The Anointing And The Anointed Series

Title: THE ANOINTING AND THE ANOINTED

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro 

Main Text: 1 Samuel 16:13 

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 61:1-3, Acts 10:38, 1 John 2:27

INTRODUCTION

The anointing is the divine empowerment from God that sets individuals apart for His work, giving them supernatural ability to fulfill their God-given assignments. The anointed are those whom God has chosen, and upon whom He has poured out His Spirit to carry out His purpose. Throughout Scripture, we see the anointing empowering people for various tasks, whether in leadership, ministry, or warfare. The anointing equips the anointed to operate in realms beyond human capacity, bringing about God's will in the earth.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE ANOINTING

The anointing is the manifestation of God's power and presence. It is more than just a symbolic act; it is a spiritual empowerment that brings transformation.

a) The Anointing is for Purpose

In 1 Samuel 16:13, when Samuel anointed David, the Spirit of the Lord came upon him from that day forward. David was anointed for kingship, a divine purpose that required God’s power. The anointing is not for self-glorification, but for the fulfillment of God's purpose.

b) The Anointing Breaks Yokes

Isaiah 10:27 tells us that the yoke will be destroyed because of the anointing. The anointing sets people free from oppression, bondage, and limitations. It breaks chains and delivers people from the power of darkness.

c) The Anointing Gives Boldness 

When Peter was anointed with the Holy Spirit in Acts 2, he went from being fearful to boldly preaching the gospel. The anointing gives believers the boldness to confront challenges and step into their divine assignments without fear.

2. THE ANOINTED: GOD'S CHOSEN VESSELS

Those who are anointed by God carry a special responsibility and privilege. They are called to represent God on the earth and fulfill His mandate.

a) Anointed for Specific Assignments 

Throughout Scripture, we see God anointing people for specific tasks. Moses was anointed to deliver the Israelites, Joshua to lead them into the Promised Land, and Jesus Himself was anointed to bring salvation (Acts 10:38).

b) Walking in the Anointing Requires Obedience 

To remain in the flow of God’s anointing, the anointed must walk in obedience. Saul was anointed as king but lost the anointing due to disobedience (1 Samuel 15:22-23). Obedience is key to sustaining the anointing.

c) The Anointed Face Opposition 

The anointed often face great opposition because the enemy seeks to thwart God's purpose. David was anointed but had to face Goliath and run from Saul. Yet, the anointing preserved him and empowered him for victory.

3. HOW TO ACTIVATE AND SUSTAIN THE ANOINTING 

a) Deep Fellowship with God 

The anointing flows out of an intimate relationship with God. Jesus often withdrew to pray and commune with the Father. Spending time in prayer, worship, and studying the Word keeps the anointed connected to the source of the anointing.

b) Humility and Brokenness 

God exalts the humble and resists the proud (James 4:6). The anointing rests on those who remain humble and dependent on God. Brokenness is the key to carrying God's power without pride.

c) Staying in the Place of Purity 

Holiness is vital for those who carry the anointing. The Holy Spirit, the source of the anointing, dwells in clean vessels. 2 Timothy 2:21 tells us that those who cleanse themselves will be instruments for noble purposes, made holy and useful to the Master.

d) Continuous Dependence on the Holy Spirit 

The anointing is not a one-time event but requires continuous dependence on the Holy Spirit. Just as oil must be replenished in a lamp, the anointed must continually seek fresh outpourings of the Holy Spirit to remain effective.

4. BENEFITS OF BEING ANOINTED 

a) Divine Authority and Power 

The anointed operate with divine authority and power. Jesus gave His disciples authority to heal the sick, cast out demons, and proclaim the kingdom of God (Matthew 10:1). The same authority is available to every anointed believer today.

b) Supernatural Wisdom 

The anointing grants divine wisdom to make decisions, solve problems, and navigate challenges. Solomon was anointed with wisdom to rule Israel effectively. The anointed walk in the wisdom of God that surpasses human understanding.

c) Breakthrough and Deliverance 

Wherever the anointing is present, breakthrough and deliverance follow. The anointing breaks the yoke of bondage, heals the sick, and delivers the oppressed. In Acts 10:38, we see that Jesus went about doing good, healing all who were oppressed by the devil.

5. THE ULTIMATE PURPOSE OF THE ANOINTING

a) To Glorify God 

The ultimate purpose of the anointing is to bring glory to God. Jesus always pointed people to the Father and glorified Him in all He did. As God’s anointed vessels, we must remember that the anointing is not for self-glorification but for God's glory.

b) To Bring Others into the Kingdom