The concept of Divine word in Christianity
The Divine word, within Christianity, encompasses several significant aspects, including the authoritative nature of sacred texts, the transformative power of the Gospel, and the embodiment of God's will in Jesus Christ. It reflects divine teachings that inspire human actions, guide moral behavior, and reveal profound spiritual truths. This concept highlights the relationship between humanity and God, as well as the mediating role of Jesus as the incarnate Word. Ultimately, the Divine word serves as a powerful expression of God's messages and directives to believers.
Synonyms: Holy word, Spiritual expression, Holy scripture, Sacred text, Religious doctrine, Holy writ, Sacred writing, Sacred word, Spiritual word, Celestial word, Canonical book
In Malay: Firman ilahi; In Finnish: Jumalallinen sana; In Spanish: Palabra divina; In German: Göttliches Wort; In Dutch: Goddelijk woord; In Swedish: Gudomliga ord; In French: Parole divine
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Divine word'
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This is the teachings or message from a divine source that teaches about the change and downfall that happens to those who exalt themselves.[1] (2) This phrase represents the teachings and messages originating from the divine, which the heavenly angels rejoice in when a sinner repents and returns to unity.[2] (3) The divine Word is associated with the crucified and dead body, representing the divine aspect of Christ, who was both partaker of the passion and yet impassible to God, highlighting the dual nature.[3] (4) This phrase represents the source of truth that provides guidance and wisdom, playing a critical role in understanding and correctly interpreting principles, which is essential for the exposition of truth.[4] (5) This refers to the source of truth that the Greeks received, and by which they gave forth some utterances of truth, revealing their own weakness.[5]
From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary
(1) This is the same as a newborn child that is identical, according to Valentinus. This concept is found in Gnostic texts.[6]
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) These are the words of the Gospel, which become powerful when shared, highlighting the transformation of human thoughts and forces into spiritual abilities through divine blessing.[7] (2) This phrase is used to bring out the contrast between the ante-temporal glory and the historical lowliness, and is the foundation of all knowledge of God.[8] (3) This phrase refers to the powerful speech or command of God, which in this context is used to describe the act of healing, and the power of Christ to bring about miraculous cures.[9] (4) This refers to the promises from God, like those found in Scripture, that give faith the right to go forth and to be the foundation of prayer.[10] (5) This is the ultimate reference to the embodiment of the divine message, which is perfectly enshrined in a specific individual, considered the pinnacle of the prophetic order.[11]
From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository
(1) This is a term that encompasses the Son of God and God Himself, who is at the center of all angelic ministration.[12] (2) This is Christ, the head of creation, through whom and in whom the universe exists, also serves as the head and originator of the new creation.[13] (3) The biblical scripture believed to be inspired by God, prompting moral and ethical behavior.[14] (4) Messages or commands from God as communicated through prophets, considered authoritative and often prophetic in nature.[15]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) St. John's Logos was the Divine revealing Word, and it is not derived from Philo, but he used the term because it was familiar to Graeco-Jewish thought as a means of expressing mediation.[16] (2) A term used by Theophilus of Antioch to refer to the authoritative nature of St. Paul's writings, though not strictly considered as Scripture.[17] (3) Any proclamation or message coming from God which serves as a pledge or announcement of His will.[18]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) The Divine word gives the more illustrious heavenly princes the name of Lord by participation, through whom the inferior angels receive the Divine gifts, as the text states.[19] (2) The text investigates whether it is unlawful to wear divine words at the neck, considering whether sacred words are as effective when written as when spoken, and if they can be used as remedies.[20] (3) This is a term used to refer to Jesus Christ, and is a key element in discussions about adoration and the nature of Christ's being.[21] (4) A part of the divine person, that is part of the rational creature, which helps them to know and love God correctly.[22] (5) This is used to refer to the Son of God, and the text discusses the relationship between the Divine Word and human nature, particularly the assumption of a body, soul, and intellect, as well as their respective natures.[23]
From: The city of God
(1) This refers to the scripture that is meant to be understood, and which can cause many opinions about the truth to be started and discussed by readers.[24] (2) This is the source where it is predicted that the wicked and unbelieving are worthy of punishment, but it is also believed that mercy will prevail in judgment.[25]
From: Works of St. Anselm
(1) Teachings or scriptures believed to be inspired by God, which guide understanding of spiritual matters.[26]
From: The Works of Dionysius the Areopagite
(1) The Divine Word has assigned our Hierarchy to Angels, and it is also a source of phrases that must be accepted according to a sacred intention.[27] (2) The Divine Word surpasses every simplicity, and is set free from all, as the Superessential, and is the simple and really existing truth, around which the Divine Faith is established.[28]
The concept of Divine word in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Divine Word" signifies the sacred message entrusted to the monks for preaching, emphasizing the religious purpose of their mission and underscoring its importance in their spiritual endeavors.
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) The Divine Word is referenced as the message that the monks were sent to preach, highlighting the religious focus of their mission.[29]