ANOINTING
There are various anointings mentioned in the Bible for people and objects of worship with special purpose and mission.
1. Prophetic Anointing: Exemplified by prophets like Elijah and Elisha. This anointing enabled them to receive and deliver God’s messages, often accompanied by supernatural signs.
2. Priestly Anointing: Given to Aaron and his sons for service in the tabernacle. This anointing set them apart for sacred duties (Ex 29:7).
3. Kingly Anointing: Seen in the anointing of Saul, David, and other kings of Israel. This anointing symbolized God’s choice and empowerment for leadership (1 Sam 16:13).
4. Messianic Anointing: Refers to Jesus Christ, the ultimate Anointed One. This anointing fulfilled all other anointings and was characterized by the fullness of the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:38).
5. Healing Anointing: Mentioned in James 5:14-15, where elders are instructed to anoint the sick with oil for healing.
6. Believer’s Anointing: Referred to in 1 John 2:20, 27, indicating that all believers have an anointing from the Holy One.
7. Consecration Anointing: Used to set apart objects for sacred use, such as the tabernacle and its furnishings (Ex 40:9-10).
8. Hospitality Anointing: A cultural practice of anointing guests with oil as a sign of honor and refreshment (Lk 7:46).
9. Burial Anointing: The practice of anointing bodies for burial, as seen with Jesus (Mk 14:8).
10. Spirit-empowerment Anointing: Seen in Acts 1:8, where believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit for witness and ministry.
These various anointings in the Bible demonstrate the diverse ways God set apart individuals, objects, and practices for His purposes. The common thread among them is the symbolic and spiritual significance of being chosen and empowered by God for specific roles or tasks.
REFLECTION
God’s Purpose in Anointing: Each anointing in the Bible reminds us that God selects and empowers individuals for specific purposes. This should encourage us to seek God’s will for our lives and trust in His empowerment.
The Priesthood of All Believers: While the Old Testament restricted priestly anointing to a select few, in Christ, all believers are now part of a “royal priesthood” (1 Pet 2:9). This anointing calls us to live holy lives and minister to others.
Leadership and Responsibility: The kingly anointings remind us that leadership is a God-given responsibility. Whether in our families, workplaces, or churches, we should lead with humility and dependence on God.
Prophetic Voice: The prophetic anointing encourages us to be attentive to God’s voice and courageously speak His truth in love, even when it’s challenging.
Healing Ministry: The anointing for healing reminds us that God cares about our physical well-being. We should pray for the sick and trust in God’s power to heal, whether through miraculous means or through medicine.
Holy Spirit Empowerment: The believer’s anointing and the empowerment seen in Acts remind us that every Christian has the Holy Spirit. We should rely on His guidance and power in our daily lives and ministry.
Hospitality and Honor: The cultural practice of anointing guests encourages us to show honor and hospitality to others, reflecting God’s welcoming love.
Consecration in Daily Life: Just as objects were anointed and set apart, we too should consider how we can consecrate our possessions, time, and talents for God’s purposes.
Preparation for Eternity: The burial anointing reminds us of our mortality and the importance of living with eternity in mind.
Ultimate Fulfillment in Christ: All anointings find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the Anointed One. Our primary focus should be on growing in our relationship with Him.
In conclusion, these various anointings teach us that God desires to set us apart, empower us, and use us for His glory. As Christians, we are called to live in the reality of our anointing in Christ, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us in every aspect of our lives. This understanding should inspire us to live with purpose, humility, and expectancy, always ready for God to use us in ways that bring honor to His name and blessings to others.