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rgod -> RE: What is "the anointing?" (9/14/2008 9:58:50 PM)
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I agree with earthless, but will add a third meaning that I've heard used popularly. There are instances, when a person might teach or speak (or sing or perform some other act) and it touches the spirits of those who are listening or watching. This is very different from things that excite the emotions - although externally it might appear to be the same. But experientially, they are actually quite markedly different - and once you experience being touched in the spirit this way, you can instantly differentiate it from an act that is designed to manipulate your emotions.
Here is a popular example. I've seen Billy Graham many times over the years. Generally, he gives the same basic message over and over again - he even uses the same format. After the song, he comes up, he tells a very basic story that relates to salvation or some sort of need or problem, he tells you that Christ is the answer, gives the basic gospel, and then tells people to come to be saved. His messages aren't that long - maybe 20 - 30 minutes. Now, here is where "anointing" as it is popularly used comes in. In this day where visual entertainment, sex, and violence are king - unsaved and saved people still flock to hear him preach. When he gives the invitation, people stream from every corner of whatever stadium he is in and go up to get saved. The Rev. Graham isn't the most eloquent of preachers, nor does he have any sort of extraordinary delivery style. I'm not trying to criticize him in any way - he is probably one of the greatest preachers of our time, arguably the greatest if we were to measure it (which I think biblically we aren't supposed to). I respect, admire, and deeply appreciate the Rev. Billy Graham and his ministry. But I mention that to simply say that his speaking style or eloquence is NOT what is drawing the people. Nor is it because he has great wealth, looks like a movie star, or tells funny jokes. It isn't really that much of an emotional thing at all. It is the Spirit of God that is using him as a yielded vessel that God has chosen to perform this particular task - so people recognize that and respond to the Lord (even while they might think that they are responding to Rev. Graham). So, many would say that Billy Graham is "anointed" to do that task. Another person might use the exact same formula as Billy Graham - even mimic his speech patterns ... but would probably fail miserably if they are not "anointed" to do that. And if you think about it, there are many more ministries that are like this - even if you look around your church. Perhaps you know of someone who is a gifted teacher - they may even teach for a living. But if they try to lead the church bible study, you get information, but it is flat and it doesn't touch your spirit. Yet, another person, who might not have as much teaching experience might teach a simple passage and when you hear it, not only do you get information, but spiritually you are touched. When you go to the bible study, you leave feeling convicted of sin, a deeper hunger for God, with praise in your heart, and an increased thirst for righteousness. We can expand this to other endeavors as well.
I remember studying this usage of the word "anointing" at some time in the past, but would have to look at this again to see where I stand on this issue. As such, I'm not quite sure if the term "anointed" is the correct term to use - although it might be. However, I did want to point out that when people use the term "anointed" it isn't always emotional, but often is because they recognize the Spirit when the person is doing whatever act they are performing.
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