Definition of Theology

I figure the best way to start a blog which will be mainly theological in nature is to define the word “theology”.

<Short version>

My definition of theology is the study of God, through academic means, prayer,  personal reflection, reading of non-academic books on theology (such as those written by C.S. Lewis or Jacques Philippe) , reading Papal encyclicals, reading forums on apologetics, reading books or columns by religious writers, or any other similar method.  For me, anyway that I get to know God better is theology.

May God’s blessings be upon all,

<Long version>

The etymology of the word theology is theos (God) and logos (word).  However, there are many ways to define and use the word theology.  St. Anselm defined theology as, “faith seeking understanding”.  Dr. Fisher Humpries, author and professor of Theology at Samford University, uses theology to mean “Thinking about God”.  It can also be defined as, “A response we make to God” or “The study of what theologians are writing”.    [1]

Theology can be either academic or folk.  Academic theology concentrates on the intellectual side of theology. It involves the study of history, involves critical thinking (questioning assumptions), it is articulate, and is generally not internalized.  Folk theology is a more personal theology.  It is internalized and diverse. It is the theology of language, prayer, and witness.  [1]

Theology can also be defined as a way of loving God with our minds (Deut 6:5, Matt 22:37, Psalm 111:22)

My definition of theology is the study of God, through academic means, prayer,  personal reflection, reading of non-academic books on theology (such as those written by C.S. Lewis or Jacques Philippe) , reading Papal encyclicals, reading forums on apologetics, reading books or columns by religious writers, or any other similar method.  For me, anyway that I get to know God better is theology.

May God’s blessings be upon all,

[1] Dr. Fisher Humphries, Survey of Christian Theology, Spring Hill College, 08/30/2009.