How has your view of theology changed throughout this course?
Growing up, I mainly heard the word "theology" used primarily in conversations
about the importance of studying God’s word and when people would say they
are attending bible college and seminary and share what they are studying.
Before starting this course, I had some knowledge of biblical theology, but some
misunderstanding of how it impacts our lives, throughout this course, my view
of theology has been enlightened, and my knowledge increased; it has opened
my eyes and changed my mindset about the importance of studying God’s word
as 2nd Timothy 2:15 (KJV) reminds us to “study to shew thyself approved unto
God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of
truth. When we study the word of God, our faith is strengthened in truth, and we
are better equipped to effectively witness Jesus Christ, sharing the gospel with
love. One of my favorite learnings of this course was the Great Divide. It
challenged you to take a deeper look at yourself to see if you have a divide
between the sacred and secular in your life, and how you can bridge the two
together. This course has helped me to see that theology is not just something
that those who are called to ministry study it is for all believers helping us to
grow closer in our relationship with God.
2. How have you been able to practice the principles you learned from the
course in your own life?
The principles I have learned in this course have helped me grow spiritually and
personally. I have gained new tools and resources that have helped me study,
meditate, and apply the word of God to every part of my life. Before this course,
when reading passages of scripture I didn’t understand, I would read multiple
versions to gain a better understanding, which sometimes led me to be more
confused. This course has provided me with sound principles that have helped
me understand scripture, grow in my faith, and grow closer to God. A lot of the
time, we keep our secular life and sacred life separate, not understanding that it
all flows together, and when we do this, we weaken our faith and witness. I have
been able to apply the principles I have learned on my job in the way I lead my
team, and it has helped me be more aware of how I treat and speak with family,
and friends who may believe differently than me or just don’t believe at all. I
must admit practicing some of the principles I have learned has helped me
overcome some spiritual challenges because of a religious and relationship
mindset.
3. How will you pass on the information you have learned in this course to those
within your circle of influence?
As part of a ministry, I love to serve, but I also want to stay in the background.
This course has helped me come out of my comfort zone and be more
confident in how I read and study the word of God. It has emboldened me to
share the importance of prayer, reading, studying, and meditating on God’s
word using what I have learned from this course in our ministry weekly prayer
gathering. When I am engaged in a one-on-one conversation with someone
who is an unbeliever, I will not shy away from the conversation. I will use the
principles I have learned to be fully present and engaged in the moment and
respond with truth in love. In the culture of social media, where everyone has
an opinion and we hear so many untruths, passing on what I have learned will
help them open their eyes to see the truth and open their hearts to receive the
truth of God’s word. Everywhere I go, I will continue to pray and ask the Holy
Spirit to help me share the truth of his word. “And ye shall know the truth, and
the truth shall make you free. (John 8:32) KJV
