Devotional

The Scripture as a Sword

But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.'" -Matthew 4:4

In contrast to logos, the Greek word rhema means that which is said or spoken, an utterance. Though both are translated “word,” they have radically different meanings. Logos is the message; rhema is the communication of the message.

In reference to the Bible, logos is the Bible in its entirety; rhema is an individual verse. The meaning of rhema in distinction to logos is illustrated in Ephesians 6:17, where the reference is not to the Scriptures as a whole, but to that portion which the believer wields as a sword in the time of need.

Both words emphasize the importance of the individual Scriptures used in time of need. Is there an area in our lives where trial threatens or sin tempts? Take the Scripture as a sword and stand strong in His might.

Matthew