J
Theology is the summarizing of scripture. That's a fairly basic explaination. The Theologian would be teaching a doctrinal concept, based on scripture.
Are you Trinitarian? Do you believe that God the Father, The Son, and Holy Spirit are God but in three distinct persons? If so, this is a theological concept. The bible does not once proclaim the word "trinity". Rather this is a title given to a theological concept. Just as with anyother theological title.
It is comparable to scientific data, and scientific theorizing, except, that the bible does indeed tell us what to believe.
Part of the reason why there isn't near as much scripture posted in Bible Discussion threads, I think, is because many of the people know the theological concepts being discussed (i.e. oneness vs. trinity, arminian vs calvinist, YEC vs OEC... etc etc) and as a result not every verse needs to be listed for people to understand what is being taught. I however, would like to see more verses posted on certain topics that are very important in their scope and effects in our understanding of who God is.
I hope this is satisfactory.
Are you Trinitarian? Do you believe that God the Father, The Son, and Holy Spirit are God but in three distinct persons? If so, this is a theological concept. The bible does not once proclaim the word "trinity". Rather this is a title given to a theological concept. Just as with anyother theological title.
It is comparable to scientific data, and scientific theorizing, except, that the bible does indeed tell us what to believe.
Part of the reason why there isn't near as much scripture posted in Bible Discussion threads, I think, is because many of the people know the theological concepts being discussed (i.e. oneness vs. trinity, arminian vs calvinist, YEC vs OEC... etc etc) and as a result not every verse needs to be listed for people to understand what is being taught. I however, would like to see more verses posted on certain topics that are very important in their scope and effects in our understanding of who God is.
I hope this is satisfactory.
I know individuals with doctorate degrees in theology who know all of the "isms" and labels, but know very little scripture. My own pastor has admitted that the scriptures have only been quickened in his life within the past few years, and he regrets having spent so much time studying other things that were fallible. Just makes me wonder if our churches would be stronger if this were not the case. I dunno. *shrugs*
Thanks for your answer though. I appreciate your time.
Hmm..let's see. A question:
Do you ever feel as if you don't belong among "normal" people, even "normal" christians?