In the biblical context, "appointed men" refers to individuals chosen or designated by God or by leaders under divine guidance to fulfill specific roles, tasks, or offices within the community of God's people. This concept is prevalent throughout both the Old and New Testaments, illustrating the importance of divine selection and the responsibilities that come with such appointments.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, appointed men often held positions of leadership or responsibility, serving as judges, prophets, priests, or kings. These appointments were typically marked by a divine calling or anointing, signifying God's choice and empowerment for the task at hand.

1. Moses and the Elders: In Numbers 11:16-17, God instructs Moses to gather seventy elders of Israel, men known to be leaders and officials among the people, to share the burden of leadership. "The LORD said to Moses, 'Bring Me seventy of Israel’s elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people. Have them come to the Tent of Meeting, that they may stand there with you. I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take of the Spirit that is on you and put the Spirit on them. They will help you bear the burden of the people so that you do not have to bear it by yourself.'"

2. Joshua: Joshua was appointed as Moses' successor to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. His appointment was confirmed by God and recognized by the people. In Deuteronomy 31:23, it is written, "The LORD gave this command to Joshua son of Nun: 'Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land I promised them on oath, and I Myself will be with you.'"

3. David: David's appointment as king was a significant event, marked by the anointing by the prophet Samuel. In 1 Samuel 16:12-13, God directs Samuel to anoint David, saying, "Then the LORD said, 'Rise and anoint him; this is the one.' So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of appointed men continues, particularly in the establishment of church leadership and the spread of the Gospel.

1. The Apostles: Jesus appointed the twelve apostles to be His closest followers and to carry on His mission after His ascension. In Mark 3:14, it is stated, "He appointed twelve that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach."

2. Deacons: In Acts 6:1-6, the early church appointed seven men to serve as deacons, responsible for the distribution of food and aid to the community, allowing the apostles to focus on prayer and ministry of the word. "They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them."

3. Elders and Overseers: The appointment of elders and overseers in the early church was a critical aspect of church organization and governance. In Titus 1:5, Paul instructs Titus, "The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you."

Significance

The appointment of men in the Bible underscores the principle of divine selection and the importance of leadership in fulfilling God's purposes. These appointed individuals were often characterized by their faithfulness, obedience, and willingness to serve, reflecting the qualities God desires in those who lead His people.