In order to live the transformed life, the Holy Spirit gives us power. Power (δυναμις) is defined as the inherent ability to take action. It is associated with miracles, but it is also associated with a freedom from constraint.
There is obviously power to perform miracles in God. Jesus’ disciples performed miracles, but that power was not inherent in them. They were given authority (εξουσια) by Jesus. The power was inherent in God. The disciples became in effect lenses of God’ power, focused on a situation.
But they did have power to take action. They can choose to re-activate a gift, proclaim Jesus, serve or risk suffering. God’s will is that we take action to cooperate with him to complete his purposes. He has brought us into partnership with him in his mission. There are things in the world that smother any impulse for action. Fear on one sort or another is a very large force of constraint.
There is obviously power to perform miracles in God. Jesus’ disciples performed miracles, but that power was not inherent in them. They were given authority (εξουσια) by Jesus. The power was inherent in God. The disciples became in effect lenses of God’ power, focused on a situation.
But they did have power to take action. They can choose to re-activate a gift, proclaim Jesus, serve or risk suffering. God’s will is that we take action to cooperate with him to complete his purposes. He has brought us into partnership with him in his mission. There are things in the world that smother any impulse for action. Fear on one sort or another is a very large force of constraint.
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