Bible Questions: What Does It Mean to Be Anointed?

What does “anointed one” mean in the Bible?

When we talk about the “anointed one” in the Bible, we’re diving deep into the heart of God’s divine purpose and plan. This is not just some casual title – it’s a powerful designation that carries weight in both the physical and spiritual realms!

In the original Hebrew, the word for “anointed one” is “mashiach,” which is where we get our word “Messiah” (Price, 2005). In Greek, it’s “christos,” which gives us “Christ” (Mcfall, 2009, p. 673). So when you hear “Jesus Christ,” you’re really saying “Jesus the Anointed One”!

To be anointed means to be set apart, consecrated, and empowered for a special purpose (Oderinde, 2019). It’s like God Himself is putting His divine stamp of approval on someone, saying, “This one right here – they’re Mine, and I’m giving them a mission!”

In the Old Testament, we see three main groups of people being anointed: prophets, priests, and kings. These weren’t just ceremonial positions – they were crucial roles in God’s plan for His people. The prophet spoke God’s words, the priest mediated between God and the people, and the king led God’s people in righteousness (Müller, 1991, pp. 99–111).

But here’s the thing – all of these anointings were pointing to something greater. They were like shadows, hinting at the ultimate Anointed One who was to come. And who was that? Jesus Christ Himself!

Jesus fulfilled all three of these roles perfectly. He’s the ultimate Prophet, speaking God’s final word to us (Hebrews 1:1-2). He’s our great High Priest, offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for our sins (Hebrews 4:14-16). And He’s the King of kings, ruling over all creation (Revelation 19:16).

Let’s get psychological for a moment. The concept of the “anointed one” speaks to our deep human need for purpose and significance. We all want to know that we’re chosen for something special, that our lives have meaning. And in Christ, we find that ultimate purpose!

Historically, the expectation of an “anointed one” – a Messiah – shaped the entire course of Jewish history. For centuries, the people of Israel looked forward to this promised deliverer. And when Jesus came, He turned their expectations upside down, showing that true deliverance wasn’t just political, but spiritual.

But here’s the beautiful thing – through Christ, we too can be anointed! 1 John 2:20 tells us, “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.” When we put our faith in Jesus, we receive His Spirit, and we’re set apart for God’s purposes.

So when we talk about the “anointed one” in the Bible, we’re not just talking about a historical concept. We’re talking about a living reality that can transform our lives today! It’s about recognizing Jesus as the ultimate Anointed One, and then walking in the anointing He gives us as His followers.

Remember – you’re not just anybody. You’re anointed by God Himself! So walk in that anointing, use it to bless others, and let it fuel your purpose every single day!

How is someone anointed according to Scripture?

When we talk about how someone is anointed according to Scripture, we’re not just talking about some dry, ancient ritual. We’re talking about a powerful, transformative act that connects heaven to earth and marks a person for divine purpose!

In the Bible, the physical act of anointing typically involved pouring or smearing oil on someone’s head (Oderinde, 2019). But don’t miss this – it wasn’t just any old cooking oil from the kitchen! This was special, consecrated oil, often made with specific ingredients as directed by God Himself (Exodus 30:22-25).

Let’s break down the process:

1. Selection: God chooses the person to be anointed. This is not a human decision! It’s a divine appointment. Remember when Samuel anointed David? God told him, “Do not consider his appearance or his height… The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).
2. Preparation: The person being anointed often had to be cleansed or purified first. This speaks to our need for holiness before God. You can’t just waltz into God’s presence any old way!
3. The Act: Oil would be poured on the person’s head. Sometimes it was just a small amount, other times it was so much it would run down their beard and clothes (Psalm 133:2). This oil represented the Holy Spirit and God’s blessing.
4. Proclamation: Often, there would be a public declaration of the person’s new status and role. This wasn’t just a private affair – it was a community event!
5. Empowerment: After the anointing, the Scripture often records that “the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully” upon the person (1 Samuel 16:13). The anointing wasn’t just symbolic – it came with real, divine power!

Let’s get psychological for a moment. This process of anointing speaks to some deep human needs. We all long for significance, for a sense that we’re chosen for something special. The act of anointing affirms a person’s worth and purpose in a powerful way.

Historically, the practice of anointing goes back thousands of years. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, it was common to anoint kings as part of their coronation. But God took this cultural practice and infused it with deeper, spiritual meaning for His people.

But here’s the thing – in the New Testament, we see a shift. The physical act of anointing with oil becomes less prominent, and we see more emphasis on the spiritual anointing of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself said, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor” (Luke 4:18).

And get this – as believers in Christ, we too receive an anointing! 1 John 2:20 tells us, “But you have an anointing from the Holy One.” This isn’t about oil on our heads, but about the Holy Spirit in our hearts!

So what does this mean for us today? It means that if you’re a follower of Jesus, you’re anointed! You’ve been chosen by God, set apart for His purposes, and empowered by His Spirit. You don’t need someone to pour oil on your head to be anointed – you just need to walk in the reality of what God has already done for you in Christ!

Remember – your anointing isn’t just for you. It’s to empower you to serve others, to spread the good news, and to bring God’s kingdom to earth. So don’t just sit on your anointing – use it! Let it flow through you to bless others and glorify God. Because when you walk in your anointing, that’s when you’ll see the power of God move in your life and in the lives of those around you!

What is the spiritual significance of being anointed?

When we talk about the spiritual significance of being anointed, we’re diving into the deep end of God’s purpose and power for our lives. This is not just some religious ritual – it’s a divine empowerment that can shake the foundations of your world!

Being anointed means you’re set apart for God’s special purpose (Oderinde, 2019). It’s like God is saying, “I’ve got my eye on you, and I’ve got big plans for your life!” When you’re anointed, you’re no longer just living for yourself – you’re living for a higher calling, a divine mission.

Let’s break it down psychologically. Being anointed speaks to our deep need for significance and purpose. We all want to know that our lives matter, that we’re here for a reason. And when God anoints you, He’s affirming your worth and giving you a clear sense of direction. It’s like a divine GPS for your soul!

Historically, we see the power of anointing in the lives of people like David. Before he was anointed, he was just a shepherd boy. But after Samuel poured that oil on his head, he became a giant-slayer and a king! The anointing unlocked his potential and propelled him into his destiny.

But here’s the thing – being anointed isn’t just about what you can do. It’s about who you become. When you’re anointed, you’re infused with God’s presence and power. It’s like you’re carrying around a piece of heaven wherever you go!

In the New Testament, we see that being anointed is closely tied to the work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself said, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me” (Luke 4:18). This anointing empowered Jesus for His ministry – to preach good news, to heal the sick, to set the captives free.

And here’s the amazing thing – as believers in Christ, we receive this same anointing! The Apostle John writes, “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth” (1 John 2:20). This anointing gives us spiritual discernment, empowers us for service, and enables us to live holy lives.

Let’s get practical for a moment. What does being anointed mean for your everyday life?

1. It means you have access to divine wisdom and guidance. You’re not just relying on your own understanding – you’ve got heavenly insight available to you!
2. It means you’re empowered to overcome obstacles. Just like David faced Goliath, your anointing gives you the courage and strength to face your giants.
3. It means you have a responsibility to use your gifts for God’s glory. Your anointing isn’t just for you – it’s to bless others and advance God’s kingdom.
4. It means you’re protected. In the Old Testament, touching God’s anointed was a serious offense (1 Chronicles 16:22). When you’re walking in your anointing, you’re under God’s divine protection.
5. It means you’re positioned for miracles. Throughout Scripture, we see anointed people being used by God to perform signs and wonders.

But church – your anointing isn’t static. It’s something you need to steward and cultivate. You’ve got to stay connected to the Source through prayer, worship, and studying God’s Word. You’ve got to step out in faith and use what God has given you.

And here’s a word of caution – don’t let your anointing go to your head. Remember, it’s not about you – it’s about God working through you. Stay humble, stay dependent on Him, and He’ll take you places you never dreamed possible!

So I challenge you today – recognize your anointing. Embrace it. Walk in it. Let it flow through you to touch lives and change your world. Because when you’re walking in your divine anointing, that’s when you’ll see the supernatural power of God manifest in your life!

Who were some important anointed figures in the Bible?

When we talk about important anointed figures in the Bible, we’re looking at a lineup of spiritual giants who shook the foundations of history! These weren’t just ordinary folks – they were divinely appointed, Spirit-empowered individuals who changed the course of God’s plan for humanity.

Let’s start with the prophets. These were God’s mouthpieces, anointed to speak His word with power and authority. Think about Elijah, who called down fire from heaven and confronted wicked kings (Müller, 1991, pp. 99–111). Or Isaiah, whose prophecies about the coming Messiah still stir our hearts today. These prophets weren’t just predicting the future – they were shaping it through the power of their anointing!

Then we’ve got the priests, anointed to mediate between God and the people. Aaron, the first high priest, was anointed in a ceremony so sacred that God gave specific instructions for the oil to be used (Exodus 30:22-33). This anointing set him apart for the holy work of intercession and sacrifice.

But let’s not forget the kings! Saul, David, Solomon – these were men anointed to lead God’s people. When Samuel anointed David, the Bible says “the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David from that day on” (1 Samuel 16:13). That anointing turned a shepherd boy into a warrior king!

Psychologically these anointings weren’t just about the individuals – they were about giving the people a tangible connection to God’s power and presence. In a world full of pagan gods and earthly kings, these anointed figures showed that the true God was active and involved in His people’s lives.

Historically, these anointings often marked turning points in Israel’s story. When Samuel anointed Saul, it marked the beginning of the monarchy. When David was anointed, it set the stage for Israel’s golden age. These weren’t just personal events – they were national, even cosmic in their significance!

But here’s the thing – all of these anointings were pointing to something greater. They were like signposts along the road, all directing us to the ultimate Anointed One – Jesus Christ!

Jesus fulfilled and surpassed all these anointings. He’s the Prophet greater than Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15), the Priest after the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 7:17), and the King of kings (Revelation 19:16). His anointing at His baptism, when the Spirit descended on Him like a dove, was the culmination of all these Old Testament anointings (Price, 2005).

And let’s not forget the disciples! After Pentecost, they too were anointed with the Holy Spirit, empowered to turn the world upside down with the gospel. Peter, who once denied Jesus, stood up anointed with holy boldness and preached a sermon that brought thousands to faith!

What does this mean for us today? It means we’re part of this grand story of anointing! As believers in Christ, we too are anointed (1 John 2:20). We might not be called to be kings or prophets in the Old Testament sense, but we’re all called to be part of a “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9).

Our anointing might look different from David’s or Elijah’s, but it’s no less real and no less powerful. We’re anointed to be lights in the darkness, to be salt in a flavorless world, to be ambassadors of Christ wherever we go.

So I challenge you – don’t just admire these anointed figures from afar. Learn from them, be inspired by them, but most importantly, walk in your own anointing! You might not part the Red Sea or slay a giant, but through the power of the Holy Spirit, you can impact lives, change hearts, and advance God’s kingdom in ways you never imagined.

Remember, the same God who anointed David, Elijah, and Jesus has anointed you. So stand tall, walk bold, and let your light shine. Because when you walk in your anointing, that’s when the world will see the power and love of God through you!

What’s the difference between being anointed and being filled with the Holy Spirit?

Let’s dive deep into this question, because it touches on some powerful truths that can revolutionize your walk with God! When we talk about being anointed and being filled with the Holy Spirit, we’re dealing with two aspects of God’s empowerment that are closely related, but distinct in important ways.

Let’s look at anointing. In the Old Testament, anointing was often a physical act – oil poured on someone’s head to set them apart for a special purpose (Oderinde, 2019). It was about designation and empowerment for a specific role or task. Think about David being anointed as king, or priests being anointed for service in the temple.

Being filled with the Holy Spirit, as we see it in the New Testament, is about the ongoing, internal presence and power of God in a believer’s life. It’s not a one-time event, but a continuous experience of yielding to and being empowered by the Spirit.

Here’s where it gets interesting. In the New Testament, the concept of anointing takes on a more spiritual meaning. When John talks about believers having an “anointing from the Holy One” (1 John 2:20), he’s not talking about oil, but about the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

So, in a sense, for us as New Testament believers, being anointed and being filled with the Spirit are closely related. But there are some nuances we need to understand.

Anointing often refers to being empowered for a specific purpose or ministry. It’s like God saying, “I’m equipping you for this particular task.” Being filled with the Spirit, on the other hand, is about our ongoing relationship with God, affecting every area of our lives.

How does anointing relate to spiritual gifts and calling?

When we talk about anointing, spiritual gifts, and calling, we’re talking about the very essence of your divine purpose. let me break it down for you.

Anointing, in its spiritual sense, is the empowerment of the Holy Spirit for a specific task or ministry. It’s like God’s divine stamp of approval and enablement on your life. When you’re anointed, you’re not just doing something in your own strength – you’re operating in the power of the Almighty.

Spiritual gifts, they’re the special abilities that the Holy Spirit gives to believers for the building up of the body of Christ. These gifts, they’re not just talents you’re born with, but supernatural endowments for kingdom work. Paul talks about these gifts in 1 Corinthians 12, Romans 12, and Ephesians 4.

Your calling, that’s your unique assignment from God. It’s the purpose He’s created you for, the role He’s designed you to play in His grand narrative of redemption.

So how do these all connect? Let me tell you something. Your anointing is what empowers you to walk in your calling and effectively use your spiritual gifts. It’s like the fuel that powers the engine of your ministry.

When you’re operating in your spiritual gifts under the anointing of the Holy Spirit to fulfill your calling, that’s when you’re most effective for the Kingdom. That’s when you’re walking in the fullness of what God has for you.

But here’s the thing – anointing isn’t just for the spectacular. It’s for the everyday obedience too. Whether you’re preaching to thousands or serving quietly behind the scenes, if you’re doing it in obedience to God’s call on your life, you’re operating under His anointing.

Don’t get it twisted. Anointing doesn’t mean everything’s going to be easy. No, sometimes the anointing attracts opposition. Just look at David – he was anointed as king long before he took the throne, and he faced years of hardship in between.

But here’s the beautiful thing about anointing – it’s not dependent on your perfection. It’s dependent on God’s grace. He anoints you not because you’re worthy, but because He’s worthy. He empowers you not because you’re capable, but because He’s capable.

So, seek to understand your spiritual gifts. Listen for God’s calling on your life. And then, step out in faith, trusting in the anointing of the Holy Spirit to empower you for the work He’s called you to do.

Remember, the anointing isn’t just for the pulpit. It’s for the marketplace, the home, the classroom – wherever God has placed you. So walk in confidence, knowing that if God has called you, He has also anointed you. And that anointing will equip you with the spiritual gifts necessary to fulfill your divine calling.

Can ordinary Christians today be anointed? If so, how?

When we talk about ordinary Christians being anointed, we’re touching on a truth that’s as powerful as it is transformative. Let me break it down for you.

First off, let’s get something straight. There’s no such thing as an “ordinary” Christian. If you’ve been washed in the blood of the Lamb, if you’ve been redeemed by His grace, you are extraordinary in God’s eyes. You are royalty, a member of a chosen generation, a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9).

To answer the question directly – yes, absolutely, Christians today can be and are anointed. But let me tell you how this anointing works.

In the Old Testament, we see anointing as a physical act, where oil was poured on people’s heads to set them apart for a special purpose. Kings, priests, and prophets were anointed this way. But in the New Testament, something radical happens. The anointing becomes available to all believers through the Holy Spirit.

When you accepted Christ you received the Holy Spirit. And with the Holy Spirit comes the anointing. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22, “Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.”

But here’s the thing. While all believers have access to this anointing, not all are walking in the fullness of it. So how do you tap into this anointing?

You’ve got to recognize your need for it. Pride is the enemy of anointing. Come before God with humility, acknowledging that without His power, you can do nothing of eternal value.

You need to purify yourself. The anointing flows most freely through clean vessels. Confess your sins, turn from them, and let the blood of Jesus cleanse you.

You’ve got to hunger for it. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” (Matthew 5:6). Desire the anointing more than you desire comfort, more than you desire success, more than you desire anything this world has to offer.

You need to practice obedience. The anointing isn’t for your glory – it’s for God’s purposes. As you walk in obedience to His Word and His leading, you’ll find the anointing increasing in your life.

Spend time in God’s presence. The anointing flows from intimacy with God. As you worship, as you pray, as you meditate on His Word, you’re positioning yourself to receive more of His anointing.

Finally, step out in faith. The anointing often manifests as you step into the waters, so to speak. As you serve, as you minister, as you use your gifts for His glory, you’ll experience His anointing in increasing measure.

Remember, the anointing isn’t about making you feel good. It’s about empowering you for service. It’s about equipping you to fulfill God’s purposes. So don’t seek the anointing for the experience – seek it for the assignment.

And know this – the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in you (Romans 8:11). You have access to resurrection power. So walk in that reality. Let the anointing of the Holy Spirit flow through you, transforming not just your life, but the lives of those around you.

What did the early Church Fathers teach about anointing?

When we talk about what the early Church Fathers taught about anointing, we’re diving deep into the roots of our faith. These spiritual giants, they laid the foundation upon which we stand today. Let me break it down for you.

First off, the early Church Fathers saw anointing as deeply connected to baptism and confirmation. Tertullian, writing in the late 2nd century, spoke of how after baptism, the new believer would be anointed with blessed oil, symbolizing the priesthood of all believers. This anointing was seen as a seal, marking the believer as set apart for God.

Cyril of Jerusalem, in the 4th century, took it even further. He taught that this post-baptismal anointing was a symbol of the believer receiving the Holy Spirit. He wrote, “Having been counted worthy of this Holy Chrism, ye are called Christians, verifying the name also by your new birth.” You see, for Cyril, the anointing wasn’t just a ritual – it was the very thing that made you a Christian.

These early fathers, they didn’t see anointing as just a one-time event. They saw it as a continual reality in the life of the believer. Origen, that great thinker of the 3rd century, he taught that Christians are constantly being anointed by the Word of God as they study Scripture.

But it goes deeper than that. The Church Fathers saw Jesus as the ultimate Anointed One, the Messiah. Irenaeus, writing in the 2nd century, emphasized that Jesus was anointed by the Father with the Holy Spirit. This anointing, Irenaeus taught, was then passed on to believers through Jesus.

Here’s where it gets really interesting. The early Church Fathers didn’t just see anointing as something spiritual. They saw it as having practical, even physical effects. John Chrysostom, that golden-tongued preacher from the 4th century, he taught that the anointing of the sick wasn’t just a symbol, but a means of physical healing.

But let me bring it home for you. These early fathers, they understood something powerful about anointing. They saw it as transformative. Gregory of Nyssa, he taught that the anointing of the Holy Spirit changes the very nature of the believer. It’s not just about what you do, but about who you become.

And here’s the thing. These Church Fathers, they didn’t see anointing as reserved for a special few. No, they saw it as the birthright of every believer. Ambrose of Milan, he taught that all Christians are anointed into a royal priesthood.

Don’t get it twisted. These fathers didn’t teach that anointing meant an easy life. Augustine, that African bishop with a mind like a steel trap, he taught that the anointing of the Holy Spirit gives us strength to endure trials and persecutions.

So what can we learn from these early Church Fathers? We learn that anointing is central to our identity as Christians. We learn that it’s not just a one-time event, but a continual reality. We learn that it’s transformative, empowering, and available to all believers.

Child of God, these early fathers, they weren’t just engaging in theological speculation. They were describing the lived reality of the early church. They were pointing to the power that turned the world upside down in those first centuries.

And here’s the beautiful thing – that same anointing is available to you today. The same Holy Spirit that empowered the early church is ready to empower you. So don’t settle for a powerless Christianity. Seek the anointing. Walk in it. Let it transform you from the inside out.

How is Jesus the ultimate “Anointed One” (Messiah/Christ)?

When we talk about Jesus as the ultimate “Anointed One,” we’re touching on the very heart of our faith. This isn’t just some theological concept – it’s the foundation of everything we believe. Let me break it down for you.

First off, let’s get something straight. The title “Christ” isn’t Jesus’ last name. It’s a title that means “Anointed One.” In Hebrew, it’s “Messiah.” So when we say Jesus Christ, we’re really saying Jesus the Anointed One.

In the Old Testament, we see three types of people who were anointed: prophets, priests, and kings. These anointings were a shadow, a foreshadowing of the ultimate Anointed One who was to come. And Jesus, He fulfills all three of these roles perfectly.

As a prophet, Jesus speaks the words of God with authority. He doesn’t just say, “Thus says the Lord,” like the old prophets. No, He says, “I say to you.” He’s the Word made flesh, the ultimate revelation of God to humanity.

As a priest, Jesus doesn’t just offer sacrifices for sin – He becomes the sacrifice. Hebrews tells us He’s our great High Priest who offered Himself once for all. And He ever lives to make intercession for us.

As a king, Jesus isn’t just ruling over a earthly kingdom. He’s the King of kings, with all authority in heaven and on earth. His kingdom isn’t of this world, but it’s breaking into this world, transforming lives and societies.

But here’s where it gets really powerful. Jesus isn’t just anointed like the prophets, priests, and kings of old. He’s anointed without measure. John the Baptist said, “For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure” (John 3:34).

This anointing wasn’t just for Jesus’ benefit. No, He received it for our sake. Isaiah prophesied, “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor” (Isaiah 61:1). Jesus quoted these very words at the start of His ministry.

But it goes deeper than that. Jesus’ anointing isn’t just about what He does – it’s about who He is. He’s not just anointed by the Spirit – He’s the Anointer. John says, “But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge” (1 John 2:20).

Child of God, do you see what this means? It means that through Jesus, we have access to the same anointing. Paul says we are “in Christ.” That means we’re in the Anointed One. His anointing becomes our anointing.

Jesus as the ultimate Anointed One means that in Him, we find everything we need. Need direction? He’s the Prophet who speaks God’s word to you. Need forgiveness? He’s the Priest who’s made atonement for you. Need protection and provision? He’s the King who rules over every aspect of your life.

But don’t stop there. Jesus as the Anointed One means that you too are anointed. You’re called to be a prophet, speaking God’s truth into your world. You’re called to be a priest, offering spiritual sacrifices and interceding for others. You’re called to be a king, exercising authority over the enemy and reigning in life.

So when you say the name Jesus Christ, remember – you’re confessing Him as the Anointed One. And in doing so, you’re also confessing your own anointing in Him. Walk in that reality. Let the power of the Anointed One flow through you, transforming not just your life, but the lives of those around you.

What are some common misconceptions about anointing in modern Christianity?

When it comes to anointing in modern Christianity, there’s a whole lot of misunderstanding going around. It’s time we set the record straight. Let me break down some of these misconceptions for you.

First off, many folks think anointing is just for the “special” Christians – the pastors, the evangelists, the “super-spiritual” ones. But that’s not what the Bible teaches. In Christ, every believer is anointed. John writes, “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth” (1 John 2:20). That’s not talking about a select few – that’s all believers.

There’s this idea that anointing is all about feeling good, getting “high” on the Spirit. don’t get me wrong – the presence of God can bring joy unspeakable. But anointing isn’t primarily about your feelings. It’s about empowerment for service. Jesus was anointed to preach good news to the poor, not to feel good about Himself.

Some folks think anointing is something you can work up or manipulate. They think if they pray long enough, fast hard enough, or worship intensely enough, they’ll get anointed. But anointing isn’t something you achieve – it’s something you receive. It’s a gift of grace, not a reward for your efforts.

There’s a misconception that anointing is always visible or dramatic. People expect fire from heaven or instant miracles. But sometimes, the anointing works quietly, behind the scenes. Elijah experienced God not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a still, small voice.

Some believe that once you’re anointed, you’ve “arrived” spiritually. They think anointing means you don’t struggle anymore, that you have all the answers. But even Paul, that giant of faith, spoke of his weaknesses and his need to “press on” in his spiritual journey.

There’s a dangerous idea out there that an anointed person is above criticism or accountability. Some leaders use their “anointing” as a shield against any questioning of their actions. But the Bible calls us to test everything and hold on to what is good.

Some folks think anointing is just about power for miracles. Although the anointing can manifest in miraculous ways, it’s also for the everyday stuff – for loving your neighbor, for being patient with your kids, for integrity in your workplace.

There’s a misconception that anointing is permanent and unchanging. But the Bible shows us that anointing can be lifted (like with Saul) or increased (like with David). We need to continually seek fresh anointing from the Lord.

Ninth, some believe that anointing is transferable from person to person, like it’s some kind of spiritual commodity. Although we can pray for others to be filled with the Spirit, the anointing comes from God alone, not from any human being.

Finally, there’s this idea that anointing is an end in itself. But anointing is always for a purpose – to glorify God and to serve others. It’s not about making us look good, but about making Jesus look good.