What is the context?
God gives a particular mixture of spices and olive oil for anointing the sanctuary, its furnishings, Aaron and his sons. A perfumer is to prepare the fragrant blend. Its purpose is to set these people and things apart for His service.
The same formula must not be reproduced for ordinary personal use or applied to someone outside its appointed use. The command is consistent with Aaron and his sons being anointed: their priestly consecration is precisely the purpose God has authorized. The penalty underscores the difference between something dedicated to Him and something people may use as they choose.
How is this passage commonly understood?
The main reading is that the oil marks the people and furnishings as belonging to God’s holy service. Wesley and Calvin also connect anointing with the work and gifts of the Holy Spirit. Calvin emphasizes that the outward service depends on the Spirit’s work; Wesley stresses reverence for what God has appointed.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
The title Christ comes from the Greek Χριστός, Christos (khrees-TOSS), meaning anointed (Thayer). Acts 10:34–43 explicitly says that God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power, then recounts His ministry, death, resurrection and the forgiveness received through Him. Luke 3:21–22 also brings together the Father’s declaration about His Son and the Spirit descending upon Him.
The comparison points beyond a sacred material to the person God appoints and empowers. God’s gift remains His to give. In Acts 8:14–24, Peter rebukes Simon for thinking that the power to give the Spirit could be bought. The theme is God’s provision for His work, received in obedience rather than brought under human control.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.