The Greatest Hits – Justin Laib
Pastor Justin emphasized the significance of engaging in a dialogue with God through His word and prayer, using verses from Psalm 119. One verse is Psalm 119:25 – My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word!
What methods or practices have helped you engage in meaningful dialogue with God through His word and prayer?
Pastor Justin emphasized the importance of prioritizing God’s voice over other voices in our lives and shared how God’s word can guide and direct us in times of confusion or loss. One verse is John 10:27 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.
What are some practical ways you can prioritize God’s voice in your daily life?
Logos vs Rhema – Greek Words in the N.T. There are entire studies dedicated to understand how both words are used in the Bible and are important in a believer’s life. Below are a couple excerpts of definitions from Dr. Mark Virkler:
Logos – The Greek word, most often translated “word,”…One example of Logos is the Bible, the Word of God. We are to prayerfully meditate on the Bible, which allows God to speak to us through Scriptures, which in turn ignites our hearts (Lk. 24:32). The Bible also tells us to treasure or hide Scripture in our hearts so we do not sin against God (Ps. 119:11). Common example of logos is
2 Tim 2:15 – Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word (logos) of truth.
Heb 4:12 – For the word (logos) of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Rhema – This Greek word is most often translated “word” or “saying” and means “spoken word.” The Spirit’s voice in our hearts is one example of rhema. Another example of rhema is when verses leap off the pages of Scripture and into our hearts, as this is the Holy Spirit speaking to us, applying the verse directly to our lives. In the Bible rhema refers to speaking. Common examples are:
Matt 4:4 “Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word (rhema) that comes from the mouth of God.”
Luke 1:36-38 “And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son…who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word (rhema).” And the angel departed from her.
Luke 2:25-26, 29 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ…“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word (rhema).”
In our journey of faith, understanding how God communicates is crucial. Here are the five points given to us from Pastor Justen below. Discuss how BOTH the logos and rhema each play a role in our lives according to the truth of the statements below:
#1 When God speaks, I have reason to hope in hard times. (NOW DISCUSS)
#2 When God speaks, I have guidance in my life. (NOW DISCUSS)
#3 When God speaks, I am reminded who is #1 in my life. (NOW DISCUSS)
#4 When God speaks, I re-enter the most desirable dialogue possible. (NOW DISCUSS)
#5 – When God speaks, I can find my way home. (NOW DISCUSS)