The Difference Between a “Logos” and a “Rhema” Word (and How they can Benefit You)
The Difference Between a “Logos” and a “Rhema” Word (and How they can Benefit You)
ByIn our relationship with Christ, we find ourselves going to the Word of God for understanding, revelation, and direction. And sometimes we get clarity and instruction, and other times, we don’t get any understanding. Therefore, it’s important to know that there are two types of Words that feed us. One is known simply as the “Logos” word, and the other is a “Rhema” Word.
To simply put it, the word “Logos” is a Greek word which means “written word.” The Bible, for instance, is an example of a Logos. The word “Rhema” in Greek is referred to as “spoken word.” Many Bible scholars and theologians refer to a Rhema word as being a right now word, or a word for a specific person and a current situation.
You see, when we read the bible, the Word never changes. We’re taking in the Logos. It’s the same Logos or written word that was there in the beginning. I’ve heard many people say that at times, when they read the Bible, they don’t understand. For them, the Words aren’t ministering to them. That’s when a Rhema word comes in handy.
When you’re at church, and the minister speaks the sermon, they’ll speak the word in a way that you get an understanding. The clarity that you get as a result of the sermon, is a Rhema word.
A Rhema word can be a result of the Logos (or Bible) but not always the case. The principle of a Rhema word is based off the Logos, but other times it can be a word that guides you, or shows you what to do.
Here’s the key: when it comes to reading the Bible, which is the Logos, there will be times when you get an understanding or revelation beyond the words that are written on the page. That understanding and revelation that you get is another example of a Rhema word. It’s like studying in school, or doing your homework, and you finally get an “ahah” moment. You get a moment where you say, “Oh, now I get it… I didn’t understand before but now I see…”
Well in the biblical context, I like to think that this “ahah” moment is the Lord giving you a Rhema word. It’s a right now word for you! It’s a word tailor-made for you and your current situation.
How does this benefit you? The good thing about a Rhema word is that it can come at anytime. You can be driving in your car, shopping at the store, or at work and God can speak something in your spirit. This Rhema word, that He speaks can be something telling what you need to do, where you need to go, or it can be something to sooth your mind and give you peace. Usually when you get a Rhema word, you get an emotion of joy or excitement that comes with it.
2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”
The important thing is that we get a Word from the Lord, period. And the more you read and study the scriptures and develop a relationship with Christ, the more and more He will speak clarity into your heart. The Bible, or Logos, will always be here for us. But unfortunately many won’t always gain an understanding from it.
So, when you study the Bible, pray that God will also speak a Rhema word (or a right now word) into your heart for your current situation. Not yesterday’s situation, not tomorrow’s situation but your current situation. With a complete understanding of God’s word, you will be opened to more light and guidance than you ever thought possible as you charge forth on your journey of life!
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Author: Jarrod Clark (476 Articles)
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Hi thanks for your blog post- lots of great insight! I’ve been studying the difference between Rhema and Logos and had a couple of constructive comments for you to consider:
The word “logos” does not mean “Bible” as you state. Jesus is referred to as the Word, or “logos” that became flesh (John 1:14). If I took your approach then Jesus would be called the Bible… a stretch at best. Logos is not only the “written word” but also the spoken word. Rev. 12:11 says that we overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb, and the word (logos) of our testimony. The point here is that we need both rhema and logos. I do like the way you described rhema as being able to create an “shah” moment. Love it and totally agree. Jesus said, “The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life.” (John 6:63) referring to Him telling people to eat his flesh and drink His blood. In other words, He is conveying a spiritual truth with an illustration. That is rhema indeed… like you articulated, when a preacher says something that resonates.
Rhema however is not “just for the moment” as you suggest. To “feed upon Jesus” as His Rhema word declares, is to feed upon Him continually… and it’s for everyone not just a specific word for a specific person. I guess you could say that it was the specific rhema word for the listeners that day.
well those are my thoughts.
blessings brother,
Jeff