Author: Pastor Lucas Geiger
Some within Christianity have suggested that theology is not important. In fact, some suggest that theology causes Christians to live callous lives. That it can cause legalism and that because of this it should not be practiced. After all don't all we need is the Bible?
Although I do understand the fear of falling into legalism, as I've observed its destructive nature first hand. However, to think that theology is unimportant and prone to leading Christians to legalism is not only absurd, but a misunderstanding of theology.
Simply put, when any person thinks about God they are practicing theology.
Theology is made from two Greek words, Theos, meaning "God".
And the word, Logo, meaning, "discourse".
Thus, theology mean discourse about God.
The fundamental and basic reason why we should not fear theology is that it is our attempt as, yes fallen, human beings to understand God.
Wayne Grudem, in his book Bible Doctrine, says it this way. "The basic reason for studying systematic theology, then, is that it enables us to teach ourselves and others what the whole Bible says, thus fulfilling the second part of the Great Commission."
Theology is an attempt to understand what the Bible teaches us about God. If the goal for your life is to follow Christ and grow in Godliness then theology plays a vital role in the pursuit of that.
Theology helps us to overcome our wrong ideas about God, to make better decisions in our lives, and to grow as Christians.
My prayer is that you will grow in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ.
"The precepts of the LORD are right,
rejoicing the heart." (Ps. 19:8)
"In the way of your testimonies I delight
as much as in all riches." (Ps. 119:14)
"How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Ps. 119:103)
"Your testimonies are my heritage for ever;
yea, they are the joy of my heart." (Ps. 119:111)
"I rejoice at your word
like one who finds great spoil." (Ps. 119:162)
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