What does the Bible say about consecration? Consecration, in its simplest form, refers to the act of dedicating oneself or something to a religious purpose or to the service of God. The concept is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, with numerous instances where individuals and objects are consecrated for divine use. This article delves into the various aspects of consecration as portrayed in the Bible, exploring its significance and implications for believers today.
Consecration is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, spanning both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, the act of consecration is often associated with the dedication of individuals to a life of service to God, as well as the sanctification of objects and places for sacred purposes. For instance, in Leviticus 8, Moses consecrates Aaron and his sons as priests to serve in the Tabernacle. This act of consecration signifies their dedication to God and their role in mediating between the divine and the people of Israel.
Another notable example of consecration in the Old Testament is found in 1 Chronicles 28, where King David consecrates the Temple site and its materials for the construction of the First Temple. This act of consecration symbolizes the dedication of the Temple to God and its purpose as a place of worship and sacrifice.
In the New Testament, consecration continues to be a central theme, though it takes on a different form. Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, is consecrated by His divine nature and mission. In the Gospels, Jesus often refers to His own consecration, such as in John 10:36, where He declares, “My Father, who has sent me, has himself given me a commandment about what I should say and what I should do.” This consecration is rooted in Jesus’ obedience to God and His mission to bring salvation to humanity.
The New Testament also emphasizes the importance of personal consecration for believers. In Romans 12:1-2, the apostle Paul encourages believers to offer their bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God. This act of consecration involves surrendering one’s life to God and seeking to live a life that is pleasing to Him. Similarly, in 1 Peter 2:9, Peter writes, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
The concept of consecration extends beyond personal dedication to God; it also encompasses the consecration of communities and institutions. In the early church, the apostles and other leaders consecrated various buildings and gatherings for worship, as seen in the consecration of the first church in Acts 19:19-20. This act of consecration signifies the dedication of these spaces to God and their purpose as places for the community to gather, worship, and serve.
In conclusion, the Bible offers numerous insights into the concept of consecration, highlighting its importance in both the Old and New Testaments. From the consecration of individuals and objects in the Old Testament to the personal and communal consecration of believers in the New Testament, the theme of consecration underscores the dedication of God’s people to serve and worship Him. As believers today, we are called to embrace the concept of consecration, dedicating ourselves, our lives, and our communities to the service of God, seeking to live out the purposes He has for us.
