DIMENSIONS OF DIVINE POWER

“…the exceeding greatness of HIS POWER toward us who believe, according to the working of His MIGHTY POWER” – Ephesians 1: 19b

The God of Impact demonstrates diverse DIMENSIONS of DIVINE POWER: “And what is the exceeding greatness of HIS POWER toward us who believe, according to the working of His MIGHTY POWER which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places” (Eph.1:19-20). Today’s meditation prayer uses different Greek words for ‘Power’ to articulate the infinite greatness of God's Power, all for the purpose of glorifying Him. Each highlights a dimension of Divine Power, culminating in Christ's Supreme Authority and Dominion over all things. 

Five dimensions of Divine Power are found in Scripture, as follows:

Dunamis – Inherent, Miraculous Power: The dynamic, explosive power to do wonders (like dynamite); power in its inherent sense. It’s the indwelling, miracle working power of the Holy Spirit for a transformative Christian life: "You shall receive power (dunamis) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you" (Acts 1:8). The power of the Most High overshadowed Mary (Lk.1:35).

Energeia – Effective Working Power: Often translated as "working" or "energy," this refers to power that is actively being demonstrated in effectual operation. This is God’s kinetic, manifested Power in action: "according to the working (energeia)" of His mighty power” (v.19).

Ischus – Strength, Might, Ability: Inherent power or force, like a strong arm; denotes strength as an endowment, physical or inner fortitude, or a prevailing force that overcomes resistance. It describes God's "mighty (ischus) power" (kratos) (v.19). It’s the inner strength given by the Holy Spirit to endure trials and stand firm in warfare: "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power (ischus) of His might (kratos)" (Eph.6:10). We serve with the strength (ischus) God provides (1Pet.4:11).

Exousia – Authority, Granted Power, Delegated Right to Act: This is legal right to command and exercise power (v.21). The Lord declared: "All authority (exousia) has been given to me in heaven and on earth" (Mt.28:18). Again, He affirmed: "I give you authority (exousia) to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power (dunamis) of the enemy" (Lk.10:19).

Kratos – Ruling Power, Dominion: Signifies sovereign rule, or the power put forth with effect in government and mastery. It describes the "mighty power (kratos)" of God that seated Christ at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority, power (kratos) and dominion (Eph.1:21). This is the ultimate, prevailing power of God's absolute supremacy and authority, which He exercises on our behalf: "To him be the glory and the power (kratos) forever and ever" (1Pet.5:11).

Integrating all, Paul prayed for believers to know the “exceeding greatness of His power (dunamis)" toward us who believe, according to the "working (energeia) of His mighty (ischus) power (kratos)" displayed in raising Christ, signifying His ultimate dominion (kratos) over all (vv.19-21). Believers glorify God by understanding and walking in these dimensions of Divine Power.