Topical Bible: The Emblems of the Holy Spirit: Oil: Consecrating

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In the Scriptures, oil serves as a significant emblem of the Holy Spirit, particularly in the context of consecration. The use of oil for anointing is deeply rooted in the biblical tradition, symbolizing the setting apart of individuals or objects for divine service and indicating the presence and empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

Old Testament Usage

The practice of anointing with oil is prominently featured in the Old Testament, where it is used to consecrate priests, kings, and sacred objects. In Exodus 30:25-30, God instructs Moses to make a holy anointing oil, a blend of spices and olive oil, to consecrate the tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as Aaron and his sons for the priesthood: "You are to anoint Aaron and his sons and consecrate them to serve Me as priests" (Exodus 30:30). This act of anointing signifies the setting apart of the priests for their sacred duties and the indwelling of the Spirit to empower them for service.

The anointing of kings is another significant use of oil in the Old Testament. Samuel anoints Saul as the first king of Israel, and later David, signifying their divine appointment and the Spirit's empowerment for leadership. In 1 Samuel 16:13, it is recorded, "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" . This anointing with oil is a physical manifestation of the Holy Spirit's presence and power in the life of the anointed.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the symbolism of oil as the Holy Spirit's presence and consecration is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus, the Anointed One (Messiah), is consecrated by the Holy Spirit for His redemptive mission. At His baptism, the Holy Spirit descends upon Him like a dove, marking the beginning of His public ministry (Matthew 3:16). This event signifies Jesus' anointing by the Spirit, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 61:1, "The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor" .

The apostles and early church also experience the consecrating work of the Holy Spirit. In Acts 10:38, Peter speaks of "how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power," emphasizing the role of the Spirit in consecrating and empowering Jesus for His ministry. Similarly, believers are anointed by the Holy Spirit, set apart for God's purposes, and empowered to live out their faith (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).

Symbolism and Significance

The use of oil as an emblem of the Holy Spirit in consecration underscores several key theological themes. First, it highlights the divine initiative in setting apart individuals for specific roles and tasks within God's redemptive plan. The anointing with oil signifies God's choice and the Spirit's enabling presence, ensuring that those consecrated are equipped for their calling.

Second, the symbolism of oil points to the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. Just as oil was used to consecrate and purify the tabernacle and its furnishings, the Holy Spirit sanctifies believers, setting them apart as holy and dedicated to God's service.

Finally, the emblem of oil in consecration emphasizes the continuity of God's work through the Spirit from the Old Testament to the New Testament. The anointing of priests, kings, and ultimately Jesus Christ, reveals the consistent role of the Holy Spirit in empowering God's people for His purposes throughout salvation history.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 29:7
Then shall you take the anointing oil, and pour it on his head, and anoint him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 30:30
And you shall anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may minister to me in the priest's office.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 61:1
The Spirit of the Lord GOD is on me; because the LORD has anointed me to preach good tidings to the meek; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound;
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Library

Memoir of John Bunyan
... so let it come into his bowels like water, and like oil into his ... These humble disciples
could have had no conception that the Holy Spirit was blessing their ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

Church Fabrics and Services.
... gloomy solitary cells, planned by the spirit of aristocracy ... moral beauty of a virtuous
and holy life. ... mouldering fragments lie, All dreadful emblems of mortality ...
/.../the english church in the eighteenth century/chapter x church fabrics and.htm