Darryl's Blog
Theology and the real world
I usually enjoy Bene's questions. Yesterday Bene asked one about a theological issue in the comments below:
This is so much it's own world, populated by it's own geeks, isn't it? The rest of us are headed straight to hell in all our ignorance. How does this concern translate to real-world other than paychecks for pastors?
I'm sure Bene isn't the only one to observe that many theological arguments are held among religious professionals, and seem to have no relevance to life. And yes, I am one of the geeks that Bene talks about.
Here's how I would answer. Help me out; I think my answer could be improved.
First, you're right. Many theological debates should be abandoned because they are what the Bible calls "unprofitable and useless" (Titus 3:9).
Second, good theology is always intensely practical. What we believe about God has very real implications for how we live. Theology shouldn't be for eggheads. It isn't for the theologians and academics. Theology is always in the service of the church - for the people who have to go out and make a living and do things that normal people do.
Third, I think when you say "real world" you're talking about everyday life. But good theology describes a world that is more real than what many people think of when they say "real world". What if theology describes the real world better than the newspaper?
I'd appreciate your comments on this one. Agree? Disagree? Anything else you would say?
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Bless your little black heart Darryl, I see you very much as a real life person first, geek second, :^) because I've had to opportunity to meet you.
We didn't get into a debate or discussion about paleo-baptism, cessasionists etc. We laughed, we shared, we ate, we accomodated, we were just kicked back and grateful for life - and I was in the company of the Church, my family of choice - and renewed. So you've made it possible to not be afraid to approach you in your field of expertise and ask.
I think the example you pointed out from Tim Challies was interesting, and he directs to a sub-set of people that find the sport of theological debate fufilling. (like arguing hockey stats)
You just asked a good question!
What if theology describes the real world better than a newspaper?
Newspapers source and report - if it leads it bleeds, so they tend to inflate life, focus on deviation from social norms a fair bit, and accept advertising to keep going. Past the headlines and the fold are the more day to day stories.
How does theology describe the real world better?
Some good thoughts, Bene.
I guess I'd say that if God exists, there is more to life than meets the eye. Theology, if done right, opens our eyes to what is real but is not seen.
Does that make sense?
Yes. I am genuinely curious and would like to hear what people say. Watching some debates, I think some theology can also close or blinker some eyes though.;^)
Theology (literally "the study of God") is the study of the doctrines of Scripture. There are ways in which some people approach theology that may hinder people from seeing truth, but we should not fault the theology for that. The doctrines that God put in the Scriptures for us to know cannot close or blinker the eyes. God put nothing in the Scriptures for us to ignore.
In the same Book that Darryl quotes as saying that certain theological debates should be abandoned it also states that error should be refuted with sound doctrine. (Titus 1:9)
In the debate that led Bene to make the remark that led to this conversation, the question relates to whether the Scriptures change as cultures do. That is hardly unrelated to the "real" world.
Who decides what is worthy of debate or what is relevant to the real world? God does - in the Scriptures. If we do not show its relevance to life then shame on us. But let us not fault the theology.
I love C.S. Lewis' book Mere Christianity. I just read it for like the 90th time. The chapter on Theology is brilliant.
The fact is that Theology is less then an experience of God. But without it you really haven't a hope of experiencing God. I'm not a pastor (good thing for Christendom), and I do love a good theology discussion. It helps me find God.
Rob
Some intellectual pursuits are best left to the intellectuals. They confuse the heck out of simple guys like myself.
Everybody does theology. You either do it well or poorly but everyone does it.
That's why we can't afford to leave it to the intellectuals. It's too important for that!
Okay, but then let's make it practical (relevant)and understandable for those of us who don't have a DMin. or a degree in Philosophy.
Using two dollar words and arguing non-essentials leaves me cold. I'd rather just go for a coffee with my pals.
I know, I know. That was your point as well.
"GOOD theology is intensely practical and for normal people..."
So, I am agreeing with you. Wonders will never cease!