The Two Powers: Delegated Authority (Exousia) vs. Inherent Might (Dynamis) 💪
The New Testament uses two distinct Greek words for “power,” and their distinction clarifies the nature of the authority believers will exercise in the eternal Kingdom.
1. The Power of Inherent Might: Dynamis (δυˊναμις)
- Meaning: This is the Greek word for raw, inherent strength, capacity, or ability. It is the source of all miracles and mighty works. It is the root of the English word “dynamite.”
- Theological Focus: Dynamis describes the absolute, limitless power belonging only to God. When Jesus healed the sick, the power (dynamis) went out from Him (Luke 8:46).
- The Distinction: The believer is a recipient of God’s dynamis (the ability to act), but they do not possess it inherently. This raw power belongs to the Creator alone.
Dynamis is the raw, inherent might.
2. The Power of Delegated Authority: Exousia (ϵξoυσιˊα)
- Meaning: This word refers to delegated authority, right, jurisdiction, or liberty. It is the legal and moral right to act or command.
- The Shocking Tie: This is the power Christ grants to His followers. Jesus told His disciples, “All authority (exousia) has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore…” (Matthew 28:18-19). He then gave them authority (exousia) over demons and sickness (Luke 9:1).
- The Final Reality: In the eternal state, the ultimate reward for the faithful is a share in Christ’s exousia. The saints are promised “authority (exousia) over the nations” (Revelation 2:26) to rule with Him. This is the legal right and delegated office to participate in Christ’s cosmic governance.
The Eschatological Conclusion
The final position of the redeemed is a magnificent synthesis:
- We are sustained by Christ’s inherent might (Dynamis) for eternity.
- We are commissioned with Christ’s delegated authority (Exousia) to reign with Him over creation.
The ultimate shocking truth is that the final reward is not merely dwelling in God’s presence, but receiving a specific, legal right to participate in the active, eternal governance of the universe under Christ, the ultimate sovereign.
The Return Question
If your eternal reward is the delegation of Christ’s authority (Exousia), what specific area of your life are you currently refusing to exercise the exousia you already have been given (e.g., in prayer or evangelism), failing to prepare for your final, eternal governmental role?