The term "consecrateth" is derived from the Hebrew root word "qadash," which means to set apart, sanctify, or dedicate something or someone for a sacred purpose. In the context of the Bible, consecration is an act of making something holy or dedicating it to the service of God. This concept is central to the understanding of holiness and the relationship between God and His people.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, consecration is a significant theme, particularly in the context of the Levitical priesthood and the tabernacle. The priests, who were descendants of Aaron, were consecrated to serve in the tabernacle and later in the temple. This consecration involved specific rituals, including washing, anointing with oil, and the offering of sacrifices. Exodus 28:41 states, "After you put these garments on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint them, ordain them, and consecrate them, so that they may serve Me as priests."

The consecration of objects and places is also prevalent in the Old Testament. For example, the tabernacle and its furnishings were consecrated for worship. Exodus 30:29 instructs, "You are to consecrate them so that they will be most holy. Whatever touches them will be holy."

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the concept of consecration extends to the followers of Christ. Believers are called to consecrate themselves to God, living lives that reflect His holiness. Romans 12:1 exhorts, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."

The New Testament also emphasizes the consecration of Jesus Christ as the ultimate High Priest. Hebrews 7:28 declares, "For the law appoints as high priests men who are weak; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever."

Theological Significance

Consecration is a vital aspect of the believer's relationship with God. It signifies a commitment to holiness and a dedication to God's service. The act of consecration is both a divine initiative and a human response. God calls His people to be holy, as He is holy (Leviticus 11:44, 1 Peter 1:16), and believers respond by setting themselves apart for His purposes.

In the life of a Christian, consecration involves a daily commitment to live according to God's will, seeking to reflect His character in all aspects of life. It is an ongoing process of sanctification, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as believers grow in their faith and understanding of God's Word.

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, consecration involves dedicating one's life, time, talents, and resources to the service of God. It is a call to live distinctively, in a manner that honors God and bears witness to His transformative power. This dedication is expressed through worship, service, and obedience to God's commands, as believers seek to glorify Him in all they do.

There Remains the Pleasure of These Eyes of My Flesh...
... But I, my God and my Glory, do hence also sing a hymn to Thee, and do consecrate
praise to Him who consecrateth me, because those beautiful patterns which ...
/.../the confessions of saint augustine/chapter xxxiv there remains the.htm

Consecrateth (5 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Consecrateth (5 Occurrences). Numbers 6:5 All
the days of his vow of separation there shall no razor come ...
/c/consecrateth.htm - 8k

Extremities (6 Occurrences)
... not turned from his evil way, and turneth back, and maketh of the extremities of
the people priests of high places; he who is desirous he consecrateth his hand ...
/e/extremities.htm - 8k

Consecrates (6 Occurrences)

/c/consecrates.htm - 8k

Consecrating (4 Occurrences)

/c/consecrating.htm - 8k

Desirous (31 Occurrences)
... not turned from his evil way, and turneth back, and maketh of the extremities of
the people priests of high places; he who is desirous he consecrateth his hand ...
/d/desirous.htm - 15k

Completed (109 Occurrences)
... Numbers 6:5 All the days of his vow of Naziriteship there shall no razor come upon
his head; until the days be fulfilled, in which he consecrateth himself unto ...
/c/completed.htm - 36k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus