The principle of consecration is a foundational concept in the Bible, reflecting the act of setting apart something or someone for a sacred purpose. This principle is deeply rooted in the understanding of holiness and dedication to God, permeating both the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, consecration is often associated with the sanctification of people, places, and objects for divine service. The Hebrew word for consecration, "qadash," implies making something holy or setting it apart for God. This is evident in the consecration of the 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" . The consecration of the priests involved rituals, including washing, anointing with oil, and offering sacrifices, symbolizing purification and dedication to God's service.

The Tabernacle and its furnishings were also consecrated, as seen in Exodus 40:9: "Take the anointing oil and anoint the tabernacle and everything in it; consecrate it and all its furnishings, and it will be holy" . This act of consecration signified that the Tabernacle was set apart as a dwelling place for God's presence among His people.

New Testament Application

In the New Testament, the principle of consecration extends to the lives of believers. The Apostle Paul emphasizes this in Romans 12:1: "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship" . Here, consecration is not limited to physical objects or specific individuals but is a call for all believers to dedicate their entire lives to God.

The concept of consecration is further illustrated in 1 Peter 2:9, where believers are described as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" . This passage highlights the identity and purpose of believers as consecrated individuals, set apart to reflect God's holiness and proclaim His works.

Consecration in Worship and Service

Consecration is integral to worship and service, as it involves a heart posture of surrender and devotion to God. In 2 Corinthians 6:17-18, Paul exhorts believers to separate themselves from worldly influences: "Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you. And I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty" . This call to separation underscores the importance of living a life consecrated to God, distinct from the values and practices of the world.

The principle of consecration also manifests in the dedication of time, talents, and resources to God's kingdom. In 1 Chronicles 29:5, King David challenges the people of Israel to consecrate themselves for the building of the Temple: "Now, who is willing to consecrate himself today to the LORD?" . This invitation to consecration involves a voluntary and wholehearted commitment to God's work.

Conclusion

The principle of consecration is a profound biblical theme that calls for the setting apart of individuals, objects, and lives for God's sacred purposes. It is a call to holiness, dedication, and service, reflecting a life wholly devoted to the Lord. Through consecration, believers are invited to participate in God's redemptive work, living as vessels of His grace and truth in the world.