In todays world, being a theologically informed Christian is extremely
important. It helps create a sturdy foundation for grasping and engaging
the word of God, so that when they discuss with others in sharing, and
defending the Gospel, they might engage all aspects of knowledge. With
the differing world views, the conflicting arguments, and with the lies that
have seeped into the church, having an understanding of theology can
help keep a Christian in line with the Word of God. Every area of theology
comes to play a role in the understanding a Christian has of the Word, and
how they relate to God. This theology must be clearly defined though- as
today there are so many additions as to what can be used as theology.
Things like devotions, studies, and much more are important to the life of
a believer, but do not make up their theology. “What is missing- what is
currently being filled in by the various branches of the “Theological
commentary” movement- is serious literary and theological study of the
Bible that arises from the church and is written for the church”. [1] In the
personal life of a believer, by understanding rightly who God is, why He
died for us, and the sinful nature of man, they are able to grasp how they
should best live, and why they should seek after God. The faith that they
have is strengthened when they understand the theology behind it. For a
Pastor, it is vital that they be informed, yet, it is easy in todays society to
pass off this obligation as a role for those in clerical positions, and not
those that simply make up the body. Yet, by doing so, the church and
church body becomes passive, and gluttonous with the Word, taking
everything in, without taking thoughts captive to see if they align with the
Word of God. In the same terms, being fully engaged in philosophical,
historical, and scriptural understanding, is also vital. The combination of
absence in all of these areas create gaps for Christians in their
relationship with the Lord, but importantly, they also create a lack of
ability to engage a culture that has strayed so far away from Christ.
Therefore, as believers, we are called to listen and follow Christ, and be a
light to others so that they too might see the Truth. Equally, we must
engage in the Word of God, and the world around us so that we might
reach those who have not encountered the grace of Christ.
Wilson, Todd and Gerald Hiestand.Becoming A Pastor
Theologian.InterVarsity Press. Downers Grove, IL. 2016. 10.
