Topical Encyclopedia Efficacy, in a biblical context, refers to the power or capacity to produce a desired effect or result, particularly in relation to God's will, His Word, and the work of the Holy Spirit. The concept of efficacy is deeply rooted in the understanding of God's sovereignty and the effectiveness of His actions and promises.Divine Efficacy The efficacy of God's will is a central theme in Scripture. Isaiah 55:11 states, "so My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it." This verse underscores the certainty and effectiveness of God's Word in achieving His purposes. God's plans are not thwarted by human actions or circumstances, as His will is ultimately accomplished. Efficacy of Prayer Prayer is another area where efficacy is emphasized. James 5:16 declares, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail." This highlights the belief that prayer, when offered in faith and righteousness, is effective and can lead to significant outcomes. The efficacy of prayer is not based on human merit but on God's faithfulness and His willingness to respond to the petitions of His people. Efficacy of Faith Faith is portrayed as a powerful and effective force in the life of a believer. In Matthew 17:20 , Jesus tells His disciples, "Truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." This metaphor illustrates the potential and efficacy of even a small amount of genuine faith in God. Efficacy of the Holy Spirit The work of the Holy Spirit is efficacious in transforming lives and empowering believers. In Acts 1:8 , Jesus promises, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The Holy Spirit's presence and power enable believers to fulfill their mission and live according to God's purposes. Efficacy of the Gospel The Gospel message is inherently efficacious, as it is the power of God for salvation. Romans 1:16 affirms, "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek." The Gospel's efficacy lies in its ability to bring about spiritual transformation and redemption for those who accept it by faith. Efficacy of God's Promises The promises of God are reliable and effective. Hebrews 10:23 encourages believers to "hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful." The efficacy of God's promises is grounded in His unchanging nature and faithfulness, assuring believers that what He has promised will come to pass. In summary, the concept of efficacy in the Bible is closely tied to the power and reliability of God's actions, His Word, and His Spirit. It assures believers of the effectiveness of their faith, prayers, and the transformative power of the Gospel. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Power to produce; production of the effect intended, as, the efficacy of medicine; the efficacy of prayer.Greek 1411. dunamis -- (miraculous) power, might, strength ... Spelling: (doo'-nam-is) Short Definition: might, power, marvelous works Definition: (a) physical power, force, might, ability, efficacy, energy, meaning (b ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1411.htm - 8k Library On the Efficacy of the Scriptures On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ... Efficacy of the Gospel. On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God Efficacy of United and Faithful Prayer. The Answer on the Efficacy of Understanding, which is Gained by ... Doctor Martin Luther on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences Of the Corruption of Nature and the Efficacy of Divine Grace The Fifty-Fifth Chapter: the Corruption of Nature and the Efficacy ... It is Divine Instruction Only which Bestows Wisdom; and of what ... Thesaurus Efficacy (3 Occurrences)... (n.) Power to produce; production of the effect intended, as, the efficacy of medicine; the efficacy of prayer. ...Efficacy (3 Occurrences). ... /e/efficacy.htm - 7k Avail (15 Occurrences) Virtue (21 Occurrences) Sacraments Charm (5 Occurrences) Effort (16 Occurrences) Subapostolic Sub-apostolic Virtuous (5 Occurrences) Vain (141 Occurrences) Resources Is there evidence that God answers prayer? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about how to get baptized / how to baptize? | GotQuestions.org What is prevenient grace? | GotQuestions.org Efficacy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Efficacy (3 Occurrences)Hebrews 9:10 Hebrews 10:12 Revelation 8:3 Subtopics Related Terms |