Topical Encyclopedia Divine PowerDivine power refers to the omnipotent and sovereign ability of God to accomplish His will and purpose in creation, redemption, and the lives of believers. It is a central theme in Scripture, highlighting God's supreme authority and capability to perform acts beyond human understanding. The Bible frequently emphasizes that divine power is not only inherent in God's nature but is also made available to believers through faith in Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, the Apostle Peter speaks of divine power in his second epistle: "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence" (2 Peter 1:3). This passage underscores that divine power is essential for living a life that reflects God's character and purposes. It is through this power that believers are equipped to pursue godliness and fulfill their calling. The Apostle Paul also highlights the role of divine power in the believer's life. In Ephesians 1:19-20, he prays for the church to understand "the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead" . This power, which raised Christ from the dead, is the same power at work in believers, enabling them to overcome sin and live victoriously. Godliness Godliness is a profound reverence and devotion to God, characterized by a life that reflects His holiness and righteousness. It is the practical outworking of faith, where one's conduct aligns with the teachings and character of God. Godliness is not merely an external adherence to religious practices but an inward transformation that manifests in righteous living. The pursuit of godliness is a recurring exhortation in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul instructs Timothy, "Train yourself for godliness. For physical exercise is of limited value, but godliness is valuable in every way, holding promise for the present life and for the one to come" (1 Timothy 4:7-8). This passage highlights the eternal significance of godliness, contrasting it with the temporary benefits of physical exercise. Godliness is closely linked with divine power, as it is through God's power that believers are enabled to live godly lives. The Apostle Peter connects the two in 2 Peter 1:3, as mentioned earlier, indicating that divine power provides "everything we need for life and godliness." This suggests that godliness is not achieved through human effort alone but through reliance on God's power and grace. The fruit of godliness is evident in the believer's life through virtues such as love, patience, humility, and self-control. The Apostle Paul describes these qualities as the "fruit of the Spirit" in Galatians 5:22-23, which are cultivated through a life surrendered to God's will and empowered by His Spirit. In summary, divine power and godliness are intricately connected in the life of a believer. Divine power is the source and enabler of godliness, while godliness is the evidence of divine power at work within. Together, they form the foundation of a life that honors God and fulfills His purposes. |