The term "His Anointed" is a significant biblical phrase that refers to individuals chosen and consecrated by God for a specific purpose or mission. The concept of anointing is deeply rooted in the Old Testament and carries profound theological implications throughout the Scriptures.

Old Testament Context

In the Hebrew Bible, the term "anointed" is derived from the Hebrew word "mashiach," which means "anointed one." This term is often translated into English as "Messiah." Anointing involved the pouring of oil over the head of a person, symbolizing the Holy Spirit's empowerment and God's selection for a particular role. This practice was common for priests, prophets, and kings.

1. Priests: The anointing of priests is first seen 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 and ordain them. Consecrate them so that they may serve Me as priests."

2. Kings: The anointing of kings is a prominent theme, with Saul being the first king of Israel anointed by the prophet Samuel. 1 Samuel 10:1 records, "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?'"

3. Prophets: Although less common, prophets were also anointed, as seen in the case of Elisha, who was anointed by Elijah as his successor (1 Kings 19:16).

Messianic Expectation

The concept of "His Anointed" takes on a messianic dimension as the Old Testament progresses. The Jewish expectation of a coming Messiah, a future anointed king from the line of David, is a central theme. This expectation is rooted in promises such as those found in 2 Samuel 7:12-13 , where God promises David, "When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. He will build a house for My Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever."

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the term "His Anointed" is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. The Greek equivalent of "mashiach" is "Christos," from which the title "Christ" is derived. Jesus is recognized as the ultimate Anointed One, fulfilling the messianic prophecies of the Old Testament.

1. Jesus as the Anointed King: The New Testament affirms Jesus as the promised King. In Luke 4:18-19 , Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor."

2. Jesus as the Anointed Priest: The Book of Hebrews presents Jesus as the ultimate High Priest, anointed to offer the perfect sacrifice for sin. Hebrews 4:14 states, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess."

3. Jesus as the Anointed Prophet: Jesus is also seen as the ultimate prophet, the one who fully reveals God to humanity. In Acts 3:22 , Peter refers to Jesus, saying, "For Moses said, 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your brothers. You must listen to Him in everything He tells you.'"

Theological Significance

The anointing of Jesus as "His Anointed" signifies His divine appointment and authority. It underscores His unique role in God's redemptive plan as Prophet, Priest, and King. Believers are also described as anointed in Christ, sharing in His mission and empowered by the Holy Spirit. 1 John 2:20 affirms, "You, however, have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth."

The concept of "His Anointed" thus encapsulates the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.