Two things in Chapter 1 really jumped out at me this week.
The first was in the section regarding the benefits of systematic theology. The author said that two of the reasons for studying systematic theology were to help us "overcome wrong ideas" and to "be able to make better decisions later on new questions of doctrine that may arise." This really hit home for me because of some things that I've had come up recently regarding individuals that we as Christians should endorse. In this situation, I have come to realize how much I really can be lacking at times regarding my ability to clearly express my concerns certain situations. It was a situation where I was fairly convinced that the situation was not right, but I just wasn't able to express my concerns in a straightforward and cogent manner. I'm looking forward to spending more time in the Word in a concentrated manner so that when this type of situation comes up again, I am able to express my concerns in a more organized way.
The second was were the author mentioned that we should "study systematic theology with others". He goes on to say that some of the most effective learning can take place "in informal conversations among students who are attempting to understand Bible doctrines for themselves". I'm hoping that this blog can become an informal conversation that leads to this same effect. Otherwise, it will just be me talking into an echo chamber.
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I am interested in the level of detail (and the scholarly approach) that this book brings. I have learned from a wide range of Biblical teachings in my life - from direct Bible reading, sermons, small groups, bible studies, etc. But this book takes things to a much more complete level than I have typically experienced.
It is a testament to the wisdom of God tat he could author a book that can both be summarized in a single sentence "believe in Jesus and have eternal life" and yet contain enough complexities and nuances that a book of this length could only cover one aspect of it.
I look forward to ensuring that the beliefs I hold (from a combination of Biblical study, teaching, and my Baptist upbringing) are the correct ones - that is, to determine if my beliefs are correct and to change them if they are not.
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