Logos – The Divine Word

Logos is a profound Greek term meaning "word," "reason," or "divine expression." It appears prominently throughout the New Testament, particularly in John's Gospel, where it reveals Christ's eternal nature and role in creation.

The Meaning of Logos

In classical Greek philosophy, logos referred to rational principle, divine reason, or the ordering force behind the universe. The New Testament writers, particularly John, adapted this concept to reveal Jesus Christ as the eternal, divine Word through whom all things were created (Jn 1:1-3).

The Word made flesh (Jn 1:14)

Unlike the philosophical abstraction of Greek thought, the biblical logos became incarnate. John declares that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us" (Jn 1:14), revealing God's ultimate self-revelation in the person of Jesus Christ. This incarnation demonstrates God's desire to communicate His love and truth to humanity in a tangible, personal way.

Logos in Scripture

The term logos appears over 330 times in the New Testament, carrying various shades of meaning depending on context. It can refer to a spoken utterance, a written message, divine revelation, or Christ Himself as the living Word.

Scripture as God's Word (Heb 4:12)

The written Scriptures are also called logos, serving as God's authoritative communication to humanity. Hebrews describes the word of God as "living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword" (Heb 4:12), piercing to the division of soul and spirit. This highlights the transformative power inherent in God's revealed Word.

Christ as Creator (Col 1:16)

Paul reinforces John's teaching, explaining that "by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth" (Col 1:16). The logos is not merely a messenger but the agent of creation itself, sustaining all things by His powerful word (Heb 1:3).

Logos and Rhema

While logos generally refers to the written Word of God—the complete revelation of Scripture—rhema denotes a specific spoken word or utterance given by the Holy Spirit for a particular situation. Both terms enrich our understanding of how God communicates with His people.

Reflection and Application

• Read John's prologue (Jn 1:1-18) slowly, meditating on Christ as the eternal Word.
• Consider how Scripture, as God's written logos, transforms your daily life and decisions.
• Thank God for revealing Himself through both the living Word (Jesus) and the written Word (Scripture).
• Pray for discernment to recognise when the Holy Spirit brings a specific rhema word to your heart.

See also: rhema.