Bible Dictionary
POWER
Power means might, strength, authority, or ability. Scripture attributes supreme power to God, identifies the gospel and the Holy Spirit as powerful in redemption, and calls Jesus’ miracles mighty works.
Definition
Power means might, strength, force, authority, ability, rule, or dominion. In the New Testament it may also mean the right or authority to act.
Biblical Usage
Power is attributed supremely to God. The gospel and redemption are manifestations of divine power, and the preaching of the gospel is accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus’ miracles are called mighty works or powers.
Historical Background
The Old Testament uses many terms translated power, including words rendered valor, rule, strength, might, and dominion. New Testament terms may distinguish supernatural ability from authority or right.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>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" (Mr 3:15; 6:7; Eph 1:21, etc.) or "right" (Ro 9:21; 1Co 9:6; 2Th 3:9, etc.). Power is attributed preeminently to God (1Ch 29:11; Job 26:14; Ps 66:7; 145:11; Re 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 (1Co 1:18,24). The preaching of the gospel is accompanied by the power of the Holy Spirit (1Co 2:4; 1Th 1:5, etc.). Miracles, as "mighty works," are denoted by the term "powers" (so Mt 11:21,23 the Revised Version margin, etc.). The end of all time's developments is that God takes to Him His great power and reigns (Re 11:17).</p><p>James Orr</p>