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, e 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. e “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] e 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. e 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. e 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.
