Topical Encyclopedia Consecration, in the biblical context, refers to the act of setting apart a person, object, or place for divine service or worship. It involves a dedication to God, often accompanied by specific rituals or vows. Conditional consecration, as understood in Scripture, implies that the act of consecration is contingent upon certain conditions or requirements being met, either by the individual or the community involved.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, consecration is frequently associated with the priesthood and the tabernacle. The consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests is a prime example. God commanded Moses to consecrate them through a series of rituals, including washing, anointing, and offering sacrifices (Exodus 29:1-9). This consecration was conditional upon their adherence to God's instructions and their continued obedience to His laws. The Nazarite vow is another instance of conditional consecration. Individuals who took this vow consecrated themselves to the Lord for a specific period, during which they abstained from wine, avoided contact with the dead, and did not cut their hair (Numbers 6:1-21). The fulfillment of these conditions was essential for maintaining their consecrated status. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of consecration extends to all believers, who are called to be a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9). This consecration is conditional upon faith in Jesus Christ and a life of holiness. The Apostle Paul exhorts believers to present their bodies as "a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1). This act of consecration requires ongoing commitment and transformation by the renewing of the mind. Jesus Himself speaks of conditional consecration in terms of discipleship. He states, "If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me" (Luke 9:23). The condition here is self-denial and daily commitment to following Christ. Theological Implications Theologically, conditional consecration underscores the covenantal relationship between God and His people. It highlights the necessity of human response to divine initiative. While God initiates the call to consecration, the fulfillment of this call requires obedience and faithfulness on the part of the believer. This dynamic is evident in the blessings and curses associated with the Mosaic Covenant, where Israel's consecration as God's chosen people was contingent upon their obedience to His commandments (Deuteronomy 28). Practical Application In practical terms, conditional consecration calls believers to examine their lives and ensure that they are meeting the conditions set forth by Scripture for a consecrated life. This involves regular self-examination, repentance, and a commitment to spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. It also requires a willingness to separate from worldly influences and dedicate oneself wholly to God's service. In summary, conditional consecration in the Bible emphasizes the importance of meeting specific requirements to maintain a dedicated relationship with God. It is a call to holiness and obedience, reflecting the believer's response to God's grace and covenantal promises. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 28:20-22And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 15:7,8 Library Foundation of Moral Obligation. The Law Given, not to Retain a People for Itself, but to Keep ... How to Use the Prayer-Book Jesus and the Disciples Spiritual Culture. The Temptation of Jesus The Spirit of Power The Sin of Silence The Hebrew Prophecies. The General Conference of 1828 Resources What does the Bible say about consecration? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the significance of the anointed priest? | GotQuestions.org What is transubstantiation? | GotQuestions.org Consecration: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Consecration: Abraham, of Isaac Consecration: David Consecrates the Water Obtained by his Valiant Warriors Consecration: Hannah, of Samuel Consecration: Jephthah, of his Daughter Consecration: Zichri, of Himself Related Terms Consecration-offering (3 Occurrences) Wave-offering (22 Occurrences) Sanctification (13 Occurrences) Sin-offering (115 Occurrences) Burnt-offering (205 Occurrences) Guilt-offering (34 Occurrences) |
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