Danger of Ungrounded Theology

There is a common misconception that theology is an ivory tower ordeal that has no practical place in "real" Christianity.  This is more than unfortunate, it is incorrect.  Theology, the study of God, is incredibly practical and has distinct implications to the way we live and the way we relate.  Moreover, bad theology can have dire ramifications.  Because of the importance, a basic understanding of theology is in order.

At the onset, theology owes its worth to its ability to access God.  This means that for theology to be useful, it must make headway into the characteristics anad nature of God, in Christ.  The implication of this statement is simple but oft overlooked: if theology is not leading us to deeper levels of relationship with the Lord, then it is not theology, it is a ploy and a distraction of Satan.

Unfortunately, this point can easily be missed, particularly in the weightier matters of theology, such as the doctrine of the Trinity or the doctrine of Christ, et al.  To be sure, sometimes discussions of doctrine or theology can become so academic that they miss the essential point and purpose of theology, which is devotion.  Again, if theology is not prompting greater devotion then it is useless.

Paul echoes this in hi letters, particularly in regards to the potential heresy of contemporary philosophies (Eph. 5:6; Col. 2:4, 8; 1 Tim. 6:20).  The point is that the value of theology is not measured merely by reason or logic, but it is mattered by how potent it is in effecting change.  If theology is not causing transformation, then it should be cast aside.

The point in all of this, in all of theology, is Christ Jesus.  Theology needs to be practiced in such a way as to encourage devotion and infuse faith with content, which is the knowledge of Christ Jesus.  A brief note on methodology is in order.  First of all, the beginning of theology is the Bible; everything builds upon the Bible.  Also, theology needs to be done with a prayerful mind, understanding that it is out of love and devotion to God that theology is practiced.

Additionally, there are a number of valuable resources available.  Among these are commentaries and dictionaries, as well as theological works.  Furthermore, reading works written by Christians past can be hugely beneficial to the practice of theology, Augustine, Aquinas, Luther, Calvin, Edwards, etc.  Through all this, remember, theology is primarily a devotional matter not just an intellectual one.  Let us then press on to practice good theology that draws us closer to Him!