Anointing in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, anointing with oil was a significant act that symbolized God's selection and empowerment of individuals for specific roles and tasks. The Hebrew word for anointing, "mashach," implies consecration and setting apart for divine purposes. Anointing was primarily associated with priests, kings, and prophets. For instance, Aaron and his sons were anointed as priests (Exodus 28:41), and Saul and David were anointed as kings over Israel (1 Samuel 10:1; 1 Samuel 16:13).

The anointing of David is particularly noteworthy. Despite being the youngest and seemingly least likely among his brothers, David was chosen by God and anointed by the prophet Samuel. "Then the LORD said, 'Rise and anoint him, for he is the one.' 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" (1 Samuel 16:12-13). This anointing signified God's recognition and empowerment, even before David was publicly acknowledged as king.

Anointing in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the concept of anointing extends beyond physical oil to the spiritual anointing of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ, referred to as the "Anointed One" or "Messiah," embodies the ultimate fulfillment of God's anointing. At His baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him, marking the commencement of His public ministry (Matthew 3:16-17).

Believers in Christ are also recipients of this spiritual anointing. The Apostle John writes, "But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth" (1 John 2:20). This anointing signifies the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, equipping believers for service and guiding them in truth.

Human Recognition and God's Anointing

Throughout Scripture, there is often a tension between God's anointing and human recognition. God's choice does not always align with human expectations or standards. This is evident in the selection of David, who was overlooked by his own family, and in the ministry of Jesus, who was rejected by many of His contemporaries despite being the Anointed One.

The Apostle Paul addresses this theme in his letters, emphasizing that God's wisdom and calling often defy human understanding. "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong" (1 Corinthians 1:27). This divine prerogative underscores that God's anointing is not contingent upon human approval or recognition.

Implications for Believers

For believers, understanding God's anointing involves recognizing that divine calling and empowerment may not always be accompanied by immediate human recognition or validation. The anointing of the Holy Spirit equips believers to fulfill God's purposes, often in ways that challenge worldly expectations. As such, believers are encouraged to seek God's approval above all, trusting in His sovereign choice and timing.

In summary, God's anointing signifies divine selection and empowerment, transcending human recognition. It calls believers to align with God's purposes, relying on the Holy Spirit's guidance and strength, even when human acknowledgment is lacking.