Theology vs. the Bible

[Anchorite]

Round and round we go, where it stops, nobody knows.

Theology can freeze the mind into a rigid pattern that seduces and imprisons thought, so that any different viewpoint is not prayerfully pondered, but is instantly rejected and renounced.

We are safer by studying the Bible, with occasional reference to commentaries, instead of devouring and adhering to a system of hermeneutics as though it was the ultimate, infallible, comprehensive truth.

The real danger is exalting theology above the Word of God and elevating a theologian above the Savior.

We may like and agree with much in a certain theology, but we must retain the resilience to question and reject any elements that seem to contradict the scriptures.

“How can this system or preacher be so right about so many things, yet be so wrong about other things?” is the troubling question that lingers unpleasantly. So we trust God and know that in heaven all will be perfectly clear and resolved…forever.

Some of the most popular and prominent pastors and youth leaders have fallen in shame. Their followers are in confusion and dismay. They begin to question the whole package. It is just an aspect of the battleground we have entered when we became Christians.

Which goes back to my persistent woe that burdens me: I wish every church, every denomination, was just a slight variation on the one true gospel.

I wish it was easier to find a place where the salvation message was foremost, sanctification was taken seriously, genuine love prevailed, and evangelism was practiced joyfully. A sanctimonious country club has often replaced the church. People figure out how to play the game of church and fit in smoothly. But not much that is truly spiritual is going on.

Sadly, some institutions and systems are apostate, abusive, abhorrent. I wish we could walk into any church or seminary and enjoy the fellowship and teaching of true believers. Often, the tares seem to overwhelm the wheat. In some cases, it seems like there is nothing but tares.

 

[TitusTwoWife]

People figure out how to play the game of church and fit in smoothly. But not much that is truly spiritual is going on.

Sadly true.

But true worshippers don't need a set time or building. We're always worshipping God by presenting our lives as a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to God.

 

[Anchorite]

Sadly true.

But true worshippers don't need a set time or building. We're always worshipping God by presenting our lives as a living sacrifice holy and acceptable to God.

Fantastic remark, sister!

 

[stevesonthebay]

The verse "be still and know that I am God" comes to mind. Thats when I think we come to know God and His word. When we block all the white noise of differing opinions and listen to the master.

Its hard because it seems the questioning is getting louder. Everything is being reimagined and its hard to know or hear the truth. But I think its there and if you really listen it is quite loud and clear. I don't know why people disagree about Christs truth.

Paul said we should be of one mind and spirit. That to me means if we are in Christ we should be pretty well on the same page. I don't mean the trappings of religion but the core teachings and truths.

I think we are living in challenging times as far as Christs church is. I think not for a long time and perhaps never has there been a time where the church has become like the world. Where its hard to see a clear seperation. Theres plenty of talk fests about how we should be as a church. But still I don't think its clear in practice.

I sort of like the traditional Mass. Some are better than others. But one that speaks little about politics or social issues and just acts out Christs last supper, With some bible verses and a bit of a song and praise. Thats it.

In saying that I think there are smaller gatherings around a kitchen table or in a local house church where the true spirit of Christ can be present.

I am disabled so I don't get to go as much as I would like. But I do go to a local small church that helps the homeless. I think this is where you see Christ at work which I relate to more.

I have been thinking about this and why we don't see some sort of spiritual awakening where Gods spirit brings people together to overcome their differences. I think there is some sort of spiritual uprising happening and especially with this generation who have seen all the problems of the past.

I think when it gets to the point where its hard for people to clearly see God. God will do something. He will awaken people and give them a push in the right direction. Maybe bring a prophet or preacher that cuts through all the white noise. Or some event that wakes people up. Reproves their faith.

 

[Rockerduck]

The biggest problem is lack of bible knowledge today that previous generations had, because Church's don't teach it. The next biggest problem is how Church's today entertain rather than worship like the previous generations did.

 

[Wrangler]

Theology can freeze the mind into a rigid pattern that seduces and imprisons thought, so that any different viewpoint is not prayerfully pondered, but is instantly rejected and renounced.

We are safer by studying the Bible, with occasional reference to commentaries, instead of devouring and adhering to a system of hermeneutics as though it was the ultimate, infallible, comprehensive truth.
....
I wish we could walk into any church or seminary and enjoy the fellowship and teaching of true believers. Often, the tares seem to overwhelm the wheat. In some cases, it seems like there is nothing but tares.

You can enjoy the fellowship and teaching of true believers at any church or seminary. It's your choice NOT to live joyfully.

Your problem is you hold people to your idea of a theological purity test, which few pass. Scripture says to love such people anyway for that's the only kind there are, people who don't have it all together in one way or another. Maybe they those who have their theology right, put it into practice wrong, etc.

 

[JimKnox]

Round and round we go, where it stops, nobody knows.

Theology can freeze the mind into a rigid pattern that seduces and imprisons thought, so that any different viewpoint is not prayerfully pondered, but is instantly rejected and renounced.

We are safer by studying the Bible, with occasional reference to commentaries, instead of devouring and adhering to a system of hermeneutics as though it was the ultimate, infallible, comprehensive truth.

The real danger is exalting theology above the Word of God and elevating a theologian above the Savior.

We may like and agree with much in a certain theology, but we must retain the resilience to question and reject any elements that seem to contradict the scriptures.

“How can this system or preacher be so right about so many things, yet be so wrong about other things?” is the troubling question that lingers unpleasantly. So we trust God and know that in heaven all will be perfectly clear and resolved…forever.

Some of the most popular and prominent pastors and youth leaders have fallen in shame. Their followers are in confusion and dismay. They begin to question the whole package. It is just an aspect of the battleground we have entered when we became Christians.

Which goes back to my persistent woe that burdens me: I wish every church, every denomination, was just a slight variation on the one true gospel.

I wish it was easier to find a place where the salvation message was foremost, sanctification was taken seriously, genuine love prevailed, and evangelism was practiced joyfully. A sanctimonious country club has often replaced the church. People figure out how to play the game of church and fit in smoothly. But not much that is truly spiritual is going on.

Sadly, some institutions and systems are apostate, abusive, abhorrent. I wish we could walk into any church or seminary and enjoy the fellowship and teaching of true believers. Often, the tares seem to overwhelm the wheat. In some cases, it seems like there is nothing but tares.

Apparently nobody has taught you that "theology" is the study of God.
The fact you are complaining about it demonstrates you are still quite young in the faith and still have need of the "milk of the word" and can not handle "strong meat". (Heb 5:11-15) and (Heb 4:12).

If you wish, I can help you via DM.

 

[Angelina]

Such a flippant and arrogant post. I hope you will do better as you spend more time here.

 

[Anchorite]

Apparently nobody has taught you that "theology" is the study of God.
The fact you are complaining about it demonstrates you are still quite young in the faith and still have need of the "milk of the word" and can not handle "strong meat". (Heb 5:11-15) and (Heb 4:12).

If you wish, I can help you via DM.

I study God through His written Word.

I also study the writings of various Bible teachers.

I will not presume to guess how spiritually mature or immature you may be, but as you progress in the faith, you will likely encounter some of the issues I raised in my post.

 

[shepherdsword]

Apparently nobody has taught you that "theology" is the study of God.
The fact you are complaining about it demonstrates you are still quite young in the faith and still have need of the "milk of the word" and can not handle "strong meat". (Heb 5:11-15) and (Heb 4:12).

If you wish, I can help you via DM.

Anchorite has been around for a few months. I enjoy his posts and have found them to be sound and mature. His position on the "church" shows me, that like myself and others, he has been around enough to see the superficial and deceptive aspects of the typical church meeting as well as the shallowness of many believers. I marvel that you are so wise that you can judge his entire spiritual state by one post. You must really be SUPER mature!

Blessings

 

[Rockerduck]

Apparently nobody has taught you that "theology" is the study of God.
The fact you are complaining about it demonstrates you are still quite young in the faith and still have need of the "milk of the word" and can not handle "strong meat". (Heb 5:11-15) and (Heb 4:12).

If you wish, I can help you via DM.

Now your lack of meat on Theology is that many use study bibles and treat the author's words as infallible. Then point an error to the pastor who doesn't use study bibles and he uses just the word of God, and the pastors library is at home. That's a danger to a theologists thought that bring the whole counsel of God into preaching. So do you study RC Spruill's reformed theology, John MacArthur's dispensationist's theology, or maybe Arminian theology, or Charismatic Theology? Study the written word of God the way the Holy Spirit intended and not from a theology of opposition.

 

[Triumph1300]

Apparently nobody has taught you that "theology" is the study of God.

Yes "the Study of God".
Yes the fact is that "theologians" study a lot.

But many are missing out on the "guidance by the Holy Spirit".
And without the Holy Spirit's guidance all they have is head knowledge which produces nothing.

 

[David in NJ]

Round and round we go, where it stops, nobody knows.

Theology can freeze the mind into a rigid pattern that seduces and imprisons thought, so that any different viewpoint is not prayerfully pondered, but is instantly rejected and renounced.

We are safer by studying the Bible, with occasional reference to commentaries, instead of devouring and adhering to a system of hermeneutics as though it was the ultimate, infallible, comprehensive truth.

The real danger is exalting theology above the Word of God and elevating a theologian above the Savior.

We may like and agree with much in a certain theology, but we must retain the resilience to question and reject any elements that seem to contradict the scriptures.

“How can this system or preacher be so right about so many things, yet be so wrong about other things?” is the troubling question that lingers unpleasantly. So we trust God and know that in heaven all will be perfectly clear and resolved…forever.

Some of the most popular and prominent pastors and youth leaders have fallen in shame. Their followers are in confusion and dismay. They begin to question the whole package. It is just an aspect of the battleground we have entered when we became Christians.

Which goes back to my persistent woe that burdens me: I wish every church, every denomination, was just a slight variation on the one true gospel.

I wish it was easier to find a place where the salvation message was foremost, sanctification was taken seriously, genuine love prevailed, and evangelism was practiced joyfully. A sanctimonious country club has often replaced the church. People figure out how to play the game of church and fit in smoothly. But not much that is truly spiritual is going on.

Sadly, some institutions and systems are apostate, abusive, abhorrent. I wish we could walk into any church or seminary and enjoy the fellowship and teaching of true believers. Often, the tares seem to overwhelm the wheat. In some cases, it seems like there is nothing but tares.

EXCELLENT Post = Thank You

Can i use this on another forum = credit goes to you as i will say: "Quote from our Brother Anchorite"

 

[Anchorite]

EXCELLENT Post = Thank You

Can i use this on another forum = credit goes to you as i will say: "Quote from our Brother Anchorite"

Yes, you may.

 

[Brakelite]

I'm sorry, but isn't theology the study of God using scripture? How can we have theology versus scripture, if one is based on the other? Aaaah you say. How many differing and contradictory theologies are out there? I say innumerable. So what therefore has gone wrong? Us. So there's nothing wrong with theology as a study, and there's nothing wrong with scripture as the foundation. What created the contradictions is people, people coming to the scriptures with
A. The intent to prove a preconceived idea or...
B. Refer to A.
In other words, we come to scripture and don't believe what we are reading there. So devise a system to support our ego and pride and think we can out-think the holy Spirit. Gone are the days when true bible students would spend all night and all day in study and prayer. Would read and study until the meaning is clear and in harmony with the rest of scripture. Would take ALL scripture where it dwells on the same topic, comparing scripture with scripture, until the big picture is developed and produces a traceable line of thought and reason leading to harmonious understanding.
Today we go to you tube videos and take the quickest shortcuts we can find. Even the videos we watch are less than 15 minutes long and accept that as Bible study. Gone are the days for the most part when Christians believed that through the hearing of the word are we made holy. That we are sanctified through the truth. We follow bible study guides (which in some cases can be very good) and refuse to question and study for ourselves as did the Bereans. Or we attend a seminary, bible college, or university created by a specific line of hermeneutic (aka Dallas, Trinity, Liberty etc) and become inculcated in error.
Best to start at home. Spend real genuine time in prayer. Then study. And pray. Be sincere. God has promised to lead sincere seekers to truth. When you have a reasonable handle on scriptures with our your preconceived theories and ideas impeding and playing interference, pray again and study more. Then find a church that reflects best what you've found. Over time you may well discover you were wrong on certain points. Or you think the church you joined is wrong on more deeper issues than you previously studied. Then you can discuss. Pray together. Be willing to admit where you've gone wrong. Keep searching, keep praying, don't stop until heaven. You have all eternity to find the deeper things of God. We won't find them all here.

 

[Brakelite]

I'm sorry, but isn't theology the study of God using scripture? How can we have theology versus scripture, if one is based on the other? Aaaah you say. How many differing and contradictory theologies are out there? I say innumerable. So what therefore has gone wrong? Us. So there's nothing wrong with theology as a study, and there's nothing wrong with scripture as the foundation. What created the contradictions is people, people coming to the scriptures with
A. The intent to prove a preconceived idea or...
B. Refer to A.
In other words, we come to scripture and don't believe what we are reading there. So devise a system to support our ego and pride and think we can out-think the holy Spirit. Gone are the days when true bible students would spend all night and all day in study and prayer. Would read and study until the meaning is clear and in harmony with the rest of scripture. Would take ALL scripture where it dwells on the same topic, comparing scripture with scripture, until the big picture is developed and produces a traceable line of thought and reason leading to harmonious understanding.
Today we go to you tube videos and take the quickest shortcuts we can find. Even the videos we watch are less than 15 minutes long and accept that as Bible study. Gone are the days for the most part when Christians believed that through the hearing of the word are we made holy. That we are sanctified through the truth. We follow bible study guides (which in some cases can be very good) and refuse to question and study for ourselves as did the Bereans. Or we attend a seminary, bible college, or university created by a specific line of hermeneutic (aka Dallas, Trinity, Liberty etc) and become inculcated in error.
Best to start at home. Spend real genuine time in prayer. Then study. And pray. Be sincere. God has promised to lead sincere seekers to truth. When you have a reasonable handle on scriptures with our your preconceived theories and ideas impeding and playing interference, pray again and study more. Then find a church that reflects best what you've found. Over time you may well discover you were wrong on certain points. Or you think the church you joined is wrong on more deeper issues than you previously studied. Then you can discuss. Pray together. Be willing to admit where you've gone wrong. Keep searching, keep praying, don't stop until heaven. You have all eternity to find the deeper things of God. We won't find them all here.

With all that said, we need to bear in mind that many learned and godly men and women have gone before us, and have much to teach us. We will never ever read everything that everyone has written on any particular topic. But we can read some, discuss those studies among our family and friends, and come to a conclusion that may or may not gel with the original author. So we take what we believe is right and discard the rest. And ask God that we be held accountable for what we settle on as truth, and to shut us up if what we want to teach others is error. Whether shut up by counter arguments from our listeners, or by the Holy Spirit, doesn't matter so long as truth prevails and God is glorified.

 

[Rockerduck]

Read what the bible says and not what you want it to say.

 

[Stumpmaster]

With all that said, we need to bear in mind that many learned and godly men and women have gone before us, and have much to teach us. We will never ever read everything that everyone has written on any particular topic. But we can read some, discuss those studies among our family and friends, and come to a conclusion that may or may not gel with the original author. So we take what we believe is right and discard the rest. And ask God that we be held accountable for what we settle on as truth, and to shut us up if what we want to teach others is error. Whether shut up by counter arguments from our listeners, or by the Holy Spirit, doesn't matter so long as truth prevails and God is glorified.

Ahh, those wonderful hours engrossed in God's Word.

There are various study methods. Teachers in the body of Christ are, indeed ordained by Him, and our own studies help us to discern whether the Word is being treated by an approved method and in an approved manner.

1Corinthians11:19 For there must also be factions among you, that those who are approved may be recognized among you.
1Thessalonians 2:4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.
2Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth

 

[Wrangler]

I'm sorry, but isn't theology the study of God using scripture?

No. Theology > Scripture, in terms of being more general. All religious texts fall under theology.

Even those theologies based on Scripture expand beyond the text. This is why there are doctrinal differences among the various denominations.

 

[amigo de christo]

Round and round we go, where it stops, nobody knows.

Theology can freeze the mind into a rigid pattern that seduces and imprisons thought, so that any different viewpoint is not prayerfully pondered, but is instantly rejected and renounced.

We are safer by studying the Bible, with occasional reference to commentaries, instead of devouring and adhering to a system of hermeneutics as though it was the ultimate, infallible, comprehensive truth.

The real danger is exalting theology above the Word of God and elevating a theologian above the Savior.

We may like and agree with much in a certain theology, but we must retain the resilience to question and reject any elements that seem to contradict the scriptures.

“How can this system or preacher be so right about so many things, yet be so wrong about other things?” is the troubling question that lingers unpleasantly. So we trust God and know that in heaven all will be perfectly clear and resolved…forever.

Some of the most popular and prominent pastors and youth leaders have fallen in shame. Their followers are in confusion and dismay. They begin to question the whole package. It is just an aspect of the battleground we have entered when we became Christians.

Which goes back to my persistent woe that burdens me: I wish every church, every denomination, was just a slight variation on the one true gospel.

I wish it was easier to find a place where the salvation message was foremost, sanctification was taken seriously, genuine love prevailed, and evangelism was practiced joyfully. A sanctimonious country club has often replaced the church. People figure out how to play the game of church and fit in smoothly. But not much that is truly spiritual is going on.

Sadly, some institutions and systems are apostate, abusive, abhorrent. I wish we could walk into any church or seminary and enjoy the fellowship and teaching of true believers. Often, the tares seem to overwhelm the wheat. In some cases, it seems like there is nothing but tares.

The key is , let us read the lovely scriptures for ourselves and to keep being refreshed daily in them and in p rayer .
Cause its a madhouse now with all these d iffering opinions .
By which if you notice these differing opinions closely they are always
twisting the scripture to fit something man taught and not GOD .
You would be amazed at how simply reading the bible , the le tters as a whole ,
not trying to do so through the lens of some denominatoin or teaching ,
BuT rather just enjoying them , How quickly things can become clearer and clearer .
I have long avoided this so called know ye greek ,hermes and exgegis crowd .
Cause i noticed something they all do . THEY twist the scrips by it to imply something they were indoctrindated
to beleive was true .
AND oh yes they can often speak many truths and yet still know not THE TRUTH .
that is how it works .
Always the blend of truth and a lie . And yes they have some things right , but some are so deadly wrong .
Thus the more WE learn the scrips and enjoy them for ourselves , THE FAR FAR BETTER off we are my friend .