There was a time when theology was widely regarded as the first and foremost science. It makes sense as the existence and nature of God have a serious effect on the shape of every other study. Indeed, adopting certain theological presuppositions makes the whole idea of a science ridiculous. Then, too, theology is the most unavoidable science. We can go our whole lives without thinking seriously about physics, chemistry, or even biology, but at some point, each of us has to make some concrete hypothesis about God. Sadly, theology has been forced off the throne of scientific endeavor and even removed from the life of local churches. There are encouraging signs that theology is gaining in popularity amongst conservative evangelicals, but it remains on the fringes of academia and culture. One result, or perhaps it is a cause, of this is that the terminology of theology is not well understood. Some of the languages can be intimidating and even worrisome. That includes the term “theology” itself. Theology translates to the study of God. Theologians (one who studies theology) engage with other topics related to the study of God, such as the Church, human spirituality, and what happens after death. The various topics covered in the field of theology are often called doctrines, which simply means teachings. The doctrine of God (or theology proper) is the teaching about who God is and what He has done.
Different Types of Theology
There is much to be gained from doing theology well, and much to be lost in doing it poorly. This writer’s purpose is to compel the reader to do theology rightly and well, and to appreciate it as the subject of the utmost importance, impact, and therefore worth. We wish to raise the estimation of the field in the daily lives of our brothers and sisters for their good and God’s glory. We pray that as you read this article, the goodness of the discipline becomes clear, and the discipline itself becomes more welcoming. Beloved, we write you an invitation which echoes the great invitation of the Lord and Savior.
There are many areas of inquiry in theology; Christology is the study of Christ, Pneumatology is the study of the Holy Spirit, Ecclesiology is the study of the Church, Eschatology is the study of final things, just to name a few. Each one could, and has, occupied a lifetime of scholarship.
There are different ways of approaching theology, each one investigating the Biblical revelation in its own way. Each approach has value, but the best results are achieved when all approaches are used in concert. That is to say, pursuing any one approach to the neglect of the others is ill advised.
Systematic Theology
It compiles all the Bible’s statements on a particular topic and condenses them into a coherent doctrine. It moves doctrine by doctrine to build a comprehensive understanding of the faith. For this reason, Systematic Theology has been most prominent in the life of the Church as it provides a clear roadmap for learning and understanding the teachings of the Scriptures and how they relate to one another.
A systematic theologian might write a paper titled. “How the Hypostatic Union of Christ Made Possible the Atonement.” In our analogy of the National Park from earlier, the systematic theologian would be building and maintaining paths and programs that led us all across the landscape to trace out the grand features that appear everywhere.
Some noteworthy works in systematic theology include the various creeds and confessions of the Church, as well as:
- Anselm’s Why God Became Man
- Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion
- A.W. Pink’s The Attributes of God
- R.C. Sproul’s The Holiness of God
- Wayne Grudem’s Introduction to Systematic Theology
Among countless others.
Historical Theology
It examines how understandings and interpretations of Biblical doctrines have developed throughout church history. While this might seem a purely academic pursuit, historical theology can be very practical as it shows us where we have been biased by previous interpretations and misinterpretations of the Scriptures.
Historical theology also reminds us of what has been important to the faith throughout its many trials and tribulations. A historical theologian might author a work called, “Christology in 70’s America; What the Jesus People Thought of Jesus.” In our park example, the historical theology would maintain and refurbish the older paths and structures, keeping the legacy of past works alive and accessible. They would close off errant paths that led into dangerous terrain.
Church history is sadly neglected outside of academics, enthusiasts, and professional ministers. Gregg R. Allison’s Introduction to Historical Theology (a companion to Grudem’s systematic theology)is a good introduction to this approach. Jesus Made in America by Stephen J. Nichols is a very accessible and (for our audience) relevant work in the field.
Biblical Theology
It seeks to understand the theology of individual portions of the text. Despite its name, it is no more or less Biblical than other approaches. Drawing out what one author teaches us about a particular doctrine can help us to see the development of that doctrine as God’s Revelation unfolds. A Biblical Theologian might publish an article like, “The person of Christ in the book of Daniel.” In the park analogy, Biblical theologians would remark on specific features and areas within the park.
Jim Hamilton’s book God’s Glory in Salvation Through Judgment is an excellent place to start in this approach. Other works dedicated to particular books or sections of Scripture can be very helpful in deepening our appreciation of God’s Word.
Applied, or Practical Theology
It is concerned with implementing sound doctrine in everyday life, especially in the life of the local church. This field is particularly challenging as it must translate understanding into action. An applied theologian might present, “The Trinity Every Sunday; How the triune Nature of god should shape our weekly worship.” The applied theologian would be everywhere in the park, working to make our time fruitful and safe.
Any book on marriage or family written from a Biblically sound perspective constitutes a work on applied theology, so books on particular practical issues such as depression, finances, or prayer also fall within this category.
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- The Different Types of Theology in Christianity: An Introduction - June 8, 2025
- Where Does Theology Come From? A Bible-Based Introduction - June 8, 2025
- Learn & Grow in the Lord: Why is it Important to Study Theology? - June 8, 2025
