Why didn't God give us a systematic theology?
Here's a question inspired by some comments of Timothy Davis: why, if studying theology systematically is important and something we should do, didn't God give us a systematic theology? (No cheeky replies of 'He has!', please!)
posted by Daniel Hill | 6/28/2006 07:38:00 am
3 Comments:
Daniel,
I'll admit I've wondered this at times as well. Some doctrines, like the Trinity, are not spelled out but must be deduced from various parts of Scripture. Some passages are difficult to figure out.
We do know that Scripture gives us all the information that we need to know to be "adequate, (C)equipped for every good work."
If you're asking why God didn't write the Bible in the form of a systematic theology, I wonder if part of the answer is that God has chosen to reveal his truth through the medium of ordinary people in different ages. I suppose Paul could have written a systematic theology, or the disciples could have, but they were writing in their various contexts and for different audiences; i.e. Paul was writing his letters to different churches to address various needs as discuss appropriate parts of theology & practice. Also, of course, the "mystery" was gradually revealed throughout Scripture.
If, on the other hand, you're asking why God didn't inspire a separate systematic theology, my answer is: I don't know!! But at least we do know that He always has a good reason, and that the Scriptures contain all the knowledge that is adequate, even if not in systematic form...
That is a very philiosophical question ;), or should I say speculative.
Nonetheless God has chosen to reveal Himself through a progressive, historical revelation as He interacts with real people. The Bible is also varied for not being a shelf of textbooks as each writer provides his own "flavour". It makes it all a lot more exciting, engaging and less boring than if it were merely sys theo, etc. We also have our intellect stimulated through analysing Scripture, rather than having it all sorted-out for us.
Good points, Tim! I agree, Scripture is so rich and lively the way it is!
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