### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐνδυναμόω (transliterated as *endynamóō*, `{{G1743}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐν (en, meaning "in" or "into") and the verb δυναμόω (dynamóō, "to strengthen" or "to empower"). The root of δυναμόω is δύναμις (dynamis, `{{G1411}}`), signifying power, might, or inherent ability. Thus, the core meaning of endynamóō is "to put strength into," "to empower," "to enable," or "to make strong." Its semantic range extends beyond mere physical strengthening to encompass spiritual, moral, and functional empowerment. It implies an active impartation of power, making one capable of performing a task or enduring a situation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb endynamóō appears frequently in the New Testament, particularly in the Pauline epistles, highlighting the divine source of strength for believers.
* In [[Acts 9:22]], after his conversion, Saul (Paul) "increased the more in strength" (ἐνεδυναμοῦτο) in Damascus, confounding the Jews. Here, it signifies a spiritual and intellectual strengthening, enabling him to boldly proclaim Christ.
* [[Romans 4:20]] describes Abraham, who "was strengthened in faith" (ἐνεδυναμώθη τῇ πίστει), giving glory to God. This highlights the empowerment of faith itself, enabling steadfast belief despite challenging circumstances.
* One of the most well-known occurrences is [[Philippians 4:13]]: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (τοῦ ἐνδυναμοῦντός με). This verse powerfully articulates Christ as the direct source of empowerment for enduring all circumstances, whether abundance or need.
* In [[Ephesians 6:10]], believers are commanded: "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might" (ἐνδυναμοῦσθε ἐν Κυρίῳ καὶ ἐν τῷ κράτει τῆς ἰσχύος αὐτοῦ). This imperative calls believers to draw strength from the Lord for spiritual warfare, emphasizing that the power is not inherent but derived from Him.
* Paul often uses this verb in reference to his own ministry. In [[1 Timothy 1:12]], he thanks Christ Jesus "who has strengthened me" (τῷ ἐνδυναμώσαντί με), for entrusting him with ministry. Similarly, in [[2 Timothy 4:17]], he recounts, "But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me" (ὁ δὲ Κύριος μοι παρέστη καὶ ἐνεδυνάμωσέν με), enabling him to preach the gospel fully.
* To Timothy, Paul exhorts, "You then, my child, be strengthened in the grace that is in Christ Jesus" ([[2 Timothy 2:1]]). This is a call for Timothy to continually draw strength from divine grace for his pastoral duties and endurance.
* The concept is also present in [[Hebrews 11:34]], where heroes of faith are described as those who "from weakness were made strong" (ἐνεδυναμώθησαν ἀπὸ ἀσθενείας), demonstrating God's power to overcome human frailty.
Across these contexts, endynamóō frequently appears in the passive voice, underscoring that strength is *received* from an external, divine source. When active, it is God or Christ who is the empowerer.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of endynamóō is closely tied to other Greek terms related to power and strength in the New Testament:
* δύναμις (dynamis, `{{G1411}}`): This noun denotes inherent power, might, or ability. endynamóō is the verbal action of imparting or receiving this δύναμις.
* δυνατός (dynatos, `{{G1415}}`): An adjective meaning "powerful," "mighty," or "able." It describes one who possesses δύναμις or has been endynamóō.
* ἰσχύς (ischys, `{{G2479}}`): Refers to strength, might, or force, often implying physical or inherent vigor.
* κράτος (kratos, `{{G2904}}`): Denotes dominion, power, or manifested might, often associated with rule or triumph.
* **Concept of Divine Empowerment:** endynamóō is central to the New Testament's teaching that believers do not operate on their own limited strength but are supernaturally enabled by God for every aspect of their spiritual walk, service, and endurance. It starkly contrasts human weakness with divine omnipotence.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of endynamóō is profound, highlighting several key truths:
* **Divine Source of Strength:** The consistent usage of endynamóō unequivocally establishes God, Christ, or divine grace as the ultimate and sole source of true strength for believers. It underscores that spiritual power is not self-generated but divinely bestowed.
* **Purposeful Empowerment:** This divine strength is imparted for specific, redemptive purposes:
* To enable faithful endurance through trials and adversity ([[Philippians 4:13]]).
* To equip for effective ministry and bold proclamation of the gospel ([[1 Timothy 1:12]], [[2 Timothy 4:17]]).
* To prepare and sustain believers for spiritual warfare against unseen forces ([[Ephesians 6:10]]).
* To strengthen faith itself, leading to unwavering trust in God's promises ([[Romans 4:20]]).
* To transform human weakness into divine strength, enabling believers to overcome infirmities ([[Hebrews 11:34]]).
* **Grace and Faith as Channels:** The strengthening is often linked to God's grace ([[2 Timothy 2:1]]) and the exercise of faith ([[Romans 4:20]]), indicating that this empowerment is a gift of God's unmerited favor, received through trust in Him.
* **Human Weakness, Divine Power:** The frequent appearance of endynamóō reinforces the biblical paradox that God's power is perfected in human weakness ([[2 Corinthians 12:9]]). Believers are not strong in themselves, but their strength is found *in the Lord*, enabling them to accomplish what is humanly impossible.
### Summary
The Greek verb endynamóō (`{{G1743}}`) meticulously describes the act of being empowered, strengthened, or enabled. Etymologically rooted in the concept of "putting power into," its New Testament usage consistently points to a divine impartation of strength rather than an innate human capacity. This word is crucial for understanding the dynamic relationship between God and His people, where believers are not self-sufficient but are continually sustained and equipped by divine might.
Through endynamóō, we learn that strength for faith ([[Romans 4:20]]), for ministry ([[1 Timothy 1:12]]), for enduring all circumstances ([[Philippians 4:13]]), and for spiritual combat ([[Ephesians 6:10]]) flows directly from God, Christ, and His grace. It underscores a fundamental theological principle: the Christian life is lived not by human might, but by the supernatural power of God working in and through those who rely on Him. The concept beautifully illustrates that God empowers His people to fulfill His purposes, turning weakness into a conduit for His glory.
TRV