Topical Encyclopedia
The Bible consistently affirms that God is the ultimate source and sovereign controller of all wisdom and power. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, emphasizing God's omnipotence and omniscience as foundational attributes of His divine nature.
Divine WisdomGod's wisdom is portrayed as perfect and unsearchable. In the book of Job, we find a profound declaration of God's unparalleled wisdom: "With Him are wisdom and might; He has counsel and understanding" (
Job 12:13). This verse underscores that true wisdom originates from God, and He alone possesses complete understanding of all things.
The Psalms further highlight God's wisdom in creation: "By wisdom the LORD laid the foundations of the earth; by understanding He set the heavens in place" (
Proverbs 3:19). This passage illustrates that the very fabric of the universe is a testament to God's wise design and order.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul exclaims the depth of God's wisdom: "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!" (
Romans 11:33). Here, Paul marvels at the incomprehensible nature of God's wisdom, which surpasses human understanding.
Divine PowerGod's power is equally emphasized throughout Scripture, often in conjunction with His wisdom. The prophet Isaiah declares, "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom" (
Isaiah 40:28). This passage highlights God's eternal power and inexhaustible strength.
In the book of Daniel, God's control over earthly powers is vividly illustrated. Daniel praises God, saying, "He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning" (
Daniel 2:21). This verse affirms that God exercises sovereign authority over the rise and fall of nations and rulers, demonstrating His control over human history.
The New Testament also affirms God's supreme power. In Ephesians, Paul writes, "And what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of His mighty strength" (
Ephesians 1:19). This passage reassures believers of the immense power available to them through their relationship with God.
God's Sovereignty in Bestowing Wisdom and PowerGod not only possesses wisdom and power but also bestows them upon His creation according to His will. James encourages believers to seek wisdom from God: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him" (
James 1:5). This promise assures that God is willing to impart wisdom to those who earnestly seek it.
In the Old Testament, Solomon is a prime example of God granting wisdom. When Solomon asked for wisdom to govern Israel, God responded, "Behold, I have done according to your words. Behold, I have given you a wise and discerning heart" (
1 Kings 3:12). Solomon's wisdom became legendary, demonstrating God's ability to endow individuals with extraordinary insight.
Similarly, God's power is made manifest in the lives of His people. In Acts, the apostles are described as performing "many signs and wonders among the people" (
Acts 5:12) through the power of the Holy Spirit. This divine empowerment enabled the early church to spread the gospel with boldness and authority.
In summary, the Bible presents God as the ultimate authority over wisdom and power. His wisdom is perfect and His power is unmatched, and He graciously imparts these attributes to His creation according to His sovereign will.