By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder
Define Theology
Theology is defined as “the systematic study of the nature of God and God’s relationship with humanity and with the world. Although other religions may be said to have theologies, this is a matter of controversy within, for instance, Judaism, which holds that God is unknowable.” (Theology, 2008).
There is a fine line to be drawn between the subjects of theology and of philosophy. Both subjects have historically shaped the other. However, the distinction is observable in at least two categories:
1) Theology is expressed in the attempt to speak about God, using terms that are not a matter of everyday language; and
2) Theology is learned through critical thinking about God from within a community of believers (Theology, 1999).
In other words, Philosophy is contrasted by critical thinking about God without the guidance of an organized community of believers, and is free to speak of God in everyday language.
From these definitions we conclude that theology demands the use of technical language, and requires that its teachings are administered within the context of a community of believers.
Implications
Religious communities believe things about God. In other words, believing in God results in beliefs about who He is, and how He relates to His creation.
These beliefs are organized into conclusions about God which govern systems of beliefs. In other words:
Conclusions about God are formed by beliefs regarding who He is.
These beliefs begin a stairway with each step contingent upon the next, and
Resulting in an overall view of God (theology) which requires the logical order to be true.
For example:
We believe that God is Holy
Therefore, He must also be honest
Therefore, He must also be a keeper of His word
Therefore, He must save those who believe in His name
Therefore, He must also punish those who do not
See how each of these conclusions are interconnected? God could not be Holy, but fail to keep His promises.
Religious communities use technical language to express their systems of beliefs.
Here are a few known as theology proper (because they describe God’s works and attributes). God is:
Omniscient (all knowing),
Omnipresent (present in all places) and
Omnipotent (all powerful).
Benefits of Studying Theology
Knowing what you believe
Knowing what you do not believe
Knowing how those beliefs relate to the beliefs of others
Knowing how to share your beliefs with others
Improving the possibility of knowing God’s will for your life
Having the potential to improve the quality of your life by applying the principles of godly living
Having the potential to increase the blessings in your life by practicing sound faith
Possible Pitfalls of Studying Theology
Pride may enter the heart
Becoming dependent upon their knowledge; resulting in overconfidence that their understanding of God is the final authority
Becoming obsessed with correcting perceived false doctrines in the lives of others
Lost sight of the fact that truth and love are interconnected and inseparable when applied. In other words, it is possible to speak the truth without love, but it is not possible to live the truth without love.
Forgetting the Bible is a book of revelation, without which it cannot be lived
Developing blind spots of the true meaning of Bible passages because of biases toward doctrines
Limiting faith in the power of God because of beliefs about His nature
Acquiring a righteously indignant and judgmental attitude of others who may not share the same views
Losing the necessary balance between faith and reason
References to Quoted Sources
Theology. (2008). In The Columbia Encyclopedia.
Theology. (1999). In Dictionary of Existentialism.