Why Theology Matters

(Stuart Miles - FreeDigitialPhotos.net)

In recent weeks, I have been reading more theology than usual.  While I love it (and I realize most people don't), the nature of my work is that much of my reading is usually about leadership, discipleship, and other very 'hands on' topics.  But that, I find, is just the problem with people's perception of theology.  They see it as esoteric, disconnected from the day-to-day life of most humans, and often tainted with hints of intellectual snobbery (picture the ivory tower).  And while theology can be misused as means to look down on those who don't study in this field, it is of vital importance.  Let me explain why I think so.

Theology is the study of God, and as J.I. Packer notes He is the ultimate end of all things, the cause of all things, and the greatest subject of investigation that any person (not just seminary professors) can undertake.
If we are followers of Christ, if we study the Bible, then we are - by the literal definition - theologians.  So let us not relegate theology to just those who are pastors and professors - let us all see that we are all called to study and know God.

Additionally, good theology informs a well-lived life.  Don't be misled into the notion that what we think, believe, and understand doesn't matter.  The overflow of the heart leads to our actions, but the overflow of the heart is rooted in how we think.  "As a man thinketh in his heart, so he is" Solomon tells us (Proverbs 23:7).  Good theology leads to good thinking.  Good thinking gives us the greatest potential to live a good life.

Lastly, the call of the Christian is to be a disciple-maker (Matthew 28).  That being said, the Christian, as he or she engages with skeptics, friends, and family - the Christian cannot run to the pastor or professor every time a theological question is raised.  We are called to be prepared to give an answer for the hope we have in Christ (1 Peter 3:15), and so we must work at becoming more and more prepared.

Theology matters because thinking accurately about God matters.