theologizing

Over on Jesus Creed, there is a group every day, involved in what you might call, "theologizing". Scot McKnight is a Christian scholar and professor who especially works on understanding the Jesus of the gospels and what this means for us today in view of the rest of the New Testament: Paul, etc. The goal, I believe, is for us to arrive to a better understanding of truth. The participation results in "theologizing" together. In this we gain insight from different perspectives gained from other backgrounds, studies, experiences, etc. Or we at least, hopefully better understand the postions of those who differ with us.

Theologizing is often looked down on by Christians. Sometimes for good reasons. If theology is some kind of heady, high falutin stuff, only for the initiated (in those studies) then I wonder what good it is. It may be good for the specialists, but somewhere along the line it will have to be brought down to earth in terms in which we all live. On the other hand, we are to love God with all our minds, as well as with all the rest of us. So it is good to exercise our minds, in love to God, and in seeking to be obedient to his revelation to us, in Jesus and Scripture with the Church.

Theologizing ought to challenge our minds but the goal must be love, that comes out of a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. A love that expresses itself, of course, with ongoing good deeds. And that ever seeks to grow in conformity to Jesus.

Theologizing can be suffocating and BO-RING!!! On the other hand, it can be refreshing, stimulating and helpful for our lives in the faith that is in Jesus.

I encourage us all, let us be challenged by some good books and blogs that help us learn to "theologize". A great book to start would be Scot McKnight's: The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others.