Answer: Exousia is a Greek word most often translated as “authority” or “power.” It is especially used in terms of moral influence. It is one of the many cases, where the English reader reads different words referring to the same Greek word and the same word, referring to two Greek words. The Difference Between “Power” and “Authority” There is a difference you know. There are people, well meaning sincere Christian people, who fail to see that truth clearly and that failure leads to many errors in doctrine and practice.Authority is one thing and power is quite another. The Difference Between Spiritual Authority and Power. This first understanding of authority, then, is distinct from power and refers primarily to a prerogative. The Bible uses a variety of Hebrew and Greek terms that represent the semantic domain of power although they may be translated in different ways. “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you” is exactly right. When the British wit G. Chesterton was dining with a literary friend in London one day, their conversation turned to the subject of power and authority. BIBLE TEACHING TITLE THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN POWER AND AUTHORITY BY OLUSO FESTUS BAMIDELE OLUSEGUN. The Difference Between Power & Authority By John Paul Jackson In certain charismatic circles I’m probably known as the guy who says, “More power, God.” So for me to preach this message is an admission that for at least a decade I was only partly right. A very important difference too I might add. Question: "What is the meaning of exousia in the Bible?" Jesus expelled demons by his authority. Power (dunamis) has its foundation in the idea of being anointed, while authority (exousia) has its foundation in the concept of being sent out. Exousia is used in Matthew 7. Second, the concept of authority refers to the power, ability, or capability to complete an action. While authority is valueless without the power to make it effective, we can make a fine distinction between the two concepts. He deprived Satan and his demonic host of their power, that is their ability to do evil, thus destroying the works of Satan by snatching men from his rule. We do need more power. Different translations may have different standards, but there seems to be little rhyme or reasons about which of two Greek words the various English translations are translating as "authority" and "power." Exousia can also be thought of in terms of jurisdiction or dominion over a certain realm, right, privilege, or ability. Difference in the time at which it was given: The power & authority over demons and diseases were given to the disciples during the gospels when Jesus was still on earth—before He died, rose and ascended to heaven from where He sent the Holy Spirit. Jump to navigation. For example, the King James Version uses "power" for a large number of Hebrew and Greek terms. The Greek term exousia is most often translated "power" in the King James Version but it is almost always translated "authority" in modern versions.