ΛΟΓΟΣ ΓΝΩΣΕΩΣ as a Prophetic Speech-Act: A Theological and Biblical Evaluation of the Gift of the Word of Knowledge

Abstract

This systematic-theological study has sought to provide an account of the nature and purpose of λόγος γνώσεως (logos gnōseōs), the spiritual gift variously translated as a word, message, or utterance of knowledge in 1 Corinthians 12:8. It was shown that throughout history, there has never been a time where there has been a unified understanding of the gift. Broadly defined, it has been interpreted in one of three ways, namely, as a gift that provided either (1) academic insight into the Scriptures, (2) an ability to teach, or (3) supernatural knowledge that allowed the recipient to minister effectively within a particular context. The study argues that while this third understanding comes close to accounting for all the data in the text, it is not sufficiently distinctive to warrant classifying it as something separate from prophecy, a defining characteristic of which is the miraculous provision, and subsequent utterance of special knowledge. The study employs speech-act theory as an exegetical tool, examining the locutionary and illocutionary acts within three select biblical passages where prophecy features. It argues that there were three knowledge components common to prophecy–reception, comprehension, and transmission components–and that it is the transmission component where the spiritual gift of λόγος γνώσεως finds expression. More specifically, the study argues that λόγος γνώσεως is an informative-assertive component of the broader prophetic speech-act that articulates supernaturally revealed information about matters past, present,or future, for the purpose of edifying, or motivating the hearer(s) to conform or adhere to the will of God. This contribution is unique in that it provides a comprehensive account of how the gift has been understood and practiced throughout history, demonstrating not just its ongoing relevance, but also how varying contexts have affected the ways in which it has been interpreted. Furthermore, it is the first systematic and inter-disciplinary study into this elusive gift, employing speech-act theory to comprehensively define, analytically clarify, and theological exemplify its distinctive features, showing how it relates to the widely practised spiritual gift of prophecy, and demonstrating its continuing relevance for church praxis.