Why Theology Matters

When it comes to understanding our faith, theology is often misunderstood. Many think of it as a complex or even unnecessary pursuit, something reserved for scholars and theologians. However, at its core, theology simply means the study of God, derived from the Greek words “Theos” (God) and “logos” (study). And isn’t it only natural to want to know more about someone we love? After all, how can we truly love God if we don’t seek to understand Him?

The Importance of Knowing God

Our understanding of God shapes everything about our faith—how we worship, how we live, and how we interact with the world around us. Think about it: if our view of God is skewed, our entire approach to faith will be off-balance. This is why grasping fundamental concepts, like the doctrine of the Trinity (God as one being in three persons), is so crucial. True worship begins with a true understanding of who God is.

Worshiping with Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength

Scripture calls us to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). Yet, many of us tend to focus on just one or two aspects of this command. Some might excel in intellectual understanding but lack emotional connection, while others might feel deeply but struggle with doctrinal knowledge. True worship is holistic, involving every part of our being. By engaging both our hearts and minds in the study of God, we draw closer to Him in a more complete and fulfilling way.

Making Theology Accessible

Theology doesn’t have to be intimidating or overly complicated. Just as doctors study biology to understand the human body and mathematicians study physics to grasp the laws of the universe, believers should invest time in understanding who God is. Areas like Christology (the study of Christ), Pneumatology (the study of the Holy Spirit), Ecclesiology (the study of the church), and Eschatology (the study of end times) are not just academic exercises—they’re pathways to a deeper relationship with the divine.

The Dangers of Neglecting Theology

What happens when we neglect theology? Our understanding of God becomes distorted. Throughout history, we’ve seen movements that twist the Gospel for personal gain—think of the “Prosperity Gospel” or “Healing Gospel.” These deviations arise when people fail to engage with true theology, leading to a misrepresentation of God’s character and intentions.

Challenging Modern Misconceptions About God

Today, it’s common to see God portrayed as a provider of blessings, almost like a celestial “Santa Claus.” This view is not reflective of the God described in the Bible. God is not someone we can mold to fit our personal desires or misconceptions. Rather, He is the unchanging, holy Creator of the universe, deserving of our reverence, awe, and diligent study.

Taking the First Steps in Theological Study

If you’re feeling inspired to dive deeper into theology, the good news is that there are many accessible ways to start. Systematic theology, biblical theology, and covenantal theology are just a few approaches you can explore. Begin with Scripture, and let your curiosity guide you. As you invest time in learning about God, you’ll find that your worship and understanding of Him will deepen, leading to a richer, more profound spiritual relationship.

Resources to Continue Your Journey

For those ready to take the next step, there are countless resources available, from podcasts and books to online courses. Don’t be afraid to explore and find the ones that resonate with you. The pursuit of knowledge about God is a lifelong journey, one that continually transforms and enriches our faith.

Final Thoughts

Theology is far from a dry academic exercise; it’s a vital part of our faith journey. It’s about knowing and loving God more fully, and allowing that knowledge to shape every aspect of our lives. By engaging with theology, we open the door to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with the divine. So, let’s not shy away from it—let’s embrace it and allow it to lead us into a more authentic and vibrant faith.