The concept of "God's Anointed" is a central theme in the Bible, referring primarily to those chosen by God for a specific purpose, often involving leadership or deliverance. The term "anointed" comes from the Hebrew word "mashiach" (Messiah) and the Greek "christos" (Christ), both meaning "anointed one." This designation is applied to kings, priests, prophets, and ultimately, to Jesus Christ, the Messiah.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the anointing of individuals signified their consecration and divine appointment. Kings such as Saul and David were anointed by prophets to lead Israel. 1 Samuel 10:1 describes Samuel anointing Saul: "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 by Samuel as seen in 1 Samuel 16:13: "So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward."

The anointing conferred not only authority but also the presence and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. This divine selection often set the anointed apart from others, creating a distinction that sometimes led to opposition and enmity. For instance, King Saul, despite being anointed himself, became an enemy of David, God's chosen successor.

Enemies of God's Anointed

Throughout the Scriptures, those who oppose God's anointed are often depicted as opposing God Himself. This is evident in the narrative of David and Saul. Despite Saul's pursuit of David, David refrains from harming Saul, acknowledging Saul as "the LORD’s anointed" (1 Samuel 24:6). David's respect for Saul's anointing underscores the sacredness of God's choice, even when the anointed one acts unrighteously.

Psalm 2 provides a broader theological perspective on the opposition to God's anointed. It portrays the nations conspiring against the LORD and His Anointed One, a messianic prophecy pointing ultimately to Christ: "The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together, against the LORD and against His Anointed One" (Psalm 2:2). This psalm highlights the futility of resisting God's sovereign will and the ultimate triumph of His anointed.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of the concept of God's Anointed. He is recognized as the Messiah, the Anointed One sent to redeem humanity. At His baptism, Jesus is anointed by the Holy Spirit, affirming His divine mission: "And a voice came from heaven: 'You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased'" (Mark 1:11).

The opposition to Jesus, God's Anointed, is a recurring theme in the Gospels. Religious leaders, political authorities, and even spiritual forces conspire against Him. Despite this, Jesus' anointing signifies His authority and victory over sin and death. Acts 4:26-27 references Psalm 2, applying it to Jesus: "The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against His Anointed One."

The Church as Anointed

The anointing extends to the Church, the body of Christ, which shares in His anointing through the Holy Spirit. Believers are described as a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), anointed to proclaim the Gospel and live out God's purposes. This anointing empowers Christians to face opposition and spiritual warfare, as they are assured of their identity and mission in Christ.

Conclusion

The theme of God's Anointed and His enemies underscores the divine authority and protection bestowed upon those chosen by God. It highlights the spiritual conflict between God's purposes and the forces that oppose them, ultimately pointing to the victory and sovereignty of God through His Anointed One, Jesus Christ.