Topical Bible: Dedication: Devoting Any Thing to Sacred Uses

◄ Dedication: Devoting Any Thing to Sacred Uses ►

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Definition and Concept:
Dedication, in the biblical context, refers to the act of setting apart or consecrating a person, place, or object for sacred purposes. This act signifies a commitment to God and is often accompanied by specific rituals or ceremonies. Dedication is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, illustrating the importance of holiness and the separation of the sacred from the profane.

Old Testament Examples:

1. The Tabernacle and Temple:
The dedication of the Tabernacle and the Temple are significant events in the Old Testament. In Exodus 40, Moses dedicates the Tabernacle by anointing it and all its furnishings, signifying their sanctification for God's service: "Then Moses took the anointing oil and anointed the tabernacle and everything in it, and so consecrated them" (Exodus 40:9).

Similarly, the dedication of Solomon's Temple is a pivotal moment in Israel's history. In 1 Kings 8, Solomon offers prayers and sacrifices, dedicating the Temple to the LORD: "When Solomon finished praying this entire prayer and petition to the LORD, he got up from before the altar of the LORD, where he had been kneeling with his hands spread out toward heaven" (1 Kings 8:54).

2. The Firstborn:
The dedication of the firstborn is another example of consecration. In Exodus 13:2, God commands, "Consecrate to Me every firstborn male. The firstborn from every womb among the Israelites belongs to Me, both of man and beast" . This act of dedication acknowledges God's sovereignty and the sanctity of life.

3. Vows and Offerings:
Individuals could dedicate themselves or their possessions to God through vows. In Leviticus 27, the laws concerning vows and dedications are outlined, allowing people to consecrate property, animals, or even themselves to the LORD. This dedication was a voluntary act of worship and devotion.

New Testament Examples:

1. Jesus' Presentation:
The dedication of Jesus at the Temple is a notable New Testament event. In Luke 2:22-23, Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord, in accordance with the Law: "And when the days of their purification were completed according to the law of Moses, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord: 'Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to the Lord')" .

2. The Believer's Life:
The New Testament expands the concept of dedication to include the believer's entire life. Romans 12:1 urges believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices: "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" . This dedication is a call to holiness and a life set apart for God's purposes.

Theological Significance:

Dedication underscores the principle of holiness and the call to be set apart for God's service. It reflects an acknowledgment of God's ownership and authority over all creation. The act of dedicating something to God is both a privilege and a responsibility, requiring faithfulness and reverence.

In both the Old and New Testaments, dedication serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people. It is an expression of worship, gratitude, and commitment, demonstrating a heart fully devoted to the Lord.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Chronicles 28:12
And the pattern of all that he had by the spirit, of the courts of the house of the LORD, and of all the chambers round about, of the treasuries of the house of God, and of the treasuries of the dedicated things:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Prayer and Consecration
... Consecration is the voluntary set dedication of one's self ... offering definitely made,
and made without any reservation whatever ... It is the devoting of all we have ...
/.../bounds/the essentials of prayer/viii prayer and consecration.htm