The term Logos (λόγος) is central to Christian theology, especially due to John 1:1:
“In the beginning was the Word (Logos), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
This verse forms the basis for identifying Christ as the eternal Logos. However, Logos is also used extensively in other New Testament contexts with varied meanings.
2. Lexical Definition
Term
Basic Greek Meaning
Logos (λόγος)
Word, speech, message, discourse, reason, account, principle.
3. Biblical Usage of Logos
3.1 Logos Referring to Jesus Christ
Reference
Meaning
John 1:1,14
“The Word (Logos) was with God… and the Word became flesh.” – Christ as the pre-existent divine Word, God incarnate.
1 John 1:1
“That which was from the beginning… concerning the Word (Logos) of life.” – Christ as eternal life revealed.
Revelation 19:13
“His name is called The Word (Logos) of God.” – The glorified Christ at His return.
3.2 Logos Referring to Scripture or God’s Written Word
Reference
Meaning
Mark 7:13
“You nullify the Word (Logos) of God by your tradition.” – Scripture as God’s Word, referencing Old Testament commandments.
John 10:35
“Scripture cannot be broken… He called them gods to whom the Word (Logos) of God came.” – Refers to OT revelation.
Hebrews 4:12
“For the Word (Logos) of God is living and active…” – Often interpreted as Scripture, though may also include God’s spoken promises.
3.3 Logos as the Gospel Message
Reference
Meaning
Acts 10:44
“The Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the Word (Logos).” – The preached gospel message.
1 Corinthians 1:18
“The Word (Logos) of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing…” – The message of Christ’s crucifixion.
Philippians 2:16
“Holding fast to the Word (Logos) of life…” – The gospel message bringing life.
3.4 Logos as General Speech or Teaching
Reference
Meaning
Acts 15:32
“Judas and Silas… said much (Logos) to encourage the brothers.” – General speech or teaching.
Matthew 12:36
“People will give account for every careless word (Logos) they speak.” – Ordinary speech subject to judgment.
4. Observations
4.1 Range of Meanings
Category
Explanation
Christological
Logos uniquely refers to Christ as the eternal Word (John 1; Revelation 19).
Scriptural
Logos often refers to Scripture or God’s written commands.
Proclamation
Logos is used for the preached gospel message.
General speech
Logos also refers to ordinary speech, discourse, or teaching.
4.2 Context Determines Meaning
When John uses Logos in John 1 and Revelation 19, it clearly identifies Christ as the divine Word.
Elsewhere, Logos refers to Scripture, gospel proclamation, or general speech, without implying Christ Himself in that usage.
5. Theological Significance
5.1 Logos as Christ: Unique Identification
John 1:1–14 introduces a radical theological truth: The pre-existent Logos became flesh, revealing God’s ultimate self-expression and revelation.
5.2 Logos as God’s Communication Generally
Logos broadly refers to God’s communication – written, spoken, proclaimed – with Christ as the supreme Logos, the full and final revelation of God (Hebrews 1:1–2).
6. Summary Table
Usage
Meaning
Examples
Christ Himself
Eternal divine Word, God incarnate.
John 1:1,14; 1 John 1:1; Revelation 19:13.
Scripture
God’s written Word.
Mark 7:13; John 10:35; Hebrews 4:12.
Gospel message
Preached message of Christ.
Acts 10:44; 1 Corinthians 1:18; Philippians 2:16.
General speech
Ordinary words, teaching, discourse.
Acts 15:32; Matthew 12:36.
7. Conclusion
Logos does not always refer to Jesus as the Word.
In Christological contexts (John 1; Revelation 19), Logos uniquely identifies Christ as the eternal divine Word incarnate.
In other contexts, Logos refers to Scripture, the gospel message, or general speech, depending on usage.
Thus, Logos is a multifaceted term encompassing:
Christ as God’s ultimate self-revelation.
Scripture as God’s written Word.
The gospel as God’s saving message.
Human speech and discourse.
8. References
Carson, D. A. (1991). The Gospel According to John. Leicester: IVP.
Fee, G. D. (1994). God’s Empowering Presence: The Holy Spirit in the Letters of Paul. Peabody: Hendrickson.
Kittel, G., & Friedrich, G. (Eds.). (1964). Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Vol. 4). Grand Rapids: Eerdmans.
Morris, L. (1995). The Gospel According to John. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans.
