Why Study Theology?

Why Study Theology?

Last week I argued that theology is for everybody. But what exactly is its purpose? I mean, why bother studying and thinking about God? Why can’t you just go to church on Sunday and trust what the preacher says and leave it at that? He’s the expert. He’s had highly specialized training in theology. What’s more, he’s a good guy and earnestly desires to steer you in the right direction.

The answer is that Jesus gave an order to teach believers to obey all that he commanded:

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20 ESV)

Along with the command to teach comes the responsibility to learn. Think about it. If Jesus wants us to teach everything he commanded, he also wants us to learn it. What are two or three things you can do to become a better learner of the things Jesus taught? You could buy a study Bible and begin using it. If you don’t already attend a Sunday School class you can start doing that. Another good idea would be to ask your pastor to recommend some good books on the Bible or theology. Think of some subject that interests you and ask him what resources he would recommend that will give you guidance and help on them. Yet another realistic goal is to attend church Sunday evening and Wednesday nights because your pastor teaches the word of God at those times as well as on Sunday mornings. All of these suggestions are easily doable and they will go a long way toward helping you learn all Jesus commanded so you can do your part to pass it on to others.