DB_Disciplines of Theology
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Dec 6, 2023
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Definitions of Theology
Erickson defines theology as “The study or science of God” (Erickson 2013, 8), and yet
expounds on that simple yet profound definition with the further understanding that theology is
“the discipline that strives to give a coherent statement of the doctrines of the Christian faith,
based primarily on the Scriptures, placed in the context of culture in general, worded in a
contemporary idiom, and related to issues of life” (Erickson 2013, 8). Elmer Towns provides
some elaboration on this definition by contrasting the definitions provided by theologians Strong
and Fitzwater. Towns observes, “Strong writes, ‘theology is the science of God and the relations
between God and the universe.’ While Fitzwater provides a similar but more confining
definition, ‘Theology is the science of God’s essential being and His relationship to the universe
as set forth in the Holy Scriptures” (Towns 2008, 7). Theology, simply stated, is practically
rooted, contemporarily and culturally relevant, means of approaching and studying the entire
Bible in a systematic fashion as the primary source of God’s divine revelation (Erickson 2013,
9).
Relation to Biblical Theology
Erickson explains three potential expressions related to biblical theology: 1) The neo-
orthodox affiliation that began in the forties. 2) The theology found within individual books in
both the Old and New Testaments. 3) Theology that is both biblically based and faithfully in
keeping with the teachings of the Bible. Erickson discusses, “It is not simply based on biblical
theology, it is theology that is biblical” (Erickson 2013, 11).
Biblical theology’s relation to systematic theology is undoubtedly the most applicable
and important to any ministry context. The Bible must not only be the root of our systematic
approach to theology but also the driving force. Furthermore, biblical theology provides
validation for both historical and philosophical theological matters.
Relation to Historical Theology
There are two significant values found within historical theology as it relates to
systematic theology. One, it brings awareness to the potential bias that the theologian brings
through their own presuppositions and predeterminations that have been shaped by culture and
society. Two, historical theology gives the systematic theologian a point of reference by having
the ability to evaluate the work, ideologies, and expressions of others in times past. Erickson
exclaims, “If we closely examine some of our “new” ideas in the light of the history of the
church, we will find that they are actually new forms of old conceptions. One need not be
committed to a cyclical view of history” (Erickson 2013, 12-13).
Relation to Philosophical Theology
Philosophical theology provides value to systematic theology on three fronts: content for
theology, defending or establishing its truth, and (or) scrutinizing its arguments and claims
(Erickson 2013, 13). Philosophy often provides a juxtaposition of theology in that it provides a
contrast to theological understandings by arguing against claims or assisting in establishing its
truth.
Reference List
Erickson, Millard J.,
Christian Theology, 3rd ed
. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2013.
Towns, Elmer,
Theology for Today
, eds Michele Baird, Maureen Staudt, and Michael Stranz.
Mason, OH: Cengage Learning, 2008.
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