Does theology matter?
Short answer—yes, of course theology matters.
Do I believe that some elements of Christian theology are black-and-white, right-or-wrong? Yes, I do, though I imagine we might disagree on some of them. (What’s Your Theology?)
That said, I’m wondering how many folks encounter Jesus by reading a theology book. My guess would be “not many.”
I’ve been mentally de-briefing my retreat experience, considering the experiences that made what feels like a lasting impact. None of them involved debates about the fine points of theology.
I felt impacted by two elements: stories and relationships. Interesting that God chose to reveal Himself through those same elements, since the Bible is primarily a collection of stories about real people and real relationships. Maybe that’s how He wants us to talk to others about Him.
A few guys at the retreat weren’t sure about the whole “God thing.” They had a lot of questions, and I sat on the outskirts of a few of those conversations. Very little discussion centered on theology—it was mostly about stories and relationships.
What about end times and Satan and hell? Where was the discussion of Calvinist versus Arminian views on predestination? Shouldn’t they have at least enumerated the Ten Commandments to ensure that there was a clear understanding of sin and its horrible consequences?
None of that happened. Instead, men shared transparently about failures and struggles and their simple, life-changing relationships with Jesus and His followers. There were tears and prayers and sometimes just the silence of mountain nights.
I looked in my Bible for the place where Jesus says, “Therefore go and teach the details of your theology, debating into submission those who disagree with you.”
But, alas, I could find no such instruction. Instead, I encountered Jesus’ last words to His friends:
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” [Matthew 28:18-20]
I’m pretty sure we won’t make many disciples through theological debate. Whenever people find Jesus, I suspect we’ll find stories and relationships and tears and prayers and maybe silence.
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This is kind of a cynical throw-in, but I thought it was funny. I received an email advertisement the other day—I’m sure they meant well, but am I the only one who finds this headline a little odd?
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Personally, I have many questions about the afterlife, as well as a lot of other thorny issues. I’d happily pay full price for definitive answers.
Or maybe I’ll trust that God will provide the real answers—for free.
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