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, h 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. h “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] h 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. h 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. h 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.
