1. Introduction
The Greek term λόγος (Logos) is rich in meaning and usage across the New Testament and Greco-Jewish thought. It is translated into English as word, speech, message, reason, or account. Its theological significance is profound, particularly in Johannine Christology.
2. Lexical Definition
| Term | Basic Greek Meaning |
|---|---|
| Logos (λόγος) | Word, speech, message, discourse, reason, principle, account. |
In classical Greek, Logos carried meanings of:
- Rational discourse or reason (philosophy).
- Spoken or written words (communication).
- Principle of order and knowledge (Stoicism).
3. Biblical Usage of Logos
3.1 Logos Referring to Christ
3.1.1 Key Text: John 1:1,14
“In the beginning was the Word (Logos), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”
Here, Logos refers to:
- The eternal pre-existent Son of God.
- The ultimate self-revelation of God in creation and redemption.
- God’s agent in creation (John 1:3) and the light and life of humanity (John 1:4).
3.1.2 Revelation 19:13
“His name is called The Word (Logos) of God.”
Logos here again identifies Christ as God’s incarnate Word, returning in glory.
3.2 Logos Referring to Scripture or God’s Revealed Word
| Reference | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Mark 7:13 | “You nullify the Word (Logos) of God by your tradition…” – Scripture or God’s commandment. |
| John 10:35 | “Scripture cannot be broken… to whom the Word (Logos) of God came…” – Refers to OT revelation. |
| Hebrews 4:12 | “The Word (Logos) of God is living and active…” – Often interpreted as Scripture or God’s spoken promise, highlighting its power. |
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 folly to those who are perishing…” – The message of Christ’s crucifixion. |
| Philippians 2:16 | “Holding fast to the Word (Logos) of life…” – The saving gospel message. |
3.4 Logos as General Speech, Reason, 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 spoken words. |
| Luke 7:7 | “But say the word (Logos), and my servant will be healed.” – Spoken command or word of authority. |
4. Observations
4.1 Range of Meanings in Scripture
| Category | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Christological | Logos as Christ, God’s eternal Word incarnate. |
| Scriptural | Logos as God’s written Word or commands in Scripture. |
| Proclamation | Logos as the preached gospel message about Christ. |
| General speech | Logos as ordinary words, speech, or discourse. |
4.2 Context Determines Meaning
- John 1 and Revelation 19: Logos uniquely identifies Christ as the divine Word.
- Other NT contexts: Logos refers to Scripture, gospel proclamation, or general communication, depending on usage.
5. Theological Significance
5.1 Logos as Christ: Theological Implications
- Revealer: Logos is the ultimate self-revelation of God (John 1:18).
- Creator: All things were made through Him (John 1:3).
- Redeemer: He became flesh to dwell among us and accomplish salvation.
5.2 Logos as God’s Communication
In broader biblical theology, Logos encapsulates:
- God’s self-expression in creation, revelation, and redemption.
- The power of God’s Word to accomplish His purposes (Isaiah 55:11; Hebrews 4:12).
6. Summary Definition
| Term | Biblical Definition |
|---|---|
| Logos | The Word, referring to Christ as the eternal divine Son, God’s ultimate self-revelation; also used for Scripture, gospel proclamation, commands, teachings, and general speech, emphasising God’s communication in various forms. |
7. Conclusion
In biblical usage, Logos is a multifaceted term meaning:
- Christ Himself – the eternal Word made flesh (John 1).
- Scripture – God’s written revelation and commandments.
- The gospel message – the preached Word bringing salvation.
- General speech or discourse – ordinary words or sayings.
Understanding Logos in context reveals its rich theological depth as God’s communicative action, with Christ as its ultimate embodiment.
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.