https://odb.org/MY/2022/10/09/the-power-of-gods-word-2
We all know that there are two aspects of Scriptures as set forth in the Bible. One is the logos side of it which is the rationale and logic and principles as it was written – the meaning of which must be extracted and understood within the context (background, cultural norms and literary forms existing at the time it was written). Like the expression Jesus used, “if you have the faith of a mustard seed, you may move this mountain”. The use of extreme contrasts to express the point that with faith in God, no matter how small and actually it doesn’t really matter how strong, one can do wonders. It doesn’t literally mean moving a mountain but a mountain could mean a community so deep into their cultural norms and yet could still accept and believe in Christ crucified and resurrected. It is not literal and yet it has a literal meaning. Therefore to teach and preach on principles as enumerated in the bible in terms of the logos part of it, we need to limit ourselves within the principles and tenets of our faith.
Yet, we know the Word of God is a living Word. The second aspect of Scriptures is its rhema. An utterance or meaning that we may apply to our situation or to give us direction. Meaning to say lessons taught and directed to, for example, ancient Israel are applicable to us, the modern church, in this present age and time as we are the spiritual Israel and thus even to us as individual believers. It is this aspect of the Word that most preachers focus on as a true sermon must contain a Word that is relevant to what we as a congregation or as individuals are going through. And that is the most difficult challenge for most preachers – what is the living Word of God to speak to the congregation right now for this moment and season of time? Most preachers spend most of their preparation time seeking God on this. So even if we have heard a passage preached many times from various sources, in person or online, God is still able to use the same passage to speak to us at our moment of need to prompt us or nudge us in a certain direction or to comfort and encourage us or strengthen our resolve.
What is the Lord’s message to us this morning? I believe it is to continue to read His Word and don’t neglect that. Maybe we have read the bible through a few times already. Maybe we have doctorates on the study of certain aspects of Scriptures and know the Word of God inside out. Yet, there is always the rhema aspect of God speaking to us that is relevant and applicable for us this morning to help us through and to guide us whether in our life, our work, our relationships, our ministry or just for the plain issues of life that we face. Read the Word daily and may it be a lamp unto our feet (Psalm 119:105) that may brighten up our steps as we walk the pathway of life!
Ronnie's Thoughts 