The concept of "the Anointed" holds a significant place within the biblical narrative, serving as a central theme that spans both the Old and New Testaments. The term "anointed" is derived from the Hebrew word "mashiach" and the Greek "christos," both meaning "anointed one." This designation is applied to individuals set apart by God for specific purposes, often involving leadership, deliverance, or spiritual guidance.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the anointing with oil was a symbolic act signifying God's selection and empowerment of a person for a particular role. This practice is evident in the anointing of priests, kings, and prophets. For instance, Aaron and his sons were anointed as priests to serve in the tabernacle (Exodus 28:41). Similarly, the prophet Samuel anointed Saul and later David as kings over Israel, marking them as chosen by God (1 Samuel 10:1; 16:13).

The anointed king was seen as God's representative on earth, tasked with leading the people in accordance with divine law. David, in particular, is often highlighted as a model of the anointed king, despite his personal failings. His psalms frequently reflect the intimate relationship between the anointed and God, as seen in Psalm 2:2, "The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together, against the LORD and against His Anointed One."

Messianic Expectations

The role of the anointed also carries a prophetic dimension, particularly in the expectation of a future Messiah. The prophets foretold of an ultimate Anointed One who would bring salvation and establish God's kingdom. Isaiah 61:1 speaks of this figure: "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor." This passage, among others, fueled the hope for a deliverer who would restore Israel and bring justice.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus of Nazareth is identified as the fulfillment of the messianic prophecies, the ultimate Anointed One. The title "Christ" is synonymous with "Messiah," affirming Jesus' role as the divinely appointed Savior. At His baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him, signifying His anointing (Matthew 3:16-17). Jesus Himself declared His mission in the synagogue of Nazareth by quoting Isaiah 61:1-2, affirming His identity as the Anointed One (Luke 4:18-21).

The role of Jesus as the Anointed encompasses His work of redemption, teaching, and establishing the New Covenant. He is portrayed as the perfect prophet, priest, and king—fulfilling all the anointed roles of the Old Testament. Hebrews 1:9 highlights His anointing: "You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, Your God, has anointed You above Your companions with the oil of joy."

The Anointed in the Church

The concept of anointing extends to the Church, where believers are described as sharing in Christ's anointing through the Holy Spirit. 1 John 2:20 states, "But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth." This anointing empowers Christians to live out their faith, bear witness to the gospel, and exercise spiritual gifts for the edification of the body of Christ.

In summary, the role of the Anointed in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing leadership, deliverance, and spiritual empowerment. It finds its ultimate expression in Jesus Christ, whose life and work fulfill the promises and expectations of the Old Testament, and continues through the anointing of believers in the Church.