The Greek word ‘logos’ is one of the more well-known Greek words.  When I hear it I automatically think of John 1:1.  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1 NIV).

Logos can mean word or speech, basically something spoken.  This is not the only Greek word that can mean word, but that’s another topic.  It doesn’t mean word in the sense that I am typing words on the computer.  Logos has a logic or reason to it.

In the footnotes of my NIV Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, it comments on John 1:1, saying, “He is called the logos, “word,” the term used by the Greeks in reference to the governing power behind all things.”  We’ve learned from biblical scholars, pastors, etc. that this Word is Jesus.

Let’s look at some verses.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.  (John 1:14 NIV)  Here we have Jesus as the Word again.

The centurian replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof.  But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.”  (Matthew 8:8 NIV)

They were amazed at his teaching, because his message had authority. (Luke 4:32 NIV)  Here logos is translated as teaching.  The KJ uses doctrine instead of teaching.

Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.  (Acts 4:29 NIV)  Some translations use message instead of word.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.  (Colossians 3:16 NIV)  Some translations use message or teaching for logos here.

Obey your leaders and submit to their authority.  They keep watch over you as men who must give an account.  (Hebrews 13:17 NIV)  Here logos is translated as account.  One translation, the ISV, translates logos here as “word of explanation”.

These verses have logos as word, statement, message, or doctrine with Jesus being the Word.