In this inaugural session of the Systematic Theology series, Pastor Terrie Beede introduces the critical importance of Christian doctrine and theology, advocating for its study beyond mere rote memorization or the avoidance of "religion" in favor of a relationship with God. He defines theology as the study of God, narrowing Christian theology to the study of God as revealed in the Bible, encompassing His nature, character, and attributes. Drawing on Thomas Aquinas, Pastor Beede articulates that true theology is "taught by God, teaches of God, and leads to God," emphasizing its divine origin, focus, and relational outcome.
Pastor Beede critiques the modern tendency to relegate biblical interpretation and doctrine to a select group of "experts," particularly highlighting the proliferation of "practical ministries degrees" that may lack thorough biblical content. He firmly asserts that biblical literacy is the responsibility of every believer, not just pastors or scholars, and must include a deep understanding of biblical content, principles of interpretation, and doctrine.
The session then addresses the widespread issue of biblical illiteracy among professing Christians, citing Gallup surveys that reveal low daily Bible reading, common belief in non-biblical sayings, and a lack of a biblical worldview as a basis for decision-making. Pastor Beede attributes this decline to a results-oriented, technologically advanced yet mentally and philosophically shallow society preoccupied with self-gratification and entertainment, where reading and learning are often viewed as "work" rather than pastime. He also points to the pervasive influence of relativism, which demotivates the pursuit of truth by suggesting nothing is truly knowable, leading to a decline in critical thinking and an uncritical acceptance of perceived "experts".
Pastor Beede contrasts this societal trend with the biblical mandate in Deuteronomy 6:6-9, where every Israelite was commanded to diligently teach God's word to their children, making it an inseparable part of daily life and community. He stresses that studying scripture requires effort, as it involves reclaiming lost knowledge and contending with spiritual opposition. The diligent study of God's word, he explains, cultivates a robust worldview, sharpens analytical skills, and fosters spiritual transformation, ultimately leading to a more abundant life as described in John 10:10.
Finally, Pastor Beede outlines five key areas of theology:
1. Theology Proper: The specific study of God's nature and character, including the Trinity.
2. Biblical Theology: The study of doctrines as presented within specific books or testaments of the Bible, respecting individual authors' intent.
3. Historical Theology: An examination of how doctrines have been understood and developed throughout church history, serving as a safeguard against novel interpretations.
4. Practical Theology: The application of theological truths to daily life, with a caution against divorcing behavior from foundational doctrine.
5. Systematic Theology: The organized arrangement of all biblical teaching into a coherent system, drawing from the other theological disciplines, while acknowledging the human limitation in fully grasping God's infinite mind.
The session concludes by introducing Calvary Chapel of Milwaukee's Statement of Faith as a practical starting point, noting its common elements with other systematic theologies and its deliberate omissions to allow for liberty in "doubtful matters" where alternate, equally scriptural viewpoints exist. It establishes fundamental presuppositions: the existence and knowability of truth, and that God has revealed Himself through the 66 books of the Bible.