Who are anointed by the Holy Spirit? The New Testament makes it clear, that all believers receive the anointing. Charles C. Ryrie wrote, "First John 2:20 and 27 make clear that all believers are anointed. Thus anointing refers to the Spirit's indwelling all Christians." Unlike in the Old Testament, where only prophets, priests and kings received the anointing. Dr. Ryrie went on to say, "In this age all believers have been anointed."
Will the anointing abide in us? Under the Old Testament, the anointing could be withdrawn. David feared losing his anointing as King Saul did (1 Samuel 16:14). David even prayed, "Take not your Holy Spirit from me" (Psalm 51:11). Under the New Testament, the Holy Spirit abides in every believer. "But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you" (1 John 2:27).
What is the primary work of the anointing in us? The Holy Spirit is our primary teacher to lead us into all truth. And that truth is found in Holy Scripture, inspired by the Holy Spirit. Jesus said to his disciples, "When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth" (John 16:13). Make no mistake, the Holy Spirit will never teach us anything that conflicts with Holy Scripture.
Certainly, God calls and uses pastors, as well as other teachers, to instruct us in the Bible. However, that task cannot be accomplished without the Holy Spirit opening our eyes of understanding to the truth. False doctrine may be taught today in many places. The only correction needed is found in your Bible.
