Omnipotence

Definition

Omnipotence refers to the attribute of being all-powerful, meaning that God has the ability to do anything that is logically possible and consistent with His nature. This divine attribute underscores the belief in a singular, supreme being who possesses unlimited power over creation and existence. It raises important questions about the relationship between divine power and human free will, as well as the nature of God's involvement in the world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Omnipotence means that God can accomplish His will without any limitation or restriction.
2. The concept challenges believers to reconcile God's power with human free will and the reality of evil in the world.
3. In Christianity, God's omnipotence is foundational to the understanding of His role as Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer.
4. The philosophical implications of omnipotence raise questions about whether God can do logically contradictory things, such as creating a rock so heavy He cannot lift it.
5. God's omnipotence assures believers that He can intervene in history and personal lives according to His divine plan.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of omnipotence relate to human free will within Christian theology?
  • Omnipotence in Christian theology suggests that God has unlimited power to influence events and outcomes. However, this raises complex questions about human free will. If God is all-powerful, how can humans truly be free to make their own choices? The theological perspective typically holds that while God is omnipotent, He allows human beings to exercise their free will, thus maintaining a balance between divine sovereignty and human agency.
• Discuss the implications of omnipotence when considering the existence of evil in the world.
  • The existence of evil poses significant challenges to the notion of an omnipotent and benevolent God. This situation leads to discussions surrounding theodicy, which seeks to explain how an all-powerful God can allow suffering and evil. Some argue that God's omnipotence does not negate human freedom; instead, it allows for a world where free choices can lead to both good and evil outcomes. This understanding helps reconcile the coexistence of divine power and moral agency.
• Evaluate how the attribute of omnipotence shapes Christian beliefs about God's role in creation and redemption.
  • Omnipotence significantly shapes Christian beliefs regarding God's involvement in creation and redemption. As an all-powerful being, God is believed to have created the universe ex nihilo (out of nothing), demonstrating His absolute authority over all that exists. In terms of redemption, God's omnipotent nature assures believers that He has the power to save humanity from sin and restore creation. This belief reinforces faith in God's ability to fulfill His promises and intervene in history for the ultimate good.

Related terms

Omniscience: The attribute of being all-knowing, where God possesses complete and perfect knowledge of everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen.

Monotheism: The belief in a single, all-powerful God who is the creator and sustainer of the universe, central to many religious traditions, including Christianity.

Theodicy: A theological concept that attempts to defend God's goodness and omnipotence in light of the existence of evil and suffering in the world.