Condensed

 “My entire theology can be condensed into [four] words: ‘Jesus died for me.’” (Charles Haddon Spurgeon)

Theology is the study of religious faith as it pertains to God's relationship with human beings. “Theo” means God in Greek, and “logy” is study, which makes it “the study of God.” Theology may be studied for many reasons. Some people study theology to better understand their own religion while other people study theology so that they can compare religions.

Somebody who studies theology is called a theologian while books (or ideas) about theology are called theological. Some people use the term “comparative theology” to refer to studying theology of more than one religion at once. The four different types of theology include:

Biblical Theology is the serious examination and interpretation of theological texts. In biblical theology refers primarily to the Bible, but can also be extended to other texts that provide enlightenment on biblical texts.  Biblical theology of both the Old and New Testament allows for accurate interpretation of a biblical passage in discerning its real meaning. This process is called “exegesis.”

Historical Theology is the study of how Christianity has changed over time. How has it interacted, shaped, and been influenced by historical events across the world (and in different time periods).  This historical examination looks at how Christianity has connected to a changing world. Historical theology provides an opportunity to study theology in our own communities in connection to what has come before.

Practical Theology emphasizes putting Christianity into realistic living.  How does it engage with culture and society? This is where faith and culture come together.  Any Christian (firm in their faith) can help provide input in a more vital relationship with God.

Systematic Theology allows for organization of beliefs into a coherent system. As a result, Christians are able to judge how their beliefs about God relate to one another. Christians throughout history have created resources for teaching others (catechisms). Systematic theology helps to explore those ancient resources. Then, we can apply them to contemporary life and study. For example, how does a Christian understand and act (or not) in light of the concept of sin? How has doctrinal teaching changed and how does that affect the way a Christian lives their life? What framework of faith informs conduct?

Theology is important because it…

Shapes your purpose in life- Studying the Bible in depth (and discussing theological issues with other believers) helps you discover who you really are in God’s eyes (his child). If you know who God is, why He made you, and your final destination, the more you realize your call in life and who you were destined to be.

 Shapes your view of humanity (including yourself)-Theologians often ask questions like, “Why did God create mankind?” “What was His plan for us from the beginning?” “Why didn’t He just give up on us?” The more we learn about why God created us, the more we learn about who we are as the human race.

 Shapes your view of the future-What is God’s ultimate plan for humanity? What will the world look like in 40 years? There are many theological opinions about the “end of the world” and what that will look like. Depending on whose point of view you believe, your view of the future will be greatly affected. Is the world destined for disaster? Will God’s plan ultimately prevail? What does the future hold for my loved ones?

Shapes your viewpoint about God-What attributes come to mind about God when you think of Him? Depending on your studies as well as your life experiences, your outlook on God can easily be twisted. Do you see Him as a loving Father or a moral judge? 

Perhaps you see Him as angry or unfair sometimes. Just like a human being, God is not one dimensional. (We were created in His image.) You can’t base your opinion of the heavenly Father on one single event. He is described all throughout scripture. The more you gain knowledge of Him; the more you realize just how wonderful He is.

 “He wants all or nothing. The thought of a person calling himself a 'Christian' without being a devoted follower of Christ is absurd.” (Francis Chan)[i]

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[i] Adapted from:

·        “4 Reasons Why Theology is Important in Shaping Your Worldview” by Alyssa J. Howard

·        “Theology facts for kids” by Kiddle

·        “Theology” by Merriam-Webster

·        “What are the Four Types of Theology? Answers from a Theology School” by Grace Theological Seminary

·        “What are the four types of theology?” by Charles Sturt University

Francis Chan