God is often called “omnipotent,” but what does that word really mean? The term comes from Latin—omni meaning “all” and potens meaning “powerful.” So, omnipotent means all-powerful. In the Bible, this word describes the complete and unlimited power of God over everything in creation.
The Meaning of Omnipotent
The word “omnipotent” means that God has unlimited power. He can do all things that are in line with His nature. That means God cannot lie (Titus 1:2) or sin (James 1:13), but He can do anything that fits who He is—holy, perfect, and good.
Bible Support:
- Jeremiah 32:17 (ESV) – “Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you.”
- Luke 1:37 (KJV) – “For with God nothing shall be impossible.”
Where the Bible Uses “Omnipotent”
The actual word “omnipotent” is found in the King James Version of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Revelation:
Revelation 19:6 (KJV) – “...Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.”
In other translations, the same verse uses “Almighty” instead of “omnipotent.” These words point to the same truth—God has all power.
Examples of God’s Omnipotence
Event | Bible Reference | What It Shows |
---|---|---|
Creation of the world | Genesis 1:1 | God made everything from nothing |
Parting of the Red Sea | Exodus 14:21 | God controls nature |
Virgin birth of Jesus | Luke 1:35 | God creates life in miraculous ways |
Resurrection of Jesus | Matthew 28:6 | God has power over death |
How Omnipotence Impacts Us
God’s omnipotence isn’t just a fact to admire—it brings real comfort to believers.
It Means:
- We can trust Him — He is able to do what He promises.
- He is in control — Even when life feels out of control, God is not.
- We are never alone — His power works in us and through us.
Isaiah 40:29 (NIV) – “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
Omnipotence vs. Human Power
God’s power isn’t like ours. Human power is:
Type | Description | Limitations |
---|---|---|
Physical strength | Muscle power or fitness | Fades with age or injury |
Political power | Authority over people | Can be lost or misused |
Mental power | Intelligence or wisdom | Still limited in knowledge |
God’s power is different. It never fails, never fades, and never depends on anyone else.
Verses That Reflect God’s Power
- Job 42:2 – “I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.”
- Psalm 147:5 – “Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding is infinite.”
- Matthew 19:26 – “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
These verses show that nothing is beyond God's ability.
Final Thoughts
The omnipotence of God means He is in control of all things. That truth brings peace in hard times and hope for the future. God is able to move mountains, raise the dead, and change hearts.
We serve a God who is not weak, limited, or distant. He is omnipotent—the Lord God Almighty.