ThemaRhema

ThemaRhema is a term used in some Christian hermeneutical discussions to describe a twofold approach to Scripture, combining the concepts of thema and rhema. The word thema (from Greek) denotes the theme or central subject of a passage, while rhema refers to a spoken utterance or a personally applicable message believed to come from God. In this framework, the thema is identified first to establish the passage’s overarching idea, doctrine, or literary purpose, and then a rhema is sought as a timely, situation-specific application or directive drawn from that theme.

In practice, proponents of the thema-rhema approach emphasize the relationship between the enduring message of Scripture and its immediate relevance to a believer’s life. The method typically involves analyzing the text to discern the thematic core, then seeking a rhema that can be applied to contemporary circumstances without contradicting the broader biblical witness. Supporters argue that this two-step process helps guard against purely topical readings while encouraging personal application.

Critics, including some biblical scholars, caution that rhema can become highly subjective if not tested against the wider canon and historical-contextual exegesis. They warn that placing emphasis on instantaneous personal revelation may lead to misinterpretation or doctrinal drift if not carefully disciplined by scripture, tradition, and community oversight.

The thema-rhema distinction is most commonly discussed within Pentecostal and Charismatic circles, though it intersects with broader debates about biblical interpretation, revelation, and the relationship between written Scripture and personal application. See also: logos and rhema, Biblical hermeneutics.