### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **energéō**, represented by `{{G1754}}`, is a verb that means **to be active** or **efficient**. It appears 22 times across 19 unique verses, signifying an active, effective force in operation. It is used to describe something that is mighty in its working or that shews forth its own power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1754}}` is used to describe the activity of various powers, both divine and otherwise. It defines God as the one who "worketh all things after the counsel of his own will" [[Ephesians 1:11]] and who "worketh in you both to will and to do" [[Philippians 2:13]]. The same term is used for the Word of God, which "effectually worketh" in believers [[1 Thessalonians 2:13]]. Conversely, it also describes the "spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience" [[Ephesians 2:2]] and the "motions of sins" which "did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death" [[Romans 7:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of effective power:
* `{{G1753}}` **enérgeia** (efficiency ("energy")): This noun refers to the operational power or "working" itself. Paul describes his labor as being according to God's "working" which "worketh" `{{G1754}}` in him mightily [[Colossians 1:29]].
* `{{G1755}}` **enérgēma** (an effect): This word denotes the result or "operation" of the work. Scripture speaks of "diversities of operations" `{{G1755}}`, all originating from the same God who "worketh" `{{G1754}}` all things in all people [[1 Corinthians 12:6]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (force; specially, miraculous power): This term for inherent power is often what is being put into effect by `{{G1754}}`. God acts according to the "power (dýnamis) that worketh (energéō) in us" [[Ephesians 3:20]].
* `{{G2480}}` **ischýō** (to have (or exercise) force): This verb describes having strength or availing. It is used to state the outcome of an action, such as in [[James 5:16]], where an "effectual fervent" `{{G1754}}` prayer "availeth" `{{G2480}}` much.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1754}}` is seen in its application to different spiritual dynamics:
* **Divine Agency:** The word establishes that God is the primary actor, the one who "worketh all in all" [[1 Corinthians 12:6]]. This work includes raising Christ from the dead [[Ephesians 1:20]] and enabling the believer's will and actions [[Philippians 2:13]].
* **Supernatural Manifestation:** `{{G1754}}` is frequently tied to supernatural results. In the gospels, "mighty works" are said to "shew forth themselves" `{{G1754}}` in a person [[Matthew 14:2]]. God "worketh miracles among you" not by works of the law, but by faith [[Galatians 3:5]].
* **Antagonistic Powers:** The term is not used exclusively for divine power. The "mystery of iniquity" is an active force that "doth already work" [[2 Thessalonians 2:7]], demonstrating that evil is an operative power in the world.
* **Internal Efficacy:** This power is not merely external but is active within believers. It is the Word of God that "effectually worketh" in those who believe [[1 Thessalonians 2:13]] and the divine energy that works "in me mightily" [[Colossians 1:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1754}}` moves beyond the simple idea of labor to describe effective, energized action. It is a key term for understanding how power is expressed in the spiritual realm, whether it originates from God, the Holy Spirit, or opposing forces like sin. The word illustrates that divine purpose, human faith, and spiritual opposition are not static concepts but are dynamic, operational forces with real effects.
TRV