What Does the Bible Say About the Anointing?
The concept of anointing holds significant importance in the Bible. Anointing is the act of pouring or smearing oil on someone or something as a symbol of consecration or divine appointment. Throughout the Scriptures, anointing is associated with the presence and power of God. It signifies the setting apart of individuals or objects for a specific purpose. Let us explore what the Bible says about the anointing and its relevance in our lives today.
In the Old Testament, anointing was commonly practiced to consecrate priests, prophets, and kings. Exodus 28:41 states, “And you shall anoint them and ordain them and consecrate them, that they may serve me as priests.” This anointing denoted a divine commission and empowered the individuals for their roles. For instance, we see Samuel anointing Saul as the first king of Israel (1 Samuel 10:1) and later anointing David as his successor (1 Samuel 16:13).
In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the Anointed One, the Messiah. The term “Christ” itself means “the Anointed One.” Acts 10:38 declares, “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.” Jesus’ anointing by the Holy Spirit empowered Him to fulfill His mission on earth, preaching the good news, healing the sick, and setting the captives free.
As believers, we are also called to live in the anointing of the Holy Spirit. The apostle John writes in 1 John 2:20, “But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge.” The anointing of the Holy Spirit equips us with spiritual understanding and empowers us to live a life pleasing to God. It enables us to walk in love, exhibit the fruits of the Spirit, and operate in the gifts of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11).
Now, let’s address some common questions about the anointing:
1. What is the purpose of anointing with oil?
Anointing with oil symbolizes consecration, empowerment, and divine appointment. It signifies the setting apart of individuals or objects for a specific purpose.
2. Who can be anointed?
Anyone who believes in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and has received the Holy Spirit can be anointed.
3. How do we receive the anointing?
We receive the anointing by surrendering our lives to Jesus Christ, repenting of our sins, and inviting the Holy Spirit to fill and empower us.
4. Can anointing heal the sick?
Yes, anointing with oil and praying in faith can bring healing. James 5:14-15 says, “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.”
5. Can the anointing break yokes and bondage?
Yes, the anointing breaks yokes and destroys the works of the enemy. Isaiah 10:27 declares, “And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing.”
6. Can we lose the anointing?
While the anointing is not lost, we can hinder its flow through disobedience, unbelief, or unconfessed sin. It is essential to maintain a close relationship with God and live in obedience to His Word.
7. Can we anoint objects for specific purposes?
In the Bible, objects like altars, vessels, and tools were anointed for specific purposes. While anointing objects is not explicitly commanded in the New Testament, some believers practice it as a symbolic act of consecration.
8. Can we anoint ourselves?
Yes, we can anoint ourselves as an act of consecration and submission to God’s will. It is a way of seeking His presence and empowerment in our lives.
9. Can we anoint others?
Yes, we can anoint others as an act of blessing, consecration, or to pray for their healing.
10. Can we anoint with any kind of oil?
While the Bible does not specify the type of oil to be used, many believers use olive oil as it holds symbolical significance in the Scriptures.
11. Can the anointing be transferred through touch?
In the Bible, we see instances where the anointing was transferred through touch. However, it is important to note that the power resides in the Holy Spirit, not in any physical act or object.
12. How can we cultivate the anointing in our lives?
We cultivate the anointing in our lives through daily communion with God, prayer, studying His Word, and seeking His will. Walking in obedience to His commands and being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit helps us grow in the anointing.
In conclusion, the Bible teaches us that the anointing is a powerful and transformative force in the lives of believers. It signifies consecration, divine appointment, and empowerment by the Holy Spirit. As we seek to live in the anointing, we can experience God’s presence, power, and guidance in our lives, enabling us to fulfill our purposes and bring glory to His name.