Why Study Christian Theology?
Consider 2 Timothy 3:16–17,
16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
This passage reveals something crucial — God’s Word is meant to shape, guide, and equip us. But how can we fully grasp its depth without studying it? This is where theology comes in.
What Is Theology?
The Miriam-Webster definition practically puts it as ‘the study of religious faith, practice, and experience; specifically the study of God and of God’s relation to the world.’ Well, a simple definition of theology is that theology is simply faith seeking understanding. Faith wrestling with the revelation of God, His revelation, Himself, His Word, His Scripture, His general and special revelation. For our Christian understanding, we will define it as faith seeking understanding through transformation aided by information.
Why Is Theology Important To Christian Life?
Studying theology helps us:
Deepen our understanding of God’s revelation in creation and Scripture.
Grow in Christlikeness by knowing Him more deeply.
Strengthen our faith through knowledge and wisdom.
As Christians, we are called to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). Theology aids this transformation by allowing us to dig deeper into God’s personhood, Christ’s teachings, and the profound truths of Scripture.
The Christian needs to grasp that scripture is God-breathed. As written in Greek — ‘Theopneustos’. The very words are the result of His breathing. Simon Peter tells us that God through the Holy Spirit is ultimately responsible for the content of Scripture. 2 Peter 1:20–21 “knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.”
Why Are Some People Turned Off By Theology?
Many people hesitate when they hear words like “theology” or “doctrine.” Why? Because theology pokes directly at the foundations of our personal beliefs about the world.
The atheist believes there is no God.
The agnostic believes God’s existence is unknowable.
Biblical theism claims that God exists, is knowable, and has revealed Himself to us.
In a modern world where theology isn’t a subject in schools or a topic of casual conversation, it can feel foreign or even intimidating. Some associate “doctrine” with rigid authoritarianism or unnecessary complexity. But in reality, doctrine simply refers to the core beliefs a faith holds. And when those beliefs are rooted in truth, they bring clarity and purpose to our lives.
Are There Dangers In Studying Theology?
Some might fear that theology is too intellectual, divisive, or even faith-diminishing. But done rightly, it should never distance us from God — it should draw us closer. However, there are pitfalls a theologian can fall into when reading the Bible, studying theology, and seeking understanding of God.
Some dangers:
Unnecessary Elective Surgery — being selective about things they want to believe and that they don’t want to believe about the Bible.
Arrogant Reading — intentionally or unintentionally interpreting the Bible for one’s own purpose.
Hearing Without Hearing — not being attentive to the words of the Bible.
Theology should be carried out with intellectual honesty. A good theologian conducts herself with humility, caution, discernment, obedience, and in community. These virtues of a good theologian help avoid the pitfalls of misinterpreting the Word.
Reflective Questions:
What are your apprehensions or doubts about studying theology?
What are three things you would hope to gain from it?
Theology isn’t just for scholars — it’s for anyone who seeks truth, and those who desire to know God more. When we understand what we believe and why we believe it, we are better equipped to live out our faith and share it with others.
