What is Theology ?

Millard J. Erickson in Christian Theology 2^nd Edition Book define theology as “the study or science of God” I agreed  with the  author definition that theology help us to understand God’s creation, God’s work and relationship with human beings and God’s redemptive working for mankind.

The discipline of theology will give a coherent statement of the Christian faith based on the scriptures  and belief that the Bible is accurate and true although it is not a history, geography or scientific book 2 Timothy 3:16-17 and 2 Peter 1: 20-21 state clearly that the scripture is God’s breathed and is useful for teaching and  the words of  prophecy does not come from man own interpretation.

Why should Christian study systematic theology ? Among some of the reason givens is that Christians would be able to give a defense or a reason for the faith/hope that you have 1 Peter 3:15, one other reason  is that Christians are able to apply what we have learn in scriptures and apply our altitudes  to any given situations in our lives. Christian ethnics  must be based on proper ideas of God.

The apostle Paul tells us “Cloth yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another for God oppose the proud, but give grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5) we should not adopt an altitude of pride or  superiority towards others who have not made such a study of systematic theology. Systematic theology is best done with reason, with help from others, studied by collecting and understanding all the relevant passage of scriptures on any topic.

As we study theology we would have a better understanding of the Christian message and able to address the question on the challenges encountered today, we would be able to have a good grasp/scripture, relationship between God and man, Christ, salvation.  The  message of salvation, redemption for mankind and last things. Theology will  lead as to correct doctrinal beliefs and the general and special revelation of the Bible. Time and  effort spent in studying theology will help  a Christian to give a Christian worldview perspectives of what the world is facing today such as  Naturalism, Existentialism, New Age. Post Modernism and other non Christian philosophy or worldviews.

Who Is God ?

According to Holman/Illustrated Bible dictionary, God is defined as the Personal Creator and Lord of the universe, the Redeemer of His people, the ultimate author and principal object of scripture and the  object of the church’s confession, worship and service.

Please see scripture verses Gen 1: 1, John 1:1-2, Ps. 19: 1-2, Rom 1: 19-20.

In truth,  God is incomprehensible, one that  we cannot totally  fathom. But this does not mean we cannot know God  truly. The scripture identifies and described God in many ways.

Illustration of 1 King 18: 38- God answering the prophet Elijah by sending fire to consume the sacrifice which the false prophets of Baal were unable to do despite calling on their gods.

Let me hear your views and comments on “Who is God ?”