Loyalty to God's anointed is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honoring those whom God has chosen for leadership and service. This concept is deeply rooted in the understanding that God, in His sovereignty, appoints individuals to fulfill specific roles within His divine plan. The anointed ones, often kings, prophets, or priests, are set apart for God's purposes, and loyalty to them is seen as an extension of loyalty to God Himself.

Old Testament Examples

1. David and Saul: One of the most prominent examples of loyalty to God's anointed is found in the relationship between David and King Saul. Despite Saul's attempts to kill him, David consistently refused to harm Saul, recognizing him as the Lord's anointed. In 1 Samuel 24:6, David says, "The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed. May I never lift my hand against him, since he is the LORD’s anointed." David's respect for Saul's anointed status underscores the principle that God's chosen leaders are to be honored, even when they falter.

2. David's Anointing: David himself was anointed by the prophet Samuel to be king over Israel (1 Samuel 16:13). His anointing marked him as God's chosen leader, and those who recognized this, such as Jonathan, Saul's son, showed loyalty to David despite the potential personal cost. Jonathan's covenant with David (1 Samuel 18:3) exemplifies the deep bond and loyalty that can exist between God's anointed and those who support them.

3. The Anointing of Priests and Prophets: The anointing of priests and prophets also signifies their divine appointment. Aaron and his sons were anointed as priests (Exodus 28:41), and prophets like Elisha were anointed to carry out God's messages (1 Kings 19:16). Loyalty to these anointed figures was crucial for maintaining the spiritual and communal integrity of Israel.

New Testament Fulfillment

1. Jesus Christ, the Anointed One: In the New Testament, Jesus is recognized as the ultimate Anointed One, the Messiah. The term "Christ" itself means "Anointed One." Loyalty to Jesus is paramount for believers, as He is the fulfillment of all Old Testament anointings. In Luke 4:18, Jesus declares, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor." His anointing signifies His divine mission and authority.

2. The Apostles: The apostles, chosen and anointed by Jesus, carried His message to the world. Loyalty to their teachings and leadership was essential for the early church. Acts 2:42 notes that the early believers "devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." This devotion reflects the continued importance of loyalty to those anointed by God for leadership.

Theological Implications

Loyalty to God's anointed is not merely a matter of personal allegiance but is deeply theological. It acknowledges God's sovereignty in choosing leaders and the responsibility of the community to support and uphold them. This loyalty is not blind; it is informed by a recognition of God's hand in appointing leaders and a commitment to the divine order established by Him.

Practical Applications

In contemporary Christian practice, loyalty to God's anointed can be seen in the respect and support given to church leaders, pastors, and those in spiritual authority. Hebrews 13:17 encourages believers to "obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account." This verse highlights the ongoing relevance of loyalty to those whom God has placed in positions of spiritual oversight.

Ultimately, loyalty to God's anointed is a reflection of one's loyalty to God, acknowledging His wisdom and authority in the establishment of His kingdom on earth.