INTRODUCTION
In our journey as believers, we often come across the concept of anointed items in the New Testament. These items have been sanctified and set apart for divine purposes, carrying a special spiritual significance. But there is a lot of confusion today in the church regarding the right use, misuse and abuse of anointed items. We have seen and heard of anointing oil, anointed water, towels, wristbands, maize cobs, soil, prayer stones, anointed exam pens, salt, and even condoms. Some have gone to the extend of praying for people to graze grass like animals, drink toxins like 'Doom' insecticide spray, eat snakes alive, drink water from flowing sewage and many other horrible things all in the name of the anointing. Sadly many have fallen sick and died in the misuse of anointing items. Surely something is terribly wrong here. Where is the dividing line, and how do we stay on the right path? It is crucial to understand the right use, potential misuse, and even the possibility of abuse when it comes to these anointed items. In this teaching, we will explore the biblical teachings on anointed items and gain a deeper understanding of their proper application in the life of a believer.
DEFINITIONS OF ANOINTED MATERIAL MEDIUMS
What is a mantle?
A mantle represents authority, anointing, or a calling given by God. In the Old Testament, prophets such as Elijah and Elisha are often described as wearing a mantle. The mantle symbolized their role as God's chosen messengers, carrying His authority and power. The term "passing the mantle" is a phrase derived from the biblical story of Elijah and Elisha. When Elijah was taken up to heaven, he passed his mantle, or cloak, to Elisha, symbolizing the transfer of his prophetic ministry and authority to Elisha.
What is an anointed item?
Anointed items in the Bible include objects such as anointing oil, cloths, and even handkerchiefs. These items are believed to carry a special spiritual significance and can serve as channels through which God's power and blessings flow. They are often associated with healing, deliverance, and the manifestation of God's presence and authority. It is important to note that the power and efficacy of an anointed item do not reside in the object itself but in the presence and power of God transferred upon through the prayer of faith.
James 5:14-15 (NET) says, "Is anyone among you ill? He should summon the elders of the church, and they should pray for him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick and the Lord will raise him up – and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven."
The anointing represents the divine consecration and empowerment, and it is through faith, prayer, and reliance on God that the benefits and blessings associated with an anointed item are realized.
THE BIBLICAL HISTORY OF ANOINTED MANTLES
The idea of anointed mantles, or garments, can be found throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament, anointing with oil was a common practice for consecrating individuals and objects for specific roles and purposes.
The Anointing of Aaron and His Sons (Priests): In Exodus 29:29-30, God commanded Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests, anointing them with oil and sanctifying their garments. The anointing of their garments symbolized their separation and dedication to the priestly service.
The Anointing of the Tabernacle and Its Furnishings: In Exodus 30:22-30, God instructed Moses to anoint the tabernacle, the ark of the covenant, the table, the lampstand, the altar of incense, and other articles used in the tabernacle with a special anointing oil. This anointing signified their sanctification and set them apart for special use.
The Anointing of Kings: In the Old Testament, kings were anointed with oil as a symbol of God's chosen and appointed leadership. For instance, we see Samuel anointing Saul as the first king of Israel in 1 Samuel 10:1, and later anointing David as king in 1 Samuel 16:12-13. The anointing with oil represented God's empowerment and approval upon the chosen ruler.
The Anointing of Prophets: Prophets were also anointed in the Old Testament as a sign of their divine calling and empowerment. In 1 Kings 19:16, God commanded Elijah to anoint Elisha as his successor, and Elisha received the anointing by casting his mantle upon him. The mantle became a symbol of Elisha's prophetic authority and power.
The Anointing of Jesus: In the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the Anointed One, the Messiah. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus quotes Isaiah 61:1-2, saying, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor." This declaration points to Jesus' anointing by the Holy Spirit for His ministry on earth.
The Anointing of Believers: In the New Testament, believers are referred to as a "royal priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9). While there is no explicit mention of anointed mantles for individual believers, the concept of anointing carries over to the New Testament in a spiritual sense. In 1 John 2:20, it says, "But you have been anointed by the Holy One." This anointing refers to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers, empowering them for service and ministry.
Specific references to anointed mantles may be limited, but the broader theme of anointing with oil and the significance of consecrated garments is seen throughout the Bible. These anointed garments represented consecration, empowerment, and divine favor upon individuals and objects for specific purposes in the service of God.
WHETHER OR NOT TO USE ANOINTED MATERIAL MEDIUMS IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
There are two polar extreme views on the use of anointed material mediums. The least popular one says that they should not be used at all, and the most popular view says we can use anything anyhow. Both extremes are wrong and the truth of sound biblical doctrine is always in the balance of scripture. Scripture emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to doctrinal issues and warns against going to extremes.
Proverbs 11:1 says, "A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight."
Proverbs 16:11 says, "Honest balances and scales are the LORD's; all the weights in the bag are his work."
Ecclesiastes 7:18 (NIV) says, "It is good to grasp the one and not let go of the other. The man who fears God will avoid all [extremes]."
The bible actually urges us to seek a middle ground between extremes.
Proverbs 30:8-9 (NIV) says, "Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God."
Going to the extreme of pursuing riches can lead to pride and a disregard for God, while extreme poverty can tempt one to dishonesty. The plea for balance acknowledges that an excessive focus on material abundance or deprivation can hinder our relationship with God. Extreme positions on doctrinal issues often lead to unnecessary quarrels and division within the Church.
Timothy 2:23-24 (NIV) says, "Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful."
This verse encourages believers to avoid engaging in fruitless and divisive arguments. Instead, believers are called to approach others with kindness and teach with gentleness, seeking unity in the truth.
Ephesians 4:14-15 (NIV) says, "Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ."
This verse warns against being swayed by every new teaching or doctrine that comes our way. By speaking the truth in love, we are encouraged to grow in maturity and discernment. Extremism can lead to instability, while a balanced pursuit of truth promotes spiritual growth and unity within the body of Christ.
James 3:17-18 (NIV) says, "But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness."
This verse highlights the attributes of godly wisdom, which include peace, mercy, impartiality, and sincerity. Extremism often lacks these qualities and can lead to division, judgment, and harm. Seeking balance in doctrinal matters allows us to pursue righteousness and promote unity among believers.
The scriptures warn us against the dangers of extremism in doctrinal issues including deception by elemental spirits that use annoying idols in the name of anointed items to bring people into the worship of the fallen angels.
Colossians 2:18, 20-23 (NET) says, "Let no one who delights in humility and the worship of angels pass judgment on you. That person goes on at great lengths about what he has supposedly seen, but he is puffed up with empty notions by his fleshly mind... If you have died with Christ to the elemental spirits of the world, why do you submit to them as though you lived in the world? “Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!” These are all destined to perish with use, founded as they are on human commands and teachings."
Elemental spirits are demons assigned to the four elements of matter namely light (fire), air, water, and earth (soil). These elements are neither holy nor evil on their own, but are either anointed by the presence of the Holy Spirit through prayer or defiled by the presence of demons through enchantment. Whenever you see the anointed items coming with some "spiritual laws or conditions" know that you are dealing with elemental spirits, and you are about to be bewitched into submitting to the devil and his angels. Though they have the appearance of wisdom with their self-imposed worship and false humility achieved by an unsparing treatment of the body (a wisdom with no true spiritual value) – they in reality result in fleshly indulgence. When you see a minister becoming a specialist of using any of the elements to the extent of being identified by it (e.g. 'salt or fruit prophet), know immediately that an elemental spirit is involved.
By seeking a balanced approach, we can avoid division, quarrels, and the loss of focus on our relationship with God. The pursuit of truth should be guided by wisdom, love, and a desire for unity within the body of Christ.
MEANING & PURPOSE OF MANTLES
The meaning and purpose of mantles, in biblical terms, varies depending on the context in which they are mentioned.
Authority and Calling: In the Bible, a mantle symbolizes authority, anointing, and a specific calling given by God. It represents a divine commission or assignment to carry out God's work. The prophet Elijah passed his mantle to his successor, Elisha, indicating the transfer of his prophetic ministry, anointing and authority.
2 Kings 2:13-15 (NHEB) says, "He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of the Jordan. He took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and struck the waters, and said, "Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?" When he also had struck the waters, they were divided here and there; and Elisha went over. When the sons of the prophets who were at Jericho over against him saw him, they said, "The spirit of Elijah rests on Elisha." They came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him."
Spiritual Covering and Protection: A mantle also serves as a spiritual covering or protection. In the story of David and Saul, David had the opportunity to harm Saul, but he chose not to because Saul was anointed by God and wore the mantle of kings.
1 Samuel 24:4-6 (LITV) says, "And David's men said to him, Behold, the day of which Jehovah said to you, Behold, I will deliver your enemy into your hand, and you shall do to him as it is good in your eyes. But David rose up and quietly cut off the skirt of Saul's robe. And it happened afterward, the heart of David struck him, because he had cut off Saul's skirt. And he said to his men, Far be it from me, by Jehovah. I shall not do this thing to my lord, to the anointed of Jehovah, to put out my hand against him. For he is the anointed of Jehovah."
Empowerment and Supernatural Abilities: The mantle is associated with the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. It represents the divine enablement and supernatural abilities given by God for His purposes. When Elisha received Elijah's mantle, he performed miracles and continued the prophetic ministry with a double portion of Elijah's spirit (2 Kings 2:9-15).
Symbol of Anointing and Spiritual Authority: The mantle can symbolize the anointing and spiritual authority bestowed upon individuals. It signifies being set apart for God's service and carrying His presence and power. It represents the spiritual gifts, talents, and responsibilities entrusted to believers for ministry and fulfilling God's purposes.
The New Testament emphasizes the spiritual nature of holiness and righteousness rather than the external appearance of garments or uniforms. It teaches that true holiness and righteousness are matters of the heart and are not dependent on wearing specific clothing. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their external displays of righteousness while neglecting the condition of their hearts.
Matthew 23:25-28 (NIV) says, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness."
Christianity is an inward transformation with an outward manifestation. Righteousness is not just about outward appearances but requires inner transformation. True Christian identity and righteousness are not based on external factors but on the condition of the heart.
Romans 2:28-29 (NIV) says, "A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code."
Being a true follower of God is not about adhering to external rituals, white or red garments, but about inward transformation by the Holy Spirit. Paul uses metaphorical language to describe believers being clothed with Christ through the spiritual baptism or new birth.
Galatians 3:27 (NIV) says, "For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ."
This shows the spiritual reality of being united with Christ and the transformation that occurs within, rather than an external garment. Paul encourages believers to "clothe" themselves with virtues (fruit of the Spirit) that reflect their new identity in Christ.
Colossians 3:12 (NIV) says, "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."
The focus is on internal qualities and virtues that should characterize a believer, rather than external garments or uniforms. Peter reminds believers that true beauty and worth come from inward qualities and character, rather than external clothes.
1 Peter 3:3-4 (NIV) says, "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight."
The emphasis is on cultivating a heart that pleases God, rather than relying on outward appearances. The scriptures highlight the New Testament's focus on the spiritual nature of holiness and righteousness in behavior as the fine white linen garments reflecting the inward transformation.
Revelation 19:8 (Amplified) says, "She has been permitted to dress in fine linen, dazzling white and clean—for the fine linen signifies the righteous acts of the saints [the ethical conduct, personal integrity, moral courage, and godly character of believers]."
While external expressions of faith and modesty are meaningful, they are not the essence of true righteousness. Genuine righteousness is a result of inner transformation, a heart surrendered to God, and a life characterized by love, compassion, humility, and other Christlike virtues.
MEANING & PURPOSE OF ANOINTED ITEMS
Anointed items in the New Testament refer to physical objects that have been consecrated and set apart for a specific spiritual purpose. The act of anointing involves the application of oil, symbolizing the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Throughout the Bible, we saw examples of anointed items being used in various contexts, such as anointing oil, anointed cloths, and even handkerchiefs.
The New Testament provides insights into the purpose of anointed items. In Acts 19:11-12, we read about the extraordinary miracles performed through the hands of the Apostle Paul. It says, "And God was doing extraordinary miracles by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were carried away to the sick, and their diseases left them and the evil spirits came out of them." These anointed items became channels of God's power and healing, bringing deliverance to those in need.
THE RIGHT USE OF ANOINTED ITEMS
Faith and the Power of God: Anointed items can symbolize the empowerment and enablement of the Holy Spirit. In the Old Testament, anointed objects such as the Ark of the Covenant or the Tabernacle furnishings represented God's presence and power. Anointed items can also serve as a reminder of the believer's dependence on the Holy Spirit for guidance, strength, and spiritual authority. Anointed items should be approached with faith in God's power rather than attributing supernatural properties to the objects themselves. It is God's presence and the work of the Holy Spirit that brings about miracles and blessings, not the item itself. The power and significance of anointed items lie not in the items themselves but in the faith and trust placed in God's presence and work through them. Christians focus on the spiritual realities represented by anointed items and rely on the Holy Spirit as the true source of power and authority.
A Point of Contact: Anointed items can serve as a point of contact, helping believers focus their faith and prayers. They can be a tangible reminder of God's promises and a means to express trust and dependence on Him.
Symbolic Representation: Anointed items can symbolize consecration and dedication to God's service. They can serve as a physical representation of the believer's commitment, reminding them of their calling and mission. For example, anointing oil may represent the Holy Spirit, the presence and power of God, and His anointing upon individuals and objects for His work. Anointed items serve as tangible reminders of God's presence and His involvement in our lives.
Unity and Fellowship: Anointed items can be used in communal settings to promote unity and fellowship among believers. They can serve as a shared experience, reinforcing the bond of faith and encouraging one another in the spiritual journey.
Consecration and Sanctification: Anointing an item signifies its consecration and sanctification for sacred use. By applying oil or another sacred substance, the item is dedicated to God and separated from common or secular use. This act acknowledges God's ownership and sets the item apart for His purposes.
Healing and Restoration: Anointing with oil is often associated with healing and restoration in the Bible. The Bible encourages believers to anoint the sick with oil and pray for their healing (James 5:14-15). Anointed items, such as prayer cloths or handkerchiefs, can be used as a point of contact for faith and the demonstration of God's healing power.
THE MISUSE AND ABUSE OF ANOINTED ITEMS
The misuse and abuse of anointed items is a concern that should be addressed within the Christian faith. While anointed items hold symbolic and spiritual significance, it is important to understand and adhere to biblical principles regarding their use. As Christians, we should approach anointed items with proper understanding, discernment, and biblical wisdom. It is essential to recognize that the true power and authority reside in God, and anointed items are only symbols or reminders of His presence and work. The focus should always be on cultivating a personal relationship with God through the study and application of His Word, and seeking His guidance and empowerment through the Holy Spirit.
Superstition and Idolatry: One of the dangers associated with anointed items is the potential for superstition and idolatry. Believers must guard against viewing these objects as possessing inherent power or magical properties. "Water-bottled prayers" and instructions to use them facing in a certain direction (usually East) is a way to connect with the elemental demons of fire and to worship Satan as the sun god. "Prophets" possessed by these spirits perform lying wonders of walking in fire without getting burned. An incident involving Moses' brazen serpent on the pole in Numbers 21:4-9 is a good example. In the wilderness, the Israelites grumbled against God and Moses, and as a result, God sent venomous snakes among them. Many Israelites were bitten and died. In response to Moses' intercession, God instructed him to make a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. Anyone who looked at the bronze serpent would be healed from their snakebites. Initially, the bronze serpent served as a tool of God's mercy and healing. It symbolized the faith and obedience of the Israelites who looked upon it as an act of trust in God's provision. But, as generations passed, the people began to lose sight of the original purpose and meaning of the bronze serpent. Several centuries later, during the reign of King Hezekiah, the bronze serpent had turned into an idol. In 2 Kings 18:4, it is mentioned that Hezekiah destroyed the bronze serpent because the people had begun to burn incense to it and worship it as an idol called "Nehushtan." The transformation of the bronze serpent into an idol occurred as the people lost sight of its original purpose and began attributing supernatural power to the physical object itself. Instead of recognizing God's provision and healing, they turned it into an object of worship, which was contrary to God's commandments. This incident serves as a reminder of the human tendency to idolize and worship physical objects rather than focusing on the true source of power and healing, which is God Himself. It highlights the importance of maintaining a proper understanding of symbols and objects within the context of God's commandments and remaining faithful to Him alone. The focus should always be on God and His power rather than the item itself. If you believe in an anointed item such as a wrist band or sticker with your pastor's face such that you panic in fear if you lose it or something happens to it, there you have an idol that has taken the place of Jesus in your heart.
Commercialization and Exploitation: Sadly, there have been many instances where anointed items have been commercialized and exploited for personal gain. This not only distorts the true purpose of these items but also undermines the integrity of the Gospel message.
1 Timothy 6:5-6 (NHEB) says, "constant friction of people of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. But godliness with contentment is great gain."
Believers should exercise discernment and caution when encountering claims of anointed items for sale.
Neglecting the Inner Transformation: Anointed items should never replace the need for personal repentance, faith, and inner transformation. Placing excessive emphasis on external objects can lead to a neglect of the heart and the true work of the Holy Spirit within the believer.
Misunderstanding God's Sovereignty: It's important to remember that God's power and healing are not limited to anointed items. He works in diverse ways and is not bound by physical objects. Believers should avoid limiting God's sovereignty to a specific item or ritual.
Magic and Manipulation: Anointed items should never be used as tools for manipulation or attempting to control spiritual forces. God's power and work cannot be controlled or manipulated through physical objects. We are living at a time when some bogus pastors are visiting spiritualists and sangomas for spiritual empowerment. The Bible warns against engaging in occult practices or seeking supernatural power apart from God's guidance and authority. It is important to maintain a sincere faith that is grounded in biblical truth and a personal relationship with God.
CCONCLUSION
Anointed items in the New Testament can be powerful tools for expressing faith, invoking God's presence, and experiencing His power. But, it is crucial to approach them with a proper understanding and biblical perspective. In the New Testament, the concept of anointed items and mantles is not as prevalent as in the Old Testament. The emphasis shifts towards the work of the Holy Spirit and the empowerment of believers rather than physical objects. However, there are a few instances where anointed items and mantles are mentioned or alluded to. In the New Testament, the focus is primarily on the anointing of individuals rather than objects. Believers are encouraged to seek the filling and leading of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18) and to rely on His power for ministry (Acts 1:8). The right use of anointed items, if practiced, aligns with biblical principles such as using them as reminders of God's presence, seeking His guidance, and relying on His power. The misuse of anointed items in the New Testament involves placing undue emphasis or reliance on them rather than on God Himself. It is important to remember that the true power and authority reside in God, not in physical objects. If anointed items are regarded as having inherent power or are used as a means of manipulation or control, it would deviate from biblical teachings. The abuse of anointed items in the New Testament ininvolves actices that border on superstition or idolatry. If anointed items are seen as possessing magical properties or used for personal gain or exploitation, it goes against the teachings of Scripture. The focus should always be on a sincere relationship with God, guided by His Word and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Anointed items are not magical or inherently powerful; they are simply conduits through which God's power can flow. The New Testament places greater emphasis on the anointing of individuals, where believers are seen as vessels of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19) and are empowered to carry out God's work. The right use of anointed items, if practiced, would be in line with the principles of seeking God's guidance, relying on His power, and honoring Him in all things. Believers must exercise wisdom, discernment, and a strong reliance on God, ensuring that these items never replace the centrality of faith, repentance, and the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. By maintaining a balanced and scriptural approach, believers can benefit from the blessings and spiritual significance of anointed items while avoiding the pitfalls of misuse or abuse.
Amen very true
ReplyDeleteThank you for your feedback. Glory to God!
DeleteAmen thank you Apostle for the clarity on this issue many are misled and start idolizing these mantles
ReplyDeleteAmen 🙏 Join me in praying that the eyes of many will be enlightened as they read this article
DeleteEye opening and very balanced
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your feedback my brother
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