Topical Encyclopedia
Power of GodThe power of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, manifesting in creation, providence, and redemption. God's omnipotence is evident from the very beginning of Scripture. In
Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth," we see His power to create ex nihilo, or out of nothing. This creative power is further emphasized in
Psalm 33:6, "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 limited to creation but extends to His sovereign rule over the universe. In
Isaiah 40:26, the prophet declares, "Lift up your eyes on high: Who created all these? He leads forth the starry host by number; He calls each one by name. Because of His great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing." This passage highlights God's sustaining power, ensuring the order and continuity of the cosmos.
In the New Testament, God's power is supremely demonstrated in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Romans 1:4 states that Jesus "was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead." The resurrection is the ultimate display of divine power, conquering sin and death and providing the foundation for Christian hope.
The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of God's power in the life of believers. In
Ephesians 1:19-20, he prays that believers may know "the surpassing greatness of His power to us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead." This power is available to Christians, enabling them to live godly lives and fulfill God's purposes.
Wisdom of GodThe wisdom of God is another profound attribute, intricately connected to His power. God's wisdom is perfect, infinite, and beyond human comprehension. In
Job 12:13, it is written, "Wisdom and strength belong to God; counsel and understanding are His." This verse underscores the inseparable link between God's wisdom and His power.
God's wisdom is evident in creation, as seen in
Proverbs 3:19, "The LORD founded the earth by wisdom and established the heavens by understanding." The intricate design and order of the universe reflect the divine wisdom that orchestrated it.
In the plan of redemption, God's wisdom is revealed in the mystery of the Gospel.
1 Corinthians 1:24 describes Christ as "the power of God and the wisdom of God." The cross, which appears as foolishness to the world, is the ultimate expression of God's wise plan to save humanity. Paul further elaborates 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!"
God's wisdom is also imparted to believers.
James 1:5 encourages, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." This promise assures Christians that divine wisdom is accessible through prayer and reliance on God.
In summary, God's power and wisdom are foundational to His nature and His dealings with creation. They are displayed in the majesty of the universe, the intricacies of His redemptive plan, and the daily lives of believers who seek to walk in His ways.