Theology

The formal study of the nature of God.

As Opposed to Doctrine

Always relates to teaching—or what is taught

We’ll talk about that later

Types of Theology

Only looking (here and now) at three types

Biblical, Systematic, and Historical

Practical note: our preaching here generally takes into account all three of theses

Biblical Theology

Biblical theology focuses on the teachings of the individual authors and books of the Bible and places each teaching in the Scriptures' historical development.

Our Wed. evening series on OT Survey is a type of Biblical Theology (SS class on NT Survey as well)

Advantages:

Unequaled for depth of knowledge of the individual books, characters and events; e.g., if you want to understand David’s life, read 1 & 2 Samuel

It tends to keep students away from such things as doctrinal distinctives

Disadvantages:

May give a lopsided view of particular topics; e.g. the value of works

Systematic Theology

A lot of good explanations, keeping it simple:

An approach to the Bible that seeks to draw biblical teachings and themes into a self-consistent, coherent whole, in conversation with the history of Christian theological reflection and contemporary issues confronting the church.

Advantages

Connects the dots between OT history and NT teachings; e.g., seeing the foreshadowing of baptism in the crossing of the Red Sea and again at the Jordan (particularly in view of Sean’s recent information on the site of Jesus’ baptism)

Disadvantages:

It does allow the thoughts to be bent towards a particular set of doctrinal distinctives

Historical Theology

Traces the development of Christian teaching (doctrine)

Includes the development and growth of the church, their understanding and application of OT Scripture as well as how they practiced the principles of church growth

This would include development of denominational distinctives

Includes such thing as the development of creeds and confessions, church councils, other major events in church history

Why Study Theology?

Personal Growth

Prov 2 6 “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;”

Prov 9 10 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.”

2 Pe 1 3 “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence,”

Simply put, we learn God by studying Him…by studying His Word

It will help with

Personal Apologetics

Being able to make a reasoned defense of you faith.

1 pe 3 15 “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,”