Be Strengthened With All Power!

“Being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might for the display of all patience and steadfastness, joyfully.” Colossians 1:11 NET

Today, I will embark on an exploration of Paul’s “prison prayer” found in Colossians 1, with a particular focus on verse 11. Although this verse is short, it carries weighty significance, rich in meaning and layers that deserve careful consideration. If I were to distill the essence of Paul’s prayer into a few succinct phrases, it would convey a heartfelt longing for the spiritual maturity and growth of the Christians living in Colossae, a Roman city known for its diverse culture and religious beliefs.

Paul’s prayer is not merely a routine expression of goodwill; it is a profound reflection of his deep love and concern for the believers in this community. He understands the complexities of their spiritual journey and recognizes the unique challenges they may face in a world that often stands in opposition to their faith. The richness of this prayer captures both the depth of Paul’s affection and his insight into their spiritual needs.

Recognizing the multifaceted nature of his message, I realize that it would be overly ambitious to dive into every element of his prayer in one sitting. As a result, I have chosen to systematically break this prayer down into a series of posts, each one dedicated to examining individual verses in detail. This approach will allow us to delve deeper and extract more significant insights from Paul’s heartfelt words.

For today, as previously noted, I will focus my full attention specifically on verse 11. In this verse, Paul earnestly prays that the Colossians will be strengthened with an enduring resilience derived from God’s glorious might (or power). This divine strength he speaks of transcends mere physical endurance; it represents an inner fortitude that equips them to face life’s challenges head-on, fostering growth in their relationship with God. Paul’s emphasis on empowerment speaks to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in their lives, urging them to embrace their faith despite the difficulties they encounter.

Let’s now unpack this significant verse, exploring its implications for spiritual growth, development, and the resilience that God desires for His people. Through this examination, we can gain valuable insights that not only apply to the Colossians but also resonate with our own journeys of faith.

We have some major New Testament words before us as we begin. Paul tells the Colossians to “Be strengthened with all power.” Often throughout Paul’s epistles, he mentions the concept of power, God’s power in the life of the Church. The major keyword for power is “dunamis.” It will be in our text several times. In all of Paul’s letters, this same word appears 55 times (if you include Hebrews). Paul is always praying for power for others. He believes that his prayer for power has already been answered, as he states in Philippians 4:13, “I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me.” He uses the same word “dunamis” (translated as “strengthen”) in this verse also. Paul lives his life by the power of the Almighty God.

There is a profound exhortation in the phrase“be strengthened with all power.” The original Greek term for “strengthened” is “dunamoō,” which carries rich implications. It is noteworthy that this word functions as a verb, in the sense of a participle, meaning it serves as a verbal adjective that describes the Colossian Christians as “strengthened with all power.”

This particular verb is fascinating because it suggests a strength that is ‘earth-shaking.’ One of the critical aspects of “dunamoō” is that it is in the passive voice. This concept is essential to grasp—while it implies that we do not possess the ability to seize this divine power by our own effort or will. Instead, it is a matter of receiving this type of strength; one must open their heart to receive it, becoming a beneficiary of the mighty power God offers each of us.

In essence, this scripture conveys that God, who is ultimately almighty and omnipotent, possesses all the power that exists. Jesus famously states, “...All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18b KJV). After asserting His authority, Jesus extends an invitation to us, asking, “Would you like some?” This is an invitation to partake in His “dunamis” power—a term that also forms the root of the English word “dynamite,” symbolizing explosive, transformative strength (or power). Do we actually desire some of this “dynamite” power? It may lead us to consider our own devotion to God—what can this power do for us to help us maintain our faithfulness and consistency in our daily walk with Jesus?

Furthermore, the term “strengthened,” being a present participle, indicates an ongoing necessity to continually receive (appropriate) His strength/power—this is not a one-off event but a daily need. It requires resting in His strength, moment by moment, in every aspect of life. Paul underscores the importance of this dynamic by using the word “dunamoō” twice in this exhortation sentence. What he is essentially articulating is, “Be empowered with all power.” The word “all” carries significant weight in this context, referring specifically to the limitless, incomprehensible power of God. This power is not just theoretical; it is a practical force available to us to embrace and utilize in our spiritual journey, fueling our efforts to live out our faith actively and effectively.

The concept behind the term “dunamis” or “dunamoō” is quite profound. At its core, it translates to ‘ability,’ and in its verb form, it conveys the meaning of ‘to be able.’ When we reflect on the nature of God, we recognize Him as all-powerful; the question arises: Is He able? Can He accomplish anything? The answer is a resounding yes—nothing is too difficult for God! Throughout the biblical narrative, we witness His extraordinary acts. He parted the Red Sea, enabling the Israelites to escape from bondage in Egypt. He divided the Jordan River for Elijah. He even made the sun stand still for a day, showcasing His dominion over time itself, and He walked on water, defying the very laws of nature.

In the realm of the miraculous, God could transcend the natural order of creation itself, which embodies what we refer to as “dunamis” power, a gift that is provided to us through the Holy Spirit. This incredible power is freely available to you and me, with no requirement other than belief. This ‘dynamite’ power is not merely for extraordinary miracles; it is also meant to help us conquer the damaging effects of sin and habits that can rob us of our devotion and joy.

The writer of Hebrews encourages us with a powerful reminder: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, we must get rid of every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and run with endurance the race set out for us” (Hebrews 12:1). This passage serves as a call to action, urging us to discard the burdens and sins that hinder our spiritual progress. We are encouraged to pursue our faith with unwavering determination and stamina, akin to a dedicated athlete focused on reaching the finish line.

When Paul speaks of being “strengthened with all power,” he refers to a profound concept found in his prayer. The Greek Lexicon defines “dunamis” as the term for ‘power’ in this context, however, as ‘inherent power.’ This means that the divine power residing in heaven is bestowed upon us, implanted deep within our hearts and souls. It signifies that the strength we need is not of our own making; rather, it is a direct infusion of God’s power into our lives.

Through this empowerment, we gain the ability to pray in the Spirit—not just for ourselves but also for others. Interceding for those around us is a powerful way to advance God’s Kingdom and positively impact the lives of those we care about. However, it is vital to recognize our need to ask God to fill us with His power to cultivate a deeper love and desire for Him and for others. This leads us to a more profound fellowship with Jesus, one that transcends mere petitions and routine prayers. It is about where our deepest longing is for His presence, to rest with Him amidst the distractions and noise of everyday life.

Furthermore, the “dunamis” power of the Holy Spirit invites us into this sacred place of intimacy. This kind of prayer reflects a more mature spiritual growth—a higher engagement with God. Remarkably, Paul practiced this depth of prayer even while he found himself in chains, imprisoned for his faith. His circumstances did not hinder his connection with God; rather, it propelled him into a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit’s power, inviting us to do the same in our own lives.

Amid the profound uncertainty surrounding Paul’s future, he exhibits an extraordinary strength of Spirit by turning to prayer, demonstrating both humility and resolve. He might have even reflected on the moment just before Jesus’ crucifixion, recalling the evening in the garden, while facing imminent death and knowing that enemies were conspiring to arrest Him, Jesus found the grace and focus to offer what is known as the high priestly prayer in John 17. This moment exemplifies not only Jesus’ unwavering commitment but also His deep concentration and meditation on the matters of the Spirit and the needs of humanity.

In a deeply resonant moment, Paul mirrors this same Spirit of supplication as he focuses his prayers on the believers in Colossae. With heartfelt passion, he cries out to God, beseeching, “Please help us to learn to receive the entirety of Your power—every ounce of Your might—each and every day.” This is no casual request; Paul is not simply asking for a portion of divine strength to help him navigate the trials of his confinement. Instead, he invokes the complete embodiment of God’s power to sustain him fully throughout his imprisonment and to envelop the believers in Colossae with that same strength.

What Paul is tapping into is the incredible, inherent power of the Holy Spirit, an unstoppable force that works in the lives of those who believe. He understands that to endure the physical and spiritual challenges he faces, both personally and for the community he loves, he must access the profound strength that only the Holy Spirit can provide. Paul’s prayer is not just an expression of personal need; it is a deep, intercessory plea that reverberates with an understanding of the transformative impact of divine strength. Through his earnest quest for this sustenance from God, Paul illustrates how reliance on such power can enable individuals and communities to thrive even in their darkest moments, fostering resilience and unity in their shared faith journey.

In his exploration of the theme of power in the life of believers, Paul emphasizes the phrase “according to his glorious might.” The word “according to” serves as a preposition, derived from the Greek “kata,” which conveys the concept of foundation, suggesting a depth and breadth to the kind of power accessible to us as we live for Jesus. This power is rooted in the foundational truth of Jesus’ glorious might, indicating that it is His power that undergirds our ability to live righteously.

We previously learned from Matthew 28:18b KJV that all authority has been entrusted to Jesus, highlighting the magnitude of His power. The Greek term for this authority is “doxa,” often translated as “glory” or “splendor.” However, when Paul refers to Jesus’ power, he is not speaking about the mundane years spent in His family’s carpenter shop up until the age of 12. Nor is he focusing on the divine power demonstrated during Jesus’ public ministry, which began at age 30, when He performed miracles, taught provocative truths, and ultimately laid down His life on the cross. Although God’s power was undoubtedly involved in our salvation through Jesus, I believe the specific power Paul highlights here is the glorious power that emerged with the resurrection.

This glorious power became evident when Jesus conquered death, emerging from the grave in a magnificent display of victory and strength. It is an event worthy of our celebration and reverence, as it signifies a power that transcended both life and death itself—it was the inability of the grave to hold Him. Following His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples, including Peter and James, affirming His new identity as a resurrected Savior. He was no longer merely a historical figure; He had a glorified body—a physical form distinct from His previous earthly existence, a glorified being, embodying both flesh and bone while also being a divine being.

In Philippians 3:21, Paul states that “who will transform these humble bodies of ours into the likeness of his glorious body by means of that power by which he can subject all things to himself.” This transformation underscores the incredible, transformative power that Jesus possesses—the very same power that allows Him to shape and form our bodies into a glorified state akin to His own.

Furthermore, 40 days after His resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven, enveloped by a cloud, marking His return to glory. This ascension is also an expression of His resurrection power, elevating Him to His rightful place at the right hand of the Father. There, He intercedes on our behalf, demonstrating His intercessory power for each of us—a profound act of love and compassion. All this stems from that majestic and glorious might of Jesus, which empowers us as we navigate our own faith. In summary, Paul’s description of “His glorious might” encompasses the richness of the resurrection and ascension power that is both a source of strength and a model for our own spiritual journey, life from death.

There is a parallel to this prayer in Colossians 1 in Ephesians 1; a careful examination reveals many striking similarities between the two epistles. Yet, if one were to consider a sister or companion book to Colossians, Philemon would be the most appropriate, particularly given the shared names and themes in both letters. However, it is particularly in Ephesians Chapter 1 that we find a profound prayer that closely resembles the one articulated in Colossians. In this prayer, the Apostle Paul implores God for His divine power, asserting that it has already been made available to us. He asks for understanding in how to appropriate that power, which operates according to the vastness of God’s mighty power—a power that is resident within us, a power so dynamic and extraordinary that it raised Jesus from the dead.

Consider the magnitude of this power: it took nothing less than God’s supreme might to conquer death, to break the chains of the grave, and to vanquish the demonic forces that sought to keep Jesus confined within that tomb for eternity. This power—referred to as ‘dunamis,’ akin to dynamite in its explosive potential—represents an immense force. Paul emphasizes that this very same power is available to each one of us. This is the divine energy that resurrected Jesus, and is provided to us right now in the form of the Holy Spirit, which Paul describes as “according to His glorious might.”

Importantly, the term ‘might’ employed here is distinct from the word ‘dunamis’; it draws on the Greek word ‘kratos.’ This word is only mentioned 12 times throughout the entire New Testament, while ‘dunamis’ appears approximately 117 to 120 times, depending on its grammatical tense. Notably, in at least 11 of those 12 instances where ‘kratos’ is utilized, it refers specifically to God’s demonstrated power. The term is often translated as ‘dominion,’ as seen in Jude 25: “to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.” Beyond this, ‘kratos’ embodies the essence of God’s power outwardly manifesting from and through our lives.

Delving into the etymology of ‘kratos,’ we discover that it signifies “manifested or revealed power, a display of might.” This concept implies that power is put into action, visibly demonstrated, and actively utilized in our lives. In contrast, ‘dunamis’ represents inherent power—an energy that God has ceded within us to empower us to live victorious lives in Christ.

When Paul speaks of ‘kratos’ power, he prays for a tangible display of God’s power through us. This manifestation is evident to others, showcasing how God’s word can tangibly work through our lives and actions—be it through our obedience, answered prayers, the salvation of souls, the encouragement of pastors, or the spiritual nourishment of believers. Thus, when Paul prays “according to His glorious might (kratos),” he desires that God’s inner power would be reflected outwardly in multifaceted ways.

It’s no surprise, then, that we sing about the transformative theme of “there is power in the blood,” we are singing about this ceded power. When we are spiritually cleansed through the blood of Christ, God instills within us the Holy Spirit—the Spirit of power. Therefore, we are “strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might,” capable of demonstrating God’s work in our lives and the lives of those around us.

In his profound teachings, Paul uses the phrase “according to,” a preposition with deep significance and layers of meaning. This phrase can be interpreted as ‘for this purpose,’ ‘for this reason,’ or even as a way of illustrating ‘here’s why.’ By emphasizing our dependence on God’s divine power, Paul urges us to trust in His unparalleled strength as we endeavor to cultivate the virtues of patience and steadfastness.

When Paul prays for us to receive this power in our hearts and lives, he is not suggesting that we will be able to perform miraculous acts or dazzle people with our abilities. Rather, he states, “being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might.” The term ‘according to’ in this context is derived from the Greek word ‘eis,’ which translates to ‘toward’ or ‘into.’ This conveys the image of an object moving toward or being absorbed into another object. Paul illustrates that God earnestly desires for us to experience this life-altering power. This power is designed to guide us in two fundamental aspects of our lives: “patience and steadfastness.”

It is crucial to understand that this divine power is not intended to elevate us in pride or to showcase our personal influence or talents, as if we possess some unique capability by wielding God’s might. Instead, this power is a divine gift intended to help us develop the qualities of patience and steadfastness, which are essential for our spiritual growth and maturity.

Let’s delve deeper into the meanings of these two words, patience and steadfastness, in the original Greek; patience is referred to as ‘hupomonē.’ At its core, ‘hupomonē’ signifies ‘patient endurance’ or ‘perseverance,’ and can be understood more literally as the ability to ‘remain or abide under’ the weight of a burden. When we face trials or hardships that weigh heavily on us, it takes immense strength—God’s strength—to remain patient.

Choosing to remain patient without grumbling or complaining is a deliberate and courageous decision, one that reflects a deep faith and trust in the Lord. As we journey alongside Jesus during these trying times, we lean into His power to uplift us, to sustain us, and help us to remain patient, all while resting confidently in the assurance of His ultimate plan and outcome. The imagery here is one of patient struggle; the weight of the load we carry may be daunting, yet we resolve not to turn away, abandon our responsibilities, or relinquish our commitment to serving the Lord.

Instead, we aim to embody the Spirit of ‘hupomonē’ by cultivating a sweet disposition and a positive attitude, even in the face of hardship. This path demands a profound outpouring of God’s strength—indeed, a dynamic and overwhelming force behind our endurance—but that power is destined to be utilized “for the display of all patience.” Through this journey, we not only endure our trials but also bring glory to God through our resilience, unwavering faith, and steadfast commitment to Him. In doing so, we become living testimonies of God’s power at work within us, shining examples of grace and endurance in a world that desperately needs to witness His light through people like us.

The term ‘steadfastness’ carries a deep, nuanced meaning that may not be readily apparent at first glance. When we refer to ‘steadfastness’ in the context of faith and character, the King James Version of the Bible introduces us to a more vivid and potent term: ‘longsuffering.’ While ‘endurance’ is indeed a synonym for ‘longsuffering,’ it does not fully encompass the intricate layers of meaning that this word holds.

Delving deeper, the Greek word for steadfastness is ‘makrothumia.’ This word breaks down into two components: ‘makros,’ which means long, and ‘thumia,’ which refers to heat, temper, or passion. This etymology suggests that steadfastness involves a remarkable capacity to endure prolonged periods of difficulty or challenge, particularly in terms of interpersonal relationships. A person who embodies ‘makrothumia’ possesses the remarkable ability to bear considerable burdens without succumbing to frustration or adverse emotional reactions. This quality requires immense strength of character and a steadfast will to persevere through trials with grace, dignity, and even joy.

To truly exemplify steadfastness, especially when faced with opposition from family, friends, or fellow believers, one must draw upon the divine strength that comes from God. When we encounter challenging individuals or situations, we are given the choice to either react with irritation or temper or to lean into the support of the Lord, who becomes our unwavering source of strength and shield of protection. He is infinitely more capable of safeguarding us than we could ever manage alone. Hence, we are encouraged to cultivate a temperate disposition, particularly when interacting with those who may be difficult.

It is also vital to differentiate between two significant concepts: ‘hupomonē’ and ‘makrothumia.’ The term ‘hupomonē’ refers to patience in relation to external events or circumstances, while ‘makrothumia’ is specifically concerned with the challenges of human relationships. This distinction highlights the challenging nature of human relationships, which often test our patience and resolve.

This raises a critical question: Can we genuinely aspire to embody this level of patience or steadfastness? The answer is a resounding no, at least not without the empowering grace and power of God. The Greek terms “dunamis” and “kratos,” as we defined earlier, underscore the notion that our ability to cultivate both patience with external circumstances and steadfastness in our relationships hinges on God’s intervention.

Furthermore, cultivating steadfastness transcends mere benefits of evangelism; the Apostle Paul emphasizes that it is essential for our spiritual development. He articulates that God’s power is available to us not only to foster resilience in the face of life’s tribulations but also to nurture a spirit of steadfastness towards others. This means resisting the urge to lash out, to prove ourselves right, or to insist on demonstrating our superiority in disagreements. Instead, we are called to extend grace and mercy in our interactions, reflecting the transformative power of God at work in our lives—a testament to our growth as individuals rooted in faith.

Paul brings his discussion to a powerful conclusion with the word “joyfully.” This term encapsulates a profound attitude that transforms how we approach the challenges and burdens we encounter in life. It goes beyond mere endurance or steely resolve; rather, it invites us to cultivate a sense of joy that transcends our circumstances. When faced with trials, one might instinctively think, “I can endure this,” and summon all the grit possible to soldier through, but Paul’s message breathes deeper meaning into this struggle.

It’s not merely about gritting your teeth and tolerating difficult situations or people. Instead, Paul conveys a deeper message: God’s power can manifest within us, instilling genuine joy in a believer’s heart, even amidst adversity. This joyfulness isn’t merely an external façade, it’s a profound delight that arises from a spiritual reservoir from which we draw strength and resilience, rooted in our steadfast faith in God.

The word “joyfully,” translated from the Greek ‘chara,’ evokes images of gladness and delight, underscoring a sense of buoyancy and warmth in our hearts. The word ‘chara’ is akin to ‘charis,’ which means grace, revealing a beautiful synergy between receiving God’s grace and expressing joy in our lives.

Such joy is accompanied by a spectrum of poignant richness, including gratefulness, loving kindness, sweetness, and the vibrant fruits of the Spirit. These qualities empower us to remain steadfast and enduring even in the face of trials and tribulations. When we encounter individuals who challenge our patience, Paul urges us not to respond with a heart full of resentment or reluctance. Instead, we are called to embrace these encounters joyfully, illuminated by the understanding that spiritual strength and joy are intricately woven together through our faith in God’s mighty power.

Embodying kindness, sweetness, and grace is not simply a reflection of our personality or temperament; it is inherently tied to experiencing the ‘dunamis’—the dynamite power—of God actively working within our hearts and lives. This power of God enables us to embrace the weight of our burdens without becoming short-tempered or impatient. Instead, we cultivate a longsuffering spirit, marked by patience and steadfastness, embracing the journey of growth and transformation God has in store for us.

Ultimately, as we navigate relationships and challenges with love and patience, we not only encourage ourselves but also mirror God’s grace and joy to those around us. This dynamic interplay of enduring love and God’s power allows us to witness the profound impact of His work within us and through us, fostering an environment where joy thrives, even in the face of adversity.

Stephen Barnett