Topical Encyclopedia
The phrase "The Man Appointed" can be understood in various contexts within the biblical narrative, often referring to individuals chosen by God for specific purposes or roles. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of divine election and purpose, where God, in His sovereignty, appoints individuals to fulfill His will and advance His redemptive plan.
Adam: The First Man AppointedThe first and perhaps most foundational instance of a man appointed by God is Adam. In
Genesis 1:26-28 , God creates Adam and appoints him as the steward of creation: "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness, to rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, and over all the earth itself and every creature that crawls upon it.'" Adam's appointment signifies humanity's unique role and responsibility in God's creation, serving as the representative head of the human race.
Noah: Appointed for PreservationNoah is another significant figure appointed by God, chosen to preserve humanity and animal life through the Great Flood.
Genesis 6:8-9 states, "Noah, however, found favor in the eyes of the LORD. This is the account of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation; Noah walked with God." Noah's appointment underscores themes of righteousness, obedience, and divine favor, as he is tasked with building the ark and ensuring the continuity of life on earth.
Abraham: Appointed for CovenantAbraham, originally Abram, is appointed by God to be the father of many nations and the recipient of the covenant promises. In
Genesis 12:1-3 , God calls Abram, saying, "Go forth from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing." Abraham's appointment is pivotal in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, as it establishes the covenantal relationship between God and His chosen people.
Moses: Appointed as DelivererMoses is appointed by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage and to deliver the Law. In
Exodus 3:10 , God commissions Moses, saying, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Moses' appointment highlights themes of liberation, lawgiving, and mediation, as he becomes the central figure in the Exodus narrative and the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant.
David: Appointed as KingDavid, the shepherd boy turned king, is appointed by God to lead Israel and establish a royal dynasty. In
1 Samuel 16:12-13 , the LORD instructs Samuel to anoint David, saying, "Rise and anoint him, for he is the one." David's appointment signifies God's choice of a king "after His own heart" (
1 Samuel 13:14) and sets the stage for the Davidic Covenant, which promises an everlasting kingdom through David's lineage.
Jesus Christ: The Ultimate Appointed OneIn the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the ultimate "Man Appointed" by God, fulfilling the messianic prophecies and bringing salvation to humanity.
Acts 17:31 declares, "For He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice by the Man He has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising Him from the dead." Jesus' appointment encompasses His roles as Prophet, Priest, and King, and His life, death, and resurrection are central to God's redemptive plan.
Paul: Appointed as ApostleThe Apostle Paul, formerly Saul of Tarsus, is appointed by God to be a missionary to the Gentiles. In
Acts 9:15 , the Lord tells Ananias, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel." Paul's appointment is significant for the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of the early Church, as he becomes a key figure in the New Testament writings and missionary journeys.
Throughout Scripture, the concept of "The Man Appointed" illustrates God's sovereign choice and purpose in selecting individuals to fulfill His divine will, each playing a unique role in the unfolding of His redemptive history.
