Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

POWER

A common translation for several Hebrew and Greek words (Heb. ḥayil, kōaḥ, ʿōz, gĕḇûrâ; Gk. dýnamis, exousía) that refer to the ability to accomplish a task. As applied to people, the words generally refer to physical strength or ability. Thus, Caleb boasts of his strength (Josh. 14:11), and Samson’s great strength is similarly described (Judg. 16:5-6). Heb. gĕḇûrâ frequently is used politically to refer to the power of the king, e.g, the “mighty deeds” recorded in the chronicles of the kings of Israel and Judah (e.g., 1 Kgs. 16:5, 27). As applied to God, the words commonly mention God’s unlimited ability to act. God’s deliverance through the Exodus is frequently cited as an example of God’s unbounded power (Deut. 4:37). Heb. ʿōz refers primarily to the power of God and is found frequently in the Psalms (e.g., Ps. 59:11[MT 12]).

In the NT Gk. dýnamis refers primarily to the powers of God or to powers and abilities that God gives to people. Jesus tells the disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit, who will give them power for ministry (Acts 1:8). The Holy Spirit is frequently mentioned in connection with God giving power. In many cases the supernatural power of God is meant, and translations frequently render the word “miracle” or “miraculous powers.” Rarely, Paul uses dýnamis to refer to evil demonic forces (Eph. 6:12).

When referring to the power of rulers, the NT prefers Gk. exousía, most commonly translated “authority,” though sometimes rendered “power.” Paul explains that all authority comes from God and that political “powers” administer God’s power (Rom. 13:1-7). In the case of Jesus, the miracles demonstrate his divine authority. Jesus assumes the divine office of forgiving the sins of a paralytic (Mark 2:1-12, esp. v. 10; cf. Matt. 28:18).

Mark R. Fairchild

Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

POWER

Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible (2000)