The Deep End

A Timely Word

In the New Testament, there are different Greek terms for “word,” which are translated into English. Two of these are “logos” and “rhema.” The Greek word “logos” is used 330 times in the New Testament. The Greek word “rhema” is used a paltry 70 times. However, so-called “televangelists” absolutely love to use the term “rhema word” to refer to specific instructions spoken by God today. They contrast this with the “logos word,” which they take to mean the Words of God written down in the Bible. The implication is that “rhema words” are somehow fresher than “logos words.” This implication is simply wrong.

A quick glance at Ephesians 6:17 and 6:19 may help clarify the matter. 6:17 says: “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:” Traditional Christian doctrine holds that “the sword of the Spirit -” the offensive weapon wielded by believers who wear the armor of God – is the Holy Bible. Yet the Greek word used here is “rhema.”

6:19 says: “And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,” The “utterance” given to the Apostle Paul in this Verse is the Spirit-controlled speech which the Lord will grant him as he boldly preaches the Gospel. Yet the Greek word for “utterance” is “logos.”

The desire for a private revelation from God may be very tempting. All true Christians want to be guided in an immediate way by God. However, it is always a mistake to denigrate the Bible by making it seem stale. I do not know who may or may not claim to have a “word from God” for you, but I do know that God’s Holy Book is alive and well, and is as fresh and powerful as it has ever been.

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12