Introduction

The current revival that is sweeping the world speaks a great deal about “the anointing of God.” The term raises several questions. In this message, I want to attempt to answer some of those questions. Read Psalm 92:10; Luke 4:18-19; 2 Corinthians 1:21-22; I John 2:27 (Emphasis: Just as Christ was anointed; so are we anointed) [A sermon preached by Dr. Arnold Lastinger. Published with permission.]

1. In the Bible what is the Anointing of God?

A. “To smear ointment on something to ceremonially separate that person or object for a special purpose.” (Vine’s Expository Dictionary)

B. In the OT it is most often used for the setting a part of the Prophets and Kings (I Kings 19:16) and Priests (Exodus 28:41). Sacred temple vessels were also anointed for consecration. The term “Messiah” comes from the Hebrew word for “anointed”; Jesus was set apart to be the sacrificial lamb.

C. It should be noted though, that the act of anointing is more than just ceremonial; something spiritually significant happens when one is anointed: (1 Samuel 16:13). It’s not just a concept limited to the OT either. See texts above

2. What is its purpose for the 21st Century?

A. (This is not an exhaustive list). To witness (Acts 1:8) if you have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, you already have the anointing to witness; use it or lose it! To preach (Acts 2:14) Peter the Wimp became Peter the Powerhouse after the anointing of the Holy Spirit came upon him in the Upper Room.

B. The anointing for the Gifts of the Spirit – The Holy Spirit, the anointing Agent, is the initiator of all the gifts. The anointing for healing (Acts 3:1-8). Thousands of lame men lined the streets of Jerusalem, but Peter felt the anointing for healing on this occasion.

C. The anointing for deliverance (Acts 16:16-18). The girl had followed Paul for many days, but only when he sensed the anointing did he cast out the devil. The anointing for financial freedom (Luke. 4:18-19). The “good news” to the poor is not poverty. The “acceptable year” is OT jargon for the year of jubilee, when all debts were canceled and all men were set free from financial bondage and slavery. God does not want His people to be in debt! If you will obey His biblical principles you can and will become debt-free and financially independent of others.

3. What is the Nature of this Anointing?

A. It is tangible. There is visible evidence when the anointing of God is present. (1 Kings 8:10-11; Judges 16:14; Acts 3:1-8; Acts 10:9-11; 2 Corinthians 12:2-5; Revelation 1:17)

B. The anointing of God is temporary: It is given to meet the need of the moment (I Kings 8:10-11; Judges 16:4). Peter and John did not heal every lame man. If John had fallen down every time he prayed he never could have written the book of Revelation. Peter did not fall into a trance every time he prayed. Paul is not always caught up to 3rd heaven.

C. There are special times of anointing. When God moves in a supernatural way. (Luke 5:17) “…And the power of the Lord was present to heal them…”. It is transferable. It can be conveyed to another person or even a thing (Numbers 27:18-23; John 20:21-23; Acts 8:14-19; Acts 9:17-18; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6). Note: God does the healing, but He uses people as instruments.

4. Is anointing inanimate things Biblical?

A. In Exodus Moses’ rod was used for several miracles. The river turned to blood, the Red Sea parted, brought water from the Rock. Elisha sent his staff to be laid on a dead child; it did not work and he had to go and stretch his body over the boy to revive him (2 Kings 4:29-37).

B. The call of God came to Elisha through Elijah’s mantle (1 Kings 19:19); the power of God came to Elisha through Elijah’s mantle (2 Kings. 2:13-14). Jesus made clay from spit and the healing anointing in that clay healed a blind man (John 9:6).

C. Handkerchiefs and aprons carried anointing from Paul’s body to the sick (Acts 19:12). Peter’s shadow had anointing upon it (Acts 5:15).

5. How can I receive the Anointing of God?

A. By faith (as is every other gift of God). Ask in faith, Receive in faith, Act in faith. Remember, personal worthiness is not at issue here: Peter was a brash, loud-mouthed racist.

B. Paul was a cocky, prideful murderer. Elijah tended toward moodiness and depression.

C. This does not excuse worldliness and bad behavior, but God is not looking for perfect vessels (We hold this treasure in earthen vessels – 2 Corinthians 4:7) Be willing for God to change your life.

Conclusion

Feel free to come forward so that I can pray that you will be baptized by the Holy Spirit and receive the anointing. Once again, this anointing is not for serving your personal purposes. It’s for the benefit of the others and the church. When God anoints you, use that anointing to preach the good news, and bless others through healings and other miracles. The more you use the anointing the more it will flow from you to others.

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