Re: Fw: "In the beginning was the word" (Jn 1:1a)

From: Wayne Leman (
Date: Wed Feb 23 2000 - 14:59:43 EST

>>>George, I'm having difficulty thinking of any natural usage of English,
>other than in that subdialect of English called "theological language" (or
>"church jargon") where "word" clearly means anything other a linguistic
>unit, the smallest utterable portion of speech. Can you think of any
>example sentences where English "word" would have any other meaning, and
>post a few of them here?<<
>How about the following?
>"Now a word from our sponsors?"
>"The word is out on him because he is such a jerk."
>"That's the word, it will soon all come out in the open."
>"Have you heard the word on the merger yet?"
>Do these work?

Yes, they sure do. Thanks, Jay.

>I might also mention that there was a certain slang reference, popular a
>few years back, where the term 'word' was used for the term 'truth.'
>Although I must admit I have not heard it used that way recently.
>After reading the various post on the topic, I am unconvinced there is a
>better translation for LOGOS in John 1:1 than 'Word.' Every gloss has its
>shortcomings. I would guess it is a matter of personal preference, just
>like the debate on man or people for ANQRWPOS. Despite of what has been
>said in regards to the fluent nature of language, I have as yet to meet a
>person who did not understand both meanings of the English term man.

There are many. You just haven't met them yet, Jay. Give yourself time! :)

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