Theological Method

Theological Method

How does God relate to the issue before us?

*Pray

*Be committed to reaching truth regardless of previously held beliefs

*Define the words being used carefully and clearly

*Don’t assume you know it all

*Be rational and use clear logical steps in addressing the issue

*Accept that you may not reach a definitive answer and that that is okay

*Allow for different views in your group because we are all different and no one has a monopoly on absolute truth

*Be willing to graciously revise belief if there is a good reason

*Use your Biblical Tools to contexualize scripture:  ask what it meant then what it means

*Pray

(Loosely adapted from Thinking  Theologically by Dr. Fritz Guy)

Biblical Tools

What tools can we use to learn more about what Scripture says about this issue?

Concordance:  Free associate words that are connected to the issue to find direct and indirect references in the Bible.

Commentary:  Check the relevant passages of scripture with what scholars have learned about it; compare their findings with your own thoughts on the passage.

Versions of the Bible:  Compare different translations of the Bible on key passages in case there are important differences that give you insight.

Articles and Books:  Use your library and online resources to see what others have learned about the issue.  Remember their’s is only one point of view – you must decide for yourself what you believe to be true.

Group Democratic Method

How can we solve this problem effectively as a group?

*Pray

*Speak respectfully but honestly

*Encourage all to share their view

*Discuss issue thoroughly before coming to a consensus or voting

*If consensus is not possible on particular points or the issue agree to disagree respectfully and move on

*When the vote is taken respect the process as imperfect but useful

*Vote your conscience but be sure it is a properly informed conscience

*Pray