In its most basic form, theology is the study of God. To focus us a bit more, Christian Theology is the study of God through the lens of the Jesus tradition as revealed in Scripture. In this light, and within this tradition, our theological studies generally aim to systematically (systematic theology) explore, understand, and integrate the following:
- Who is God? (Theology proper)
- Who are we, and what’s the problem we face? (Anthropology)
- How does Jesus provide the solution? (Christology)
- What is the Spirit’s role in our lives and the world? (Pneumatology)
- How can we participate in what God is doing in the world? (Missiology)
- Where is history heading? (Eschatology)
Multiple layers and levels exist between these six areas, but they provide the basic contours of studying systematic theology. In addition, other ways of approaching, forming, and applying theology are also helpful and necessary:
- Biblical Theology – “Biblical” does not mean “accurate” in the way we typically use it (i.e. telling the truth is biblical). Instead, it refers to looking at the specific doctrines that emerge from each book of the Bible on its own terms, considering its genre, style, authorship, and placement within the larger story of Scripture.
- Historical Theology – Historical theology considers the emergence and development of doctrine throughout history within the global church.
- Contextual Theology – Contextual Theology draws from other theological approaches but aims to articulate theology in ways consider local cultural contexts. For example, approaching theology in New York looks different than in the Philippines. Contextual Theology takes the cultural, sociological, anthropological, and ethical dimensions of theological transmission seriously.
- Practical Theology – Practical theology emphasizes how doctrines are developed, applied, critiqued, or worked out in the life of the church and society.
We could also discuss Spiritual Theology and Pastoral Theology, and a host of other theological lenses. However, integrating all the above provides a holistic theological framework that will serve you well in your studies, church life, missional work, and personal spiritual formation.
A common myth within some streams of church is that theology is merely an intellectual exercise. Although engaging the intellect is essential, theology is meant to inspire and enhance our worship of God and our discipleship to Jesus. Theology ought to expand our love for God and our awareness of God’s being, who is love. Considering these truths, theology involves our whole being: heart, mind, body, and soul. A purely intellectual theology (and not formational and practical) is of little use in the life of a Christian who hopes to join God in what he is up to in the world. In short, by doing and practicing theology, we are informed and driven deeper into the triune God’s love revealed in Christ.
Recommended Readings
Created for Community by Stanley Grenz and Jay Smith
Contextual Theology by Paul Duane Matheny
Practicing Christian Doctrine by Beth Felker Jones
Engaging Theology by Ben Blackwell and R.L. Hatchett
Let’s Do Theology by Laurie Green
More In-Depth Readings
The Story of Christian Theology by Roger Olson
Historical Theology by Alister McGrath
Classic Christianity by Thomas Oden
Theology for the Community of God by Stanley Grenz
Models of Contextual Theology by Stevan Bevans
Across the Spectrum, 3rd Edition by Gregory Boyd and Paul Eddy