Sermon: The Power of God

Introduction Matt 6:9

Today, we gather to explore a profound and foundational aspect of our faith: the power of God. Understanding God's power is crucial for our spiritual growth and daily walk with Christ. As we delve into this topic, we'll examine scriptural examples, the original language's insights, and practical applications for our lives today.

1. The Omnipotence of God

Scriptural Foundation:

Genesis 1:1-3: "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light."Psalm 33:6-9: "By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth. He gathers the waters of the sea into jars; he puts the deep into storehouses. Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the people of the world revere him. For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm."Isaiah 40:28-31: "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Exegesis and Linguistic Insights:

Hebrew Term for God’s Power: The Hebrew word "el" (אֵל) and its plural form "elohim" (אֱלֹהִים) denote God's strength and power. "El Shaddai" (אֵל שַׁדַּי), often translated as "God Almighty," emphasizes His ultimate power and sovereignty.

Creation by His Word: The phrase "God said" in Genesis emphasizes the effortless nature of God's creative power. His spoken word ("amar" אָמַר in Hebrew) brings reality into existence.

Application:

Trust in God's creative power in our lives. Just as He created the universe, He can transform and renew our lives.When facing life's challenges, remember that the same power that created the cosmos is available to us.

2. The Redemptive Power of God

Scriptural Foundation:

Exodus 14:21-22: "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall of water on their right and on their left."Romans 1:16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile."1 Corinthians 1:18: "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God."

Exegesis and Linguistic Insights:

Hebrew Term for Redemption: The Hebrew word "ga'al" (גָּאַל) signifies to redeem or act as a kinsman-redeemer. This concept of redemption is deeply connected to God's power to save and liberate His people.Greek Term for Power: In the New Testament, the Greek word "dynamis" (δύναμις) is often used to describe God's power, from which we get the English word "dynamite." It conveys an explosive, miraculous power.

Application:

Embrace the gospel's power in our lives, recognizing that it is God's means of salvation and transformation.Share the message of the cross boldly, knowing that it carries God's power to change hearts and lives.

3. The Sustaining Power of God

Scriptural Foundation:

Colossians 1:16-17: "For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together."Hebrews 1:3: "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven."Philippians 4:13: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

Exegesis and Linguistic Insights:

Greek Term for Sustaining: The Greek word "pherō" (φέρω) means to carry or bear. Christ "carries" all things by His powerful word.

Strength in Weakness: The concept in Philippians 4:13 emphasizes that our strength comes from Christ, enabling us to endure and overcome any circumstance.

Application:

Depend on God’s sustaining power in our daily lives, trusting that He holds all things together.In moments of weakness or trial, find strength in Christ’s power to sustain us.

Conclusion

In exploring the power of God, we’ve seen His omnipotence in creation, His redemptive power through the gospel, and His sustaining power in our daily lives. As we leave today, let us carry these truths with us, trusting in God’s infinite power to work in and through us. Let us be encouraged, empowered, and emboldened to live out our faith, knowing that the God of all power is with us always.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for revealing Your power through Your Word. Help us to trust in Your omnipotence, to embrace Your redemptive power, and to rely on Your sustaining strength in our lives. Fill us with Your Spirit and empower us to live boldly for You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.