What Does the Bible Say About Power?

The Bible presents a nuanced view of power. It acknowledges power as a part of the human experience, often given by God. However, the Bible also warns about the corrupting nature of power. True power, in God’s view, is not about dominance or control. It’s about service, love, and humility. Jesus exemplified this by washing his disciples’ feet, a symbol of serving others. The message is clear: power should be used to serve and uplift, not to oppress or dominate.

Think power is all about strength and control? The Bible offers a refreshing and challenging perspective. Discover what true power means in a biblical context, and how it contrasts with worldly views.

What Does the Bible Say About Power?

When we dive into the Bible’s take on power, it’s like flipping the script on our usual ideas.

First off, the Bible doesn’t shy away from the reality of power. Kings, rulers, and leaders fill its pages. But here’s the catch: the Bible often shows that with great power comes great responsibility. And more often than not, it’s a cautionary tale.

God’s view of power is fundamentally different from the world’s view. In worldly terms, power is about exerting control, gaining status, or dominating others. The Bible, however, flips this on its head. It talks about power in terms of responsibility, stewardship, and most importantly, service.

Jesus is the ultimate example of this. He had all the power in the universe but chose to use it to serve, heal, and ultimately, to sacrifice himself for humanity. Remember when he washed his disciples’ feet? That was power redefined – power to serve.

The New Testament further explores this idea. It teaches that true power is found in weakness. Sounds paradoxical, right? But it’s about understanding that our strength comes from God, not ourselves. It’s about humility, not pride; giving, not taking.

Paul, in his letters, talks about boasting in his weaknesses because that’s when he’s strong. This is power in the eyes of the Bible – not dominating others, but being strong in character, in love, and in faith.

In the Bible, misusing power is a big no-no. Leaders are called to be just, fair, and caring for the needy. They’re warned against corruption and reminded that they too are under God’s authority.

So, what’s the takeaway? Power, according to the Bible, is a gift. It’s given to serve others, to build up, not break down. It’s about leading by example, showing compassion, and being a force for good in the world. It’s a far cry from the power-hungry image we often see today.

Bible Verses About Power

1. Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” This verse is often quoted for personal empowerment, but it’s really about finding strength in God, not in oneself.
2. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul speaks about finding strength in God’s power, especially in his own weaknesses.
3. Proverbs 3:27-28 – “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” This proverb emphasizes using power for good and helping others when you have the means to do so.
4. Matthew 20:26-28 – Jesus teaches, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.” It’s a radical redefinition of power as service, not dominance.
5. Romans 13:1 – “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” This verse acknowledges the role of authority and power but also points to its divine source and limits.
6. Micah 6:8 – “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This Old Testament verse encapsulates the biblical view of exercising power with justice, mercy, and humility.
7. Luke 4:18 – “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.” Jesus speaks about the power of the Spirit in him, used for proclaiming freedom and healing.
8. Proverbs 16:18 – “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” This proverb warns against the pride and arrogance that often accompany power.
9. 1 Peter 5:6 – “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” It speaks to the power in humility and the divine uplifting that follows it.
10. Psalm 72:12-14 – “For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.” This psalm shows the use of power for protection and care of the less fortunate.
11. Matthew 5:5 – “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Jesus’ words here turn the conventional idea of power on its head, suggesting that gentleness and humility hold true strength and promise.
12. Ephesians 6:10 – “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” This verse encourages believers to find their strength in God’s power, not in their own capabilities or resources.
13. James 4:6 – “But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” This passage highlights the contrast between human pride and divine power, emphasizing God’s favor towards humility.
14. Proverbs 21:1 – “The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD; like the rivers of water, He turns it wherever He wishes.” This proverb reflects the ultimate sovereignty of God over human rulers and their power.
15. 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Here, Paul defines the Christian understanding of power – it comes with love and self-discipline, not fear or intimidation.
16. Psalm 147:5 – “Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.” This psalm praises God’s infinite power and understanding, contrasting it with human limitations.
17. 1 Corinthians 4:20 – “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.” Paul asserts that the Christian life is marked by God’s power in action, not just in words.
18. Proverbs 8:14 – “Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power.” This verse, spoken by wisdom personified, links power with wisdom and understanding, suggesting that true power involves more than just strength or authority.
19. Isaiah 40:29 – “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Isaiah speaks of God’s power as a source of strength for those who are weary and weak, offering hope and renewal.
20. Psalm 62:11 – “One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: ‘Power belongs to you, God.'” This psalm acknowledges that ultimate power resides with God, not with humans.

These verses collectively illustrate a comprehensive biblical view of power. They show that while power is a reality of life, its true nature and purpose are often misunderstood. The Bible redefines power as something that comes from God and is meant to be exercised with responsibility, humility, and a heart for service. This perspective challenges us to rethink our own attitudes towards power and its use in our lives and in the world around us.