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In the New Testament, the power of God is described using different Greek terms that carry unique shades of meaning. Two of the most important are Dunamis (δύναμις) and Kratos (κράτος). Both speak of divine strength, but they apply to different aspects of how God’s power works. Understanding these words isn’t just academic—it deepens our grasp of what it means to live in God’s strength.
1. DUNAMIS – THE INHERENT POWER OF GOD
Meaning and Usage
Dunamis refers to inherent power, ability, or potential. It’s the kind of power that resides in someone or something and is capable of producing results. It’s often translated as “power,” “miracle,” or “mighty work.”
Biblical Examples of Dunamis:
- Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power (dunamis) when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…”
- Luke 1:35 – “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power (dunamis) of the Most High will overshadow you…”
- 1 Corinthians 2:4 – “My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power (dunamis).”
- 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power (dunamis), and of love and a sound mind.”
Summary:
Dunamis is God’s miraculous, life-giving, transforming power. It’s the spiritual voltage that raised Christ from the dead and fuels believers for ministry, witness, and endurance.
2. KRATOS – THE DOMINION AND MIGHT OF GOD
Meaning and Usage
Kratos speaks of demonstrated power, force, or dominion. It’s not just the potential for power, but power in action—overcoming resistance, exercising authority. It often refers to God’s supreme reign and manifested strength in battle or rule.
Biblical Examples of Kratos:
- Ephesians 1:19–20 – “…and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power (kratos) which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead…”
- Colossians 1:11 – “Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power (kratos), for all patience and longsuffering with joy.”
- 1 Timothy 6:16 – “To Him be honor and eternal dominion (kratos).”
- Revelation 5:13 – “…To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power (kratos), for ever and ever!”
Summary:
Kratos is God’s might in motion. It’s the strength that enforces His will and secures His kingdom. While dunamis is about capacity, kratos is about conquest.
DUNAMIS + KRATOS: COMPLEMENTARY DIMENSIONS OF DIVINE POWER
These words work together:
- Dunamis = The raw, potential power of God — spiritual dynamite.
- Kratos = The exercised, victorious power of God — divine enforcement.
In Ephesians 6:10, Paul calls believers to “be strong in the Lord and in the power (kratos) of His might.” He’s urging Christians not just to acknowledge God’s strength (dunamis), but to stand in the reality of His manifested victory (kratos)—especially in spiritual warfare.
LIVING IN GOD’S POWER: WHY IT MATTERS
- You don’t need to manufacture power. The Holy Spirit brings dunamis into your life.
- You’re not powerless in trials. Kratos means God’s victory is active in you, even in weakness.
- You’re called to spiritual impact. Dunamis empowers you to witness, serve, and endure.
- You’re standing in a kingdom that cannot be shaken. Kratos ensures God’s rule prevails no matter what happens around you.
Conclusion
God’s power is not just a concept—it’s a living force available to every believer. Through dunamis, we receive supernatural ability. Through kratos, we walk in the dominion and victory of the risen Christ.
When you pray, preach, serve, or stand firm in trials, you’re not relying on your own strength. You’re drawing from the dunamis that raised Jesus from the grave and the kratos that secures God’s eternal kingdom
