1. Introduction
Within Charismatic and Pentecostal traditions, Rhema is often described as:
- A specific, Spirit-given word for an individual or situation.
- Distinguished from Logos, the general written Word (Scripture).
This raises a vital theological question about revelation and authority:
- Are Rhema words equal in authority to Scripture, or do they stand under its testing?
2. Biblical and Theological Foundations
2.1 The Authority of Scripture (Logos)
2.1.1 Nature of Scripture
| Verse | Teaching |
|---|---|
| 2 Timothy 3:16–17 | “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” |
- Scripture is complete, inspired revelation, containing all that is necessary for faith, life, and doctrine.
2.1.2 Finality of Christ’s Revelation
| Verse | Teaching |
|---|---|
| Hebrews 1:1–2 | “In the past God spoke… through the prophets, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son.” |
- Christ is God’s full and final revelation, recorded and interpreted by the apostolic witness in the New Testament.
2.2 The Nature of Rhema Words
2.2.1 Biblical Usage
- Rhema refers to spoken words, commands, or messages, sometimes Scripture itself (Luke 4:4), and often the preached gospel message (Romans 10:17).
2.2.2 Charismatic Understanding
- Rhema is a Spirit-given, timely word for guidance, encouragement, or application in specific contexts.
3. Comparative Authority
3.1 Is Rhema Equal to Scripture?
3.1.1 Charismatic Caution
Most responsible Charismatic theologians affirm:
| Position | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Rhema is not new doctrinal revelation | It does not add to or replace Scripture’s authority but applies it in specific situations. |
| Subject to testing | All Rhema words must be tested against Scripture’s teachings (1 Thessalonians 5:19–21; Acts 17:11). |
3.1.2 Risks of Equating Rhema with Scripture
If Rhema is treated as equal in authority to Scripture:
- It undermines Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone as the final infallible authority).
- It opens the door to unverified subjective impressions shaping doctrine and practice.
- It risks spiritual manipulation, where leaders claim Rhema words to demand unbiblical obedience.
3.2 Biblical Mandate to Test All Words
| Verse | Principle |
|---|---|
| 1 Thessalonians 5:19–21 | “Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good.” |
| 1 John 4:1 | “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” |
| Isaiah 8:20 | “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.” |
All claimed revelations, impressions, or prophetic words (Rhema) are subject to Scripture as the normative standard.
4. Theological Summary
4.1 Revelation Hierarchy
| Revelation Type | Authority |
|---|---|
| Scripture (Logos) | Final, infallible, sufficient. Contains God’s completed revelation necessary for salvation and godliness. |
| Rhema | Subjective application, illumination, or prophetic words. Must be tested and never contradict Scripture. |
4.2 Purpose of Rhema
Rhema words are Spirit-applied insights or guidance that:
- Illuminate Logos, bringing timely application.
- Encourage, edify, and guide within Scriptural boundaries (1 Corinthians 14:3).
They do not carry universal binding authority as Scripture does.
5. Practical Discernment
5.1 Tests for Rhema Words
- Scriptural Consistency: Does it align with biblical teaching?
- Christ-Centredness: Does it glorify Christ or self? (John 16:14)
- Wise Counsel: Mature believers confirm its validity (Proverbs 11:14).
- Peace and Fruit: Does it produce godly peace and spiritual fruit? (Colossians 3:15; Galatians 5:22–23).
6. Conclusion
Rhema does not have the same authority as Scripture (Logos).
- Scripture is the final, infallible, and sufficient revelation of God.
- Rhema words are subjective Spirit-given impressions or prophetic words, which must always be:
- Tested against Scripture.
- Discerned in community.
- Obeyed only when in harmony with God’s revealed Word.
This preserves doctrinal purity, spiritual maturity, and faithful obedience in the life of the Church.
7. References
- Grudem, W. (1994). Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Leicester: IVP.
- Carson, D. A. (1996). Exegetical Fallacies (2nd ed.). Grand Rapids: Baker.
- Fee, G. D. (1994). God’s Empowering Presence: The Holy Spirit in the Letters of Paul. Peabody: Hendrickson.
- Packer, J. I. (1996). Concise Theology: A Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs. Wheaton: Tyndale.