2 Approaches to Theology
I have come to the conclusion that no matter what denomination you find yourself in, the way you study God (theology) falls into one of two camps Equation Theology or Revelation Theology.
Equation Theology is a theology which attempts to flatten the revealed Word of God into a mathematical formula which can be proven true, all conflicting scriptures are usually explained away, contextualized away, or ignored. Let me emphasize that Equation Theology is not one particular branch of theology; rather, it is an approach to understanding the scriptures.
Revelation Theology is a theology which strictly adheres to all clear teaching of scripture without attempting to resolve every nuanced tension. A theological structure which fights to the death for orthodox doctrine, but doesn’t quarrel over matters where the scripture is unclear.
I have spent time in both camps but I am joining the latter camp for good.
As I’ve considered these distinctions one thing has really struck me. Men seem to fall the most easily into equation oriented thinking, yet if we were asked to create mathematical equation or algorithm which perfectly explains our wives, which would anticipate every action, and fully define them in every way; we would never attempt to undertake so foolish an endeavor. Who are we, who cannot fully understand women, to think we can fully understand God?
“The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law. Deuteronomy 29:29
Jeremy Nehf says:
January 27th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
Wow, Austin. This was very insightful. I will be thinking about this throughout the day. It is a good heart check for all who take the study of God seriously. I think a paraphrase of Jesus’ statement sums this up best. “You study the scriptures because you think that in them you have life, but they are really talking about me”
Jeremy Nehf says:
January 29th, 2010 at 7:14 pm
hey, did you guys know that you can tie your blog to Facebook. Every time you post on your blog it sends it to Facebook as well. It’s a great way to build some momentum and encourage a community of thinkers. Blessings!
austin says:
January 29th, 2010 at 7:50 pm
How do you do that?
Jeremy Nehf says:
January 31st, 2010 at 9:45 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNc8JfLNQKA
If that video isn’t helpful, there are others on the side with the related videos section. Hope that is helpful!
Jeremiah Dusenberry says:
February 1st, 2010 at 12:18 pm
One of the reasons we fall into equational thinking is because we have not yet understood that Christ was the lamb that was slain BEFORE the foundations of the earth. The cross was not a point on a linear history line, but it is a demonstration that permeates all points of time. I am becoming more and more convinced of this every day. Paul was determined to preach nothing but Christ and Him crucified…
Jeremy Nehf says:
February 1st, 2010 at 5:20 pm
When man, through knowledge forgot God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching…. God gets a kick out of the irony of it all. Kinda funny that He amuses himself.
Jeremiah Dusenberry says:
February 8th, 2010 at 1:02 pm
LOL Brilliant observation Jeremy, I don’t think I have really noticed that in quite that light before…I love fellowship!