Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of consecration in the Bible refers to the act of setting apart something or someone for a sacred purpose. It is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing the need for holiness and dedication to God. The call to consecration is both an invitation and a command for believers to live lives that are distinct and devoted to the service of the Lord.
Old Testament FoundationsIn the Old Testament, consecration is often associated with the priesthood and the tabernacle. The priests, particularly Aaron and his sons, were consecrated to serve in the tabernacle, as described in
Exodus 28-29. The process involved washing, anointing, and the offering of sacrifices.
Exodus 29:9 states, "So you shall put the turbans on their heads and tie sashes around the waists of Aaron and his sons. The priesthood is theirs by a permanent statute. In this way you shall ordain Aaron and his sons."
The Israelites themselves were called to be a consecrated people. In
Exodus 19:5-6, God declares, "Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession out of all the nations—for the whole earth is Mine. And unto Me you shall be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." This call to consecration was not limited to the priesthood but extended to the entire nation, signifying a collective dedication to God's purposes.
New Testament FulfillmentIn the New Testament, the call to consecration is expanded and deepened through the work of Jesus Christ. Believers are called to be consecrated through faith in Him, becoming a "royal priesthood" as described in
1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."
The Apostle Paul frequently exhorts believers to live consecrated lives. In
Romans 12:1, he urges, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship." This call to present oneself as a living sacrifice underscores the totality of consecration, involving every aspect of life in service to God.
Consecration and HolinessConsecration is closely linked to the concept of holiness. To be consecrated is to be set apart for God's use, which inherently involves a pursuit of holiness.
Hebrews 12:14 emphasizes this connection: "Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord."
The process of consecration involves both divine action and human response. God sanctifies and sets apart His people, but believers are also called to actively pursue holiness and obedience. This dual aspect is evident in
Philippians 2:12-13: "Therefore, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now even more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose."
Practical ImplicationsThe call to consecration has practical implications for the life of a believer. It involves a commitment to live according to God's standards, rejecting worldly values and behaviors. This is reflected in
2 Corinthians 6:17-18: "Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you. And I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty."
Consecration also involves a dedication to service, using one's gifts and talents for the advancement of God's kingdom.
Ephesians 2:10 reminds believers, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life."
In summary, the call to consecration is a foundational aspect of the Christian faith, inviting believers to live lives that are set apart for God's glory and purposes. Through consecration, believers reflect the holiness of God and participate in His redemptive work in the world.
