Whenever the word “Theology” is mentioned, images of the seminary, thick theological books, Greek and Hebrew terms, as well as other highfalutin expressions belly as much as one’s mind. It appears as if “Theology” is available the “holy ones”, the “chosen ones”, along with the intellectuals. Should you be accustomed to the writings of Karl Barth, Martin Luther, Augustine, and so forth, you’re close to inner close to the inner circle of biblical scholars.
A lot more when you can speak their language and is able to produce an academically accepted theological work. I have already been students of the Bible School and Theological seminary. Both institutions have reduced the problem to possess deeper insight to Church History, Systematic Theology and Biblical backgrounds. Yet even midst the teachings and classroom discussions, questions still roam in my mind. Are these true? Don’t do not understand. I am a firm believer that the Bible is the sole authority over life. I believe that the Bible is the Word of God. But being a regular mortal, I am caught relating to the arena of reality and faith, and bridging the visible difference from one to the other is a pretty mental and spiritual feat. Yet, I believe, too that God’s Spirit and charm reaches try to teach us beyond just what the mind can not comprehend.
Theology means the study of God, from the Greek word “Theos” (God) and “logos” (study of). Based on such, does is signify Theology be learned? Can God be grasped through the human mind? Can God be described by just words? If one carries a doctorate degree in Theology, would which means that that, that person already a strong grasped of God Himself?
I have met professors of various degrees, i have met simple folks with simple thoughts. Yet, comparing about how they view God and express who God is to them, the previous (most, but not all) could have a mouthful of jargon of expressions in the books… a Greek word there… a Hebrew term there… leaving her or his listeners at decrease in space. Alternatively, aforementioned, the easy ones, would discuss about it practical things they’ve got experienced of God’s character. If for the children God is great, they speak of how God offers for them or has provided them positive things.
From whom would I listen more, to the academician or individual who has got the practical experience? It’s a common proclaiming that “Experience is the better teacher.” Theory would only remain a theory unless it’s proven true by experiments or by real experience. In other words, Theology would just be mere concept of God, unless one has a true experience with that truth about God.
God is definitely real, but unless that reality transcends your brain and is also familiar with everyday situations, the conviction of these truth wouldn’t go deep in one’s heart and soul, and neither he or she could convince others to imagine in such truth.