The concept of the Messiah, or "Anointed One," is deeply rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures and finds its fulfillment in the New Testament. The term "Messiah" comes from the Hebrew word "Mashiach," meaning "anointed one," and is equivalent to the Greek term "Christos," from which we derive "Christ."

Old Testament Foundations

The anointing of individuals for specific roles is a significant theme in the Old Testament. Kings, priests, and prophets were anointed with oil as a sign of their divine appointment and empowerment by the Holy Spirit. This practice foreshadows the ultimate Anointed One, the Messiah.

1. Kings: The anointing of kings is a prominent theme, beginning with Saul, the first king of Israel, who was anointed by the prophet Samuel (1 Samuel 10:1). David, the most celebrated king, was also anointed by Samuel, signifying God's choice and blessing (1 Samuel 16:13). The Davidic Covenant, found in 2 Samuel 7:12-16, promises a future king from David's line whose kingdom will be everlasting, pointing to the Messiah.

2. Priests: The anointing of priests, particularly Aaron and his sons, is detailed in Exodus 28:41 and Leviticus 8:12. This anointing set them apart for service in the tabernacle, symbolizing holiness and consecration to God.

3. Prophets: Although not as frequently mentioned, prophets were also anointed. Elijah was instructed to anoint Elisha as his successor (1 Kings 19:16), indicating the passing of prophetic authority.

Messianic Prophecies

The Old Testament contains numerous prophecies concerning the coming Messiah, who would be anointed by God to fulfill His redemptive purposes.

· Isaiah 61:1-2: "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; to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor." This passage, which Jesus reads in the synagogue in Luke 4:18-19, is a direct reference to the Messiah's anointing and mission.

· Psalm 2:2: "The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together, against the LORD and against His Anointed One." This psalm is often interpreted as a messianic prophecy, highlighting the opposition the Messiah would face.

· Daniel 9:25-26: The prophecy of the "Anointed One" who will be "cut off" is seen as a foretelling of the Messiah's sacrificial death.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament presents Jesus of Nazareth as the fulfillment of the Old Testament messianic prophecies. His anointing is both spiritual and divine, marking Him as the chosen Savior.

· Baptism of Jesus: Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist is a pivotal moment of anointing. As He emerges from the water, the Holy Spirit descends upon Him like a dove, and a voice from heaven declares, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:16-17). This event signifies Jesus' anointing by the Holy Spirit for His public ministry.

· Acts 10:38: "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, because God was with Him." This verse encapsulates the essence of Jesus' anointing and His divine mission.

· Hebrews 1:9: "You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, Your God, has anointed You above Your companions with the oil of joy." This passage, quoting Psalm 45:7, affirms Jesus' superior anointing as the Messiah.

Role and Mission of the Anointed Messiah

The anointing of the Messiah encompasses His threefold office as Prophet, Priest, and King:

1. Prophet: Jesus is the ultimate prophet, revealing God's will and truth. He fulfills the prophecy of Deuteronomy 18:15, where Moses speaks of a prophet like himself whom the people must listen to.

2. Priest: As the High Priest, Jesus offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin, mediating between God and humanity (Hebrews 4:14-16).

3. King: Jesus is the King of Kings, whose reign is eternal. His kingdom is not of this world, but it is established in the hearts of believers and will be fully realized at His second coming (John 18:36, Revelation 19:16).

The anointing of the Messiah is a central theme in Scripture, revealing God's plan for redemption through His chosen and empowered Savior, Jesus Christ.