What is Theology? An Analysis

The word Theology comes from the Greek word θεολογία (or theologia), a combination of the words “Theos” (God) and “logia” (word or teaching). The academic discipline focuses on God and religion in general.

 Webster’s dictionary provides an excellent definition that accurately sums up the field of Theology. It goes as follows: “the study of religious faith, practice, and experience especially: the study of God and of God’s relation to the world.”

In the fifth century, the well-beloved theologian Augustine said that theology is the “Rational discussion respecting the deity.”

In a more modern tone A. H. Strong describes it as “the Science of God and of the relations between God and the universe.”

The simplest definition probably comes from Charles Ryrie, who said Theology is “thinking about God and expressing those thoughts in some way.”

What is Theology?

Based on these definitions, we can say that Theology studies the relationship between God and humanity and expresses its findings to the world. It accomplishes this goal by examining religious texts, historical context, doctrines, beliefs, and practices that flow from those systems. Theologians have also been known to use philosophical quandary in their pursuit of truth. Some good examples are Thomas Aquinas, Origin, William Lane Craig, and Augustine of Hippo.

The 4 Branches of Theology

The discipline is typically divided into four main branches. Each branch focuses on a different way humanity interacts with God. And they are as follows: exegetical theology, systematic theology, historical theology, and practical theology.

1. Exegetical Theology

Exegetical theology involves studying a passage from a religious text, typically from the Bible, to determine its meaning. According to the Grace Theological seminary, Exegetical theology: “is the process of discovering the original and intended meaning of a passage of scripture.” Theologians study things like the original language and the historical context surrounding the author in order to better understand their message. Some studies like like textual criticism are also in exegetical Theology.

2. Systematic Theology

Systematic theology involves synthesizing a particular faith’s doctrines into categories or a hierarchy in order to develop a unified understanding of the faith. According to the Gospel Coalition, “Systematic theology is the attempt to put Christian doctrine in a logical order, often starting from one fundamental principle.” Christian leaders have been practicing this discipline since the beginning. For example, the Gospels themselves are a collection of the most important or relevant things Jesus did and said. As John wrote,

Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.

John 21:25 

A well-known example of Systematic theology is the idea that some beliefs are essential for all Christians while others are not. For instance, it’s relatively safe to say that all Christians should believe in the deity of Christ. However, it’s probably stepping too far to say that all Christians have to believe in infant baptism.

3. Historical Theology

Historical theology examines the context in which doctrines and ideologies were developed and how these have been reinterpreted over time. Again, the Gospel Coalition defines the study as follows, “Historical theology refers to the discipline of narrating the development of Christian theology.” Although there are some similarities between Historical Theology and the study of Church History, they have some fundamental differences. Unlike Church History, it maintains a laser-focus on the development of Christian Thought.

4. Practical Theology

Practical theology examines the practical implications of religious beliefs and how these beliefs can be incorporated into everyday life. Webster’s dictionary defines the discipline as “the study of the institutional activities of religion (such as preaching, church administration, pastoral care, and liturgics).” Although it is not in Webster’s definition, Practical Theology also delves into things like how to grow spiritually, avoid sin, and grow in your faith.

Sub-Disciplines

In addition to these four branches, there are also various sub-disciplines of theology, such as apologetics, which focuses on defending religious beliefs. Other sub-disciplines include political theology, which examines the relationship between politics and religion. Or Moral Theology, also known as Christian Ethics, which examines the moral implications of religious beliefs.

Why is it Important?

The importance of theology lies in its ability to provide insight into how people should behave in relation to God and in the world. For many people, theology is an essential source of spiritual nourishment. It clarifies difficult ethical questions and brings individuals closer to God through helping them understand his character and personality. Your Theology also sets the groundwork for your entire worldview. For example, those with an Atheistic Theology come to vastly different conclusions about meaning and morality than those with a deistic Theology.

At the same time, our God-given ability to reason and study the scriptures comes with some heavy responsibility. Theology can be controversial; disagreements over important topics can quickly devolve into heated and venomous arguments. The vast diversity of denominations we see today is largely a product of mishandled Theological disputes. Historically, theology has even been used to justify humanity’s darkest inclinations and practices.

Overall, theology is an important and complex subject that can significantly impact how people interact with God and the world. It is a subject that deserves excellent care and consideration when studied and discussed.

Sources and Further Reading

1. The Gospel Coalition: Systematic Theology, Historical Theology
2. Webster’s Dictionary: Practical Theology
3. Grace Theological Seminary: Exegetical Theology