Seminary theology is the study of religion at the graduate level, focusing on Christianity and preparing students to become religious leaders. It includes a study of world religions, history of Christianity, pastoral care, and the Bible. A master’s degree in divinity is typically earned in two years, while a doctorate requires four additional years of […]
Contemporary theology emerged in the early 20th century, with varying beliefs and rejection of literal interpretations of sacred texts due to scientific discoveries. It is not limited to Christianity and includes modern religious beliefs of Judaism and Islam. Conservative theologians called for a return to orthodoxy in response to neo-Orthodox theology. Contemporary theology generally refers […]
Fundamental theology defends the Christian religion, specifically Catholic doctrines. It aims to prove the validity of theistic faith, the truth of Christianity, and that the Catholic Church is the source of revelation. Arguments include philosophical and metaphysical reasoning, defending the historicity and inspiration of the Bible, and the authority of the Catholic Church. Fundamental theology […]
Film and theology often intersect as films are reviewed and viewed from a religious perspective. This can involve analyzing films from a particular religion’s viewpoint, exploring religious concepts in films, or using films to critique religious ideas. The connection between film and theology is often a critical one, as films are reviewed and viewed from […]
Mystical theology is the study of religious ideas that are difficult to explain. It can refer to the exploration of the human soul’s approach to the Christian God, often through prayer and contemplation. Medieval scholars, philosophers, and theologians heavily influenced this type of theology, with Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite’s work being a significant contribution. Mystical theology […]
Paul’s Theology is a modern Christian belief system based on the teachings of Paul, who initiated fundamental Christian doctrines such as salvation by faith and Jesus as the Son of God. Paul’s theology focused on reaching gentiles and contradicted Jewish teachings, becoming the cornerstone of New Testament views that denied the importance of Old Testament […]
Greek theology encompasses beliefs and accounts of gods and goddesses prior to Christianity in Greece. Ancient Greeks did not refer to their religious beliefs as Greek theology, but rather held them as a matter of fact. The Twelve Olympians and additional deities and demigods played important roles in Greek religion. Greek theology, much like modern […]
Medieval theology studied religion from the 5th to the 15th century, producing a lot of scholarship and literature. It focused on influential figures like Augustine and Aquinas, and explored concepts such as free will, predestination, and the nature of good and evil. These questions continue to be explored today. Medieval theology typically refers to the […]
Catholic theology is based on scripture and tradition, interpreted by the Magisterium. The Bible is seen as the word of God, but not always taken literally. Sacred Tradition includes practices and beliefs not directly in the Bible, such as papal supremacy. Catholicism emphasizes the Trinity and salvation through Jesus, with rejection leading to eternal punishment. […]
Theology and science both use reason to expand knowledge, but conflict when they reach different conclusions. Theology is the study of God and religion, while science studies the natural world. Natural theology attempts to understand God through the study of nature. Science uses the scientific method to gather and analyze knowledge. The two disciplines come […]
Art and theology have been linked since prehistoric times, with many ancient cultures depicting deities and spiritual figures in their artwork. The Middle Ages and Renaissance produced some of the world’s most beloved religious art, while even cultures with prohibitions against artistic depictions of revered figures, such as some Islamic sects, have established their own […]
Anglican theology is based on the Anglican faith and emphasizes informed intellectual dialogue between scriptures and current members of the Church. It has roots in both Catholic and Protestant beliefs, with a less hierarchical model of authority and a great deal of heterodoxy. Anglicans value individual and congregational autonomy, and recognize the importance of change […]
Applied theology is the practical application of religious beliefs, often seen in evangelistic efforts, acts of mercy, and volunteerism. It is controversial when attempting to convert those with different beliefs. It is a required course in many Christian seminaries and essential for becoming a Christian minister. Other faiths also practice applied theology. Applied theology is […]
Lutheran theology includes the five solas, baptism and the Eucharist as sacraments, and the belief that the Bible is the sole authority. The Lutheran Church split from the Catholic Church in the 16th century, and different congregations have coalesced into groups. Lutherans believe that only Christ can save a person and that all glory belongs […]
Theology topics include God’s nature, man’s relationship with God, moral decisions, and interpretations of sacred texts. The nature of the relationship between God and man is a common theme, as is moral decision-making. Doctrinal issues and debates, such as Calvinism vs. Arminianism, are also discussed. The role of morality in society is another widespread theme. […]
Mission theology is a modern approach to evangelism that considers biblical proof, community of faith, and missionary context to balance classical theologies. It provides tools for missionaries to understand real-world environments and is seen as an alternative to rigid systemic theologies. It is used in pastoral training, missionary reporting, and church operations. Mission theology is […]
Orthodox theology is the study of God from the perspective of Eastern European and Middle Eastern Christianity. Differences with Catholic theology have led to schisms, including the nature of God, Christ, the Eucharist, and salvation. Orthodox theology holds that God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit are three separate beings sharing the same essence, and that […]
Wesleyan theology, named after John Wesley, is the theology of the Methodist Church. It is influenced by Arminian theology and notable for its threefold view of grace and practical concern for social justice. It presents a model of soteriology consisting of prevenient grace, justifying grace, and sanctifying grace, all freely given by God. Wesleyans believe […]
The theology of religions explores the relationship between Christianity and other religions, particularly regarding salvation. The three main theologies are exclusivism, inclusivism, and pluralism. Exclusivists believe only faith in Christ leads to salvation, while inclusivists believe followers of other religions can also be saved through Christ. Pluralists believe all religions are equally valid. Critics argue […]
Theology degrees are offered by seminaries, religious organizations, and colleges/universities for those interested in religious ideas and practices. Christians, Muslims, Jews, and others can study to become rabbis, imams, pastors, or priests. Master’s and doctoral programs are also available for in-depth study of specific elements of a religion. Theology degrees involve the study of religious […]
