How do preachers and teachers practically distinguish between Logos (the written Word) and Rhema (the spoken, specific Word), and what are the theological and pastoral implications of using this distinction in ministry?
Within Charismatic, Pentecostal, and some Evangelical traditions, preachers and teachers frequently use the distinction:
Logos = the general, written Word of God (Scripture).
Rhema = a specific, Spirit-given word for a particular person or situation.
While linguistically this distinction is not absolute in Greek usage, practically it serves as a teaching framework to help believers engage God’s Word both universally and personally.
2. Linguistic and Biblical Background
2.1 Logos (λόγος)
Biblical Usage
Meaning
John 1:1
Christ as the eternal Word.
Mark 7:13
Scripture as God’s Word.
Acts 10:44
The preached gospel message.
2.2 Rhema (ῥῆμα)
Biblical Usage
Meaning
Luke 1:38
Specific spoken promise to Mary.
Luke 4:4
Scripture quotation (Deuteronomy).
Romans 10:17
The preached gospel message of Christ.
2.3 Overlap
Both terms can refer to Scripture, spoken words, or the gospel message, and their distinction is primarily contextual rather than ontological (Carson, 1996; Fee, 1994).
3. Practical Distinction in Preaching and Teaching
3.1 Logos – The Written Word (General Revelation)
Emphasis
Application in Ministry
Objective, universal Word of God
The entire Bible as the inspired, sufficient revelation for faith, doctrine, and life (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
Doctrinal teaching
Expository preaching, systematic theology, biblical counselling grounded in Scriptural truth.
3.2 Rhema – The Spoken, Specific Word (Personal Application)
Emphasis
Application in Ministry
Spirit-quickened Word
A specific verse, passage, or impression applied to a particular situation by the Holy Spirit.
Prophetic utterances
Words of knowledge, encouragement, or direction (1 Corinthians 14:3).
Illuminated Scripture
When a Bible verse becomes “alive” and personally relevant to a believer’s current need or decision-making.
3.3 Illustrative Examples Used in Teaching
Example
Explanation
Logos
“The Bible teaches ‘Do not fear’ over 300 times – a general command and truth for all believers.”
Rhema
“In prayer, God brought Isaiah 41:10 to mind deeply for me today: ‘Fear not, for I am with you.’ It addressed my specific anxiety about tomorrow’s surgery.”
3.4 Prophetic Ministry Application
Rhema words are often framed as Spirit-inspired encouragements or directions, always subject to testing against Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:19–21; 1 John 4:1).
4. Theological and Pastoral Implications
4.1 Benefits of the Practical Distinction
Encourages believers to seek dynamic, relational engagement with God’s Word.
Balances Scriptural knowledge (Logos) with Spirit-led application (Rhema).
Strengthens faith when believers experience God speaking personally through His Word.
4.2 Risks and Necessary Safeguards
Risk
Safeguard
Treating Rhema words as equal to or above Scripture.
Uphold Scripture as final authority; Rhema words must align with Logos.
Overemphasis on subjective impressions
Teach discernment, testing, and communal accountability.
Lexical fallacy – imposing an artificial distinction
Teach believers that both terms refer broadly to God’s Word, with pastoral distinctions serving practical, not doctrinally absolute, purposes.
4.3 Balanced Teaching Approach
Scripture (Logos) remains primary and sufficient for all doctrine and guidance.
Rhema is understood as Spirit-applied Logos, not an independent or contradictory word.
Believers are trained to:
Study Scripture deeply.
Listen for the Spirit’s illumination and guidance.
Test all impressions within Scriptural truth and communal wisdom.
5. Summary Table
Aspect
Logos
Rhema
Meaning
General Word: Christ, Scripture, gospel message.
Spoken, specific word, command, or illuminated application.
Prophetic words, personal guidance, Spirit-applied Scripture.
Authority
Final, objective revelation for all believers.
Subject to testing, must align with Logos, personal application.
6. Conclusion
Preachers and teachers distinguish Logos and Rhema practically to help believers:
Anchor their faith in God’s written Word (Logos).
Experience the Spirit’s living guidance and personal application (Rhema).
This distinction must always uphold Scripture’s final authority, ensuring Rhema words are tested, Christ-centred, and aligned with biblical truth, fostering balanced spiritual growth and mature discipleship.
7. References
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.
Grudem, W. (2000). The Gift of Prophecy in the New Testament and Today. Leicester: IVP.
Packer, J. I. (1996). Concise Theology: A Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs. Wheaton: Tyndale.
