What is the significance of anointing in Exodus 40:11 for Christian practices? Setting the Scene in Exodus 40:11 “Anoint the basin and its stand and consecrate them.” (Exodus 40:11) • God commands Moses to apply sacred oil to the bronze laver and its stand. • This single verse caps a series of anointings (vv. 9-10) that set every article of the tabernacle apart exclusively for God’s service. • The act is physical, literal, and public—marking a place where sin is washed away and fellowship with God begins (cf. Exodus 30:18-21). What the Original Anointing Achieved • Separation—common objects become holy, used only for Yahweh. • Purity—oil on the washing basin highlights cleansing before entering God’s presence. • Authorization—no priest may bypass the laver; anointing signals divine approval of its role. • Perpetuity—“consecrate” (Hebrew qāḏaš) means enduring holiness; the object remains set apart as long as God’s covenant stands. Echoes in Later Old Testament Practice • Priests: “You shall anoint Aaron and his sons and consecrate them” (Exodus 40:13). • Kings: Samuel anoints Saul and David (1 Samuel 10:1; 16:13), showing God-given authority. • Prophets: Elijah receives commission to anoint Elisha (1 Kings 19:16). • Each anointing links back to the tabernacle pattern—chosen, cleansed, empowered. Fulfillment and Continuance in Christ • Jesus, the promised “Anointed One” (Messiah, Christos), embodies all previous anointings (Luke 4:18; Acts 10:38). • His blood, not bronze water, cleanses permanently (Hebrews 9:13-14). • He pours out the Holy Spirit as the believer’s anointing (2 Corinthians 1:21-22; 1 John 2:20,27). Implications for Christian Life Today • Consecration—believers are “a royal priesthood” set apart for God’s service (1 Peter 2:9). • Cleansing—regular confession mirrors washing at the laver (1 John 1:9). • Worship—everything offered to God (talents, time, resources) should be “anointed,” dedicated wholly to Him (Romans 12:1). • Authority—ministry is valid only when empowered by the Spirit, never self-appointed (Acts 13:2-3). Practical Ways Believers Live Out the Anointing • Begin gatherings by acknowledging the Spirit’s presence and leadership. • Dedicate homes, workplaces, and ministries to God’s exclusive use, symbolized if desired with oil but rooted in obedient hearts. • Encourage new servants of Christ through laying on of hands, asking the Spirit to equip them (2 Timothy 1:6). • Maintain personal holiness—daily “washing” in the Word reflects the laver’s purpose (Ephesians 5:26). |
    |