What is the rhema word?

Answer

There are two primary Greek words that describe Scripture and are translated as “word” in the New Testament. The first, logos, primarily refers to the total inspired Word of God and to Jesus, who is the living Word. Logos is mentioned in John 1:1; Luke 8:11; Philippians 2:16; Hebrews 4:12; and other verses. The second Greek word translated as “word” is rhema, which pertains to the spoken word. Rhema literally means an utterance (individually, collectively, or specifically). Examples can be found in Luke 1:38; 3:2; 5:5; and Acts 11:16.

Charismatic and non-charismatic Christians hold different perspectives on rhema and its interpretation. Some charismatics perceive rhema as the voice of the Holy Spirit speaking to them in the present moment. They believe in being guided by the Holy Spirit through inner feelings, impressions, and experiences. Some also believe that God’s direct words to an individual can be conveyed through others, such as a preacher in a worship service or a friend offering counsel. Through these means, Christians experience God’s direct guidance. There is also a belief that the spoken word carries more power than the written word, although there is no biblical support for such a notion.

Evangelical Christians, on the other hand, have a different understanding of rhema, considering it essentially synonymous with logos. In essence, the specific guidance received from the Holy Spirit at any given time can only be understood through the general principles outlined in the Bible. In situations where the Bible does not provide specific guidance—such as choosing a college for a young person—Christians apply biblical principles (such as good stewardship of God-given resources, guarding one’s heart and mind against ungodly influences, etc.) to make decisions.

The authenticity of a rhema from God is tested by how it aligns with the entirety of Scripture. Ort

Orthodoxy states that God will not utter a word that contradicts His written Word, the Scriptures, providing a built-in safeguard to avoid misinterpretation. The clear risk is that someone unfamiliar with the logos may misinterpret or misunderstand what they perceive as a rhema.