In the Bible, "wrath" is often associated with the righteous anger of God against sin and disobedience. It is a significant theme throughout both the Old and New Testaments, reflecting God's holiness and justice. The wrath of God is not arbitrary or capricious but is a response to human sinfulness and rebellion against His divine order.

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for wrath is "aph," which can also mean anger or indignation. God's wrath is depicted as a consuming fire, a force that brings judgment upon nations and individuals who defy His commandments. For instance, in Deuteronomy 9:7-8 , Moses reminds the Israelites of their rebellion at Horeb, saying, "Remember this and never forget how you provoked the LORD your God in the wilderness. From the day you left the land of Egypt until you reached this place, you have been rebelling against the LORD. At Horeb you provoked the LORD, and He was angry enough to destroy you."

The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing that God's wrath is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness. Romans 1:18 states, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people who suppress the truth by their wickedness." Here, the Greek word for wrath is "orge," which conveys a settled and abiding state of anger.

However, the New Testament also highlights the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who delivers believers from the wrath to come. In 1 Thessalonians 1:10 , Paul writes, "and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead—Jesus, our deliverer from the coming wrath." Through faith in Christ, believers are spared from God's wrath and are instead recipients of His grace and mercy.

Power

The concept of "power" in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing both divine and human dimensions. It is often associated with God's omnipotence, His ability to accomplish His will and purpose in creation and history. God's power is evident from the very beginning of the Bible, as He speaks the universe into existence. Genesis 1:1 declares, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth," showcasing His sovereign power over all creation.

In the Old Testament, God's power is frequently demonstrated through miraculous acts and deliverance. For example, in Exodus 15:6 , after the Israelites' escape from Egypt, Moses sings, "Your right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power; Your right hand, O LORD, has shattered the enemy." This verse highlights God's power in delivering His people from bondage and defeating their enemies.

In the New Testament, the Greek word for power is "dunamis," which signifies strength, ability, and miraculous power. Jesus Christ embodies divine power through His teachings, miracles, and resurrection. In Matthew 28:18 , Jesus declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me," affirming His supreme power and authority.

The Holy Spirit also plays a crucial role in empowering believers. Acts 1:8 records Jesus' promise to His disciples: "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 out their faith and fulfill the Great Commission.

In the life of a believer, power is not only about miraculous acts but also about the strength to live a godly life. Ephesians 3:16 expresses a prayer for believers to be strengthened with power through the Spirit: "I ask that out of the riches of His glory, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being." This inner strength is essential for spiritual growth and perseverance in the faith.