In biblical terms, "The Appointment" often refers to the divine selection or designation of individuals for specific roles, tasks, or purposes within God's sovereign plan. This concept is woven throughout the Scriptures, illustrating God's active involvement in the lives of His people and His overarching plan for humanity.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, appointments are frequently seen in the context of leadership and priesthood. For instance, God appointed Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. In Exodus 3:10 , God says to Moses, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." This appointment was not based on Moses' qualifications but on God's sovereign choice and purpose.

Similarly, Aaron and his descendants were appointed as priests to serve in the tabernacle. In Exodus 28:1 , God commands, "Bring near to you your brother Aaron and his sons with him from among the Israelites to serve Me as priests—Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron’s sons." This appointment established the Aaronic priesthood, a critical component of Israel's worship and sacrificial system.

The appointment of kings is another significant theme. Saul was appointed as the first king of Israel, as recorded in 1 Samuel 9:16 : "At this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you are to anoint him ruler over My people Israel." Later, David was appointed by God to replace Saul, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:12-13 : "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."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of appointment continues with the selection of the apostles. Jesus appointed the twelve disciples to be His closest followers and to carry on His mission. Mark 3:14 states, "He appointed twelve, whom He designated as apostles, to accompany Him, to be sent out to preach."

The appointment of leaders within the early church is also emphasized. In Acts 6:3 , the apostles instruct the believers to "select from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty." This appointment was crucial for the effective administration and service within the growing Christian community.

Paul's appointment as an apostle is another key example. In Galatians 1:1 , Paul asserts his divine appointment: "Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by a man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead." His appointment was directly from God, underscoring the divine authority and purpose behind his ministry.

Theological Implications

The concept of appointment underscores God's sovereignty and His active role in guiding history and individual lives. It highlights the idea that God chooses and equips individuals for specific purposes, often beyond their natural abilities or expectations. This divine appointment is not limited to biblical figures but extends to all believers, as seen in Ephesians 2:10 : "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life."

Appointments in the Bible serve as reminders of God's providence and the importance of obedience and faithfulness to His calling. They illustrate that God's plans are perfect and that He equips those He appoints to fulfill His purposes, ultimately bringing glory to His name.