In Sunday school, as we began our study of doctrine, I gave some goals (I called it the aim of studying doctrine) that all Christians would do well to possess as they study doctrine. Let me elaborate a little on these points- offering some clarification and elucidation. We will just deal with the first one today. I might cover all of them...perhaps only a couple of them. We'll see.
1. Studying doctrine is important for every Christian because certain terminology aids the overall process of study. In other words, acquiring certain theological vocabulary becomes a major part of understanding a particular theological concept itself. Let me offer several practical ways this works.
First, if we are reading a commentary or book and a particular word is used (i.e. propitiation) one is able to understand what the author is talking about if we have taken the time to learn certain key terms. On the other hand, if we have not taken the time to learn theological vocabulary, then we have a difficult time even understanding an author's comments on a certain passage, or theological concept. It can even become dangerous to be completely unaware of certain terms because we might place our own definition on terms that we do not know the meaning of. If we do that, then we run the high risk of departing from the actual message being communicated.
Second, understanding theological vocabulary is important because it will help us communicate better. Let me offer an example. Suppose you are having a religious discussion with an unbeliever, and they ask us how it is that a sinner can be accepted before a holy God. If we are familiar with certain important theological terms, then we will naturally think of "justification". Now, we may or may not use the word "justification" as we explain to this unbeliever how a sinner is accepted before God (Personally, I would argue in the importance of using the term because it is a Biblical word). Nevertheless, we have that word pop into our mind naturally because we are familiar with the concept and the term that goes with it. This familiarity with theological jargon aids our communicative process. Simply put, knowing a theological concept is important (in fact its the most important thing!), but matching the concept with the proper word ought to be the goal. This will help us "think on our feet" better so that we can give a clear, thorough response to unbelievers or young Christians who ask us questions. On the other hand, it might be that we are having lively discussion in a small group Bible study. When those involved in the discussion are familiar with certain terms and concepts, they can more succinctly and accurately communicate their thoughts. This can make a small group atmosphere less confusing and more productive.
I say all of this, and then will close with a warning that appears to contradict everything I just said! Here is the warning: theological jargon should not intimidate others, nor be used to intimidate others. All of us have been in situations where we felt extremely uncomfortable. We all know what it is like to be at a party, family gathering, or a similar event as someone's guest. We don't know anyone but the person who brought us. People look at us funny, and we naturally feel out of place. We should not use theological vocabulary with the intent of intimidating others, or making them feel like they are a "guest" that is "out of place". Theological vocabulary used properly and with the right attitude will enhance our learning process. If it is used for any other reason, then we should be suspect. Personally, I have learned that people will be more willing to listen to your views on something if you use language that they can understand. In the same vein, using some terminology that is perhaps unfamiliar to many will peak the interest of many, and the very use of certain terms will result in the listener probing you for a definition. The result- they learn a new word and therefore probably have a better understanding of whatever topic it might be that you are discussing.
I say all of this, and then will close with a warning that appears to contradict everything I just said! Here is the warning: theological jargon should not intimidate others, nor be used to intimidate others. All of us have been in situations where we felt extremely uncomfortable. We all know what it is like to be at a party, family gathering, or a similar event as someone's guest. We don't know anyone but the person who brought us. People look at us funny, and we naturally feel out of place. We should not use theological vocabulary with the intent of intimidating others, or making them feel like they are a "guest" that is "out of place". Theological vocabulary used properly and with the right attitude will enhance our learning process. If it is used for any other reason, then we should be suspect. Personally, I have learned that people will be more willing to listen to your views on something if you use language that they can understand. In the same vein, using some terminology that is perhaps unfamiliar to many will peak the interest of many, and the very use of certain terms will result in the listener probing you for a definition. The result- they learn a new word and therefore probably have a better understanding of whatever topic it might be that you are discussing.
Not By Any Means Claiming to Have All the Answers,
Pastor Andy
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