The word theology comes from two Greek words, theos, meaning God, and logos, meaning word or study. Therefore, theology is simply the study of God. The study of theology is not reserved only for the academic. Nor is it exclusive to a minister’s time in training at seminary or Bible college. Theology should determine a person’s worldview. I mention should because with neglect in understanding theology, a person could allow a secular worldview to determine their theology. Theology must be taught and preached continually in the church. It is important to note that the one, and only one, true source of theology is the written revelation in Scripture. A phrase repeated over and over during my time at Baptist Bible College by one of my theology professors, James Sewell, was, “What does the Bible say.” Regardless of the various disciplines of theological study, this must remain the foundation.
One should always ask, “What does the Bible say?”
There are several reasons why studying theology is essential. First, studying theology is a biblical command. II Timothy 2:15 shares that we should be able to “rightly divide the Word of Truth.” Second, studying theology will help you worship God more fully. Jesus stated in John 4:23-24 that we are to worship the Father in spirit AND truth. Third, studying theology helps you know what you believe and why you believe it. I Peter 3:15 emphasizes that we are always to be ready to give a defense to anyone that might ask us a reason for our hope. Fourth, studying theology makes you humble. Psalm 119:7 reminds us that when we realize how big God is and how small we are, we will praise Him. Fifth, studying theology helps mature the believer in their faith. John 17:17 speaks of our sanctification by knowing the truth. Sixth, studying theology protects you from false doctrine. There is no doubt there are false teachers in influential positions today. II Peter 2:1-2 warns us against these false teachers. Finally, teaching theology is a command to the church. Paul charged Timothy in II Timothy 4:1-4 to preach the word! Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. Why? Because the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine because of their itching ears.
Randy Harp 