Crutch Theology

Ok so instantly this message became a lesson on our belief foundation. The academic world as well as the bible would call this Theology and/or doctrine. And but what distinguishes Christianity from the other religions that might also use these terms is the untainted, unpolluted, never-changing, always relevant, sin-breaking, life-saving, character-changing Gospel. So, let’s define these foundational elements so that the rest of the message makes sense:

Google Ai states of Theology:

Theology is the systematic study of the divine, religious beliefs, and practices, exploring questions about God, humanity's relationship with the sacred, ethics, and the meaning of life from a religious or spiritual perspective. Its core concepts involve understanding divinity, interpreting sacred texts, and analyzing faith's impact on worldview, often through branches like Systematic Theology (organizing doctrines) or Moral Theology (ethics). The purpose of theology is to deepen understanding of faith, shape life, and provide frameworks for belief and action, whether within Christianity, Judaism, Islam, or other traditions.

Core Beliefs & Concepts

• Nature of the Divine:
Investigating the existence, attributes, and character of God or gods.
• Revelation:
Studying how the divine reveals itself to humanity through scripture, tradition, or experience.
• Humanity & Creation:
Exploring human nature, purpose, sin, suffering, and the relationship between humans and the divine.
• Ethics & Morality:
Examining moral principles derived from religious beliefs and their application to life.
• Salvation & Afterlife:
Contemplating concepts of redemption, eternal life, and eschatology (end times).

Major Branches & Types
• Systematic Theology:
Formulates an orderly, comprehensive account of religious doctrines, often integrating scripture, philosophy, and tradition.
• Biblical Theology:
Focuses on interpreting and understanding biblical texts and their overarching themes.
• Moral Theology:
Deals with religious ethics, including social teaching, medical ethics, and sexual ethics.
• Historical Theology:
Studies the development of religious beliefs and practices throughout history.
• Practical Theology:
Applies theological insights to ministry, worship, and community life.

Purpose of Theology
• To know and understand God more deeply.
• To provide a coherent worldview and framework for life.
• To interpret sacred texts and traditions for contemporary understanding.
• To guide moral conduct, personal faith, and spiritual growth.
• To address fundamental questions about existence, meaning, and truth.

Google AI states of doctrine...