Orthodox Christian priests discuss the Word of the Lord in scripture, exploring its linguistic, theological, and historical significance. They delve into the concept of 'logos' in Greek philosophy, interpretations in Rabbinic Judaism, and the portrayal of divine communication in ancient texts. The chapter also examines the Targums, translating biblical words, and the interaction with the Word of the Lord in prophetic callings and divine actions.
The Word of God represents the divine order in creation, serving as mediator between God and mankind.
Different interpretations exist for the 'Word of God,' ranging from the Bible to Christ Himself.
The Old Testament hints at the identity of the Word with Christ, preluding the Gospel of John's explicit connection.
The Memra, part of the divine council, symbolizes the presence of a supreme being before being identified as Christ.
The Word, pre-existing before all creation, brings order and structure as the intermediary in creation.
Deep dives
Philo's Concept of the Logos
Philo, a philosopher, describes the Logos as a mediator between God and creation, presiding over the divine council and upholding the order in creation. He emphasizes the creative role of the Logos and its position as a supreme being among other angelic entities.
Targums' Usage of Memra
The Targums, Aramaic translations of Hebrew scriptures, expand on the text by inserting 'Memra' in place of 'Yahweh' in contexts where God is seen or has physical attributes. This expansion serves to address the paradoxical aspects of God's presence in the Old Testament.
Interpreting the Word in the Lord of Spirits
In the Book of Jubilees, the 'Word of the Lord' appearing to Abram is questioned for its representation as God's immaterial voice rather than a distinct hypostasis like Christ. The caller seeks evidence linking the Word to the concept of Christ before the Gospel of John.
The Divine Council and Worship of the Memra
The divine council in the Old Testament, especially involving the worship and interaction with the Memra, highlights its role as a divine figure present in Hebrew texts, preceding the Gospel of John's explicit identification of the Word as Christ.
The Eternal Nature of the Word
In the beginning, the Word was already being, co-located with the God. The Word, both identified with and distinguished from the Creator God, was pre-existing before all creation, ruling out the notion of later transformation into God.
Creation Through the Word
All things came into being through the Word, indicating that the Word is the intermediary and organizing principle in creation, bringing order and structure to the universe.
The Life-Giving Light of Humanity
The light of the first day of creation, separating from darkness, is revealed as the life of the Word, shining out as the life of God. This light, the life in Christ, symbolizes the purpose of sharing divine life with humanity through Christ as the light of humanity, hinting at the future relationship between God and mankind.
St. Paul and the Light of God
St. Paul emphasizes the concept of God's light shining in human hearts to reveal the knowledge of His glory in the face of Jesus Christ. This light symbolizes salvation and theosis, the process of sharing in God's life and becoming like Him, which begins from the moment of creation. Through Christ, individuals receive this transformative light, fulfilling the purpose of becoming sons of God.
John the Forerunner and Witnessing the Light
John the Forerunner is depicted as a witness to the light, preparing the way for salvation and testifying about Christ. The true light, brought by Jesus Christ, enlightens all humanity, emphasizing his unique role in revealing God's grace and truth. This divine light is not merely poetic but signifies salvation and theosis, highlighted throughout the Old Testament through references to shining like stars and becoming children of God.
Fr. Andrew and Fr. Stephen continue their four-part series on the Christology of the Old Testament. This time they discuss the Word of the Lord or the Word of God. Like "Angel of the Lord," this is another phrase that gets people confused sometimes. What does "Word of God" mean exactly? Is it the Bible? Is it Christ? Can we use the phrase for both? Is it preaching? Listen and find out.
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