Should a believer pursue a special anointing?

Quick Answer: Should a believer pursue a special anointing? Many teach the importance of a second blessing from God or the need for a special anointing. However, this is inconsistent with the Gospel. When we believe in Jesus, we are given everything we need for life and godliness including the fullness of the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:3-4; Ephesians 1:3, 13-14).

Diving Deeper: Some teach that Christians are in need of more blessing from God, or a special anointing. However, from the moment we call on the name of the Lord to be saved (Romans 10:13), we are given the full gift of His presence within us (Ephesians 1:13-14).

In 1 John, the apostle speaks from this reality when he states that believers have an “anointing” from the Holy One (1 John 2:20). This anointing has taught them the truth about both the Father and the Son (1 John 2:22-23). Those who know the truth are then contrasted with those who do not have this anointing and consequently deny the Father and the Son (1 John 2:23). For John, the concept of an “anointing” is synonymous with salvation. Believers cannot be both saved and in need of an anointing. They are one and the same: To be saved is to have the anointing of God’s Spirit.

Old Testament believers did not experience God’s Spirit in the same way that we do today. This is why there was always a fear of God withdrawing His presence (see, for example, Psalm 51:11). But under the new covenant of God’s grace, we have received every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 1:3). Therefore, there is no need to seek more blessing or more anointing. We have all of God’s Spirit, all of the time. After all, we’ve received everything we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3-4)!

Let’s Make It a Conversation!
1. Have you ever believed that you needed a second blessing or special anointing? Why or why not?
2. Read Ephesians 1:3, and 2 Peter 1:3-4. How do these passages dispel the false idea that believers need more of God?
3. React to this statement: Jesus is our blessing and anointing.