Anointing oil is not a magical substance, a miracle cure or an independent source of supernatural power. Its biblical significance lies in the spiritual reality it represents and the faith expressed through its use. Anointing is a prophetic act: a physical action performed in the natural world as a visible expression of faith in what God has established in the spiritual realm. This distinction is essential. We do not perform the act of anointing in order to create a spiritual reality through our own efforts. Rather, we act because we believe God's Word and express our faith in what He has already accomplished. The principle is not limited to one particular form of anointing. It applies to the prophetic meaning of anointing itself, whether the action expresses dedication, restoration, consecration or faith in God's promises. Hebrews 11:1 describes faith as confidence in what we hope for and conviction concerning what we do not yet see. Anointing gives that inward conviction an outward expression. When Samuel anointed David, for example, the oil visibly marked an appointment that originated with God, while the Spirit of the Lord provided the actual empowerment (1 Samuel 16:13).
The account of the disciples anointing and healing the sick in Mark 6:12--13 provides one illustration of this principle. Their action expressed faith in the authority of Jesus Christ and His power to heal, rather than confidence in any supposed medicinal or magical quality of the oil. The same distinction applies to every biblical act of anointing: the spiritual power belongs to God, not to the physical substance. Acts 10:38 identifies the Holy Spirit and power as the anointing through which Jesus carried out His ministry. Zechariah 4:6 likewise reminds us that God's purposes are accomplished not by human might or strength, but by His Spirit. Anointing oil must therefore never become an object of superstition, a religious formula or something whose effectiveness is determined by its price, fragrance or manufacturer. Its use should always direct our attention towards God's Word, the finished work of Jesus Christ and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The purpose of anointing is not to glorify an object, but to express faith in the living God.
House of Anointing