Theology Matters

"I've come to learn that theology matters. And it matters not because we want a good grade on a test but because what we know about God shapes the way we think and live. What you believe about God's nature - what he is like, what he wants torm you, and whether or not you will answer to him - affects every part of your life.

Theology matters, because if we get it wrong, then our whole life will be wrong."

Joshua Harris, Dug Down Deep

This is something that really matters to me, as I believe theology is important and agree that what we believe will influence and impact our behavior and our actions.

I am one that asks a lot of questions and I know I infuriate a lot of people by it, and yet I want to know the answers. I want to understand and it bothers me when I don't understand.

I realize that not all my questions will be answered and I'm attempting to be fine with that, but it hurts me when I am thought of as too knowledge, or "head" oriented instead of "heart" oriented, which is of course better than just having the knowledge but failing to put it in practice. Head knowledge is akin to a pharisee and everyone hates pharisees. Even Jesus did not like that bunch of people.

Yet, the opposite if what I run into a lot: this sentiment of we don't need to know or study the Bible because what is more important is to be living it.

I think it is both. I think by knowing and studying God we will love and be filled with such joy and gratitude we can't help but live out our faith in good deeds to others.

What do you think? Do you find any merit and value in studying the Bible? Does Church history excite you? Does Theology Matter?