Studying through 1 John presently on the radio brought to mind some interesting facts about the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
John uses the word “anointing” with reference to the work of the Spirit. In the Old Testament, anointing had two purposes:
- Priests were anointed to ceremonially prepare them for their ministerial work. This was described as an act that both consecrated and sanctified them.
- A shepherd would anoint the head of his sheep, to heal them from maddening infestations of insects. This act was to bring healing and protection.
Compare that with the work of the Spirit in our lives. The Spirit prepares and enables us, as priests unto God. Also, the Spirit brings healing to us. Obviously, we have healing from the depraved state we are in through Adam, but also on a daily basis we find healing from guilt, shame, lies, etc., when we pursue Christ.
Originally published December 2019