Studying theology allows us to better understand God and His plan for humanity as revealed in the Bible. At its core, theology is the study of God and His relationship to us. By studying theology, we can grow closer to God and deepen our faith.
Here are 9 key reasons why studying theology is worthwhile:
1. To Know God Better
Theology helps us know God more intimately. Through studying His names, attributes, and character, we gain insight into who He is. Theology provides a framework for understanding God’s nature, which drives us to worship and obey Him. As Jesus said, “This is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (John 17:3).
2. To Understand God’s Plan
God reveals His grand plan for humanity and creation in the Bible. Theology helps us understand biblical themes like creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. By seeing Scripture as one cohesive story, we can better grasp how God interacts with the world and His purposes for our lives. Theology provides the big picture of how God is working throughout history.
3. To Interpret the Bible Correctly
Studying theology helps us interpret and apply the Bible accurately. It provides principles for sound exegesis, careful analysis, and contextual understanding of Scripture. Theology keeps us grounded in the authorial intent and prevents faulty interpretation. As Paul wrote, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
4. To Defend Biblical Truth
In a culture that increasingly questions absolute truth, theology equips us to defend biblical doctrine. By learning to think theologically, we can answer objections, expose flawed reasoning, and articulate the rationality of Christian belief. As Peter urged, “Always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). Solid theology strengthens our ability to contend for the faith.
5. To Avoid False Teaching
Studying theology helps us discern truth from error. Cults and false teachers have always plagued the church. Theological training helps us identify unbiblical doctrine so we will not be led astray. Paul stressed the importance of sound doctrine for this very reason: “We are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine” (Ephesians 4:14). Theology anchors us in truth.
6. To Grow Spiritually Mature
Pursuing theology facilitates spiritual growth as we dig deeper into biblical truth. Theological study leads to increased wisdom and maturity as our minds are renewed and our hearts transformed. The more we understand God’s truth, the more we can apply that truth effectively. As Paul wrote, “Be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Theology has a sanctifying effect.
7. To Fulfill the Great Commission
Before ascending into heaven, Jesus commissioned the church to “go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). Fulfilling this mandate requires understanding biblical truth so we can teach it to others. Theology prepares us to propagate the gospel worldwide.
8. To Unify the Church
Sound theology provides a rallying point for the church around biblical truth. The early church councils hammered out theological consensus on doctrines like the Trinity, the incarnation, and the hypostatic union. This theological foundation continues to unite diverse groups of Christ-followers across history, geography, ethnicity, and tradition. Paul constantly urged unity around core doctrine.
9. To Bring God Glory
Ultimately, the chief end of studying theology is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. Theology directs all the praise, honor, and glory to God by magnifying His wondrous attributes. Like the psalmist, the study of God leads us to proclaim, “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power” (Revelation 4:11). Theology spotlights the supreme glory of God.
In summary, studying theology allows us to know God intimately, grasp His master plan, interpret Scripture accurately, defend the faith, avoid deception, grow spiritually mature, fulfill the Great Commission, unify the church, and bring glory to God. Theology is immensely valuable for developing Christian faith and practice.
Some may argue theology is irrelevant, divisive or promotes dead orthodoxy. However, when done properly, the study of God enlivens dynamic relationship with Him. Bad theology can be dangerous, but good theology is life-giving. With humility and prayer, theology deepens reverence for God and compassion for people.
Others may claim theology is irrelevant to modern life. However, Scripture addresses every human need and condition in every age. God’s eternal truth remains relevant in every cultural context. Theology applies timeless biblical principles to contemporary issues.
Some believe everyday Christians don’t need theology; just Jesus. However, knowing the Jesus of the Bible necessitates understanding biblical truth about Him. Theology helps us grasp His true identity and significance. Theology protects from counterfeit Christs.
Still others may argue theology is too complex or divisive. Theology can be challenging but it is not inaccessible. With good teaching and determination, theological truth can be grasped. When handled responsibly under Spirit-guidance, theology provides common doctrinal ground.
A few may assert theology stifles genuine relationship with God. But Scripture links knowing God with loving and treasuring Him. Theology cultivates passion for God by helping us know Him as He really is.
Some feel studying academic theology leads to pride. But theology should produce humility and awe before God. Theologians must approach truth with reverence and recognize their own finite limitations.
A number of people believe theology is irrelevant to ministry. But theology provides foundational knowledge for preaching, teaching, counseling, apologetics, evangelism and other aspects of applied ministry. Theology and practice are interconnected.
Others allege theology propagates dead orthodoxy and religiosity. But the Bible condemns dead ritual divorced from right doctrine and sincere relationship with God. Orthodoxy and orthopraxy must both flow from spiritual rebirth.
Still some may argue theology stifles diversity and narrows thought. Yet Christian theology allows for diversity on secondary issues within biblical parameters. Theology distinguishes between primary, closed-handed doctrine and secondary, open-handed doctrine.
A few people think theology is about winning arguments, not saving souls. But sound theology lays the groundwork for effective outreach. Apologetics and evangelism are partners, not competitors. Theology supports gospel proclamation.
In closing, studying theology is vitally important. It helps us know God intimately, grow spiritually, defend the faith boldly, interpret Scripture accurately, unify the church, and live obediently. Theology leads to doxology, bringing great glory to God. For all these reasons, every Christian should pursue theology with humility, reverence, prayer, and determination to rightly handle God’s word of truth for His honor and praise.