Why Study Theology?

Theology
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Why in the world should I care about theology?

All I need is the Bible.

I can follow Jesus without having to learn all kinds of obscure words.

Have you ever heard another Christian say something like these statements? Have you ever said something like them yourself? Ever thought such things? If so, you’re not alone. The vast majority of professing Christians have little to no interest in theology. In the minds of many Christians, there is no necessary connection between theology and their everyday Christian life. Theology, they believe, is irrelevant.

The disconnect between theology and the church and between theology and the Christian has had disastrous results. One need only look at recent polls examining the level of theological knowledge among professing Christians to know that something has gone awry.

When large numbers of professing Christians start telling their friends and family, “You just have to read The Shack! I learned so much about God from that book,” well then, Houston, we have a problem. When large numbers of professing evangelical Christians are not sure whether the deity of Christ is an article of the Christian faith, then we have more than a problem. We are the proverbial lemmings, rushing headlong toward the precipice.

Theology Defined…I’ll leave it at this, especially since so many people today have a strong aversion to the word ‘theology’ or deep doctrinal study.
Instead, this article is written for those who resonate with the Apostle Paul’s charge in 2 Timothy 2:15. It’s for those who are willing to spoudazō (σπουδάζω) to be truly diligent and make every effort, to present themselves to God as approved ergatēs (ἐργάτης), workers who have no need to be ashamed. These are the readers who aren’t afraid to orthotomeō (ὀρθοτομέω), to rightly cut a straight, accurate path through the logos (λόγος), the very word of truth.

Ultimately, this is for those who want to go beyond the surface and delve deeply into the entire boulē (βουλή), the whole counsel and purpose of theos (θεός), God, exactly as it is revealed in the graphē (γραφή), the sacred Scriptures (Acts 20:27).

J.

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Theology is personal knowledge. Strictly speaking, it is tri–personal knowledge because it is knowledge of the Trinity.

Theology is also necessary and relevant for every individual Christian. I have already mentioned the connection between the love of God and knowledge of God. A disciple of Christ is to be growing in both. The necessity and relevance of theology can also be shown by noting the importance of understanding Scripture. If understanding Scripture is important and relevant, theology is important and relevant. Allow me to elaborate a bit. Slowly read each of the following passages of Scripture:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1)
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. (1:14)
For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily. (Col. 2:9)
He chose us in him before the foundation of the world. (Eph. 1:4)
In Christ God was reconciling the world to himself. (2 Cor. 5:19)
For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Cor. 5:21)
On a scale of 1 to 10, how important would you say each of these texts is? Would you say they have a high level of importance? If you believe any or all of these texts have a high level of importance, how important is it that you and I understand what they mean? If you said, “Very,” you are correct. Now consider the fact that the list above contains a mere six verses out of the entire Word of God. It is just as important to understand the rest of Scripture as it is to understand these six verses. It is, after all, the very Word of God. This is another reason why the study of theology is relevant. It helps us understand Scripture and to think and speak truly about what God has revealed in His Word.

Finally, it is important to remember that even those Christians who believe that theology is irrelevant are “doing theology.” They are simply doing it without being aware of doing it, and that is usually an indication that they are doing it poorly. Every time we think or speak about God, His will, or His works, we are doing theology. If we do it without awareness or reflection, the potential for error increases dramatically. We need to consider this because errors regarding God, His will, and His works are far more serious than errors in other areas of life. Errors here result in false doctrine, heresy, and idolatry.

The study of theology is necessary and relevant because it helps us to be more deliberate and careful in our thought and speech about God. It helps us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.

J.

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I think one of the benefits of studying theology is that it helps us understand why we believe what we believe, not just what we believe.

At the same time, I don’t think someone has to know a lot of theological terms to have a genuine relationship with Christ. Many faithful Christians throughout history have had a simple but sincere faith.

Perhaps the goal isn’t to become an expert, but to keep growing. The more we study Scripture and learn about God, the more our understanding can mature, and hopefully so does the way we live out our faith.

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@ellenvera

While I appreciate your sentiment that a genuine relationship with Christ does not require a seminary degree, I must respectfully offer a correction to the premise that we should remain content with a merely “simple” faith or avoid the rigorous study of doctrine.

It is entirely true that one does not need to memorize complex theological terminology to be saved. However, in our understandable desire to avoid academic pride, we must be careful not to discard the actual substance of doctrine. Theology is not merely about vocabulary; it is the careful, systematic articulation of biblical truth. To dismiss doctrine in favor of a purely “devotional” approach is to risk turning our faith into mere sentimentality, detached from the actual truth of who God is.

You mentioned that many faithful Christians throughout history had a simple faith. While God graciously meets us in our spiritual infancy, the New Testament clearly indicates that an elementary faith is not the intended destination for the believer. The author of Hebrews explicitly rebukes believers for this exact mindset. In Hebrews 5:12, he notes that by that time they ought to be teachers, but they needed someone to teach them the elementary truths all over again. He explains that milk is for the infant, but “solid food is for the mature” (Hebrews 5:14).

Doctrine and deep theological study are that solid food. If we reject them because they feel too complex, we are actively choosing to remain spiritual infants.

Furthermore, a lack of doctrinal precision is not a harmless neutrality; it leaves the believer highly vulnerable. The Apostle Paul warns that we must no longer be infants, “tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching” (Ephesians 4:14).

It is our grounding in sound doctrine that provides the stability necessary for our devotion to endure. As the prophet Hosea delivered the Lord’s sobering warning, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” (Hosea 4:6).

Therefore, while the goal is indeed not to become an arrogant expert, the goal is also not to remain perpetually “simple.” As Peter exhorts us, we are to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). True devotion is inextricably bound to deep, accurate, and unashamed theological study. We do not study doctrine to master God, but to ensure that the God we are devoting ourselves to is the God of Scripture, and not a god of our own imagination.

May I offer this as pastoral counsel in love? From what I can see, this forum tends to be more devotional and testimonial in nature than a place for deep exegetical discussion. There is certainly value in that, for we are called to “encourage one another and build one another up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Personally, I have a deep love for theology, sound hermeneutics, and carefully handling the Word of God. As Paul exhorted Timothy, we should “be diligent to present yourself approved to God… accurately handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Like the Bereans, I desire to examine the Scriptures daily to see whether these things are so (Acts 17:11), and to proclaim “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27).

Not every discussion needs to become a theological deep dive, and I am content with that. Yet, when the opportunity arises to search the Scriptures more carefully, I gladly embrace that burden for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ. My desire is not merely to win an argument, but that together we may “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18), speaking “the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15), so that Christ alone may be glorified.

Today, many Christians are turning back to the puritans to, “walk in the old paths,” of God’s word, and to continue to proclaim old truth that glorifies Jesus Christ.

https://www.apuritansmind.com/covenant-theology/introduction-to-covenant-theology-by-ji-packer/

www.apuritansmind.com/the-puritan-era/why-we-need-the-puritans-by-dr-j-i-packer/&sa=
Why we need the Puritans.

Shalom.

J.

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Theology means knowledge of and about God, as to why should we study it, look at the range of questions and calls for help/advice on this and other forums.

Had the posters a little more knowledge they would be answering their questions themselves.

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Hitting the nail that sticks out right on the proverbial head, as you usually do @Who-me.

J.

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Friends.
Responding to the rhetorical quesiton, “why study theology”, I submit the following.

As the name suggests, “theology” is the study of God (Gk.Theos), and “study” (from Latin studium: intense eagerness, zeal, or devotion to a pursuit.) is an individual’s intentional process of acquiring understanding. So then we are concerned here with an individual’s intentional process of learning about God their creator.

This process necessarily finds it’s genesis in our brother Adam, who upon waking with the first “Breath of Life” escaping from his lungs, he no doubt immediately set out to discover who, or what, “caused” him. His nascent brain, like an empty cargo ship yawning to be filled, he must have had a very intense eagerness, or zeal to fill his grasping brain with understanding what he was witnessing, and making sense of the encompassing truth he was experiencing. It seems his loving Creator did not leave him in this state very long, but patiently condescended to walk with him early, in the cool of the day, speaking truth and love into his devotional ears.

As Adam was born in the arms of his creator, we too have been newly born from above; born into a marvelous wonder too wonderful for our nascent minds to fully grasp. The information gathered in our old dead brains is of little use to us in this brave new world. Upon awakening from death with our first breath of Holy Life leaving our lungs, we too have that insatiable urge to understand who we really are and how did we get here. Our loving Father is all too eager to fill our sponge-like brains with Truth and Love, and the perfect image of His dear son, our savior.

How and why are we to Study God? Not for self-promotion, not to overshadow other men, nor even to gain favorable treatment from God, but because a newly-born nascent brain can not help but apply all conceivable efforts to understanding this wonder-filled eternal environment in which we accidentally find ourselves.

How does one “study”? Here are some ideas.

And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts. (Romans 13:11-14)

But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:20-24)

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Therefore, put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them. But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him, where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all. (Colossians 3:1-11)

KP

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As here…

Jer 9:23 Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches,
Jer 9:24 but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD.”

Joh 17:3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.
Joh 17:8 For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me.
Joh 17:9 I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours.

Php 3:7 But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.
Php 3:8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ
Php 3:9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith—

2Ti 2:14 Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers.
2Ti 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
2Ti 2:16 But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness,

Col 1:9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,
Col 1:10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;
Col 1:11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;

In contemporary discourse, theology is frequently misconstrued as an exercise in intellectual hegemony. However, from a classical Christian perspective, theological inquiry is fundamentally a humble epistemological pursuit of the Deus revelatus, the God who has graciously initiated self-disclosure. The objective of this discipline is not the accumulation of abstract data for polemical advantage, but rather a doxological response to divine revelation.

As the Apostle Paul articulates, while “knowledge puffs up,” it is “love [that] builds up” (1 Corinthians 8:1, ESV). Consequently, theological study operates as fides quaerens intellectum (faith seeking understanding), driven by the redeemed subject’s desire to apprehend the divine voice, echoing the Johannine assertion that the sheep recognize and follow the Shepherd (John 10:27).

The teleological aim of this pursuit is not self-aggrandizement, but the relational knowledge of God, fulfilling the prophetic mandate to boast only in understanding and knowing the Lord (Jeremiah 9:24).

Anthropologically and cognitively, every human subject functions as a theologian, given the imago Dei and the inherent human propensity to construct frameworks of meaning regarding the transcendent. The critical academic and pastoral distinction, therefore, lies not in the presence of theological cognition, but in its epistemic foundation: whether it is derived from special revelation or synthesized from secular philosophical paradigms. As Paul warns against being taken captive by “philosophy and empty deceit” (Colossians 2:8), orthodox theology, grounded in scriptural exegesis, serves as the necessary prerequisite for orthopraxy. Sound doctrinal formulation catalyzes right worship, sustains fiducial faith, and engenders sanctified living. Furthermore, it facilitates the cognitive and spiritual renewal necessary to discern the divine will (Romans 12:2), provides ecclesiological stability against doctrinal volatility (Ephesians 4:14), and maintains the christocentric focus of the Christian tradition.

The normative imperative, therefore, necessitates a rigorous engagement with God as He has propositionally and personally revealed Himself in the biblical canon. This requires a methodological commitment to diligent study, earnest prayer, and hermeneutical submission to the text, striving to be “approved… workers who have no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Ultimately, the highest teleological objective of the human intellect is not the mere acquisition of propositional data regarding the Divine, but the participatory knowledge of God Himself. As Christ defines in His high priestly prayer, eternal life is constituted by this relational knowledge: “that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (John 17:3). It is within this relational and epistemic framework that the believer undergoes ontological transformation, being progressively “transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another” (2 Corinthians 3:18), thereby actualizing the conforming of the human subject to the imago Christi.

J.

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From the Lutheran POV everyone is a theologian. Even the atheist is a theologian. That’s because everyone has an opinion, a thought, an idea about “God”. The atheist says, “I don’t believe in God” or “God does not exist”–that’s still a thought, an idea, an opinion, about God.

In that sense, then, everybody “does” theology. It’s simply impossible not to. The least religious person is still doing theology, the most “I don’t care about religion, about gods, about God, etc” sort of person is still doing theology. Because it is impossible NOT to do theology. Everyone is a theologian, everyone is doing theology.

From the Lutheran POV, the question then becomes not “why does theology matter?” but “what kind of theology am I doing?” Even the person who says “I don’t care about theology” is still doing theology. In that sense, then, why should we care about GOOD theology? That’s more important. Whether we are doing good theology or not, what kind of theology are we doing.

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Correct @TheologyNerd

Biblical Theology – Traces themes across Scripture (e.g., covenant, kingdom, redemption).
Systematic Theology – Organizes doctrine topically (e.g., God, salvation, church).
Historical Theology – Studies how doctrines developed over time (e.g., early church, Reformation).
Dogmatic Theology – Focuses on official church teachings (e.g., Catholic Catechism, Westminster Confession).
Practical Theology – Applies theology to ministry (e.g., preaching, counseling, worship).
Philosophical Theology – Uses philosophical methods to explore theological concepts.
Moral Theology – Addresses ethics and Christian living.
Natural Theology – Explores knowledge of God from reason/nature (apart from revelation).
Patristics – Studies the theology of the early Church Fathers.
Spiritual Theology – Focuses on spiritual growth and discipline.
Liturgical Theology – Examines worship practices and their theological foundations.

Major Theological Traditions/Systems
These are broad schools of thought within Christianity:

Catholic & Orthodox

Roman Catholic Theology (Thomism, Scotism, Molinism, Neo-Scholasticism)
Eastern Orthodox Theology (Hesychasm, Palamism, Sophiology)
Oriental Orthodox Theology (Miaphysitism: Coptic, Ethiopian, Armenian)

Protestant Theologies

Lutheran Theology (Book of Concord, Law/Gospel distinction)
Reformed/Calvinist Theology (TULIP, Covenant Theology, Westminster Confession)
Arminian Theology (Conditional election, synergism)
Anglican Theology (Via Media, Thirty-Nine Articles)
Anabaptist Theology (Radical Reformation, pacifism, believer’s baptism)
Baptist Theology (Soul liberty, congregationalism)
Methodist/Wesleyan Theology (Prevenient grace, Christian perfection)
Pentecostal/Charismatic Theology (Baptism in the Holy Spirit, gifts of the Spirit)
Evangelical Theology (Biblicism, crucicentrism, conversionism, activism)
Fundamentalist Theology (Inerrancy, dispensationalism, separatism)
Liberal Theology (Historical criticism, social gospel, modernist adaptations)
Neo-Orthodox Theology (Karl Barth: Christocentrism, “Word of God” theology)
Liberation Theology (Latin American: Marxist-influenced, preference for the poor)
Feminist Theology (Gender justice, inclusive language, critique of patriarchy)
Black Theology (James Cone: God’s identification with the oppressed)
Process Theology (God as changing/relational, influenced by Whitehead)
Open Theism (God’s foreknowledge is limited by human free will)

Doctrinal Categories (The “-ologies”)
These are specific areas of theological study:

Theology Proper – Doctrine of God (Trinity, attributes, decrees)
Christology – Doctrine of Christ (Incarnation, hypostatic union, atonement)
Pneumatology – Doctrine of the Holy Spirit (personhood, work, gifts)
Soteriology – Doctrine of salvation (justification, sanctification, glorification)
Ecclesiology – Doctrine of the church (nature, sacraments, governance)
Eschatology – Doctrine of last things (Second Coming, resurrection, judgment)
Anthropology – Doctrine of humanity (image of God, sin, free will)
Hamartiology – Doctrine of sin (original sin, total depravity)
Angelology – Doctrine of angels (nature, roles, hierarchy)
Demonology – Doctrine of demons/Satan (origin, activity, defeat)
Bibliology – Doctrine of Scripture (inspiration, inerrancy, canonicity)

Historical Theological Movements

Augustinianism (Grace, predestination, sin)
Pelagianism (Denial of original sin, human ability to choose God)
Semi-Pelagianism (Synergism: human will cooperates with grace)
Scholasticism (Medieval: Thomas Aquinas, Duns Scotus)
Humanism (Renaissance: Erasmus, emphasis on reason and classical texts)
Pietism (17th–18th century: Spener, Francke; personal piety over doctrine)
Puritanism (16th–17th century: Calvinist, covenant theology, strict morality)
Dispensationalism (19th century: Darby, Scofield; distinct eras in God’s plan)
Covenant Theology (Reformed: God’s covenants as the framework of Scripture)

Contextual & Modern Theologies

Postcolonial Theology – Critiques Western theological dominance.
Ecotheology – Focuses on creation care and environmental ethics.
Queer Theology – LGBTQ+ affirming interpretations of Scripture.
Postmodern Theology – Challenges absolute truth claims (e.g., Stanley Grenz).
Missional Theology – Church as a sent community (e.g., Lesslie Newbigin).
Public Theology – Engages theology with politics and society.

Heretical or Non-Orthodox Theologies
(Rejected by mainstream Christianity but historically significant)

Arianism (Jesus is a created being, not divine)
Nestorianism (Jesus’ divine and human natures are separate persons)
Monophysitism (Jesus has only one divine nature)
Modalism/Sabellianism (God is one person with three modes)
Gnosticism (Dualism: matter is evil, secret knowledge for salvation)
Marcionism (Rejection of the Old Testament God)
Socinianism (Denial of Trinity, Jesus’ deity)
Unitarianism (Rejection of Trinity, Jesus as a prophet)

J.

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the rigorous study of doctrine.

1Co 3:4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?

1Co 3:4 For while one saith, I am of Calvin; and another, I am of Luther; are ye not carnal?

Theology is generally one man’s or one groups view of doctrine which may not be right.

The term itself is somewhat offensive as if God was a subject that could be mastered.

It can be useful to read what other think, but there are real dangers in self-righteousness, substituting knowledge for becoming like Christ, and being an echo of another.

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Pursue knowledge and wisdom

Proverbs 2:1–6

“If you receive my words… making your ear attentive to wisdom… if you seek it like silver… then you will understand the fear of the LORD… For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Proverbs 4:5–7

“Get wisdom; get insight… Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.”

Proverbs 18:15

“An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.”

Proverbs 23:23

“Buy the truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding.”

Daniel 12:4

“…many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall increase.”

Study and rightly handle God’s Word

2 Timothy 2:15

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God… rightly handling the word of truth.”

Acts 17:11

“Now these Jews were more noble… they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.”

Psalm 1:2

“His delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.”

Psalm 119:97–100

“Oh how I love your law!.. I have more understanding than all my teachers… for your testimonies are my meditation.”

Grow in knowledge

2 Peter 3:18

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

Colossians 1:9–10

“…that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will… increasing in the knowledge of God.”

Ephesians 4:13–15

“…until we all attain… the knowledge of the Son of God… so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine.”

Philippians 1:9–10

“…that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment.”

The danger of lacking knowledge

Hosea 4:6

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

Hosea 6:6

“For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.”

Isaiah 5:13

“Therefore my people go into exile for lack of knowledge.”

Romans 10:2–3

“They have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.”

Paul speaks from personal experience — he himself had the same misdirected zeal before his conversion (Philippians 3:6; Galatians 1:14). The word zēlon (‘zeal, jealousy, enthusiasm’) is positive but insufficient. The word epignōsin (‘full knowledge, recognition, understanding’) with the epi- prefix implies accurate, deep comprehension rather than mere information.

Knowledge protects from false teaching

Ephesians 4:14

“…so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine.”

The negative purpose: growth prevents childishness (nēpioi, ‘infants’ — the same word as ‘minors’ in Galatians 4:1). Two nautical metaphors describe doctrinal instability: klydōnizomenoi (‘tossed by waves’) and peripheromenoi (‘carried about, driven off course’). The source of the instability is false teachers characterized by kybeia (‘dice-playing, trickery’ — loaded dice), panourgia (‘craftiness, unscrupulousness’), and methodeia (‘scheming, stratagems’ — from methodos, ‘a pursuing after, a method of attack’).

Hebrews 5:12–14

The writer rebukes believers for still needing “milk” instead of “solid food,” urging maturity through continual practice in discerning good from evil.

1 Peter 3:15

“Always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.”

Love God with your mind

Matthew 22:37

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”

A fitting summary @timf

The biblical pattern is clear:

We are commanded to seek wisdom and knowledge (Prov. 2:1–6; 4:5–7).
We are commanded to study and rightly handle God’s Word (2 Tim. 2:15; Acts 17:11).
We are commanded to grow in the knowledge of Christ (2 Pet. 3:18; Col. 1:9–10).
Ignorance is portrayed as spiritually dangerous and even destructive (Hos. 4:6; Isa. 5:13).
Sound knowledge equips believers for maturity, discernment, and protection against false doctrine (Eph. 4:13–15; Heb. 5:12–14).

Just a thought.

J.

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Paul reduces the four slogans of 1:12 to two — focusing on himself and Apollos, the figures he can address without causing offense. The question ouk anthrōpoi este (‘are you not merely human?’) equates factionalism with sub-Christian behavior. To be ‘merely human’ for Paul is to fall short of what the Spirit makes possible.

The Greek ti (‘what’) rather than tis (‘who’) is deliberate — Paul does not ask about their personal identity but their functional role. They are diakonoi (‘servants, ministers’) — the word from which ‘deacon’ derives, originally meaning table waiters. This radically deflates the Corinthians’ celebrity culture around leaders. The phrase hekastō hōs ho kyrios edōken (‘as the Lord gave to each’) attributes all ministry effectiveness to divine assignment.

The agricultural metaphor assigns complementary roles: Paul as church planter and Apollos as nurturer. The imperfect tense ēuxanen (‘was causing growth’) for God’s action — versus the aorist (punctiliar) for human actions, suggests that God’s growth-giving is continuous and ongoing while human contributions are discrete, limited events.

And…

Paul confronts the Corinthians directly: despite their claims to spiritual maturity, their factionalism proves they are still infants in Christ, operating by merely human standards. He reframes the relationship between himself and Apollos as fellow workers in God’s field, God’s building. Paul then introduces the metaphor of building on the foundation of Jesus Christ - some build with gold and silver, others with wood and straw, and the fire of judgment day will test each person’s work. The chapter closes with a warning against destroying God’s temple (the community itself) and a final appeal to stop boasting about human leaders.

The most simple truths of the gospel, as to man’s sinfulness and God’s mercy, repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, stated in the plainest language, suit the people better than deeper mysteries. Men may have much doctrinal knowledge, yet be mere beginners in the life of faith and experience. Contentions and quarrels about religion are sad evidences of carnality. True religion makes men peaceable, not contentious.

But it is to be lamented, that many who should walk as Christians, live and act too much like other men. Many professors, and preachers also, show themselves to be yet carnal, by vain-glorious strife, eagerness for dispute, and readiness to despise and speak evil of others.
MH

Wise words here.

Is the picture becoming clearer, @timf? You were the one who introduced Calvin and Luther into this discussion. My focus has simply been on what the Scriptures teach.

Also, could you show me where the term or discipline of theology is presented as something offensive in Scripture? On the contrary, the Bible repeatedly calls believers to grow in the knowledge of God and to rightly handle His Word.

Correct?

J.

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@timf did you know…

The English word “doctrine” appears about 50–60 times in most English translations, depending on the version (e.g., KJV uses it more frequently than ESV or NASB because of translation choices). The underlying biblical words are more informative than the English count.

  1. New Testament Greek

The primary Greek word translated “doctrine” is:

διδαχή (didachē) - “teaching, doctrine”
Meaning: teaching, instruction, doctrine, what is taught.
Occurs: 30 times in the Greek New Testament.

Examples:

Matthew 7:28
Mark 1:22, 27
Acts 2:42
Romans 6:17
1 Timothy 4:13, 16
Titus 1:9

It is from the verb:

διδάσκω (didaskō) - “to teach”

Occurs approximately 97 times in the New Testament.

Another important word is:

διδασκαλία (didaskalia)

Meaning:

teaching
instruction
doctrine

Occurs 21 times.

Examples:

1 Timothy 1:10
2 Timothy 3:16
Titus 2:1

Paul especially loves this word.

Total occurrences

The two principal nouns are:

διδαχή - 30 occurrences
διδασκαλία - 21 occurrences

Total: 51 occurrences

This does not include the verb διδάσκω (“to teach”), which appears nearly 100 times.

Also, for the readers…

Latin Vulgate

Jerome primarily translates:

διδαχή
or
διδασκαλία

as

doctrina

Hence our English word:

doctrine

comes directly from the Latin

doctrina

which comes from

doceō

meaning

“to teach.”

Etymology

Greek

διδάσκω

διδασκαλία / διδαχή

Latin

doceō

doctrina

Old French

doctrine

English

doctrine

One fascinating observation here though…

The New Testament overwhelmingly emphasizes teaching.

The Great Commission is not merely

“Go make converts”

but

"...teaching (διδάσκοντες) them to observe all that I have commanded you." (Matthew 28:20)

Likewise, the early church devoted itself to

“the apostles’ teaching (τῇ διδαχῇ)” (Acts 2:42),

and Paul insists that

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching (διδασκαλία)” (2 Timothy 3:16).

This shows that doctrine is not a later theological invention, it is the very substance of apostolic Christianity.

Christianity is a faith that is proclaimed, taught, learned, guarded, and handed down (cf. Titus 2:1; 2 Timothy 2:2). Indeed, one could say that the New Testament presents believers not merely as worshippers, but as disciples, and disciples are, by definition, learners who are formed by sound doctrine.

Just something to ponder on, “Chewing the cud”- an old Jewish proverb.

J.

15

Thank you @Johann for such a great explanation.

You know me and my hunger to dig deeper into scripture, to allow the Holy Spirit to lead me into deeper understanding of what I’m reading, so that my foundational knowledge and understanding of God and scripture. You’ve been so helpful in this pursuit of knowledge! Thank you! I’m deeply grateful for you knowledge and patience.

I guess I stayed away from theology only because it seemed so intimidated..at first. Big words, confusing or contradictory theologies and just a general feeling of “I’ll never understand this stuff!” held me from learning theology. I thought I’d have to get student loans and go to school to understand theology.

That’s just not true. None of the disciples had degrees in theology..except maybe Paul? But it wouldn’t be a “degree” but definitely life-long learning and a deep knowledge of the Torah. But, I’m finding that NOW when I read scripture I’m actually understanding the messages, seeing hyperlinks, writing notes in my Bible when the HS is nudging me, not glossing over difficult passages (like the entirety of Job lol..still love the book of Job and the incredible wealth of wisdom in it), and then spending days meditating on passages and verses. Right now I’ve been meditating on “such a time as this”.

How would you define theology to someone who isn’t 100% sure what it is?

16

That’s a great question, as always Joanne.

Simply put, theology is the study of God, who He is, what He has revealed about Himself, and how we are to know, worship, and obey Him. The word comes from two Greek words: theos (God) and logos (study, word, or discourse), so theology literally means “the study of God.”

But theology isn’t just an academic exercise reserved for pastors or scholars. Every Christian is a theologian in one sense, because everyone has beliefs about God. The real question isn’t whether we have theology, but whether our theology is biblical.

Theology is our lifelong pursuit of knowing God through His Word. Jesus said, “This is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:3). As we study Scripture, the Holy Spirit renews our minds (Romans 12:2), helps us grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18), and equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17).

So, theology is far more than acquiring knowledge, it is learning to think God’s thoughts after Him, so that what we believe shapes how we worship, how we live, and how we love Him and others. Good theology leads to right worship, faithful obedience, and a deeper relationship with Christ.

This is a very simplified introduction, dear sister. I’ll also share some helpful tools and resources that will assist you as you continue to grow in the knowledge of God, His Word, and in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.

2 Timothy 2:15

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” (ESV)

This verse emphasizes the importance of diligently studying and accurately interpreting God’s Word.

1 Peter 3:15

“But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” (ESV)
1Pe 3:16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.
1Pe 3:17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.

This verse teaches that every Christian should be ready to explain and defend the hope of the gospel with humility and grace.

Just give me a shout if you need any assistance.

God bless.

J.

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17

I agree with the need for Christians to understand biblical truths, @Johann. I thoroughly enjoyed my education at Calvin Seminary in the late '70s, when the world’s culture was shifting sand. Therefore, since I had been an English major with an English master’s degree, I tried to put the Bible’s truths or doctrines in understandable, everyday English in order to communicate them well as a preacher and now as an author. Keep up your good work.

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18

Thank you, @Bruce_Leiter As you can see, this perspective is not being particularly well received by those who hold the opposing view.

God bless you and family brother.

Johann.

19

In any case, God has compelled me to share his truths, @Johann, and it’s the responsibility before God how they react. You’re very welcome. And may the Lord bless you too abundantly, brother.

By the way, a Christian publishing company just this week let me know that they are going to publish the book I sent you, since they got rave reviews from four reviewers. However, I combined another book with that one so that it is now two Bible surveys in one about the covenant and growing in knowing God. I’m very thankful to God for his open door.

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20

I see more abuses by man’s theology than benefits. Why should a believer accept a theological position in Bible Scripture when the simplicity of the actual Bible Scripture goes against it? Should we just accept men’s theology anyway to conform to man’s theological concepts?

An example, many accept men’s theology about a Pre-tribulational Rapture which only began to be preached in the Christian Church in 1830’s Great Britain. Whole series of books have been written about it, even Hollywood movies. It is a very popular belief today in many Churches.

Yet in the Matthew 24:29-31 and Mark 13:24-27 Scripture, Lord Jesus revealed that His future coming will be AFTER… the great tribulation, not prior to it like Pre-trib wrongly teaches.

What then, should we believe men’s theology of the Pre-trib Rapture anyway, just because it has been a popular theological position among many Churches since the 1800’s?

The Word of God is still… the ‘measure’ of ALL things. So when men start to try and exalt man’s theology systems above The Word of God, that brings up a red flag.