Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of God's omnipotence, or His unlimited power, is a central theme throughout the Bible. This divine attribute is often encapsulated in the phrase "nothing is too hard for God," which underscores the belief that God can accomplish anything that aligns with His will and nature. This entry explores the biblical basis for this belief, highlighting key scriptures and theological insights.
Scriptural Foundations1.
Genesis 18:14 · In the narrative of Abraham and Sarah, God promises them a son despite their old age. When Sarah laughs at the improbability, the Lord responds, "Is anything too difficult for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you—in about a year—and Sarah will have a son." . This rhetorical question emphasizes God's ability to fulfill His promises, regardless of human limitations.
2.
Jeremiah 32:17 · The prophet Jeremiah acknowledges God's creative power and sovereignty, declaring, "Ah, Lord GOD! You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for You." . This verse highlights God's role as Creator, affirming that the One who fashioned the universe is capable of overcoming any obstacle.
3.
Luke 1:37 · In the New Testament, the angel Gabriel reassures Mary of God's power in the context of the virgin birth, stating, "For no word from God will ever fail." . This assurance underscores the belief that God's promises are always fulfilled, no matter how impossible they may seem from a human perspective.
4.
Matthew 19:26 · Jesus Himself affirms God's omnipotence in the context of salvation, saying, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." . This statement not only highlights God's power but also His ability to accomplish what is beyond human capability, particularly in the realm of spiritual transformation and redemption.
Theological InsightsThe doctrine of God's omnipotence is foundational to understanding His nature and His interactions with the world. It assures believers that God is not limited by the constraints of the physical universe or human frailty. This belief provides comfort and hope, especially in times of trial and uncertainty, as it affirms that God is both willing and able to intervene in human affairs.
God's power is also closely linked to His other attributes, such as His wisdom and goodness. His omnipotence is not arbitrary or capricious; rather, it is exercised in accordance with His perfect will and righteous character. This means that while God can do anything, He will not act in ways that contradict His nature or His promises.
Practical ImplicationsFor believers, the power of God is a source of strength and encouragement. It invites them to trust in His ability to provide, protect, and guide them through life's challenges. This trust is not a passive resignation but an active faith that seeks to align with God's purposes and rely on His strength.
Moreover, the belief that nothing is too hard for God encourages prayer and dependence on Him. It reminds believers that they can bring their deepest concerns and seemingly insurmountable problems to God, confident that He is both willing and able to act on their behalf.
In summary, the biblical teaching that nothing is too hard for God is a profound affirmation of His omnipotence, inviting believers to trust in His power and to live in the light of His sovereign and loving care.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Genesis 18:14Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return to you, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.
Torrey's Topical TextbookJeremiah 32:27
Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
The Godhood of God
... can be hidden from Him, no problem can baffle Him, nothing is too hard for Him.
God is omniscient""Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the godhood of god/the godhood of god.htm
Praying Saints of the Old Testaments (Continued)
... nothing is too hard for God. That answered prayer of Jonah in the fish's belly in
its mighty results became an Old Testament type of the miraculous power ...
/.../bounds/prayer and praying men/ii praying saints of the.htm
On Divine Predestination
... Yet one caution ought to be strictly observed, that nothing be taught concerning
it beyond what the Scriptures say, that it be ... "The power of God is great ...
/.../the works of james arminius vol 1/disputation 15 on divine predestination.htm
Grace Abounding
... Out on the men who think that man is master over God! ... of the most brilhant of saints,
there is nothing in his ... of Christ for cleansing, and in the power of the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 9 1863/grace abounding.htm
The Power of the Blood of the Lamb
... though exalted to the throne of God, is still ... the precious Blood is to reach us in
cleansing power. ... a partaker of the Lamb's humility there, nothing will happen ...
//christianbookshelf.org/hession/the calvary road/chapter 9 the power of.htm
Hooker -- the Activity of Faith; Or, Abraham's Imitators
... in this particular; he must roll himself upon the power, and faithfulness ... all
impediments and difficulties, and to count nothing too dear for God; to be ...
/.../various/the worlds great sermons vol 2/hooker the activity of.htm
Our God of the Impossible
... there is nothing too wonderful for thee" (Jer.32:17, margin ... know their prayers will
prevail with God." Can we ... London who was noted for her power in intercession ...
/.../goforth/how i know god answers prayer/viii our god of the.htm
The Repentance of Believers
... in need of, from him that hath all power in heaven ... Repentance says, "Without him
I can do nothing:" Faith says, "I can ... him I can "love the Lord my God with all ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 14 the repentance of.htm
Afraid of Giants
... immediately going on to the numbers and power of the ... Nothing, if they had been all
saints,"which they were ... scout, and when we think to verify God's words by ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/afraid of giants.htm
Ephesians iv. 17
... and rivers, and seas, formed some moisture by the emission of their vapors, there
would be nothing to prevent an ... A god, say ye, because he has power to do ...
/.../homily xii ephesians iv 17.htm
Resources
What does the Bible say about the power of words? | GotQuestions.orgHow much power does Satan possess? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the power of prayer? | GotQuestions.orgPower: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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