Study Theology

Edyos · Sep 19, 2018

Hello,

I would like to study theology in depth, but at the moment I don't have the time or the money to afford to go to a theology university.

I heard about systematic theology, is it a good place to start studying at home?
I would like to hear some recommendations on which topics, Books, websites etc... to start.

Thank you

Paidiske · Sep 19, 2018

In a basic theology degree, there are a number of areas, which might be divided up roughly as:

Languages (especially Hebrew and/or Greek)
Biblical studies
Systematic Theology
Church history
Ethics (moral theology)
Liturgy (including preaching)
Spirituality
Pastoral care

There might also be elective units in other areas, but those are probably the core.

Where to start probably depends on what you want to do with it. If you think you will eventually do a degree, you might find it helpful to get a head start on a Biblical language (that's something many students struggle with, so working on it ahead of time can help!)

But if you don't think you'll get a degree, but you want to, say, be able to lead small groups well, then thinking about some Biblical studies and some pastoral care might be a good start.

So I'd say work out what you'd like to equip yourself for, and that will give you a helpful idea of what to tackle.

Edyos · Sep 19, 2018

Paidiske said:
In a basic theology degree, there are a number of areas, which might be divided up roughly as:

Languages (especially Hebrew and/or Greek)
Biblical studies
Systematic Theology
Church history
Ethics (moral theology)
Liturgy (including preaching)
Spirituality
Pastoral care

There might also be elective units in other areas, but those are probably the core.

Where to start probably depends on what you want to do with it. If you think you will eventually do a degree, you might find it helpful to get a head start on a Biblical language (that's something many students struggle with, so working on it ahead of time can help!)

But if you don't think you'll get a degree, but you want to, say, be able to lead small groups well, then thinking about some Biblical studies and some pastoral care might be a good start.

So I'd say work out what you'd like to equip yourself for, and that will give you a helpful idea of what to tackle.

Thank you for your response. I am thinking to get a degree in the future.
In languages I was born in Israel, I know Hebrew very well. The only language I don't know Greek.

I was thinking to start with systematic theology, Is it a good start? I downloaded the book. In other areas, I do not know any books to study.

Paidiske · Sep 19, 2018

It can't hurt to get your head around some theology. Something like Migliore's book, Faith Seeking Understanding is a pretty good place to start, if you can get hold of a copy.

With systematic theology, it's helpful to be aware of the denominational affiliation of the author of whatever you read; because, say, a Catholic approach is going to be very different from a Presbyterian approach or a Baptist view. And that will help you position your own understanding within the wider Christian landscape (if that makes sense).

Always happy to recommend books if you're wondering what to read!

St_Worm2 · Sep 19, 2018

Edyos said:
Hello,

I would like to study theology in depth, but at the moment I don't have the time or the money to afford to go to a theology university.

I heard about systematic theology, is it a good place to start studying at home?
I would like to hear some recommendations on which topics, Books, websites etc... to start.

Thank you

Take a look at these sites if you'd like to. Most are free, none are expensive.

Systematic Theology 1 | Online Course

www.ligonier.org

https://courses.dts.edu/

https://www.covenantseminary.edu/resources/

There's one outstanding site of free seminary courses that I can't quite seem to remember the name of right now. When I do, I'll come back and post it.

--David

Hazelelponi · Sep 19, 2018

The Book 'Systematic Theology: An Introduction To Biblical Doctrine' By: Wayne Grudem

It's been used as course requirement in some colleges and is supposed to be an excellent book. I've just ordered it myself.

Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine

37 dollars plus shipping isn't bad.

disciple Clint · Sep 19, 2018

Edyos said:
Hello,

I would like to study theology in depth, but at the moment I don't have the time or the money to afford to go to a theology university.

I heard about systematic theology, is it a good place to start studying at home?
I would like to hear some recommendations on which topics, Books, websites etc... to start.

Thank you

Check this out. It is very good accurate and educational
Third Millennium Ministries

Edyos · Sep 19, 2018

Hazelelponi said:
The Book 'Systematic Theology: An Introduction To Biblical Doctrine' By: Wayne Grudem

It's been used as course requirement in some colleges and is supposed to be an excellent book. I've just ordered it myself.

Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine

37 dollars plus shipping isn't bad.

I found so many books on systematic theology, why there are so many of them? I am so confused on which one is the best.

Edyos · Sep 19, 2018

St_Worm2 said:
Take a look at these sites if you'd like to. Most are free, none are expensive.

Systematic Theology 1 | Online Course

www.ligonier.org

https://courses.dts.edu/

https://www.covenantseminary.edu/resources/

There's one outstanding site of free seminary courses that I can't quite seem to remember the name of right now. When I do, I'll come back and post it.

--David

Thank you for the information, I marked some of the websites to my favorite list. :clap:

Hazelelponi · Sep 19, 2018

Edyos said:
I found so many books on systematic theology, why there are so many of them? I am so confused on which one is the best.

Your from Haifa but I don't know what denomination you are. I believe in reformed theology so Wayne Grudem isn't teaching anything I don't believe. In further research i found that where some people from reformed backgrounds disagree with him I specifically do not.

So, for me it's probably being in an echo chamber which might not be the healthiest thing in the world but it is what it is. He got excellent reviews from people with opposing beliefs because he is easy to understand, without over simplifying the topic and that's what I need.

What is likely best, is to start with who can lay it all out in a manner that is easy to understand, and then get a couple different views by other teachers. That is my plan any way..

Tolworth John · Sep 19, 2018

Talk to your minister both for advice on books and courses and also to see if he will help you to study.
Are there other Christians in your church or other churches who want to learn more about theology.

Some churches have set up local study groups for Christians who can't go to college but can commit to blocks of time for organised study.

Ask and see what can be found.

Greg J. · Sep 19, 2018

Edyos said:
Hello,

I would like to study theology in depth, but at the moment I don't have the time or the money to afford to go to a theology university.

I heard about systematic theology, is it a good place to start studying at home?
I would like to hear some recommendations on which topics, Books, websites etc... to start.

Thank you

As inferred, ask your pastor for which theologians are "approved" (fit your foundational Christian beliefs). It might be better to show him a list of Systematic Theology books you are considering buying and see what comments he has. Btw, I loved the time I spent reading Systematic Theology. I'd encourage anybody to look at one such book after having studied the Bible for a while. It will show you all kinds of things you never thought of before—some of them important. It is a good way to acquire a mental framework for learning from the Holy Spirit. Keep in mind that seeking to understand God in Scripture is so we can know Jesus, not just so we understand Scripture, or even just understand God (although that is very good, too).

Mountainmike · Sep 19, 2018

Greg J. said:
..... or even just understand God....

That sounds like a tall order!
And begs the question, can anyone really "understand"

Greg J. · Sep 19, 2018

We can all be on the path that leads upward. While you may not arrive in a time frame that suits you, you will draw closer and will gain the benefits of being closer.

FutureAndAHope · Sep 19, 2018

I am not against bible study it can be helpful. But just be careful not to make theology your life, rather than live the life that theology provides for.

Jesus commands to us are very practical, go preach the gospel, and signs will follow. Many get bogged down in theology, but neglect to communicate with the theos.

If you have a poor knowledge of the bible then theology can help you see points of view, but it can not replace, a relationship with Jesus, lived out in obedience to the simple words of Jesus.

Samaritan Woman · Sep 20, 2018

Edyos said:
Hello, I would like to study theology in depth, but at the moment I don't have the time or the money to afford to go to a theology university.I heard about systematic theology, is it a good place to start studying at home?
I would like to hear some recommendations on which topics, Books, websites etc... to start.

Thank you

How I wish more believers shared your intellectual curiosity about our faith!! I have two Messianic Jewish ministries which to share - they are outstanding!! In many churches, there exists a vacuum regarding the Old Testament and how it so greatly influences the NT. The expository teachings from Arnold Fruchtenbaum and Tom Bradford have revolutionized my biblical comprehension. :ebil:

Intensive Bible Teaching from a Messianic Jewish Perspective | Ariel Ministries

Bible Studies

In addition to these two ministries, I do in-depth word studies through Blue Letter Bible - Bible Search and Study Tools - Blue Letter Bible

Studylight features a abundance of FREE commentaries - StudyLight.org: Search, Read and Study with our Bible Tools

Enjoy!

Fred Manalo · Sep 21, 2018

Edyos said:
Hello,

I would like to study theology in depth, but at the moment I don't have the time or the money to afford to go to a theology university.

I heard about systematic theology, is it a good place to start studying at home?
I would like to hear some recommendations on which topics, Books, websites etc... to start.

Thank you

If what you want to learn what others or the world believe or think about God or about their interpretations or understanding of His Words, then you may go to a Theology College or University. But if you hunger and thirst for God’s true kingdom and what true righteousness is, you will only find it if you seek it the only way he declared:
“And ye shall seek me, and find me , when ye shall search for me with all your heart.“ Jeremiah 29:13 KJV

Guide To The Bible · Sep 21, 2018

Make Bible hub your go to Bible site and use the interlinear Bible there as the most accurate Bible version: Genesis 1:1 Interlinear: In the beginning of God's preparing the heavens and the earth --

Get a chronological Bible: One Year Chronological Bible-NIV by Tyndale House Publishers (Paperback / softback, 2013) | eBay

Bible study without the Holy Spirit is almost pointless, so make sure you have received the Holy Spirit.

Pray with the Holy Spirit as you study the Bible and use Google to read as many commentaries and opinions on anything you are trying to understand and the Holy Spirit will guide to the truth.

Study Theology

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