What is the biblical meaning of consecration?

Consecration is a profound and essential concept within the Christian faith, deeply rooted in biblical theology and practice. To understand the biblical meaning of consecration, we must explore its scriptural foundations, theological implications, and practical applications in the life of a believer. Consecration, in essence, is the act of setting apart something or someone for a sacred purpose. It is an intentional dedication to God, signifying holiness and divine service.

The term "consecration" derives from the Latin word "consecratio," which means "to make sacred" or "to dedicate." In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "consecrate" is "qadash," which implies separating from the ordinary to the holy. In the New Testament, the Greek equivalent is "hagiazō," which also denotes making holy or setting apart.

In the Old Testament, consecration is notably seen in the context of the priesthood and the tabernacle. Exodus 28 and 29 detail the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. This process involved washing, anointing with oil, and offering sacrifices, symbolizing purification and dedication to God's service. The consecration of the priests signified their exclusive service to God, setting them apart from the rest of the Israelites to mediate between God and His people.

Moreover, the concept of consecration extends beyond the priesthood to the entire nation of Israel. In Exodus 19:5-6, God calls Israel to be "a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." This covenantal relationship required Israel to be consecrated, living in obedience to God's laws and reflecting His holiness. The consecration of the nation was not merely a ritualistic act but a call to a lifestyle of holiness and devotion.

The New Testament expands the understanding of consecration, emphasizing the personal and spiritual dimensions of this sacred practice. Romans 12:1-2 is a pivotal passage that encapsulates the essence of Christian consecration: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Here, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers to consecrate themselves, not through ritual sacrifice, but through the offering of their very lives as living sacrifices. This involves a transformation of the mind and a departure from worldly patterns, aligning one's life with God's will.

The metaphor of a "living sacrifice" is profound. In the Old Testament sacrificial system, sacrifices were dead offerings, but Paul calls for a living, ongoing consecration. This signifies a continuous, daily dedication to God, where every aspect of one's life is devoted to His service. It implies a holistic commitment, affecting thoughts, actions, and attitudes.

Consecration in the New Testament is also closely linked with sanctification, the process of becoming holy. While sanctification is primarily a work of the Holy Spirit, believers are called to actively participate in this process through consecration. In 1 Thessalonians 5:23, Paul prays, "May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." Consecration, therefore, is a cooperative act between the believer and the Holy Spirit, where the believer willingly sets themselves apart for God's purposes, allowing the Spirit to work in and through them.

The life of Jesus Christ provides the ultimate model of consecration. In John 17:19, Jesus says, "For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified." Jesus lived a life wholly dedicated to the Father's will, setting Himself apart for the mission of salvation. His consecration was not only for His sake but for the sake of His followers, demonstrating the selfless nature of true consecration.

Furthermore, consecration is not limited to individual believers but extends to the collective body of Christ, the Church. In Ephesians 5:25-27, Paul describes the Church as the bride of Christ, consecrated and cleansed by Christ to be holy and blameless. This corporate consecration calls the Church to a communal life of holiness, love, and service, reflecting the character of Christ to the world.

The writings of Christian theologians and spiritual leaders throughout history have further illuminated the concept of consecration. For example, A.W. Tozer, in his book "The Pursuit of God," emphasizes the necessity of consecration for a deeper relationship with God. He writes, "God is looking for men and women in whose hands His glory is safe." Tozer highlights that consecration involves surrendering our lives to God, trusting Him with our aspirations, and allowing His glory to shine through us.

Practically speaking, consecration involves several key elements. First, it requires a heart of surrender, where one willingly gives up personal ambitions and desires for the sake of God's will. This surrender is not a one-time event but a continual posture of the heart. Second, consecration involves a commitment to holiness, striving to live a life that reflects God's character. This includes moral purity, integrity, and love. Third, consecration necessitates a life of service, using one's gifts and resources for the advancement of God's kingdom.

Consecration also involves a deepening relationship with God through prayer, worship, and the study of Scripture. These spiritual disciplines nurture a heart of consecration, drawing the believer closer to God and aligning their will with His. Through these practices, believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live out their consecration in tangible ways.

The biblical meaning of consecration is a rich and multifaceted concept that calls believers to a life of dedication, holiness, and service to God. It is an intentional setting apart of oneself for God's purposes, involving a holistic transformation of the mind, heart, and actions. Consecration is both an individual and corporate calling, rooted in the example of Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. As believers embrace the call to consecration, they participate in the divine mission, reflecting God's glory to the world and experiencing the fullness of life in Him.