The meaning of Power in the Bible
(From International Standard Bible Encyclopedia)
pou'-er: This word, indicative of might, strength, force, is used in the Old Testament to render very many Hebrew terms, the translation in numerous instances being varied in the Revised Version (British and American) to words like "valor," "rule," "strength," "might," "dominion." The principal words for "power" in the New Testament are dunamis, and exousia. In the latter case the Revised Version (British and American) frequently changes to "authority" (Mark 3:15; Mark 6:7; Ephesians 1:21, etc.) or "right" (Romans 9:21; I Corinthians 9:6; II Thessalonians 3:9, etc.). Power is attributed preeminently to God (I Chronicles 29:11; Job 26:14; Psalms 66:7; Psalms 145:11; Revelation 7:12, etc.). On this attribute of power of God, see OMNIPOTENCE. The supreme manifestation of the power, as of the wisdom and love of God, is in redemption (I Corinthians 1:18, I Corinthians 1:24). The preaching of the gospel is accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 2:4; I Thessalonians 1:5, etc.). Miracles, as "mighty works," are denoted by the term "powers" (so Matthew 11:21, Matthew 11:23 the Revised Version margin, etc.). The end of all time's developments is that God takes to Him His great power and reigns (Revelation 11:17).
James Orr
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