Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of the "Power of God" is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting God's omnipotence, sovereignty, and authority over all creation. This power is manifested in various ways, including creation, miracles, judgment, and salvation.
Creation and SustenanceThe power of God is first demonstrated in the act of creation.
Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational verse underscores God's ability to bring the universe into existence by His command.
Psalm 33:6 further emphasizes this creative power: "By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all the stars by the breath of His mouth." God's power is not only evident in creation but also in His ongoing sustenance of the world.
Hebrews 1:3 declares that Jesus, the Son, is "sustaining all things by His powerful word."
Miracles and WondersThroughout the Bible, God's power is displayed through miracles and wonders. In the Old Testament, the plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12), the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14), and the provision of manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16) are all acts of divine power. In the New Testament, Jesus' ministry is marked by miraculous healings, exorcisms, and control over nature, such as calming the storm (
Mark 4:39) and feeding the five thousand (
Matthew 14:19-21). These miracles serve as signs of God's kingdom and His authority over the natural and spiritual realms.
Judgment and JusticeGod's power is also evident in His role as judge. The Bible portrays God as the ultimate authority who executes justice and judgment. In the Old Testament, God's power is demonstrated in the judgment of nations, such as the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) and the fall of Babylon (Isaiah 13). In the New Testament, the Book of Revelation describes God's final judgment, where His power is fully revealed in the defeat of evil and the establishment of His eternal kingdom (Revelation 19-20).
Salvation and RedemptionThe power of God is most profoundly revealed in the work of salvation and redemption through Jesus Christ.
Romans 1:16 proclaims, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes." The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate demonstration of God's power over sin and death.
Ephesians 1:19-20 speaks of "the surpassing greatness of His power to us who believe," which is "like the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead."
Empowerment of BelieversBelievers are also recipients of God's power through the Holy Spirit.
Acts 1:8 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." This empowerment enables Christians to live godly lives, bear witness to the gospel, and perform works of service.
Ephesians 3:20-21 praises God, "who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us."
Attributes of God's PowerGod's power is characterized by several attributes. It is limitless, as seen in
Jeremiah 32:17: "Ah, Lord GOD! You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for You." It is also purposeful, directed towards the fulfillment of His divine will and the ultimate good of His people (
Romans 8:28). Furthermore, God's power is righteous and just, ensuring that His actions are always in accordance with His holy nature.
In summary, the power of God is a fundamental aspect of His divine nature, permeating every part of biblical revelation. It assures believers of His ability to accomplish His purposes and provides a foundation for faith and trust in His sovereign will.