Experience With Theology
Campbell A Hall
Liberty University
Theology 104: Introduction to Theology Survey
Dr. Lucas Farmer
July 1 , 2024
st
When I hear the word theology, I often think of studying the Bible or the Christian faith.
The true definition can be found all over the internet. Britannica defines theology as “The
philosophically oriented discipline of religious speculation and apologetics that is traditionally
restricted, because of its origins and format, to Christianity but that may also encompass, because
of its themes, other religions, including especially Islam and Judaism.” In this definition, I see
that theology is not only the study of the Bible or the Christian faith, it can also embed other
religions and beliefs. When applying this definition on top of what I already know and visualize
theology to be, it creates a sense of importance. It is important as Christians to understand our
faith and Biblical studies on top of knowing about other religions and what it is that they believe.
In the book of Hebrews chapter 6 verse 1 it says, “Therefore leaving the principles of the
doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance
from dead works, and of faith toward God,” this shows what happens when we have a shallow
faith and do not dive into theology and study more (NIV, 2011). This contributes to the
importance of the study of theology and what the word means to me. The Lord wants us to study
him more and dive deeper into our faith.
In the past and currently, I have only had one small experience with theology. If we are to
go by the true definition, including the study of other religions, my young adult's bible study at
church went through various religions and denominations. During this study, not only did I
expand my biblical knowledge, but I was also able to understand why other religions believe
what they do. This study would go on to teach me how to further the spreading of the gospel. In
this way, I am more equipped to understand how to approach others. In the Bible, Peter writes,
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” teaching us the
importance of growing our knowledge of the Bible to win others over for the kingdom (NIV,
2011). Although I have only had one experience with theology, this one experience has taught
me so much. This makes me realize that if I had more than one or if I stayed in a state of
expanding my knowledge in theology, I could help in advancing the kingdom of God.
Throughout this course, there is a lot I pray to take away, other than just a passing grade.
During this course, I want to gain more Biblical knowledge and grow my faith in Jesus. Studying
theology can help me become a better Christian. This can further my relationship with God. I
believe that through this study I can be able to gain more people for the Kingdom of God. I can
learn about my religion along with being able to better tell others about the study behind all of it.
In the Bible, Matthew writes, “But seek first his Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these
things will be given to you as well,” giving a representation of what furthering our knowledge of
the Kingdom can do for us and others (NIV, 2011). The scriptures and books that we study
through this course were inspired by God. The stories throughout the Bible teach us something
and mean something. God has given us the Bible as the living and true word of God. I am
excited to learn about the Bible and study my religion more to better further the Kingdom of
God.
References
New International Bible. (2011). The NIV Bible. (Original work https://www.thenivbible.com/
published 1978)
