Introduction

In the following example, A young woman thought she had found the one and only true Bible. On the Bible’s binding it read, “Dr. So-and-So’s Annotated Bible.” Which she mis-read for “anointed” not “annotated.” That young woman’s mistake gives a brief chuckle, it also illustrates the misunderstanding that swirls around the concept of anointing. The anointing of God is illustrated throughout the Bible. Without the anointing of God, life and ministry are shallow, and lacking in fruit.

The Biblical Pattern

Anointing was, and remains a common practice in many Middle Eastern regions. In the Bible, rubbing oil on the hair and body was part of getting dressed. (see Ruth 3:3). The use of oil or ointment was an expression of joy and celebration (see Ps. 23:5), and also indicated grief or sadness (see 2 Sam. 14:2, Dan. 10:3). Sometimes anointing had a special, spiritual connotation. It represented something or someone being set apart, consecrated, or empowered for God’s service. God required anointing for three specific offices; kings, priests and prophets.

The Anointed Kings

Historically, the Israelites lived without a king. After Moses, they were led by Joshua, and then by a series of judges whom God raised up and empowered to deliver them in times of trouble. The era of judges and the prophets ended when the people, influenced by their environment and wanting to be like their neighbors, requested a king. After debating with the people and interceding before God, Samuel finally agreed. God told him to anoint Saul (see 1 Sam. 9:16). Anointed kings and menarches represented dominion and authority, and were positioned by God to carry out specific tasks. They led in war and in executing judgment and justice.

The need for a priesthood is that sin separates us from God, and we need a mediator, or Priest ... View this full sermon with PRO Premium

The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me and sent me.