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The actual potency and inner workings of energy
1. The actual potency and inner workings of energy
2. The actual potency and inner workings of energy
Galatians 3:5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? [kjv]
ο ουν επιχορηγων υμιν το πνευμα και ενεργων δυναμεις εν υμιν εξ εργων νομου η εξ ακοης πιστεως [gnt]
Energy is a word and concept that has ancient roots but had a
different meaning in ancient times. Aristotle first used the ancient Greek word
"ενέργεια" ≈ "actuality" for
"actuality", literally,
"in working".
The ancient Greek word
"δύναμις" ≈ "power, might, strength, potentiality" and is used by Aristotle for something that has
"potential".
KJV (King James Version) : ... worketh miracles among you ...
Paraphrase: ... actualizes the potential in you ...
The root word is
"work" and is used many times in the
LXX (Septuagint) and
GNT (Greek New Testament).
3. Galatians 3:5 Working miracles
Galatians 3:5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? [kjv]
ο ουν επιχορηγων υμιν το πνευμα και ενεργων δυναμεις εν υμιν εξ εργων νομου η εξ ακοης πιστεως [gnt]
Paul often uses Greek philosophical terms and ideas to relate to his readers. Which makes better sense?
☐
KJV paraphrase:
The Spirit worketh miracles among you.
☐ Paraphrase:
The Spirit actualizes the potential among you.
Let us look deeper into these ideas.
4. Galatians 3:5 Working miracles
Galatians 3:5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? [kjv]
ο ουν επιχορηγων υμιν το πνευμα και ενεργων δυναμεις εν υμιν εξ εργων νομου η εξ ακοης πιστεως [gnt]
Paraphrase: The Spirit actualizes the potential among you.
Once a given idea takes hold, most translations blindly follow what was done in the past.
NIV (New International Version): So again I ask, does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you by the works of the law, or by your believing what you heard?
NLT (New Living Translation): I ask you again, does God give you the Holy Spirit and work miracles among you because you obey the law? Of course not! It is because you believe the message you heard about Christ.
5. Galatians 3:5
KJV: He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
Greek: ο ουν επιχορηγων υμιν το πνευμα και ενεργων δυναμεις εν υμιν εξ εργων νομου η εξ ακοης πιστεως
6. An opus on the workings of work
Matthew 20:2 And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. [kjv]
συμφωνησας δε μετα των εργατων εκ δηναριου την ημεραν απεστειλεν αυτους εις τον αμπελωνα αυτου [gnt]
The ancient Greek word
"ἔργον" (er-gon) ≈ "work" is the source of the physics term
"erg" for work and is related to many other
PIE (Proto Indo-European) words for
"work".
20:3 And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, [kjv]
και εξελθων περι τριτην ωραν ειδεν αλλους εστωτας εν τη αγορα αργους [gnt]
The
negation of the Greek word for
"work" is the ancient Greek word
"αεργος" ≈ "not working, idle" which contracted to
"αργος" ≈ "not working, idle" and is the source of the name for the chemical element
"Argon" as a "
lazy gas".
7. Thomas Young
In 1802, British scientist Thomas Young (1773-1829) was looking for a term to describe what he was studying. He came up with the term
"energy" from the Greek word
"ενεργεί" where
"energy" is (generally) defined as the capacity or ability to do work.
Leibniz had used the Latin word
"vis viva" ≈ "life force" but Young's term was adopted.
8. Related words
9. Aristotle
Over two thousand years before Thomas Young coined the word for
"energy" from the Greek words, Aristotle had used this word for
"in working" in his philosophical meaning of
"actuality".
The usage and meaning of
"energy" by Aristotle, and a word that appears in the
GNT, is
not the same as the modern use of the word
"energy" as defined by Thomas Young.
10. Energy of the mind
The energy of the mind is the essence of life. Aristotle (Greek scientist and philosopher)
The quote means "
The actuality/thinking of the mind is the essence/potentiality of life".
Aristotle first coined the ancient Greek word
"ενεργεί" ≈ "actuality" (in his usage) and that means, literally,
"inner work" or
"in working". That is, "
thinking" in contrast to a "
potential".
This might be compared and/or contrasted with "
I think, therefore I am" from Descartes.
11. Pronunciation
In Greek, the "ε" would be pronounced as a separate leading sound and the "ν", where possible, would start the next syllable. That is, "e-ner-gy" rather than "en-er-gy".
α,'ο
12. Usage by Paul
The Greek form of
"in working" as
"actuality" as used by Aristotle appears in
13 verses in the
GNT, all in Paul's letters. That form appears in
2 verses in the
LXX and appear to be incidental uses.
An interesting question is whether Paul intended to make allusions to this idea of Aristotle as part of Greek philosophy references in his letters. Let us investigate.
Some useful object-oriented concepts will now be covered.
13. Smalltalk
Alan Kay wanted to make a computer so easy to use, a child could use it. Then maybe adults could use a computer.
Steve Jobs saw what Alan Kay was doing and hired him away from Xerox to create the
Apple MacIntosh computer, introduced in 1984.
Alan Kay (American computer scientist) was the originator of
object-oriented, having developed the Smalltalk system in 1971, since "
Children should program in smalltalk".
class: general idea/blueprint of something (cookie-cutter, Platonic forms)
object: instance of a class (cookie, Aristotle potential and actualization)
I invented the term Object-Oriented, and I can tell you I did not have C++ in mind. Alan Kay (American computer scientist)
Smalltalk is an object-oriented language developed by Alan Kay (and others) at Xerox PARC in the 1970s.
Alan Kay wanted to make a computer so easy to use, a child could use it. Then maybe adults could use a computer. Steve Jobs saw what Alan Kay was doing and hired him away from Xerox to create the MacIntosh computer, introduced in 1984.
14. Classes and objects
A cookie-cutter template is used to create a "
cookie object" as an instance of an idea of a cookie - a "
cookie class".
A class is a general idea of something that relates to a Platonic form.
An object is an instance of a class that relates more the Aristotelian form.
The Platonic idea of an "
empty" class (cookie-cutter) needs to be filled in or "
formed" (cookie dough) in order to create an
Aristotelian object (cookie to be baked) for a "
purpose" or end.
In animated movies, when one sees many similar animals, such as zebras in the movie Madagascar, one of which is "
Marty", each zebra is an
object created from a general zebra
class (as a cookie-cutter template).
15. Classes and objects
An understanding of classes and objects is essential to understanding object-oriented concepts.
A class is a general idea of something that relates to a Platonic form. It is a template for how to make instances of objects.
An instance is a specific occurrence of a general idea.
An object is an instance of a class that relates more the Aristotelian form. An object has specific properties, methods, and reacts to or creates events.
16. Form
Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]
ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]
… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]
Paul is writing to a Greek audience.
The
Platonic idea of "
forms", from
Plato, was that of a perfect but abstract idea that became realized in some imperfect manifestation.
Aristotle had a more physical manifestation or appearance as in the "
form" of something based in "
reality".
Paul may be "
playing" with both of these ideas, "
though" (as in "
dough") it may not be a clear "
form".
17. Playdough
Do not confuse "
Plato" with "
playdough" or "
Play-Doh". Play-Doh is made primarily of water, salt and flour. It is not edible, but, for pragmatic reasons, is not really poisonous (out of the box, all bets are off once mixed with other substances).
The Hasbro "
Play-Doh" web site is at
https://playdoh.hasbro.com/en-us. (as of 2022-10-15)
There is a learning website named "
Playdough to PLATO" at
https://www.playdoughtoplato.com/. (as of 2022-10-15)
18. Mathematics and reality
A mathematical "
circle" does not exist in the real world. Only approximations exist in reality.
Neither do "
points", "
lines", "
planes", "
spaces", etc., exist in reality.
Plato considered the mathematical ideas more "real" than what exists in "reality".
Aristotle considered the "reality" of what one sees and senses it the real word important.
Aristotle ponders this reality. Paul builds on Aristotle by telling the Ephesians (in various ways) "
there's more" as in "
height".
Ephesians 3:18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; [kjv]
εν αγαπη ερριζωμενοι και τεθεμελιωμενοι ινα εξισχυσητε καταλαβεσθαι συν πασιν τοις αγιοις τι το πλατος και μηκος και υψος και βαθος [gnt]
19. Plato and Aristotle
These ideas are reflected in the famous Raphael painting of "
The school of Athens" showing (the older) Plato pointing up (to abstract ideas) and (the younger) Aristotle pointing down (to actual reality).
A "
Platonic" relationship is abstract and not physical (in reality).
Plato has more of an abstract mathematical outlook whereas Aristotle has more of a pragmatic and concrete engineering outlook.
20. Comparison of truth preferences
Jesus and Paul prefer the more pragmatic and concrete engineering outlook to reality. This is somewhat like the "
Aristotelian" approach.
Some prefer the more abstract and out-of-touch with reality ways of (thinking about but not) doing things. This is somewhat like the "
Platonic" approach.
Aristotle says that one tends not to reason with things but, rather, with the names of things. In doing so, there is room for deception.
Others prefer the "
humanistic" or "
opinion" or "
good feelings" approach - that of "
Protagoras": "
man is the measure of all things".
21. Philippians 2:5-8 form of God and Aristotelian causes
Jesus is our Lord (King) and Savior (Christ) but showed by example how to be a servant.
Philippians 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: [kjv]
ος εν μορφη θεου υπαρχων ουχ αρπαγμον ηγησατο το ειναι ισα θεω [gnt]
… forma … rapinam … aequalem … [v]
2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: [kjv]
αλλα εαυτον εκενωσεν μορφην δουλου λαβων εν ομοιωματι ανθρωπων γενομενος και σχηματι ευρεθεις ως ανθρωπος [gnt]
… formam … factus … inventus … [v]
2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. [kjv]
εταπεινωσενεταπεινωσεν εαυτον γενομενος υπηκοος μεχρι θανατου θανατου δε σταυρου [gnt]
Philippians 2:6-11 form a famous poem (unknown author, perhaps Paul, but used here by Paul). Paul appears to be using, by analogy, Aristotle's four causes.
22. Reputation
Philippians 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: [kjv]
αλλα εαυτον εκενωσεν μορφην δουλου λαβων εν ομοιωματι ανθρωπων γενομενος και σχηματι ευρεθεις ως ανθρωπος [gnt]
… formam … factus … inventus … [v]
The Greek for "
no reputation" is that of "
empty form". An "
empty form" is like a "
hole" as a typed placeholder to be "
informed" with something.
The words "
form" and "
likeness" bring to mind the idea of
Platonic forms and
Aristotelian reality as found today in the class and object ideas of computer science.
The English word
"form" is, through French, from the Latin word
"forme" ≈ "form, shape, appearance" which appears to be from the ancient Greek word
"μορφή" ≈ "shape, fashion, appearance".
23. Actuality
24. Modern Greek
25. Potential power
Aristotle often used the Greek word
"in working" with an idea of
"actuality" together with the word
"δύναμις" ≈ "power, might, strength, potentiality". Aristotle used this ordinary Greek work with a meaning of
"potency" or
"potential" in two specific ways.
Weak sense: something might happen or not happen.
Strong sense: how something could be done well.
This Greek word appears many times in the
GNT and
LXX. Might that word when used by Paul when writing to Greek audiences have a meaning (or double meaning) of
"potency" or
"potential"?
26. Thomas Aquinas
Italian Dominican friar and priest Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) attempted to integrate Aristotelian ideas, such as "
entelechy" and "
potency" or "
potentiality", into a Christian (and Catholic) framework.
... the position of Western Medieval (or Catholic) Christianity, can be found for example in the philosophy of Thomas Aquinas, who relied on Aristotle's concept of entelechy, when he defined God as actus purus, pure act, actuality unmixed with potentiality. The existence of a truly distinct essence of God which is not actuality, is not generally accepted in Catholic theology. Wikipedia (as of 2022-09-23)
27. Paul
Paul uses
both the word for "
in working" as "
actuality"
and the word for "
potency" or "
potential" in
5 verses, all written to churches in cities where a knowledge of Greek philosophy would be common.
Ephesians 1:19 and 3:7
Philippians 3:21
Colossians 1:29
2 Thessalonians 2:9
Let us look at those verses.
28. Ephesians 1:19 Powerful working
Let us substitute the meanings of the words as Aristotle used them in the following verse.
Ephesians 1:19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, [kjv]
και τι το υπερβαλλον μεγεθος της δυναμεως αυτου εις ημας τους πιστευοντας κατα την ενεργειαν του κρατους της ισχυος αυτου [gnt]
Substitution:
And what is the exceeding greatness of his potentiality to us-ward who believe, according to the actuality of his mighty power
Is it better, worse or little difference?
29. Ephesians 1:19
KJV: And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,
Greek: και τι το υπερβαλλον μεγεθος της δυναμεως αυτου εις ημας τους πιστευοντας κατα την ενεργειαν του κρατους της ισχυος αυτου
30. Ephesians 3:7 Effectual working
Let us substitute the meanings of the words as Aristotle used them in the following verse.
Ephesians 3:7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. [kjv]
ου εγενηθην διακονος κατα την δωρεαν της χαριτος του θεου δοθεισης μοι κατα την ενεργειαν της δυναμεως αυτου [gnt]
Substitution:
Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the actuality of his potentiality.
31. Ephesians 3:7
KJV: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
Greek: ου εγενομην εγενηθην διακονος κατα την δωρεαν της χαριτος του θεου την δοθεισαν της δοθεισης μοι κατα την ενεργειαν της δυναμεως αυτου
32. Strongs - power
- *G1411 *119 δύναμις (doo'-nam-is) : from G1410; force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself):--ability, abundance, meaning, might(-ily, -y, -y deed), (worker of) miracle(-s), power, strength, violence, mighty (wonderful) work.
- δυναμιν *33
- Matthew 22:29 ... knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.
- Matthew 25:15 ... to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.
- Mark 5:30 ... in himself that virtue had gone out of him, ...
- Mark 6:5 ... there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands ...
- Mark 9:39 ... no man which shall do a miracle in my name, ...
- Mark 12:24 ... not the scriptures, neither the power of God?
- Luke 8:46 ... for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.
- Luke 9:1 ... together, and gave them power and authority over ...
- Luke 10:19 ... and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing ...
- Luke 24:49 ... until ye be endued with power from on high.
- Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy ...
- Romans 9:17 ... that I might shew my power in thee, and ...
- 1 Corinthians 1:24 ... and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
- 1 Corinthians 4:19 ... of them which are puffed up, but the power.
- 1 Corinthians 14:11 Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him ...
- 1 Corinthians 15:24 ... all authority and power.
- 2 Corinthians 1:8 ... out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired ...
- 2 Corinthians 8:3 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;
- Ephesians 3:20 ... or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
- Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, ...
- 2 Timothy 1:8 ... be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;
- 2 Timothy 3:5 ... of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.
- Hebrews 7:16 ... commandment, but after the power of an endless life.
- Hebrews 11:11 ... Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, ...
- Hebrews 11:34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, ...
- 2 Peter 1:16 ... fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of ...
- Revelation 3:8 ... for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my ...
- Revelation 4:11 ... and honour and power: for thou hast created ...
- Revelation 5:12 ... the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and ...
- Revelation 11:17 ... thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
- Revelation 13:2 ... gave him his power, and his seat, ...
- Revelation 17:13 ... and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.
- δυναμει *26
- Mark 9:1 ... of God come with power.
- Luke 1:17 ... in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts ...
- Luke 4:14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: ...
- Luke 4:36 ... with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, ...
- Acts 3:12 ... on us, as though by our own power or holiness ...
- Acts 4:7 ... they asked, By what power, or by what ...
- Acts 4:33 And with great power gave the apostles ...
- Acts 10:38 ... with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, ...
- Romans 1:4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, ...
- Romans 15:13 ... in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
- Romans 15:19 Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; ...
- 1 Corinthians 2:5 ... of men, but in the power of God.
- 1 Corinthians 4:20 ... word, but in power.
- 1 Corinthians 5:4 ... my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,
- 1 Corinthians 15:43 ... weakness; it is raised in power:
- 2 Corinthians 6:7 By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour ...
- Ephesians 3:16 ... of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit ...
- Colossians 1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious ...
- Colossians 1:29 ... which worketh in me mightily.
- 1 Thessalonians 1:5 ... but also in power, and in the Holy ...
- 2 Thessalonians 1:11 ... the work of faith with power:
- 2 Thessalonians 2:9 ... of Satan with all power and signs and ...
- 1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith ...
- 2 Peter 2:11 ... greater in power and might, bring not railing ...
- Revelation 1:16 ... shineth in his strength.
- δυναμεως *21
- Matthew 24:30 ... the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
- Matthew 26:64 ... sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in ...
- Mark 13:26 ... the clouds with great power and glory.
- Mark 14:62 ... sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in ...
- Luke 21:27 ... in a cloud with power and great glory.
- Luke 22:69 ... sit on the right hand of the power of God.
- Acts 6:8 ... full of faith and power, did great wonders ...
- 1 Corinthians 2:4 ... demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
- 1 Corinthians 6:14 ... us by his own power.
- 2 Corinthians 4:7 ... vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and ...
- 2 Corinthians 13:4 ... he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God ...
- Ephesians 1:19 ... is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who ...
- Ephesians 1:21 ... and power, and might, and dominion, and ...
- Ephesians 3:7 ... by the effectual working of his power.
- 2 Thessalonians 1:7 ... heaven with his mighty angels,
- 2 Timothy 1:7 ... the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
- Hebrews 1:3 ... all things by the word of his power, when he had by ...
- 2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things ...
- Revelation 15:8 ... and from his power; and no man was able ...
- Revelation 18:3 ... of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.
- δυναμεις *20
- Matthew 7:22 ... name done many wonderful works?
- Matthew 11:20 ... in most of his mighty works were done, because ...
- Matthew 11:21 ... Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, ...
- Matthew 11:23 ... hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, ...
- Matthew 13:54 ... man this wisdom, and these mighty works?
- Matthew 13:58 And he did not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
- Matthew 14:2 ... the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.
- Matthew 24:29 ... from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:
- Mark 6:2 ... that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?
- Mark 6:14 ... the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.
- Mark 13:25 ... shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.
- Luke 10:13 ... Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre ...
- Luke 21:26 ... which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
- Acts 8:13 ... and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
- Acts 19:11 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul:
- Romans 8:38 ... nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
- 1 Corinthians 12:28 ... thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, ...
- 1 Corinthians 12:29 ... are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
- Galatians 3:5 ... the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by ...
- Hebrews 6:5 ... word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
- δυναμις *13
- Luke 1:35 ... upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: ...
- Luke 5:17 ... and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to ...
- Luke 6:19 ... him: for there went virtue out of him, and ...
- Acts 8:10 ... This man is the great power of God.
- Romans 1:16 ... of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation ...
- Romans 1:20 ... even his eternal power and Godhead; so that ...
- 1 Corinthians 1:18 ... unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
- 1 Corinthians 15:56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 ... for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest ...
- Revelation 7:12 ... and honour, and power, and might, be unto our ...
- Revelation 12:10 ... is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our ...
- Revelation 19:1 ... and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God:
- δυναμεων *3
- Luke 19:37 ... voice for all the mighty works that they had seen;
- 1 Corinthians 12:10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; ...
- 1 Peter 3:22 ... and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
- δυναμεσιν *2
- 2 Corinthians 12:12 ... and wonders, and mighty deeds.
- Hebrews 2:4 ... wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the ...
- δυναμεσι
- Acts 2:22 ... among you by miracles and wonders and ...
33. Philippians 3:21: Fashionable working
Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. [kjv]
ος μετασχηματισει το σωμα της ταπεινωσεως ημων συμμορφον τω σωματι της δοξης αυτου κατα την ενεργειαν του δυνασθαι αυτον και υποταξαι τα παντα [gnt]
The
KJV appears to translate "
potentiality" as "
ability" as in "
able".
Substitution:
Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the actuality whereby he has the potentiality to subdue all things unto himself.
34. Philippians 3:21
KJV: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Greek: ος μετασχηματισει το σωμα της ταπεινωσεως ημων εις το γενεσθαι αυτο συμμορφον συμμορφον τω σωματι της δοξης αυτου κατα την ενεργειαν του δυνασθαι αυτον και υποταξαι εαυτω αυτω τα παντα
35. Colossians 1:29 Workings
Let us substitute the meanings of the words as Aristotle used them in the following verse.
Colossians 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. [kjv]
εις ο και κοπιω αγωνιζομενος κατα την ενεργειαν αυτου την ενεργουμενην εν εμοι εν δυναμει [gnt]
Substitution:
Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his actuality, which actualizes in me potentiality.
36. Colossians 1:29
KJV: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
Greek: εις ο και κοπιω αγωνιζομενος κατα την ενεργειαν αυτου την ενεργουμενην εν εμοι εν δυναμει
37. 2 Thessalonians 2:9 Works and power
2 Thessalonians 2:9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, [kjv]
ου εστιν η παρουσια κατ ενεργειαν του σατανα εν παση δυναμει και σημειοις και τερασιν ψευδους [gnt]
eum cuius est adventus secundum operationem Satanae in omni virtute et signis et prodigiis mendacibus [v]
Substitution:
Even him, whose coming is after the actuality of Satan with all potentiality and signs and lying wonders,
In this case, Satan has
"potential" and not absolute "
power".
Satan does not have "
all"
"power". Satan has "
all"
"potentiality" which appears to be limited by God as to
"actuality" or
"working".
That
"potentiality" may include "
bluffing" using "
deception" and "
signs", etc.
38. Other verses
Let us now look at verses by Paul that have the Greek word for "in working" or "actuality" but not the Greek word for "potency" or "potential".
39. 1 Corinthians 12:11 1 Working division
1 Corinthians 12:11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. [kjv]
παντα δε ταυτα ενεργει το εν και το αυτο πνευμα διαιρουν ιδια εκαστω καθως βουλεται [gnt]
40. 1 Corinthians 12:11
KJV: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
Greek: παντα δε ταυτα ενεργει το εν και το αυτο πνευμα διαιρουν ιδια εκαστω καθως βουλεται
41. 2 Corinthians 4:12 2 Workings of death
2 Corinthians 4:12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you. [kjv]
ωστε ο θανατος εν ημιν ενεργειται η δε ζωη εν υμιν [gnt]
This brings to mind the quote of Aristotle.
The energy of the mind is the essence of life. (as usually quoted)
The actuality of the mind is the essence of life. (as intended by Aristotle)
The working of the mind is the essence of life. (using the KJV word translation)
Paul may be saying that the human idea of life may, in fact, result in death.
42. 2 Corinthians 4:12
KJV: So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
Greek: ωστε ο μεν θανατος εν ημιν ενεργειται η δε ζωη εν υμιν
43. Ephesians 4:16 Effectual working
Ephesians 4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. [kjv]
εξ ου παν το σωμα συναρμολογουμενον και συμβιβαζομενον δια πασης αφης της επιχορηγιας κατ ενεργειαν εν μετρω ενος εκαστου μερους την αυξησιν του σωματος ποιειται εις οικοδομην εαυτου εν αγαπη [gnt]
... according to the effectual working in the measure of every part ...
... according to the actuality in the measure of every part ...
44. Ephesians 4:16
KJV: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Greek: εξ ου παν το σωμα συναρμολογουμενον και συμβιβαζομενον δια πασης αφης της επιχορηγιας κατ ενεργειαν εν μετρω ενος εκαστου μερους την αυξησιν του σωματος ποιειται εις οικοδομην εαυτου εν αγαπη
45. Work
Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. [kjv]
θεος γαρ εστιν ο ενεργων εν υμιν και το θελειν και το ενεργειν υπερ της ευδοκιας [gnt]
The Greek word for "
in working" is used twice in this verse, but the English uses "
do" for the second occurrence.
The ancient Greek word
"εὐδοκέω" ≈ "well-pleased, content" and comes from two Greek words that mean, literally,
"good opinion" or
"seems good". It is a perception in the mind that may or may not exist in reality. It is a "
point of view".
Context is important!
Matthew 11:26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. [kjv]
ναι ο πατηρ οτι ουτως ευδοκια εγενετο εμπροσθεν σου [gnt]
46. Philippians 2:13
KJV: For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Greek: ο θεος γαρ εστιν ο ενεργων εν υμιν και το θελειν και το ενεργειν υπερ της ευδοκιας
47. Matthew 11:26
KJV: Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.
Greek: ναι ο πατηρ οτι ουτως εγενετο ευδοκια εγενετο εμπροσθεν σου
48. Luke 2:14 Paraphrase
Luke 2:14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. [kjv]
δοξα εν υψιστοις θεω και επι γης ειρηνη εν ανθρωποις ευδοκιας [gnt]
The Greek for "glory" is that of "opinion" or "expectation".
The Greek for "good will" is that of "good opinion" or "good expectation".
Paraphrase: Expectation/opinion in the highest (from earth) to God and on the earth peace in men of a good expectation.
God has a high opinion and a good expectation that men will be peaceful on earth. To support the
KJV translation, the
second Greek
"in" is to the English
"towards". To support the Greek
"in", translations like the
NIV use the following.
NIV: Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.
49. Colossians 2:12 Faith of operation
Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, where in also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. [kjv]
συνταφεντες αυτω εν τω βαπτισματι βαπτισμω εν ω και συνηγερθητε δια της πιστεως της ενεργειας του θεου του εγειραντος αυτον εκ νεκρων [gnt]
… operationis … [v]
How does the
"operation" of God compare with the Aristotelian idea of
"actuality" of God? The Greek word for
"actualization" is that of
"operational" or
"ready to operate".
The Latin word
"operatio" ≈ "operation, activity, effect, result" and is the source of the English word
"operation".
A Greek word that does mean "
operation" or "
operating" is the basis of the English word
"liturgy".
50. Colossians 2:12
KJV: Buried with him in baptism, where in also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.
Greek: συνταφεντες αυτω εν τω βαπτισματι βαπτισμω εν ω και συνηγερθητε δια της πιστεως της ενεργειας του θεου του εγειραντος αυτον εκ των νεκρων
Latin: consepulti ei in baptismo in quo et resurrexistis per fidem operationis Dei qui suscitavit illum a mortuis
51. 1 Thessalonians 2:13 Effectual working
1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. [kjv]
και δια τουτο και ημεις ευχαριστουμεν τω θεω αδιαλειπτως οτι παραλαβοντες λογον ακοης παρ ημων του θεου εδεξασθε ου λογον ανθρωπων αλλα καθως αληθως εστιν λογον θεου ος και ενεργειται εν υμιν τοις πιστευουσιν [gnt]
… sine intermissione … operatur … [v]
How does the
"effectually worketh" compare with the Aristotelian idea of
"actuality"?
52. 1 Thessalonians 2:13
KJV: For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.
Greek: και δια τουτο και ημεις ευχαριστουμεν τω θεω αδιαλειπτως οτι παραλαβοντες λογον ακοης παρ ημων του θεου εδεξασθε ου λογον ανθρωπων αλλα καθως εστιν αληθως εστιν λογον θεου ος και ενεργειται εν υμιν τοις πιστευουσιν
Latin: ideo et nos gratias agimus Deo sine intermissione quoniam cum accepissetis a nobis verbum auditus Dei accepistis non ut verbum hominum sed sicut est vere verbum Dei qui operatur in vobis qui credidistis
53. 2 Thessalonians 2:7 Mystery of iniquity
2 Thessalonians 2:7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. [kjv]
το γαρ μυστηριον ηδη ενεργειται της ανομιας μονον ο κατεχων αρτι εως εκ μεσου γενηται [gnt]
This "
mystery" (initiation) of "
iniquity" (against the law) is not a "
potential" issue but an "
actuality".
The "
be taken out of the way" is, literally, "
out of the middle happen (come into being)".
54. 2 Thessalonians 2:7
KJV: For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way.
Greek: το γαρ μυστηριον ηδη ενεργειται της ανομιας μονον ο κατεχων αρτι εως εκ μεσου γενηται
55. 2 Thessalonians 2:11 Strong delusion
2 Thessalonians 2:11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: [kjv]
και δια τουτο πεμπει αυτοις ο θεος ενεργειαν πλανης εις το πιστευσαι αυτους τω ψευδει [gnt]
The Greek for "
strong" is, from Aristotle, "
actuality" so that the "
strong delusion" is an "
actual wandering/deviation/error" that is "
sent"
"into" the faith/belief. The
KJV translates
"into" as
"that".
The ancient Greek word
"πλανάω" ≈ "wander about" and is the source of the English word
"planet" as a "
wandering star". The ancient Greek word
"ψευδής" ≈ "lying, false, untrue" and is the source of the English word
"pseudo".
Discussion question: There have been many speculations about this "
lie". What are some candidates for this "
lie"? What ideas that are "
false" might be put "
into" the faith?
56. Modern Greek
57. 2 Thessalonians 2:11
KJV: And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
Greek: και δια τουτο πεμψει πεμπει αυτοις ο θεος ενεργειαν πλανης εις το πιστευσαι αυτους τω ψευδει
Latin: ideo mittit illis Deus operationem erroris ut credant mendacio
58. Strongs - delusion
- *G4106 *10 πλάνη (plan'-ay) : feminine of G4108 (as abstractly); objectively, fraudulence; subjectively, a straying from orthodoxy or piety:--deceit, to deceive, delusion, error.
- πλανης *6
- Romans 1:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural ...
- Ephesians 4:14 ... whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
- 1 Thessalonians 2:3 ... exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, ...
- 2 Thessalonians 2:11 ... shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:
- James 5:20 ... he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save ...
- 1 John 4:6 ... of truth, and the spirit of error.
- πλανη *4
- Matthew 27:64 ... the dead: so the last error shall be worse than the first.
- 2 Peter 2:18 ... escaped from them who live in error.
- 2 Peter 3:17 ... lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from ...
- Jude 1:11 ... of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and ...
59. Usage in the LXX
For completeness, here are the
2 verses in the
LXX that use the generic word (apparently pre-Aristotle) for "
in working".
Aristotle's works: about 330 BC.
LXX : about 270 BC.
In those days, ideas did not travel fast.
60. Numbers
KJV:
Numbers 8:24 This is it that belongeth unto the Levites: from twenty and five years old and upward they shall go in to wait upon the service of the tabernacle of the congregation: [kjv]
LXX:
τουτο εστιν το περι των λευιτων απο πεντεκαιεικοσαετους και επανω εισελευσονται ενεργειν εν τη σκηνη του μαρτυριου [lxx]
This is the ordinance for the Levites; From five and twenty years old and upward, they shall go in to minister in the tabernacle of witness. [bs3]
61. Numbers 8:24
KJV: This is it that belongeth unto the Levites: from twenty and five years old and upward they shall go in to wait upon the service of the tabernacle of the congregation:
Hebrew: זאת אשר ללוים מבן חמש ועשרים שנה ומעלה יבוא לצבא צבא בעבדת אהל מועד׃
Greek: τουτο εστιν το περι των λευιτων απο πεντεκαιεικοσαετους και επανω εισελευσονται ενεργειν εν τη σκηνη του μαρτυριου
Brenton: This is the ordinance for the Levites; From five and twenty years old and upward, they shall go in to minister in the tabernacle of witness.
62. Proverbs
KJV:
Proverbs 31:12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. [kjv]
LXX:
ενεργει γαρ τω ανδρι αγαθα παντα τον βιον [lxx]
For she employs all her living for her husband's good. [bs3]
63. Proverbs 31:12
KJV: She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
Hebrew: גמלתהו טוב ולא רע כל ימי חייה׃
Greek: ενεργει γαρ τω ανδρι αγαθα παντα τον βιον
Brenton: For she employs all her living for her husband's good.
64. Summary
Energy is a word and concept that has ancient roots but had a different meaning in ancient times.
Aristotle first used the ancient Greek word
"ενέργεια" ≈ "actuality"(in his usage) and that means, literally, "
inner work" or "
in working".
This word appears in the
LXX and
GNT. It appears that Paul may have been making allusions to the meaning of Aristotle in some of his letters.
The root word is "
work" which also appears many times in the
LXX and
GNT.
65. Matthew 5:14 Hill climbing potential
Matthew 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. [kjv]
υμεις εστε το φως του κοσμου ου δυναται πολις κρυβηναι επανω ορους κειμενη [gnt]
The
"can" in "
cannot" is from the Greek word for
"possible" or, in
Aristotle terms,
"potentially possible". The ancient Greek word
"δυνατός" ≈ "strong, mighty, possible, practical".
a city/many on a mountain/definition cannot be hid.
in is not potentially possible that a city/many on a mountain/definition be hid.
The Greek word
"hid" appears to be used only in a
negative sense. The Greek word for
"mountain" is the some word for
"definition". Both are related to the Greek word for "
horizon".
How hard is it to get someone down off a mountain?
How hard is it to get someone down off a definition?
Which is the more difficult task? Apparently some "
sheep"
separate themselves from the love of Christ? Otherwise, why would it be such a big deal to get that "
sheep" off of the
"mountains" or
"definitions".
66. Matthew 5:14 Hill climbing potential
Matthew 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. [kjv]
υμεις εστε το φως του κοσμου ου δυναται πολις κρυβηναι επανω ορους κειμενη [gnt]
In Greek philosophy (e.g., Aristotle), the word in the
GNT often translated as "
energy" or "
work" is that of
"actuality". In the same manner, the word often translated as "
power" is that of
"potentiality". In modern
OOP (Object Oriented Programming) programming terms:
"potentially" relates to the idea of a class (abstract idea) [Plato's original sense]
"actuality" relates to the idea of an object (concrete reality) [Aristotle's added sense]
This is especially true for the writings of Paul since he was writing to a Greek audience who would have understood those parts of Greek philosophy.
67. Philippians 4:13
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. [kjv]
παντα ισχυω εν τω ενδυναμουντι με [gnt]
68. Philippians 4:13
KJV: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Greek: παντα ισχυω εν τω ενδυναμουντι με χριστω
69. Father knows best in Matthew and Mark
Talking of the end of time in the last days, in the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24, Jesus says the following.
Matthew 24:36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. [kjv]
Luke adds "
not the Son".
Mark 13:32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. [kjv]
Does the "
Father" know something that the "
Son" does not know?
Discuss: How can Jesus be God if the Father knows something that he does not know?
If Jesus is also the Father, does this discrepancy disappear?
In what other ways might this statement be explained?
70. End of page
