Here is a brief description of chapter 2 from my ‘Systematic Theology,’ book by Wayne Grudem, second edition.
A. The Bible sometimes refers to “The Word of God,” as the Son of God. (Revelations 19:13)
B. “The Word of God”: As speech by God’s decree. Sometimes God’s word takes the form of powerful decrees that cause events to happen or things to come into being. (Genesis 1:3 “Let there be light.”)
C. God’s word of personal address: God speaks to Adam directly. God gives His people the Ten Commandments. (Exodus 20:1-3)
D. God’s words as speech through human lips: In scripture, God raises up prophets through whom he speaks. For example, God tells Jeremiah, “Whatever I command you, you shall speak.” (Jer. 1:7, Ex. 4:12, Num. 22:38).
God’s words spoken through human lips were considered authoritative and just as true as God’s words of personal address. God’s word as spoken through human lips ceased to be given when the New Testament canon was complete.
E. God’s word in written form: God places His words in written form. For instance, the two tablets of the Ten Commandments. Further writing was done by Moses, Joshua, Jeremiah, etc. In the New Testament, Jesus promises his disciples that the Holy Spirit would bring to their remembrance the words which He spoke. (John 14:26) God’s Word is authoritative and true.
Benefits of the written word: It is a more accurate preservation of God’s word for generations to come. Reciting it by memory and saying it orally doesn’t allow for intentional study of the word.
Credit: Systematic Theology, second edition, by Wayne Grudem. Summary of chapter 2: by Jennifer Flores (Godly Words Ministries)
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GODLY WORDS MINISTRIES 