Introduction

The concept of God's choice and anointing is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting God's sovereign will and purpose in selecting individuals for specific roles and tasks within His divine plan. This theme underscores the belief that God, in His omniscience and omnipotence, chooses and empowers individuals to fulfill His purposes, often beyond human understanding or expectation.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the anointing of individuals is a significant act that signifies God's selection and empowerment for a particular role. The Hebrew word for anointing, "mashach," implies consecration and setting apart for divine service. One of the earliest examples is the anointing of priests, as seen in the consecration of Aaron and his sons. Exodus 28:41 states, "After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them so they may serve Me as priests."

The anointing of kings is another prominent example. Saul, the first king of Israel, was anointed by the prophet Samuel as a sign of God's choice (1 Samuel 10:1). However, due to Saul's disobedience, God chose David, a shepherd boy, to be king. In 1 Samuel 16:12-13, it is recorded, "So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was ruddy, with a fine appearance and handsome features. 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."

Prophets and Anointing

Prophets were also chosen and anointed by God to deliver His messages to the people. Isaiah 61:1 speaks of the anointing of the prophet: "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and the opening of the prison to those who are bound."

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the concept of anointing reaches its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Anointed One, or "Messiah" in Hebrew and "Christ" in Greek. Jesus' anointing is both literal and spiritual, as He is the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise to send a Savior. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."

The anointing of believers is also a significant theme in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul speaks of the anointing of the Holy Spirit as a seal of God's choice and empowerment for ministry. 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."

Theological Implications

The doctrine of God's choice and anointing emphasizes the sovereignty of God in the affairs of humanity. It highlights that God's selection is not based on human merit or ability but on His divine will and purpose. This is evident in the calling of individuals like Moses, David, and the Apostle Paul, who were chosen despite their weaknesses and past failures.

Furthermore, the anointing signifies the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, enabling individuals to carry out God's work effectively. This empowerment is not limited to specific roles like kings or prophets but extends to all believers, who are called to be a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9).

Conclusion

The theme of God's choice and anointing is a testament to His active involvement in the world, guiding and equipping His people to fulfill His redemptive plan. Through the anointing of the Holy Spirit, believers are called to participate in God's mission, assured of His presence and power in their lives.