Living by Rhema: Embracing the Transformative Power of God’s Voice

In 1 Corinthians 14:6, Paul mentions “a word of instruction.” Though he omits the Greek term ‘Rhema,’ its essence remains implied. Early church gatherings included sharing a word of instruction or revelation (1 Corinthians 14:26). However, contributing these words during worship is less common today. So, what is Living by Rhema?

What Does ‘Rhema’ Mean?

The term Rhema in Greek refers to God’s spoken or declared word in the New Testament. Bringing a word of instruction requires dependence on the Holy Spirit. Many churches emphasize the written Word (Logos) to avoid heresy risks. Consequently, this discourages Living by Rhema, leaving Christ’s body malnourished and ineffective.

Key Characteristics of Rhema:

Immediate Revelation

Rhema is often seen as a word or message that applies directly to a particular moment or need.

• Matthew 16:17 – “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.”

In this verse, Peter receives a Rhema revelation from God about the true identity of Jesus as the Messiah. This is a direct and personal word from God that speaks to Peter’s specific situation, revealing not only who Jesus is to Peter personally but also as the Savior of the world.

• Acts 11:12 – “The Spirit told me to have no hesitation about going with them.”

Here, Peter receives a Rhema word from the Holy Spirit, guiding him in an immediate decision to go with the soldiers to the house of Cornelius. This word is specific, actionable, and given in real time to direct Peter’s steps in the moment.

• John 6:63 – “The words (Rhema) that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.”

Jesus speaks these words to His disciples, revealing that His Rhema is not just for teaching but carries life-giving power in the moment. This revelation is immediate and transformative, offering spiritual nourishment to those who hear it.

Personal Guidance

It is viewed as a direct, personal communication from God, sometimes through the Holy Spirit.

• Matthew 4:1-2 – “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.”

The Holy Spirit directly guides Jesus to the wilderness for a specific purpose, showing how Rhema can be personal guidance in decision-making and preparation for what lies ahead.

• Acts 8:29 – “The Spirit told Philip, ‘Go to that chariot and stay near it.’”

Here, Philip receives a Rhema word from the Holy Spirit, directing him to approach the Ethiopian eunuch’s chariot at just the right moment for a divine encounter.

• Romans 8:14 – “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”

This verse shows that believers are personally guided by the Holy Spirit. The Rhema word here is the ongoing personal leading of God through the Holy Spirit.

Action-Oriented

Rhema encourages faith and action, responding to God’s voice in real-time.

• Matthew 14:29-30 – “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!'”

Peter responds to Jesus’ Rhema word to “come,” stepping out of the boat in faith. The immediate action based on God’s word highlights how Rhema encourages faith-driven action.

• Mark 2:11 – “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.”

Jesus speaks directly to the paralytic, giving him a clear and actionable Rhema word. The man immediately responds in faith, demonstrating how Rhema prompts action in real time.

• John 2:5 – “His mother said to the servants, ‘Do whatever he tells you.’”

Mary instructs the servants to follow Jesus’ guidance, which was an immediate response to Jesus’ Rhema word. This emphasizes action-oriented faith in response to God’s voice

As important as the written word (Logos) is, the spoken word of God (Rhema) is equally vital. Let the Rhema word bring life to each of us, guiding us to walk steadfastly in the Spirit. May the Spirit of God produce the fruit that others can experience through the life we lead in the Lord Jesus. Live out the Rhema word, and let it transform not only you but those around you.