What is the definition of theology?

Answer

The term “theology” originates from two Greek words that when combined mean “the study of God.” Christian theology is essentially an effort to comprehend God as He is disclosed in the Bible. No theology will ever completely elucidate God and His ways because God surpasses us infinitely and eternally. Hence, any endeavor to portray Him will be inadequate (Romans 11:33-36). Nevertheless, God desires us to apprehend Him to the extent possible, and theology is the discipline of discerning what we can know and grasp about God in an organized and coherent manner. Some individuals avoid theology thinking it causes division. However, when properly comprehended, theology is unifying. Sound, scriptural theology is beneficial; it involves teaching God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Therefore, the study of theology involves delving into God’s Word to uncover what He has revealed about Himself. Through this process, we recognize Him as the Creator of all things, the Sustainer of all things, and the Judge of all things. He is the Alpha and Omega, the origin and conclusion of all things. When Moses inquired about the sender to Pharaoh, God responded, “I AM WHO I AM” «And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. », (Exodus 3:14). The name I AM signifies personality. God possesses a name, just as He has bestowed names upon others. The name I AM represents a free, purposeful, self-sufficient personality. God is not a vague force or cosmic energy. He is the omnipotent, self-existing, self-determining Being with intellect and volition—the “personal” God who has disclosed Himself to humanity through His Word and His Son.

Jesus Christ.

Studying theology enables us to understand God better so that we can honor Him through our love and obedience. It is essential to recognize the sequence: we need to understand Him first to love Him, and we must love Him before we can aspire to obey Him. Consequently, those who know, love, and obey Him receive immeasurable enrichment in their lives through the comfort and hope He provides. Conversely, incorrect theology and a shallow understanding of God will only worsen our lives, failing to bring the comfort and hope we seek. Acquiring knowledge about God is of utmost importance. It is self-destructive to navigate this world without such knowledge. The world is filled with suffering, and life in it can be disheartening and unpleasant. By disregarding theology, we condemn ourselves to a purposeless existence. Without theology, we squander our lives and jeopardize our souls.

Every Christian should be dedicated to theology—engaging in profound, personal exploration of God—to understand, love, and obey the One with whom we will joyfully spend eternity.