Word
Category
God's Nature & Attributes
Biblical Definition
God's self-expression in speech and revelation, culminating in the New Testament identification of Jesus as the eternal Word who makes the Father known.
Origin(s)
Hebrew: דָּבָר; Greek: λόγος
Transliteration
dābār; logos
Literal meaning
word, matter, event; word, message, reason
Key Scripture(s)
Genesis 1:3; Psalm 33:6; Isaiah 55:10-11; John 1:1-14; Hebrews 1:1-3; Revelation 19:13
Theological Significance
Throughout Scripture God creates, reveals, and accomplishes His will by His word. John's Gospel lifts this theme to its highest point by declaring that the Logos is personal and eternal, the Son who reveals God perfectly and enters history in the flesh.
Common Misunderstanding(s)
The biblical 'Word' is not merely information or abstract reason. It is God's effective self-revelation, supremely embodied in Christ.
Practical Application
This word encourages believers to receive Scripture with reverence and to look to Jesus as the fullest disclosure of God's character and will.