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Anointing

Anointing, in biblical terms, refers to the practice of applying oil to a person or object as a symbol of consecration, sanctification, or divine empowerment. This ritual is deeply rooted in the traditions of the ancient Near East and holds significant theological implications throughout the Scriptures.

In the Old Testament, anointing was primarily associated with the consecration of priests, kings, and prophets. The first explicit mention of anointing is found inGenesis 28:18, where Jacob anoints a stone pillar as a sacred monument. The practice becomes more formalized in the Mosaic Law, where God commands Moses to anoint Aaron and his sons as priests (Exodus 28:41). The anointing oil, a sacred blend of spices and olive oil, was used to set apart the tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the priests who served there (Exodus 30:22-30).

The anointing of kings is another significant aspect of this practice. Saul, the first king of Israel, was anointed by the prophet Samuel as a sign of God's selection (1 Samuel 10:1). Similarly, David was anointed by Samuel, marking him as God's chosen king despite his humble beginnings (1 Samuel 16:13). The anointing of kings symbolized divine approval and empowerment for leadership, as seen in the life of David, who was described as "a man after God's own heart" (1 Samuel 13:14).

Prophets were also anointed, as seen in the case of Elisha, who was anointed by Elijah to succeed him (1 Kings 19:16). This act signified the transfer of prophetic authority and the continuation of God's work through His chosen servants.

In the New Testament, anointing takes on a more spiritual dimension. Jesus Christ is often referred to as the "Anointed One," or "Messiah," fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies of a divinely appointed Savior. InLuke 4:18, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor." This anointing by the Holy Spirit empowered Jesus for His earthly ministry and mission of redemption.

Believers in Christ are also described as anointed, receiving the Holy Spirit as a seal of their salvation and empowerment for service (2 Corinthians 1:21-22; 1John 2:20, 27). This spiritual anointing signifies the believer's consecration to God and participation in the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9).

Divine Selection

Divine selection, or election, is a theological concept that refers to God's sovereign choice of individuals or groups for a specific purpose or destiny. This doctrine is woven throughout the biblical narrative, highlighting God's initiative in the unfolding of His redemptive plan.

In the Old Testament, divine selection is evident in God's choice of Abraham and his descendants as the recipients of His covenant promises (Genesis 12:1-3). Israel, as a nation, was chosen to be a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation" (Exodus 19:6), set apart to demonstrate God's character and purposes to the world.

The concept of divine selection is further illustrated in the lives of individuals such as Jacob, who was chosen over his brother Esau (Romans 9:10-13), and David, who was selected as king despite being the youngest of Jesse's sons (1 Samuel 16:11-13). These examples underscore the principle that God's choices are not based on human merit or status but on His sovereign will and purpose.

In the New Testament, divine selection is expanded to include the calling of the Church, composed of both Jews and Gentiles, as God's chosen people.Ephesians 1:4-5 states, "For He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His presence. In love He predestined us for adoption as His sons through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of His will." This passage emphasizes the grace and initiative of God in the salvation of believers.

The doctrine of divine selection is also evident in the calling of the apostles, whom Jesus chose to be His witnesses and to lay the foundation of the Church (John 15:16;Acts 1:2). The apostle Paul, in particular, speaks of his own calling as an apostle to the Gentiles, highlighting God's sovereign choice in his life (Galatians 1:15-16).

While divine selection raises questions about human responsibility and free will, Scripture affirms that God's choices are always in harmony with His justice, love, and wisdom. Believers are encouraged to respond to God's call with faith and obedience, trusting in His perfect plan and purpose for their lives.