Consecration is a major theme in the Bible. It refers to being set apart for God’s purpose, making something or someone holy. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, consecration plays a key role in how people relate to God.
What Is Consecration?
The word "consecrate" means to dedicate something or someone to God. It is an act of making something sacred, removing it from common use, and setting it apart for holy purposes. In the Bible, consecration involves rituals, sacrifices, and personal commitments to live in obedience to God.
Biblical Examples of Consecration
The Bible gives many examples of consecration, including people, places, and objects dedicated to God.
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The Priests of Israel – In Exodus 28:41, God commands Moses to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests:
"You shall anoint them and ordain them and consecrate them, that they may serve me as priests."
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The Tabernacle and Its Items – Exodus 40:9-10 describes how the Tabernacle and everything inside it had to be consecrated for worship.
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The Israelites Themselves – In Joshua 3:5, Joshua tells the people:
"Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow, the Lord will do amazing things among you."
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Jesus’ Consecration – Jesus set Himself apart for God’s purpose, as He prayed in John 17:19:
"For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified."
How People Consecrated Themselves
In the Old Testament, consecration often involved external actions. People would wash their clothes, avoid certain foods, and follow specific rituals to make themselves pure.
In the New Testament, consecration is more about the heart and mind. It is a spiritual commitment to follow Jesus and live according to God’s will. Romans 12:1 describes this idea well:
"Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship."
Ways to Live a Consecrated Life
Consecration is not just for priests or special leaders but all believers. Here are some ways to live a consecrated life:
- Commit to God Daily – Pray and seek His guidance in everything.
- Live According to His Word – Follow the Bible’s teachings in your thoughts and actions.
- Separate from Sin – Avoid behaviors and influences that pull you away from God.
- Use Your Gifts for God – Serve Him with your time, talents, and resources.
- Trust in Jesus’ Sacrifice – Consecration is not about perfection but surrendering to God’s grace.
The Blessings of Consecration
When people consecrate themselves to God, they experience His power and blessings in their lives. The Bible shows that those who set themselves apart for Him receive:
| Blessing | Bible Reference |
|---|---|
| God’s Presence | James 4:8 – "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." |
| Strength and Victory | 2 Chronicles 16:9 – "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him." |
| Spiritual Growth | 2 Timothy 2:21 – "Those who cleanse themselves will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master, and prepared to do any good work." |
Conclusion
Consecration is an essential part of a believer’s life. It means dedicating ourselves fully to God, allowing Him to shape our lives for His purpose. In the Old Testament, consecration involved rituals and sacrifices. In the New Testament, it is about surrendering our hearts and minds to Jesus.
By choosing to live a consecrated life, we draw closer to God and experience His power working in us.
