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Why Systematic Theology?. Example: race & racism. What is Theology?. Three main approaches. Biblical Theology Historical Theology Systematic Theology. Systematic Theology. The Bible is the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16)
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Why Systematic Theology? Example: race & racism
Three main approaches • Biblical Theology • Historical Theology • Systematic Theology
Systematic Theology • The Bible is the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16) • We should accept no doctrine until we are satisfied that it is what the whole Bible teaches on a particular topic. • Acts 20:27
Systematic Theology enables us to: • Arrive at understandings that are not explicitly or clearly taught in any individual Bible passages (e.g. The Trinity). • Consider complementary doctrines at the same time, in order to have a balanced biblical view. • Produce summaries of Christian teaching which guard against misunderstanding & false teaching. • Assess the accuracy & importance of various doctrinal views, especially novel ones. • Enables us to grow in grace. (1 Timothy 6:3 & Titus 1:1,10). • Counteract the chaos and subjectivism of much that passes for Christian teaching & insight today.
How should we study Systematic Theology? • Psalm 119:18 • 1 Corinthians 2:14 • Ephesians 1:17-19a • 1 Peter 5:5 • Psalm 119:162 • Romans 11:33-36
Race & Racism “Britain is now two entirely different worlds, and the one you inherit is determined by the colour of your skin.”
What does the Bible say about race? In the Bible “race” in the modern sense of the word is a non-issue. • Genesis 1:27 • Acts 17:26 • 1 Corinthians 15:39 • Job 31:13-15 • Song of Solomon 1:5 • Acts 10:34-35
The “Chosen Race” in the OT • Ezekiel 20:4-12 • Deuteronomy 10:18-19 • Numbers 15:15-16 • Leviticus 19:24
Justice • Isaiah 10:1-4 • Jeremiah 21:11-12 • Amos 5:11-15
The greatest historical barrier of them all had to be dismantled
Distinctions eliminated • Galatians 3:26-28 • Ephesians 2:11-22 • Colossians 3:5-14 All barriers of race, culture or class are transcended because Christ dwells in all his people, and HIS glory is their sole aim.
Ethnic diversity Antioch • Acts 13:1 • Acts 11:26
Our aspirations Revelation 5:9 Revelation 7:9-10
The gospel alone What are the implications for: • Priorities • Evangelism • Culture • Structures of the church?