The concept of God's anointing is a profound and multifaceted theme throughout the Bible, signifying divine empowerment, consecration, and the setting apart of individuals for specific purposes within God's redemptive plan. The anointing is often associated with the Holy Spirit's presence and power, enabling believers to fulfill God's will and purpose in their lives.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, anointing with oil was a physical act symbolizing the spiritual reality of God's selection and empowerment. The Hebrew word for anointing, "mashach," is the root for "Messiah," meaning "the Anointed One." This connection underscores the significance of anointing in God's plan of salvation.

1. Priests and Kings: Anointing was a critical rite for consecrating priests and kings. Aaron and his sons were anointed to serve as priests, as described in Exodus 28:41: "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." Similarly, kings like Saul and David were anointed by prophets, signifying God's choice and empowerment for leadership (1 Samuel 10:1; 16:13).

2. Prophets: Prophets were also anointed, as seen in the case of Elisha, who was anointed by Elijah to succeed him (1 Kings 19:16). This anointing signified the transfer of prophetic authority and the empowerment to speak God's word.

The Anointing of Jesus Christ

The ultimate fulfillment of God's anointing is found in Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Jesus' anointing is both literal and spiritual, marking Him as the chosen Savior and King.

1. Baptism and the Holy Spirit: At His baptism, Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit, as recorded in Matthew 3:16: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him." This event inaugurated His public ministry, empowered by the Spirit.

2. Messianic Mission: Jesus Himself declared His anointing in Luke 4:18-19, quoting Isaiah 61:1-2: "The Spirit of the Lord is on 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." This passage highlights the purpose and power of His anointing to bring salvation and healing.

The Anointing of Believers

In the New Testament, the anointing extends to all believers, signifying their role in God's kingdom and their empowerment by the Holy Spirit.

1. Indwelling of the Holy Spirit: The anointing of believers is closely tied to the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. In 1 John 2:20, the apostle John writes, "You, however, have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth." This anointing grants believers discernment and understanding of spiritual truths.

2. Empowerment for Ministry: The anointing empowers believers for service and ministry. Acts 1:8 states, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This empowerment is essential for fulfilling the Great Commission and living out the Christian faith.

3. Spiritual Gifts: The anointing is also associated with the distribution of spiritual gifts, as described in 1 Corinthians 12. These gifts are manifestations of the Spirit's power, enabling believers to serve the body of Christ effectively.

Conclusion

The power of God's anointing is a dynamic and transformative force in the life of believers, equipping them for service, guiding them in truth, and enabling them to live out their calling in Christ. Through the anointing, believers participate in God's redemptive work, empowered by the Holy Spirit to impact the world for His glory.