Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of God's incomprehensible power is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the divine nature and sovereignty of God over all creation. This power is beyond human understanding and is evident in the acts of creation, sustenance, and governance of the universe.
Creation and SustenanceThe Bible begins with a profound declaration of God's power in creation: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (
Genesis 1:1). This act of creation ex nihilo (out of nothing) underscores the limitless power of God, who spoke the universe into existence. The psalmist echoes this sentiment, proclaiming, "By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the stars by the breath of His mouth" (
Psalm 33:6).
God's power is not only evident in creation but also in His ongoing sustenance of the world.
Hebrews 1:3 states that the Son is "sustaining all things by His powerful word," indicating that the same power that created the universe continues to uphold it.
Miracles and Divine InterventionThroughout the biblical narrative, God's incomprehensible power is demonstrated through miracles and divine interventions. The parting of the Red Sea (
Exodus 14:21-22), the provision of manna in the wilderness (
Exodus 16:4), and the conquest of Jericho (
Joshua 6:20) are just a few examples where God's power is manifest in extraordinary ways.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ, the incarnate Word, performs miracles that reveal divine power. He calms storms (
Mark 4:39), heals the sick (
Matthew 8:16), and raises the dead (
John 11:43-44), demonstrating authority over nature, illness, and death.
Sovereignty and AuthorityGod's incomprehensible power is also reflected in His sovereignty and authority over all nations and rulers.
Daniel 4:35 declares, "All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as He pleases with the army of heaven and the peoples of the earth. There is no one who can restrain His hand or say to Him, 'What have You done?'"
The apostle Paul affirms this in
Romans 13:1 , stating, "For there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God." This underscores the belief that all earthly power is subordinate to God's ultimate authority.
Human Limitations and Divine MysteryWhile God's power is evident, it remains incomprehensible to human minds.
Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."
The apostle Paul reflects on the mystery of God's power and wisdom in
Romans 11:33 : "O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!"
Redemption and SalvationGod's incomprehensible power is most profoundly demonstrated in the work of redemption through Jesus Christ. The resurrection of Christ from the dead is the ultimate display of divine power over sin and death.
Ephesians 1:19-20 speaks of "the surpassing greatness of His power to us who believe. He displayed this power in the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead."
This power is not only historical but also active in the lives of believers, transforming and empowering them to live according to God's will.
Philippians 2:13 assures us, "For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose."
Eternal DominionFinally, God's incomprehensible power assures believers of His eternal dominion.
Revelation 19:6 proclaims, "Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns." This eternal reign is a source of hope and assurance for those who trust in Him, knowing that His power will ultimately bring about the fulfillment of His divine purposes.