Introduction

Consider This...

Theological Thoughts to Encourage the Heart & Stir the Mind ___________________________________________________

Volume I         January 2011            Issue 1

         Let me begin by introducing you to the first publication of Consider This. The purpose of this weekly journal is two-fold. For the writers, it is the opportunity to hone their skills at putting their thoughts and convictions down on paper. For the reader, it is our hope that you will be spiritually encouraged and intellectually challenged by the variety of doctrinal topics that are discussed.

         Over the next 12 months, we will be addressing the following subjects:

Attacks on Biblical Salvation, Recognizing False Teachers, Dispensationalism, Modern Theological Positions, Why Pre-Tribulation/Pre-Millenial, The Incommunicable Attributes of God, The Bible, The Church, The Five Solas, The Works of the Holy Spirit, and The Centrality of Christ.

In this January issue, we will be looking at the subject of Theological Terminology. So, keep reading and Consider This...

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         Justification, sanctification, righteousness, and inspiration are all theological terms that we use and hear in the teaching and preaching ministries of our church. We may even use some of these same terms in our informal discussion of Biblical truths. Too many times, however, believers may be familiar with a Biblical term, but are unable to effectively define what that term means and how it applies to our faith.

Surprisingly, some feel that understanding the definition of these terms is not important. However, nothing could be further from the truth. I would like to consider three key reasons why we must discipline ourselves in developing a Biblical vocabulary.

First of all, comprehension of Biblical terms produces depth in understanding the Scriptures.

         I’ll admit that I don’t know a whole lot about computers. I can turn one on, get my email, search the web, and do word processing along with other basic applications, but my overall understanding of the computer is limited. I’ve heard about defrags, bitmaps, JPEGs, and partitions, but I haven’t got a clue as to what they actually mean or how they apply to the computer world. However, talk to one of the techies in our congregation and their understanding of these terms and many others bring a depth of knowledge to the field that boggles the mind.

         In the same manner, a Christian that has a grasp on the meaning and application of theological terminology will also possess a deeper understanding of the Scripture. For example, one who knows that the word propitiation means that God is satisfied with what Christ has done on the cross, has a much clearer understanding of a verse like 1 John 2:2, “He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world,” than the individual who has no understanding of the word.

Secondly, a comprehension of Biblical terms produces clarity in verbalizing Biblical truth. The greater understanding you have about something, the better able you are to discuss it and effectively defend it. This, of course, is true concerning the Scriptures. As we diligently study, learn, and comprehend terms like justification, sanctification, and atonement, we are then able to bring a depth and clarity to our discussion about Biblical truth that would not have been there before. After all, did not the Apostle Paul exhort us to study that we might “rightly handle the Word of Truth” (2 Timothy 2:15)?

Lastly, a comprehension of Biblical terms produces recognition of misuse. Our words mean things. We need to make sure they are meaning what they are intending to mean. Just because the world or other denominations use a Biblical term doesn’t mean it is being used correctly.

         A simple but effective example would be the word grace. The Scriptures teach and we believe that grace is the unearned, undeserved, unmerited favor God gives to sinners, which saves them apart from any works at all. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” The Roman Catholic church would readily declare that they believe and teach that salvation is by grace. There is a problem, however, with their definition of grace. For the Catholic church, grace is favor given to sinners so that they can try to earn their salvation. In like manner, the Mormon church would contend that they hold to salvation by grace as well. Yet, once again, we have a corrupt definition of the term. To the Mormon, grace is divine help given through the mercy of Jesus Christ. It is an enabling power that allows men and women to receive eternal life and exaltation after they have expended their own best efforts. Again, contrary to Scripture, salvation is by grace through works not faith. So, we have the same theological word being used, but two completely different definitions. For the Christian who has that working knowledge of Biblical terms, there is an immediate recognition of their misuse.

Depth, clarity, and defense—three great reasons to study theological terminology.

—Pastor Andrew Frey