to the divine initiative in equipping and enabling His people to fulfill their calling in His redemptive plan.