The concept of the "anointed ones" in the Bible is deeply rooted in the Hebrew term "Messiah" and the Greek "Christos," both meaning "anointed." Throughout the Scriptures, anointing signifies a divine appointment to a specific role or task, often accompanied by the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. The role of the anointed ones is multifaceted, encompassing leadership, prophecy, priesthood, and kingship.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, anointing was a physical act involving the pouring of oil over an individual's head, symbolizing God's selection and blessing. The anointed ones included priests, prophets, and kings, each serving distinct roles within the covenant community of Israel.

1. Priests: The priesthood, beginning with Aaron and his sons, was established through anointing. Exodus 28:41 states, "After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them so they may serve Me as priests." The anointed priests acted as mediators between God and the people, offering sacrifices and maintaining the sanctity of worship.

2. Prophets: Prophets were also anointed to deliver God's messages to His people. Elijah was instructed to anoint Elisha as a prophet in his place (1 Kings 19:16). The anointing of prophets signified their divine commission to speak God's truth and guide the nation according to His will.

3. Kings: The anointing of kings was a significant event, marking the divine approval of their rule. Saul, David, and Solomon were all anointed as kings of Israel. 1 Samuel 16:13 recounts, "So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward." The anointing of kings symbolized their role as God's chosen leaders, responsible for governing the people in accordance with divine law.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament reveals the ultimate fulfillment of the anointed role in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus is recognized as the Messiah, the Anointed One, who embodies the offices of prophet, priest, and king.

1. Prophet: Jesus is the ultimate prophet, the Word made flesh, who reveals God's will and truth. Hebrews 1:1-2 states, "On many past occasions and in many different ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets. But in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son."

2. Priest: As the great High Priest, Jesus offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin, mediating a new covenant between God and humanity. Hebrews 4:14 declares, "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. King: Jesus is the King of Kings, whose reign is eternal and whose kingdom is not of this world. Revelation 19:16 proclaims, "And He has a name written on His robe and on His thigh: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS."

The Anointing of Believers

In the New Testament, the anointing extends to all believers, who are called to participate in the mission of Christ. 1 John 2:20 affirms, "But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth." This anointing empowers Christians to live out their faith, bear witness to the Gospel, and serve in various capacities within the body of Christ.

The role of the anointed ones, therefore, is not only a historical and prophetic reality but also a present and active calling for believers to embody the life and mission of Jesus Christ in the world.