Paul Derengowski, PhD
The word theology itself is a compound Greek word consisting of the words theos (God) and logos (word). When combined they carry the connotations of word, study, or discussion about God. Nevertheless, as Beeke points out, “The word theology does not appear in the Bible. The closest we may come is the Greek terminology behind the biblical phrase ‘oracles of God’ (logia theou, 1 Pet. 4:11; cf. Rom. 3:2; Heb. 5:12), a description of the Bible as the prophetic Word of God.”((Joel R. Beeke and Paul M. Smalley, Reformed Systematic Theology (Wheaton: Crossway [2019]): 1.40.))
Others have proffered similar definitions. Michael Horton wrote, “Theology simply means ‘the study of God,’ and doctrine means ‘teaching.’ Since the main message of Scripture is the unfolding mystery of Christ, who reveals his Father, and reconciles us to him, theology is a central concern of every believer.”1
Douglas F. Kelly tells us that, “The living God has made Himself known. That is the basic meaning of ‘Theology….” He added, “To know God, we must start our inquiry at the very place where He has chosen to make Himself known,” namely in the Bible and in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ.((Douglas F. Kelly, Systematic Theology, 3 vols. (Scotland, Great Britain: Christian Focus Publications, 2021 reprint): 1.13.)) I would add that God has also made himself known in his creation. More on that later.
Lastly, but certainly not least, as dozens upon dozens of examples could be provided to clarify what is meant by theology, Millard J. Erickson offered the following definition: “A good preliminary or basic definition of theology is ‘the study or science of God,'” which would “include God’s works and his relationship with them. Thus theology will also seek to understand God’s creation, particularly human beings and their condition, and God’s redemptive working in relation to humankind.”((Millard J. Erickson, Christian Theology, 2nd ed. (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1988): 22.))
Therefore, theology is the science or study of God, as one peruses the Holy Scriptures that God has provided as revelation about himself. Of course, in a general way, that scientific study also encompasses the natural or created order. But, more specifically it deals with the words that God has used to describe who he is in relation to human beings created in God’s image.
- Michael Horton, The Christian Faith (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2011): 13. [↩]