The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers

Wonders, Signs and Powers

Section Four

God and His Powers

4.1 The Powers of God. God exists eternally in three divine Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. They share all the same attributes and are one. They all exist at the same time and occupy the entire universe and beyond. They each have all knowledge (omniscience), all power (omnipotence), and are present everywhere (omnipresence) and never change (immutability). They are all righteous, holy and good, among many other things. They also display their power to make themselves known.

Resurrection

4.2 Able To Raise the Dead. Abraham considered God able (“δυνατὸς”) to raise Isaac from the dead (Hebrews 11:19).

Plans

4.3 No Power To Overthrow. Gamaliel warned: if the apostles followed the plan or action of God, then the Council would “not be able” (“οὐ δυνήσεσθε“) to overthrow them (Acts 5:39).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of making plans by the power of God that no human will be able to overthrow.

Power in Salvation

4.4 The Power of God and Salvation. Paul declared that he was not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God (“δύναμις θεοῦ“) for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek (Romans 1:16). Closely related to The Spiritual Gift of Evangelism, The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers involves the power of God for salvation.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of proclaiming the power of God for salvation, and otherwise manifesting the power of God for salvation.

Power in the Cross

4.5 The Power of God and the Word of the Cross. The word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (“δύναμις θεοῦ“) (1 Corinthians 1:18).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ to people who think the word of the cross is foolishness, but to those who are being saved, it is the power of God.

Supreme Power

4.6 The Surpassing Power of God. Paul revealed the great persecutions and struggles that he faced as a believer. He lived knowing about the treasure in earthen vessels possessed by all believers. That treasure inside him provided the surpassing greatness of the power (“τῆς δυνάμεως“) of God and not from ourselves; with that power, Paul could do all things and triumph over all persecutions, struggles and afflictions.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of doing all things and triumphing over all persecutions, struggles and afflictions by the power of God.

Unbelievers and the Power of God

4.7 Unbelievers and the Power of God. Jesus told the Sadducees that they were mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures nor the power (“τὴν δύναμιν“) of God; God really did raise the dead, as He said: “I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” God is not the God of the dead, but of the living (Matthew 22:29-32; Mark 12:18-27).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of demonstrating the power of God to raise the dead by convincing proofs from the Scriptures.

Mighty Power

4.8 The God of Power. Mary praised: “For the Mighty One (“ὁ δυνατός“) has done great things for me; and holy is His name” (Luke 1:49).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of doing great things for people by the power of the Mighty One.

Jesus and His Powers

5.1  Special Powers. The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers means that God bestows the ability to perform special works of power into the lives of some believers. In all believers, God works His will in our lives using His unlimited powers.  Consider Jesus for a moment, with His unlimited powers, full omnipotence at work. He displayed His powers in very focused ways. This entire study illumines some of the powers of Jesus Christ. We should carefully consider how the omnipotence of God works in the life of every believer today, and how The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers displays itself in the lives of some believers. Below we will trace out some of power of Jesus associated with different words for “power.”

5.2  Jesus and His Powers. As God, Jesus possesses all the powers of God and has all power–He is omnipotent.  Jesus displayed all kinds of powers (e.g., Revelation 1:16–the face of Jesus was like the sun shining in its power (“ὡς ὁ ἥλιος φαίνει ἐν τῇ δυνάμει αὐτοῦ“) and eyewitnesses bore testimony to the power (“δύναμιν”) and coming of their Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:17)). In one sense or another, they were all divine, but they were not all overt manifestations of breaking normal, physical laws. Please consider the following examples. 

5.3  The Power of God’s Will. Jesus said: “I am not able to do anything on my own” (“Οὐ δύναμαι ἐγὼ ποιεῖν ἀπ’ ἐμαυτοῦ οὐδέν“) (John 5:30). Jesus explained that He came to do the will of His Father. He illustrated the same concept that we too must depend upon God for all of our words and actions.  We must learn that living by faith means that we, as born-again believers, use the power of God to replace our choices with the choices of God. We replace our judgment with God’s judgment. Instead of acting on our own initiative to do our own will, we are “not able” to do our our will, but the will of God. In this context, Jesus talked about His judgment, which rested upon doing the will of His Father who sent Him.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of helping believers realize how to use the power of God to do all things in God’s power according to God’s purpose, recognizing that we not able to do anything on our own.

5.4  Power In Deed and Word. The powers of Jesus extend to both His words and His actions. Please consider the following examples.

5.5  Taking Offense at Jesus. Before sending the disciples out to minister to different cities, Jesus took them to His hometown of Nazareth. There, in the synagogue, Jesus declared Himself to be the fulfillment of the Isaiah prophecy concerning Messiah (Luke 4:14-37; Isaiah 61:1-2). The Nazarenes were astonished at His teaching and questioned from where had Jesus received the wisdom (“ἡ σοφία“) and the powers (“αἱ δυνάμεις“) (Matthew 13:54; Mark 6:2). They knew Him as the carpenter’s son, with brothers and sisters. They then took offense at Him (“καὶ ἐσκανδαλίζοντο ἐν αὐτῷ“), but Jesus told them that a prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and in his own household (Matthew 13:57). Jesus did not do (“οὐκ ἐποίησεν“) there many powers (“δυνάμεις πολλὰς”), because of their unbelief (Matthew 13:58; see also “unable to do miracles there” (“οὐκ ἐδύνατο“)–Mark 6:5).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of doing many powers  in many places, but his hometown and his relatives and his household will take offense at him and the wisdom and powers displayed through him, so that they dishonor him and limit the works of powers in that place because of their unbelief; even so the believer continues on fulfilling the will of God for a lifetime.

5.6  Unable To Do Works of Powers. At times, works of powers depend upon the audience. For example, at Nazareth, Jesus was unable (“οὐκ ἐδύνατο“)  to do (“ποιῆσαι”) works of powers (“δύναμιν”) there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people (“ἀρρώστοις”) and healed them (“ἐθεράπευσεν“–notice the aorist tense–complete healing).

Identification. A believer with the The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of healing people, see The Spiritual Gifts of Healings. The difference between The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers includes a variety of powerful deeds and words (which may include healings, but includes much more), whereas The Spiritual Gifts of Healings  primarily focuses upon healings by the power of God.

5.9  The Power To Heal. A leper came to Jesus one day and bowed before Him, saying: “Lord, if you are willing (“ἐὰν θέλῃς“), You are able (“δύνασαί”)  to cleanse (“καθαρίσαι“) me” (Matthew 8:2; Mark 1:40; Luke 5:12–“Ἐὰν θέλῃς δύνασαί με καθαρίσα” same).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of healing people who know the Lord is willing and able to heal them.

5.9.1  The Religious Audience.  One day while Jesus was teaching, some Pharisees and teachers of the law had come from Jerusalem, and from every village of Galilee and Judea. The power of the Lord (“δύναμις κυρίου“) was present for Jesus to heal (“ἰᾶσθαι“) before that audience (Luke 5:17).

5.9.2  Touch Jesus–The Crowd. After Jesus chose the twelve disciples, He came down to a large crowd of His disciples and a great throng of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coast region of Tyre and Sidon. They had come to hear Him and to be healed (“ἰαθῆνα”) of their diseases (“τῶν νόσων αὐτῶν“). Those people troubled with unclean spirits (“πνευμάτων ἀκαθάρτων“) were being cured (“ἐθεραπεύοντο”–notice the imperfect). And all the people were trying to touch Him, for power (“δύναμις”) was coming from Him and healing (“ἰᾶτο”) all of them (Luke 6:17-19; Mark 6:56–just touch the fringe of His cloak and be cured (“ἐσῴζοντο”)).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of power going forth from the believer because someone seeking healing has touched a  garment worn by the believer.

5.9.3  Touch Jesus–The Woman. Jesus also had the power to heal, as demonstrated by the power (“δύναμιν”) going forth from Him which healed the woman with the bleeding problem (Mark 5:30-34; Luke 8:46).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of power over physical illness, such as a bleeding problem for many years.

5.9.4  Unable To Stand Upright. In a synagogue, Jesus met a woman who had a sickness (“ἀσθενείας”) caused by a spirit (“πνεῦμα”). She was unable (“μὴ δυναμένη“) to stand upright (Luke 13:11).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of power over physical disfigurement, such as the inability to stand upright for many years.

Power To Satisfy

5.10 Able To Satisfy. The disciples asked Jesus: “Where will anyone be able (“δυνήσεταί“) to find enough bread here in this desolate place to satisfy these people?” (Mark 8:4).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of power to find enough food to feed a hungry crowd and satisfy them with food.

No Power To Speak Evil

Power To Strengthen Believers

5.12  Strengthen Believers. Jesus strengthened (“ἐνδυναμώσαντί”) Paul, because Jesus considered Paul faithful, putting him into service, even though he was previously a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor (1 Timothy 1:12-13).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of strengthening believers, whom God considers faithful, so that God may put that believer into service, even though that believer was previously a blasphemer and a persecutor and violent aggressor.

5.12.1  Stephen.  Stephen observed that Moses was a man “of power (“δυνατὸς“) in words and deeds” (Acts 7:22).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of being powerful in both words and deeds.

5.12.2  No Power To Resist. Jesus promised His disciples that He would give them utterance and wisdom which none of their opponents will be able (“οὐ δυνήσονται“) to resist or refute (Luke 21:15).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of speaking for Jesus with such utterance and power that the believer’s opponents will not be able to resist or refute.

5.12.3  The Power in Believers. As the Corinthians sought proof of Christ Who spoke in Paul, Paul explained that Christ is not weak, but powerful (“δυνατεῖ”) in the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 13:3).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of proving that Christ is not weak in believers, but powerful in them, even when their lives demonstrate problems with immorality, factions, drunkenness, and other sinful practices.

Power To Aid Believers

5.13  Able To Come To Aid. Jesus aids believers during temptations: “For since He himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able (“δύναται”) to come to the aid of those who are tempted” (Hebrews  2:18).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry to believers facing temptation by strengthening them with the knowledge that Jesus has suffered temptation, and so Jesus is able to aid those who are tempted.

Power To Avoid Separation

5.14  No Power To Separate. Paul gave a long list of things believers will encounter, but none of them will be able (“δυνήσεται”) to separate believers from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:39).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of strengthening believers with the knowledge that nothing is able to separate them from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus.

All Things Possible

5.15  All Things Possible in Jesus. Jesus consistently challenged people to believe that all things were possible in God. Furthermore, some things were only possible in God.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of strengthening believers that all things are possible in God.

5.15.1  All Things Possible–Salvation. Regarding who can be saved, Jesus taught: “With people it is impossible (“ἀδύνατον”), but not with God; for all things are possible (“δυνατὰ”) with God” (Matthew 19:26; Luke 18:27).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of strengthening believers with the knowledge that God alone has the ability to save people.

5.15.2  All Things Possible–God’s Will. As Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, He said: “Abba! Father! All things are possible for You; remove this cup from Me; yet not what I will, but what You will” (Mark 14:36; Matthew 26:42).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of strengthening believers to believe that God is their Father, and that He may not remove every difficult path from their way, even one that may lead to death.

5.15.3  All Things Possible–If You Can. The father of a demon possessed boy asked Jesus: “But if You can (“Εἰ δύνῃ“) do anything, take pity on us and help us!” Jesus replied, “If You can? All things are possible to him who believes” (Mark 9:22-23).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of demonstrating that all things are possible with God, even casting out demons in the Name of Jesus.

Section Six

Powers and the Scriptures

6.1 The Power of the Sacred Writings. Paul wrote to Timothy that since childhood Timothy has known the sacred writings (“ἱερὰ γράμματα“–referring to the Old Testament) which are able (“τὰ δυνάμενά“) to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of proclaiming the power of the sacred writings which gives the wisdom leading to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

6.2 The Implanted Word. James wrote that everyone should live, putting aside the all filthiness (“ῥυπαρίαν“), and all that remains of wickedness (“κακίας“), and in humility receive the word implanted (“ὸν ἔμφυτον λόγον“), which is able (“ὸν δυνάμενον“) to save your souls.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of implanting the word, which is able to save souls, so that believers put aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness.

6.3  Powerful in the Scriptures. Apollos was known as an eloquent man, mighty (“δυνατὸς”) in the Scriptures (Acts 18:24).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of eloquence, being mighty in the Scriptures.

Section Seven

Powers and the Kingdom of God

7.1  Able To Nest. Jesus described the small mustard seed as growing up to so that “the birds of the air can  (“δύνασθαι”) nest under its shade” (Mark 4:32).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of showing that the kingdom of God grows so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.

7.2 Able To See the Kingdom of God. Jesus told Nicodemus: “Truly, truly I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot (“οὐ δύναται“) see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). Nicodemus replied: “How can (“δύναται”) a man be born when he is old? He cannot (“μὴ δύναται“) enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born, can he?” (John 3:4). Jesus answered: “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot (“οὐ δύναται“) enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). After hearing more from Jesus, Nicodemus said: “How can (“δύναται“) these things be?” (John 3:9).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of speaking to rulers and demonstrating that they must be born again. Through the powerful salvation of Jesus Christ, and Him alone, those rulers may be born again, even when they are old.

Section Eight

Legal Powers

8.1 Able To Ascertain. Tertullus, a lawyer for the Jews accusing Paul before Felix, opined: “By examining him yourself concerning all these matters you will be able (“δυνήσῃ”) to ascertain the things of which we accuse him” (Acts 24:8).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of ascertaining facts in order to decide disputes.

8.2  No Power To Hand Me Over. Paul defended himself: “If, then I am a wrongdoer and have committed anything worthy of death, I do not refuse to die; but if none of those things is true of which these men accuse me, no one can (“δύναται“) hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar” (Acts 25:11).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of using legal rights to defend against false charges.

8.3  No Power To Prove Charges. Paul told Felix that the Jews were unable (“οὐδὲ δύνανταί“) to prove the charges they brought against Paul (Acts 24:13).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of showing that accusers cannot prove their charges.

8.4  No Power to Account. At Ephesus, the town clerk quieted a riot by requiring the crowd to bring charges before the proconsul. As it was, they were facing an unlawful assembly charge, and they would be unable (“δυνησόμεθα”) to account for this disorderly gathering (Acts 19:40).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of calming down disorderly gatherings, particularly those riots which break the civil law.

8.5 Able To Know the Facts. Paul told Felix the Judge that he was able (“δυναμένου”) to know exactly that no more than twelve days ago Paul went up to Jerusalem to worship (Acts 24:11).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of explaining facts so that a judge may comprehend their importance.

8.6  Able To Be Set Free. Agrippa heard the case against Paul and concluded: “This man might have been (“ἐδύνατο”) set free, if he had not appealed to Caesar” (Act 26:31-32).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of presenting spiritual truths in the context of a legal defense that gives glory to God.

8.7  No Power To Decide. Paul opposed lawsuits among believers. He directed them to appoint a wise man in the church. He questioned: is there not among you one man who will be able (“δυνήσεται“) to decide between his brethren? (1 Corinthians 6:5).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry, based on the wisdom of God, of deciding disputes between his brethren, without going to any civil court.

Section Nine

Powers and Churches

9.1  A Little Power. Jesus wrote to the angel of the church in Philadelphia that they had a little power (“δύναμιν”), and have kept My word, and have not denied My name (Revelation 3:8). Please notice here that power is not all or nothing, but may be a measured amount.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of helping churches keep the Word of Jesus, and not deny His name in what they do and say.

9.2  Power and the Open Door. Jesus told the angel of the church in Philadelphia that He had put an open door in front of them, which no one can (“δύναται“) shut (Revelation 3:8).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of helping churches walk through open doors, which no one can shut.

Section Ten

Powers and the Body of Christ

10.1  No Power to Say–The Eye. Paul observed: “And the eye cannot (“οὐ δύναται“) say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; or again the head to the feet, “I have  no need of you” (1 Corinthians 12:21).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of uniting the body of Christ so that each member understands their need for every other member in the body of Christ.

Section Eleven

Elders and the Powers of God

11.1 Able To Exhort and To Refute. Each elder must hold fast the faithful word which is in accordance with teaching, so that he will be able (“δυνατὸς”) to exhort and to refute those who contradict (Titus 1:9).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry, as an elder, of holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with teaching, so that he will be able to exhort and to refute those who contradict.

Section Twelve

Powers and People

12.1 Powerful Men. The term “power” at times may refer to people.

12.2 Powerful Jews. Festus told the powerful men (“Οἱ δυνατοὶ“)  seeking to prosecute Paul that they should come down to Caesarea so that the charges could be considered in court (Acts 25:5).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of overcoming powerful men by the powers of God.

12.3 Powerful Believers–Weakness. Paul ordered the powerful believers (“οἱ δυνατοὶ“) to bear with the weaknesses of those without strength and not just please themselves (Romans 15:1).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of helping the powerful believers to bear with the weakness of those without strength and not just please themselves.

12.4 Powerful Believers–Not Many. Paul commanded believers to examine their calling, that there were not many mighty (“δυνατοί”) called (1 Corinthians 1:26).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of urging believers to examine their calling, so that they recognize that not many mighty were called.

12.5 Powerful Believers–Rejoice. Paul also wrote: “For we rejoice when we ourselves are weak, but you are strong (“δυνατοὶ“); this we also pray for, that you be made complete (2 Corinthians 13:9).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of helping believers rejoice when they are strong in the Lord Jesus, and praying the powers of God may make them complete.

Section Thirteen

Servants and the Powers of God

13.1 Commending Ourselves as Servants of Christ. The ministry team to Corinth avoided giving offense, so that the ministry would not be discredited. In everything, they commended themselves (“συνίσταντες”) as ministers of God (“θεοῦ διάκονοι“). Paul then listed afflictions, beatings, imprisonments, purity, knowledge, patience, the word, and knowledge and other ways the team commended itself to God. Paul showed that in many ways, the ministry team commended themselves, including “in the power of God” (“δυνάμει θεοῦ“).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may be part of a ministry team that avoids giving any cause of offense which might discredit the ministry, but commends itself in power. 

Section Fourteen

The Ministry of Power

14.1 The Power of Elijah. An angel appeared to Zacharias and prophesied to him regarding his unborn son, John the Baptist: “It is he who will go as a forerunner before Him in the spirit and power (“δυνάμει“) of Elijah . . . ” (Luke 1:17). The ministry of John the Baptist centered upon preparing the way of the Lord Jesus, by turning the hearts of the fathers back to the children, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous. To be sure, God only commissioned one John the Baptist.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of power in turning the hearts of the fathers back to the children, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous.

14.2 The Power of the Spirit. Jesus returned to Galilee in the power  of the Spirit (“ἐν τῇ δυνάμει τοῦ πνεύματος“) (Luke 4:14). Jesus began teaching in their synagogues and challenged His hometown of Nazareth to accept Him as Messiah (Luke 4:15-30).  After the people of Nazareth rejected Him and tried to kill Him, Jesus went to Capernaum, where He continued His ministry in the synagogue there, casting out a demon from a man. Later Jesus healed Simon’s mother and many other people. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may be impelled by the Holy Spirit to move to various geographical areas, where God will use that person to perform great ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit.

14.3 By What Power? After Peter and John healed the lame man, their preaching of Jesus caught the attention of the religious leaders in Jerusalem. Those religious leaders brought Peter and John before the Jewish Council of rulers, elders, scribes and high priests (Acts 4:1-42). They began their inquiry: “By what power (“δυνάμει”), or in what name, have you done this?” (Acts 4:7). People notice “power” and inquire about “power.” Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, preached Jesus the Risen Savior to the Council.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of demonstrating the power of God so that opportunities arise to preach Jesus to religious leaders who deny Him.

14.4 Powerful Testimony. After Pentecost, the apostles were giving powerful testimony (“δυνάμει μεγάλῃ“) to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Great grace was upon them all (Acts 4:33).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry (often as part of a ministry team) of giving powerful testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, with great grace upon all of the ministry team,

14.5 Anointed with Power. God anointed (“ἔχρισεν”) Jesus with the Holy Spirit and with power (“δυνάμει”). Jesus went about doing good works (“εὐεργετῶν”–verbal participle middle) and healing (“ἰώμενος“) all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him (Acts 10:38).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of doing good works of powers, and healing (see The Spiritual Gifts of Healings) all who are oppressed by the Devil.

14.6 The Gift of Grace and the Working of God’s Power. Paul wrote that he was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to me according to (“κατὰ”) the works (“τὴν ἐνέργειαν“) of His power (“τῆς δυνάμεως αὐτοῦ“) (Ephesians 3:7).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry given to that believer according to the gift of God’s grace, and that grace was given according to the works of His power.

Evangelism and the Power of God

17.1 The Ministry of Christ Crucified. As Paul preached at Corinth in weakness and fear and much trembling, he determined to know nothing among the Corinthians except Jesus Christ and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:1-3). The Greeks at Corinth searched for wisdom (“σοφίαν”) (1 Corinthians 1:22), but Paul preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ without superiority of speech or of wisdom (“ὑπεροχὴν λόγου ἢ σοφίας“). Paul proclaimed the mystery of God to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 2:1; see also The New Testament Mysteries). His message and his preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom (“σοφίας“), but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power (“πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως“) (1 Corinthians 2:4). Paul intended the faith of the Corinthians to rest not on the wisdom of men (“σοφίᾳ ἀνθρώπων“), but on the power of God (“δυνάμει θεοῦ“) (1 Corinthians 2:5). Paul preached the mystery of Christ crucified and labored for that purpose, according the the power that worked mightily within him (Colossians 1:29).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ in demonstration of the Spirit and power, so that the faith of the converts would rest on the power of God.

17.2 Preaching the Gospel and the Power of God. Paul declared that his message and his preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power (“δυνάμεως“), so that the Corinthians’ faith would not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power (“δυνάμει”) of God (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of preaching not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that the faith of the converts may rest not on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God.

17.3 The Power of the Gospel. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers must understand that the Gospel of Jesus Christ brings great power all by itself into the life of the new believer.  Ultimately, only God is the one Who has the power (“ὁ δυνάμενος“) to save and destroy, as Lawgiver and Judge (James 4:12). A few examples describe the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

17.3.1 Thessalonians. Paul wrote to the Thessalonians that the Gospel did not come in word only, but also in power (“ἐν δυνάμει“) and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction (1 Thessalonians 1:5).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of bringing the Gospel, not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit with full conviction.

17.3.2 James. Likewise, James wrote that everyone should live, putting aside all filthiness (“ῥυπαρίαν“), and all that remains of wickedness (“κακίας“). In humility, they must receive the word implanted (“ὸν ἔμφυτον λόγον“), which is able (“ὸν δυνάμενον“) to save your souls (James 1:21).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of implanting the word, which, when received in humility, is able to save your souls, so that you are able to put aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness.

17.3.3  Galatians. Paul taught the Galatians that,  if a law had been given which was able (“ὁ δυνάμενος“) to impart life, then righteousness would indeed have been based upon law (Galatians 3:21).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ by demonstrating that Law has no power to save anyone.

17.4  Paul and Extraordinary Works of Power. Paul went to Ephesus and preached Jesus to the disciples of John, numbering about twelve men. They believed and were baptized. Paul laid his hands upon them and the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying (Acts 19:1-7). Only three times in Acts do we read about speaking in tongues (Acts 2–Jerusalem, Acts 10–Caesarea, and Acts 19–Ephesus). God was performing extraordinary miracles (“Δυνάμεις τε οὐ τὰς τυχούσας”–literally, not the ordinary miracles–litotes) by the hands of Paul, so that handkerchiefs or aprons were carried from Paul’s body and the diseases (“τὰς νόσους“) left them and the evil spirits went out (“τε πνεύματα τὰ πονηρὰ“) (Acts 19:12). So, the word of the Lord was growing mightily (“ὔξανεν“) and prevailing (Acts 19:20).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, supported by a display of extraordinary miracles, with handkerchiefs and aprons bringing healing and casting out demons.

17.5  Faith and the Power of God. Paul wrote to the Galatians that God provided them with the Holy Spirit and works of powers (“ἐνεργῶν δυνάμεις“) in them (“ἐν ὑμῖν“–or among them). God did not do those things through the Law, but rather through hearing with faith (Galatians 3:5).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of doing works of powers in the Holy Spirit with new believers, so that they will understand that their salvation did not come through the Law, but rather through hearing with faith.

17.6 The Power of Grace.  Paul commended the Ephesian elders to God and the word of His grace, which is able (“ῷ δυναμένῳ”) to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified (Acts 20:32). 

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of building up the saints and reminding them that they have an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.

17.7 The Power To Establish. As Paul closed the Book of Romans, he wrote: “Now to Him who is able (“Τῷ δυναμένῳ“) to establish you according to my Gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ . . . ” (Romans 16:25).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of establishing believers according to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the preaching of Jesus Christ.

17.8 The Gospel and the Power of God. Paul observed that the Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom. Paul preached Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power (“δύναμιν”) of God and the wisdom of God. Paul proclaimed to the Corinthians that the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men (1 Corinthians 1:22-25).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of proclaiming Christ crucified to both Jews and Gentiles, knowing and demonstrating that the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

Section Eighteen 

Powers of Faith

18.1 No Power To Save. The Book of James presents two questions regarding faith and works: “What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can (“μὴ δύνατα“) that faith save him?” (James 2:14). Faith without works is dead (James 2:17).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of joining faith with works that evidence salvation.

18.2 Able To Perform His Promises. Abraham believed that God was able (“δυνατός“)  to perform His promises (Romans 4:21).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of believing that God is able to perform His promises, even when it appears to be physically impossible.

18.3 How Are You Able To Believe? Jesus asked a group of Jews seeking to kill Him: “How can you (“πῶς δύνασθε“) believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God?” (John 5:44).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of asking unbelievers how they can believe, when they receive glory from men and do not seek glory from the one and only God.

Section Twenty

The Ministry of Able

20.1 Able To Know. Paul walked about Athens and noticed the great idolatry. He began reasoning with the Jews in the synagogue and everyone present in the marketplace where he reasoned with them daily, preaching Jesus and the resurrection.  The Athenians took Paul to the Areopagus and asked Paul: “Are we able to know” (“Δυνάμεθα γνῶναι“–present middle indicative) what this new teaching is which you are proclaiming?” (Acts 17:16-19). Paul had the power to make people ask him for more information about Jesus and His resurrection. He then preached Jesus to them, emphasizing His resurrection and the judgment to come (Acts 17:17-34).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of provoking people to ask “Are we able to know” about Jesus and His resurrection, and then preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ to them. 

20.2 Able To Keep You from Stumbling. Jude reminded believers that God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, is the One who is able (“Τῷ δυναμένῳ“–notice the middle voice) to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy (Jude 1:24).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of keeping believers from stumbling, particularly when they contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.

Section Twenty One

The Ministry of Unable 

21.1 Unable To Deny a Sign.  Peter and John healed a man who had been lame from his mother’s womb. Peter and John fixed their gaze upon him and said: “Look at us !” In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, Peter commanded him walk. The lame man leaped and stood upright and began walking and entered the temple with them. All the people saw him and took note that the lame man they had seen begging for food outside the temple for many years now walked into the temple (Acts 3:1-10).  Later, Peter and John were taken before the Jewish council. Although the council warned Peter and John to stop preaching in the name of Jesus, the council could not deny (“οὐ δυνάμεθα“) that a noteworthy sign (“γνωστὸν σημεῖον”–the Greek word here is “sign,” and not miracle) had taken place.  A sign (“σημεῖον”) points to the authority behind the action at issue (see 1 Corinthians 1:22). Even the Council observed: the fact that a sign “has taken place through them is apparent to all who live in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it”  (Acts 4:16).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of performing undeniable works of healing as a testimony to religious tribunals and cities.

21.2 Unable To Stop Speaking. As Peter and John stood before the Jewish council, the council commanded them to stop speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus. Peter and John replied: “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; but we cannot (“οὐ δυνάμεθα“) stop speaking about what we have seen and heard ” (Acts 4:19-20). Notice the council was “unable to deny” the sign had taken place, just as Peter and John were “unable to stop speaking” about Jesus. The power that produced the sign also produced the inability to stop speaking about Jesus. Both powers went hand in hand from God. Compare Zacharias who was unable (“μὴ δυνάμενος“) to speak for a time because he did not believe the message of the angel who told him that his barren wife would have a son, John the Baptist (Luke 1:20). 

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of being unable to stop speaking about Jesus Christ, even after warnings from government or religious officials.

21.3 Unable To Do Anything against the Truth. Paul testified that the Corinthian ministry team was unable (“οὐ δυνάμεθά“) to do anything against the truth, but only for the truth (2 Corinthians 13:8).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of standing against opposition, while proclaiming that the ministry team is unable to do anything against the truth.

The Prayers of Power

22.1 Praying for Power. Paul prayed for churches, and those prayers serve as great examples of how to pray for other believers.

22.2 Ephesians. Paul prayed for the Ephesians regarding the power of God.

22.2.1 Surpassing Greatness of the Power. Paul prayed that the eyes of their heart may be enlightened so that they may know (“εἰδέναι”) what is the surpassing greatness of the power (“τῆς δυνάμεως“) toward us that believe, according to the working of the strength of His might (Ephesians 1:18-19). 

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying for believers that the eyes of their hearts may be enlightened so that they may know the surpassing greatness of the power toward us that believe, according to the strength of His might, and acting upon that knowledge.

22.2.2 Strengthened with Power. Paul also prayed that God the Father would grant to the Ephesians, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power (“δυνάμει κραταιωθῆναι“) through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in their hearts richly through faith (Ephesians 3:16-17).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying that believers would be strengthened with power through the Holy Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in their hearts through faith.

22.2.3 Far above All Power. Paul also described Jesus as seated at the right hand of God in the heavenly places, far above all rule (“ἀρχῆς“) and authority (“ἐξουσίας”) and power (“δυνάμεως”) and dominion (“κυριότητος”) and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come (Ephesians 1:21).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying that believers would see Jesus seated at the right hand of God in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come and acting upon that knowledge.

22.2.4 Able To Do Far Beyond.  Paul also prayed to Him who is able (“Τῷ δυναμένῳ“) to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to (“κατὰ”) the power (“τὴν δύναμιν“) that works within us (Ephesians 3:20).

 22.2.5 The Power Working Within Us. Paul prayed  for the Ephesians to the God who is able (“Τῷ  δυναμένῳ“) to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power (“ὴν δύναμιν“) that works (“τὴν ἐνεργουμένην“) within us (Ephesians 3:20). 

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying that God would do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us.

22.3 Colossians. Paul also wrote to the people of Colossae and told them about his prayers for them.

22.3.1 Spiritual Wisdom and Understanding. Paul testified that the ministry team to Colossae had not ceased to pray for them and to ask that they may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying for believers to be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.

22.3.2 Walk Worthy of the Lord. Paul also prayed for the Colossians that they would walk in a manner worthy of the Lord.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying for believers to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord.

22.3.3 Strengthened with All Power.  Paul prayed further that the believers would be strengthened with all power (“ἐν πάσῃ δυνάμει δυναμούμενοι“), according to His glorious might (Colossians 1:9-12).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying for believers to be strengthened with all power, according to the glorious might of God.

22.3.4 Please the Lord. Paul specifically prayed that the Colossians would please the Lord in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God, in all power empowering (“ἐν πάσῃ δυνάμει δυναμούμενοι“), according to His glorious might (“κατὰ τὸ κράτος τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ“), for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience (Colossians 1:10-11). Notice the phrase: in all power empowering. Paul prayed for that continuous, active empowering of the Colossians with all power. He linked the power of God continually working in them so that they would remain steadfast in producing good works for God, by the power of God continuing to please God in all respects.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of prayerful encouragement of other believers by both praying for those believers and then sharing your prayer with them, just like Paul did in discipling the saints at Colossae.

22.4 Thessalonica. Paul prayed for the Thessalonians, a church that experienced persecutions.

22.4.1 Worthy of God’s Calling. Paul prayed that God would count them worthy of their calling (2 Thessalonians 1:11).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying that God would count believers worthy of their calling, and sharing those prayers with those believers.

22.4.2 Fulfill Every Desire for Goodness. Paul also prayed that God would fulfill every desire for goodness in the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 1:11). 

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of praying that God would fulfill the believers’ work of faith with power, and sharing those prayers with those believers.

22.4.3 Glorifying the Name of the Lord Jesus. Paul also prayed that as  a result of God working in them with power, the name of the Lord Jesus will be glorified in them (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of making disciples and praying for the work of faith with power, and sharing those prayers with those believers.

23.9 Power To Be the Disciple of Jesus. Jesus outlined what you must do to be His disciple. Jesus also laid down some basic requirements for being His disciple. At times, a believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may help others experience the works of powers they have experienced themselves.

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of living an exemplary life as a disciple of Jesus.

23.9.1 Hate Your Family. Jesus taught that whoever does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot (“οὐ δύναται“) be My disciple (Luke 14:26).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of hating family members by following Jesus without family entanglements.

23.9.2 Carry and Come. Likewise, Jesus said: “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot (“οὐ δύναται”) be My disciple” (Luke 14:27).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of carrying his own cross daily while following Jesus as a disciple.

23.9.3 Give Up All Possessions. Jesus also explained: “So then, none of you can be (“οὐ δύναται“) My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions” (Luke 14:33).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of giving up all his own possessions to follow Jesus.

No Power To Sin

23.10 No Power To Sin. John revealed: “No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot (“οὐ δύναται“) sin, because he is born of God” (1 John 3:9).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of living in demonstration of overcoming sin, because he is born of God. The believer will still sin some, but his life will demonstrate extraordinary power in overcoming sin.

Power To Work

23.11 No Power To Work. Jesus encouraged His disciples; “We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can (“δύναται”)  work” (John 9:4).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of working so long as it is day.

Eternal Security

23.12 No Power To Snatch. Jesus revealed: “My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able (“δύναται”) to snatch them out of the Father’s hand” (John 10:29).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of demonstrating that we are secure in Christ, and no one can snatch us out of the Father’s hand.

Time and Power

23.19 Whenever You Wish, You Can. After a woman anointed Jesus (see The Anointing of Jesus), people criticized the woman, because they claimed the nard could have been sold for a lot of money and given to the poor. Jesus then said to them: “For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you wish,  you can (“δύνασθε”) do good to them; but you do not always have Me” (Mark 14:7).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of helping the poor by doing good to them and rendering special service to Jesus at the right time.

Powers and Strength

26.1 Strength. Paul recounted how afflictions in Asia burdened the ministry team beyond their strength (“δύναμιν”), so as to despair (“ἐξαπορηθῆναι“) even of life (2 Corinthians 1:8).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of using the power of God to strengthen people burdened beyond their strength and near despair.

Section Twenty Seven

Powers and Weakness

27.1 Power and Weakness. Paul wrote that he suffered for Christ’s sake with contentment; “for when I am weak, then I am strong (“δυνατός”)” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of demonstrating that you can be strong, even when you are weak because of suffering, and so find spiritual contentment.

The Ministry of Godliness and the Powers of God

31.1 Godliness. Paul wrote to Timothy that in the last days, men will will hold to a form of Godliness, although they have denied its power (“τὴν δύναμιν αὐτῆς“) (2 Timothy 3:5).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may have a ministry of exposing men who hold to a form of Godliness in their lives, although they have denied its power.

Section Thirty Eight

Hypocrisy and the Powers of God

38.1 Religious Hypocrisy. Jesus entered a synagogue and met a woman who for eighteen years had been bent double, a sickness (“ἀσθενείας”) caused by a spirit (“πνεῦμα ἔχουσα“). She was unable (“μὴ δυναμένη“) to straighten at all. Jesus freed her (“ἀπολέλυσαι”) and laid his hands on her. The synagogue official became indignant (“ἀγανακτῶν“) because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath. Jesus called them hypocrites, because they loosed their donkeys on the Sabbath, but they objected to Jesus loosing the woman, a daughter of Abraham, on the Sabbath. All of the opponents of Jesus were being humiliated, but the entire crowd was rejoicing over all the glorious things Jesus did (Luke 12:10-17).

Identification. A believer with The Spiritual Gift of Works of Powers may heal people in front of religious people, and show everyone the hypocrisy of the religious leaders who oppose Jesus.