In the Bible, 'Rema' (more accurately spelled 'Rhema') is not a person, but a crucial concept referring to the spoken, living word of God, distinct from the written word. While the spelling 'Rema' might lead one to search for a personal name, the correct term is 'Rhema' (Greek: ῥῆμα), which plays a vital role in understanding God's communication with humanity.
Understanding 'Rhema' in Biblical Context
The term Rhema refers to a specific, uttered, or spoken word of God that is timely and applicable to a particular situation. It is often contrasted with Logos (Greek: λόγος), which refers to the overall, eternal, written Word of God (like the Bible itself) or the divine Word as a person (Jesus Christ).
Rhema vs. Logos: A Key Distinction
To fully grasp the significance of Rhema, it's helpful to understand its relationship to Logos:
| Feature | Rhema | Logos |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A specific, spoken, or uttered word | The general, eternal, or written Word |
| Nature | Dynamic, active, immediate, applied for a moment | Foundational, comprehensive, unchanging, eternal |
| Source | God speaking directly or through His Spirit | The entirety of Scripture, Jesus Christ Himself |
| Application | Guidance for specific situations, revelation | Overall truth, doctrine, character of God |
| Biblical Use | "Every word (rhema) that proceeds from the mouth of God" | "In the beginning was the Word (logos)..." |
This distinction highlights that while Logos provides the foundational truth and principles, Rhema is the Holy Spirit making a specific part of that Logos alive and relevant to an individual's need or circumstance.
Rhema as the "Sword of the Spirit"
One of the most profound descriptions of Rhema in the New Testament is found in Ephesians 6:17, where it is identified as part of the "armor of God":
"And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word [rhema] of God."
Here, Rhema is presented as the only offensive weapon in the spiritual armor. It represents the specific, powerful word that God speaks for a moment, enabling believers to engage in spiritual warfare. It's not just knowing the general truths of the Bible (Logos), but wielding a specific, divinely empowered word from that truth.
Practical Application: Jesus in the Wilderness
A prime example of Rhema in action is seen in Matthew 4:1-11, where Jesus is tempted by Satan in the wilderness. Each time Satan tempts Him, Jesus responds with a direct, spoken declaration from Scripture:
- Temptation 1: Turn stones into bread.
- Jesus' Response: "It is written, 'Man shall not not live by bread alone, but by every word [rhema] that comes from the mouth of God.'" (Matthew 4:4) — See Matthew 4:1-11 (ESV)
- Temptation 2: Jump from the temple.
- Jesus' Response: "Again it is written, 'You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.'" (Matthew 4:7)
- Temptation 3: Worship Satan for all the kingdoms.
- Jesus' Response: "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'" (Matthew 4:10)
In each instance, Jesus did not just quote random verses. He spoke specific Rhema words that directly countered Satan's temptation, demonstrating the power of the spoken Word of God against spiritual adversaries. This illustrates how Rhema is a dynamic and active weapon, a specific utterance of divine truth applied to a particular circumstance.
Significance for Believers
The concept of Rhema is significant for believers because it highlights:
- Active Engagement with Scripture: It encourages not just reading the Bible, but seeking the Holy Spirit to reveal specific truths for present needs.
- Empowerment for Daily Life: Believers can receive a specific Rhema for comfort, guidance, conviction, or victory in personal situations.
- Spiritual Authority: Speaking forth the Rhema of God aligns believers with His will and power, enabling them to stand firm against spiritual opposition.
- Personal Revelation: It emphasizes that God's Word is living and active, speaking personally to individuals, not just through general principles.
In essence, Rhema is about the Holy Spirit illuminating and applying the Logos of God to an individual's heart and mind, empowering them to live out their faith effectively.
