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The concept of Power of will in Christianity

The Power of will in Christianity encompasses the ability to make choices and decisions, emphasizing its theological implications across different branches. Protestantism views it as a part of God's unrestricted power, while the Catholic Church acknowledges God's foreknowledge of our choices without compromising free will. Early Christianity highlights the importance of free choice and personal accountability, suggesting that one's intentions and desires play a significant role in moral decision-making. Overall, the Power of will reflects a fundamental aspect of human agency within Christian doctrine.

Synonyms: Determination, Willpower, Self-control, Resolve, Fortitude, Tenacity, Perseverance, Strength of will, Self-discipline, Steadfastness, Resilience

In German: Willenskraft; In Malay: Kuasa Kehendak; In Swedish: Viljans kraft; In Finnish: Tahdon voima; In Dutch: Kracht van de wil; In Spanish: Poder de voluntad; In French: Le pouvoir de la volonté

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Power of will'

Christianity Books

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) The ability to make choices and decisions freely, reflecting one's intent.[1] (2) The inherent ability of beings to make choices and decisions based on their desires and judgment.[2] (3) The capacity of human intention to lead to concrete actions, making individuals accountable for even their desires, regardless of whether those desires result in actions.[3]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: The city of God

(1) The text says that the power of our wills is foreknown by God and that we are not compelled to deny either the prescience of God or the freedom of the will.[4]

From: Summa Theologica (English translation)

(1) This refers to the will as a faculty or capacity, rather than just an action, and it is the broader capacity to desire and choose, as explained in the text.[5]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) The capacity to make choices and decisions, which can diminish through lack of exercise or dependency on others.[6]

Significance in Protestantism (Christian movement emphasizing faith and scripture):
Protestantism Books

From: The Existence and Attributes of God

(1) The ability to make choices, that is a part of God's power, and can not be limited, because God can do what He wills to do.[7]

Protestantism (or simply the protestant church) is a major branch of Christianity originating from the Reformation in the 16th century, led by figures like Martin Luther. It emphasizes salvation by faith alone and the Bible as the ultimate authority. Variants of Protestantism include Lutheranism, Calvinism, Anglicanism, Methodism and Presbyterianism, each with unique practices but generally united by these core principles.