Receiving Rhema

The rhema of God’s Word is a present-day blessing that all believers can experience. Yet, some may not give thought to or even understand what is meant by the term “rhema.” Furthermore, the definition of the term may vary depending on denomination.

There are two primary Greek words that describe Scripture which are translated “Word” in the New Testament. The first, “logos,” refers principally to the total inspired Word of God and to Jesus, who is the Living Word. Logos refers to broader scriptural revelation or the whole counsel of God.

The second Greek word translated “Word” is “rhema,” which refers to the spoken word. Rhema literally means an utterance. A “Rhema Word” is that portion of God’s Word, brought by the Spirit, which speaks specifically and directly into a current moment of need, guiding the believer in truth and glorifying God who is the Author of Scripture. Rhema is often a particular verse or passage from Scripture that the Holy Spirit brings to your attention in a specific moment, speaking directly to your current needs or situation.

So, both “rhema” and “logos” are translated as “Word” in the New Testament. The problem in understanding comes when you realize they both can be a reference to the spoken or written Word of God. They are interchangeable at times. To try to grasp hold of these terms, “Logos” can refer to the complete written Word of God (the Bible), while “rhema” focuses on a specific, spoken utterance. While the logos is foundational truth, the rhema is the application of that truth to a person’s life through a specific word of guidance leading to transformation.

There is no rhema apart from logos. The specific guidance we receive from the Holy Spirit at any given time can only be discerned by the principles presented in the Bible. The ability to know the authenticity of a rhema word from God is how it aligns with Scripture. God will not speak a word that contradicts His written Word. Someone who has not studied or meditated upon the logos can misinterpret or misunderstand what he or she perceives to be a rhema word. We must always go back to the written Word and teachings of Jesus (the Living Logos) to prevent any misinterpretation of God’s Word. Please remember that rhema does not override or contradict Scripture. Instead, it brings understanding and insight of God’s Word to a believer for specific personal application and glorification of God.

We should all desire this personal relationship with God whereby rhema is given to us in times of need. The experience of receiving rhema in my life has been a beautiful part of fellowship with my Father, Lord, and Holy Spirit. This interaction of rhema has provided encouragement in times of suffering, guidance when confused, faith when discouraged, and strength in spiritual warfare. Do I need to say more?

I have experienced this holy, divine interaction of rhema when I have sat quietly studying and meditating on Scripture. I have experienced it in a group setting when the Word is expounded upon. I have experienced it in personal prayer and intercession when the Holy Spirit brings a particular Scripture to mind. I have experienced it in times of fellowship with others when our Lord will magnify a truth or particular Scripture for me to investigate further in a secluded setting for clarity, application, and guidance. I have shared these moments so you can identify ways in which rhema may come to you.

Second Timothy 3:16-17 in the New Living Translation states, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” This is so descriptive of what rhema will accomplish in a believer who humbly receives the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit through Scripture.

With this understanding, may you pray for and be sensitive to rhema that is revealed to you from the Scriptures. God bless you now and always.