The term "Anointed Ones" in the Bible refers to individuals who have been consecrated or set apart for a specific purpose by God through the act of anointing with oil. This practice signifies the impartation of the Holy Spirit, divine authority, and blessing. The concept of anointing is deeply rooted in the Old Testament and carries significant theological implications throughout the Scriptures.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, anointing was a common practice for consecrating priests, kings, and sometimes prophets. The Hebrew word for "anointed" is "mashiach," from which the term "Messiah" is derived. Anointing oil was used as a symbol of God's choice and empowerment for a particular role or task.

1. Priests: The anointing of priests is first detailed in the consecration of Aaron and his sons. Exodus 28:41 states, "After you put these garments on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint them, ordain them, and consecrate them, so that they may serve Me as priests." This anointing set them apart for the sacred duties of the priesthood.

2. Kings: Anointing was also a key element in the establishment of kingship in Israel. Saul, the first king of Israel, was anointed by the prophet Samuel as recorded in 1 Samuel 10:1 : "Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?'" Similarly, David was anointed as king, signifying God's choice and blessing upon his reign (1 Samuel 16:13).

3. Prophets: Although less common, prophets were sometimes anointed to signify their divine appointment. Elijah was instructed to anoint Elisha as a prophet in his place (1 Kings 19:16).

Messianic Expectation

The concept of the "Anointed One" reaches its pinnacle in the expectation of the Messiah, a future deliverer and king who would be anointed by God to bring salvation to His people. This expectation is rooted in various Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 61:1 : "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor."

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is identified as the ultimate Anointed One, the Messiah. The Greek equivalent of "mashiach" is "Christos," from which the title "Christ" is derived. Jesus' anointing is affirmed in several passages, including His baptism, where the Holy Spirit descends upon Him (Matthew 3:16-17). Peter declares in Acts 10:38 , "how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, because God was with Him."

Believers as Anointed Ones

The New Testament also extends the concept of anointing to all believers, who are anointed by the Holy Spirit. This anointing signifies their inclusion in the body of Christ and their empowerment for service. 1 John 2:20 states, "You, however, have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth." This anointing equips believers to live out their faith and fulfill their God-given purposes.

Conclusion

The theme of anointing in the Bible underscores God's sovereign choice and empowerment of individuals for His purposes. From the anointing of priests, kings, and prophets in the Old Testament to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the anointing of believers, this concept highlights the divine initiative and presence in the lives of those set apart for His work.