what is theology?

WHAT IS THEOLOGY?

The question proposed seems rather simple: What is theology? The mere utterance of the word “theology” has a profound affect which causes some peoples ears to go deaf and the mind to close. But why does this opposition to theology exist? Why does theology appear foreign and boring? Every human being who contemplates the reason for existence is engaging in a theological discourse. It seems a true understanding of theology has eluded many people, and this stems from a murky definition of theology.


Theology Defined
The word, “theology” can be broken down into two words derived from Greek: theos, which means “God,” and logos, which means “reasoning about God.” Therefore, at the elementary level theology is defined as the study of God. Any reflection or contemplation concerning God is considered theology.
But theology is not simply an articulation of beliefs, but of application. Beliefs are followed by action. The extent that our beliefs follow our action is closely related to how deeply that belief is held. Therefore it is not enough to simply discuss issues, but our lives reveal theologies we hold.


Systematic Theology
An essential task within the realm of theology is the communication of thoughts and ideas. Systematic theology is a more specific and practical way in which to organize thoughts concerning God. Systematic theology incorporates all the ways in which God reveals himself: History, culture, the Bible, nature, etc. As humans, our minds think in a systematic way. This is evidence of our creation in God’s image, as seen by the way creation itself is well-ordered (as opposed to chaotic). Therefore, systematic theology is a practical discipline which responds to divine revelation.

Systematic theology will never be complete. God did not intend to be placed inside a box and understood completely. This is impossible as He is infinite and humans are finite creatures. God reveals himself through nature, through history and culture. He doesn’t intend to be understood in a neat and precise package. However, organizing our thoughts in a reasonable and understandable way helps our finite minds to comprehend God in his different aspects.
Conclusion

The thoughts one possesses concerning God are indisputably the most vital in life. For what one thinks of God determines all aspects of life: Marriage, job, attitude, family, etc. This is why understanding the role of theology in everyday life is important. While not everyone will be a professional theologian, it is important to recognize the role theology plays in our life. It is important to note the differences between good and bad theology so as to guard our minds from poor theology. Stanley Grenz and Roger Olson describe what they call ‘folk theology’ as bad theology in their book, Who Needs Theology? Folk theology are basic truths individuals follow without any sort of reflection, contemplation, etc. Folk theology is seeped in tradition and these ideologies are often embraced by the majority of the community. While most people have hints of folk theology within their lives, as critical students and representations of revealed Truth, Christ followers should at least be aware of ‘bad theologies.’

As students of theology, we shouldn’t seek to confirm what we already believe to be true, but seek to secure what God has revealed to us through his revealed word. We should approach the subject with open minds, and a willingness to identify ‘bad theologies’ which invade our thoughts. The truth of the gospel needs to be communicated clearly in the ever-changing culture.