William Ames once defined systematic theology as “the science of living unto God.” More broadly, it is the study of God and all things in relation to God. These definitions highlight the esteemed status systematic theology once held. It was known as the queen of the sciences, and every other academic field yielded its service to the pursuit of theological inquiry. However, this has not been the case lately.

Thankfully, systematic theology is enjoying a resurgence. The abysmal darkness of secularism and skepticism offers only further despair and longing. Christians who once were drawn to church because it offered “self-help,” encouragement, or moral therapeutic deism are recognizing they realy needed and wanted God himself rather than just some blessings convenient to their contemporary situation. After all, Jesus said, “This is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (Jn 17:3). Why not then spend your days in the contemplation/knowing of God? We could say this is what the life of a theologians is about, but really this should be the life of every Christian–the pursuit of knowing, loving, and sharing God.

What Happened to Systematic Theology?

The neglect and/or rejection of systematic theology stems from several influences.

The Link Between Inspiration of the Scriptures and Systematic Theology

It is important to recognize the link between systematic theology and the doctrine of inspiration. The appreciation of systematic theology often rises and falls with individual’s doctrine of inspiration. As universities and congregations downgraded or rejected the inspiration of Scripture, the authority of “thus saith the Lord” became insignificant and was often replaced with human intuition. Systematic theology holds little importance for those who do not believe God has spoken in Scripture.

Narrative Rather Than Systematic Propositional Truth

Some who maintain belief in inspiration argue that systematic theology should be abandoned because the Scriptures are not systematically revealed. Instead, God chose to reveal Himself in narrative, and we should learn about God in narrative forms rather than propositional statements of doctrine. Others claim we shouldn’t pursue systematic theology because we can’t perfectly know God or agree on what He has said. If we can’t agree on God’s revelations about Himself or what we must do, then maybe we should avoid doctrine and focus on practice.

Not Based on Scripture?

Another critique is that systematic theology isn’t biblical enough. Unfortunately, theologians sometimes fail to base their work on Scripture exegesis, creating the impression that theology is historically developed from philosophy rather than Scripture.

Should We Return to Systematic Theology?

Should we pursue systematic theology? As a systematic theologian, I recognize my bias, but I believe systematic theology should regain its rightful status in both academia and the church.

Scripture Implies Theological Work

Systematic theology is necessary, given the Christian responsibilities outlined in Scripture. Jude 3 tells us to “defend the faith once and for all delivered to the saints.” 1 John is written, in part, so that we may know Jesus came in the flesh—a theological truth referred to as the incarnation and hypostatic union, which was a salvation issue. Paul said, “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of Christ” (Rom 10:17). We are doing theology when we share “the word of Christ,” explain what it means, and apply it to someone’s life. 2 Timothy 4:1–5 requires God’s people to “preach the word” and refute error, which necessitates doing theology.

We Are All Already Theologians

We are already engaging in systematic theology. We are all theologians: we think about God, tell others about Him, and express our beliefs about what others should do. The question is whether we will do it well and welcome training to improve.

We Need Theology To Become Christians

It is impossible to become a Christian without systematic theology. Few of us realize we are doing theology when we become Christians, but our conversions are deeply theological. Becoming a Christian involves an awareness of who God is and who He isn’t. Faith requires believing something (the faith) about someone (Father, Son, and Spirit). How would one obey the Gospel without understanding what it is? How would one live out the Gospel without knowing what that entails?

We Need Theology to Function As Christians

It is impossible to be a Christian without engaging in systematic theology at some level. This may seem bold, but consider the following questions: What did you mean when you confessed your faith in Christ? If someone asked, “What must I do to be saved?” what would you tell them? What is the Lord’s Supper? What does God require of His people?

We Need Theology to Understand One Doctrine and All Doctrines

Focusing on one doctrine to the exclusion of others is unhealthy. Systematic theology helps us understand that every doctrine shapes and is shaped by every other doctrine. No doctrine should be pursued in isolation, lest our doctrinal positions become deformed.

We Need Theology to Worship

Finally, systematic theology should always lead to doxology or worship. Learning about God compels us to adore Him. The better we understand God with our minds, the more we will love Him with our hearts. As we focus on God by being well-trained and active theologians, we “bring every thought captive to Christ.”

Conclusion

We are all theologians. Let us strive to be the best we can be. To embrace systematic theology is to equip yourselves with deep engagement of Scriptures and your walk of faith. Systematic theology offers a framework for understanding the interconnectedness of biblical truths and helps us articulate what we believe and why. As we grow in our theological knowledge, we are better prepared to fulfill our Christian responsibilities, defend our faith, and live out the Gospel. Systematic theology enriches our worship and deepens our love for God, transforming our minds and hearts. Let us pursue this the study of God and all things in relation to God so we will be better able to live unto God with diligence and humility.