The terms Logos (λόγος) and Rhema (ῥῆμα) are both commonly translated word in English Bibles. In modern Charismatic and Pentecostal theology, they are often distinguished as:
Logos: The general, written Word of God (the Bible).
Rhema: A specific, spoken or Spirit-applied word for an individual or situation.
However, biblical usage and Greek lexical studies reveal a more nuanced picture.
2. Lexical Definitions
2.1 Logos (λόγος)
Basic Meaning
Explanation
Word, speech, message, reason, principle, discourse
Logos has a broad semantic range in Greek, including general speech, reasoned discourse, and divine revelation.
2.2 Rhema (ῥῆμα)
Basic Meaning
Explanation
That which is spoken, utterance, saying, command
Rhema emphasises the spoken or uttered aspect of communication.
3. Biblical Usage and Contextual Differences
3.1 Logos in Scripture
Reference
Translation and Meaning
John 1:1
“In the beginning was the Word (Logos)… and the Word was God.” – Christ Himself as the eternal divine Word.
Mark 7:13
“You nullify the Word (Logos) of God by your tradition.” – Scripture as God’s authoritative Word.
Acts 10:44
“While Peter was speaking… the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the Word (Logos).” – The gospel message preached.
Hebrews 4:12
“The Word (Logos) of God is living and active…” – God’s Word as powerful and effective, possibly Scripture or spoken promises.
3.2 Rhema in Scripture
Reference
Translation and Meaning
Luke 1:38
“Let it be to me according to your word (Rhema).” – Mary referring to Gabriel’s specific spoken promise.
Luke 4:4
“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word (Rhema) of God.” – Scripture quotation applied to temptation.
Romans 10:17
“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word (Rhema) of Christ.” – The preached gospel message birthing faith.
Ephesians 6:17
“Take… the sword of the Spirit, which is the word (Rhema) of God.” – Often interpreted as spoken Scripture declarations in spiritual warfare.
3.3 Observations
Both Logos and Rhema refer to God’s Word, Scripture, spoken commands, and gospel messages.
Logos has a broader scope, including:
Christ as the eternal Word.
Scripture as the written Word.
Preached gospel messages.
General speech or reasoned discourse.
Rhema tends to emphasise:
Specific utterances or spoken words, such as promises, commands, or quotations.
It is also used for Scripture when spoken or applied in a specific context.
4. Scholarly Perspectives
Scholar
Viewpoint
Fee (1994)
Logos and Rhema overlap significantly; distinctions are contextual, not doctrinally rigid.
Carson (1996)
Cautions against lexical fallacies; Logos is not confined to Scripture, nor Rhema to personal words only.
Kittel (1964)
Rhema emphasises spoken utterance, Logos is broader, but both refer to God’s communication.
5. Theological and Pastoral Implications
5.1 Modern Charismatic Distinction
Teaching Use
Explanation
Logos
The entire Bible as God’s general, written revelation.
Rhema
A verse or word quickened by the Spirit for specific personal application or prophetic guidance.
5.2 Linguistic Evaluation
This distinction is practical and devotional, not absolute in Greek usage.
Both words can refer to Scripture, spoken words, or the gospel message depending on context.
5.3 Healthy Application
Logos (Scripture) is the final authority and objective revelation.
Rhema (Spirit-applied Word) provides living, specific guidance, always tested by Logos for truth and doctrinal soundness (1 Thessalonians 5:19–21).
6. Summary Table
Aspect
Logos
Rhema
Basic meaning
Word, message, reason, discourse, Christ as the Word.
Spoken word, utterance, specific saying or command.
Biblical usage
Scripture, gospel message, general speech, Christ Himself.
