Theology Chapter 1
Seven dimensions
ESNDPEM
Practical Theology
attempts to interrelate abstract theological concepts with particular concrete situations encountered by individuals and communities of faith through a process of theological reflection
comparative theology
comparison of the views of various religious traditions on theological themes like revelation, the nature of God, and sin and salvation
Spirituality
various forms of prayer and religious practice that orient people toward god that direct the way they live in the world.
What are four major theories or approaches to religious studies and what distinguishes each approach ? (PPAS)
-Psychological theories of religion focuses on individual and individuals experience of religion as a social institution . -Phenomenological approaches to religion - describes the study of things as they are perceived by the senses. Seek to describe and classify common observable elements of various religions so that they may better understand the form and structure of religion. -Anthropological theories of religion, the study of humankind with special attention to human culture and the progress or development of human society focus on the aspects of religious experiences that are culturally conditioned ex. rites of passage, religious symbols -Sociological theories of religion is artificial belongs to the social sciences focuses on the practice of religion this is what people do when they put their religious beliefs into action and relate to others in society (ethical dimensions of religion)
Four subdivisions of theology
1.Biblical studies focuses on the docs found in the bible and literature occurring at the same time 2.Historical theology how Christian faith developed after the bible era 3.systematic basic formulation of Christian beliefs and how they relate 4.moral theology focuses on the values arising from the bible and Christian beliefs and practices and identifies behavior that aligns and does not align
Four aspects of faith
Faith as the belief in or acceptance of a set of truths As trust As action or practice As personal insight
Special Revelation
God's communication of Himself and His will to particular people through His word and Jesus Christ
Personal Revelation
God's communication to an individual
What is theology?
The study of God
What is religious studies and how does it differ from theology?
Theology focuses on god and spiritual realities as its subject matter, religious studies focuses on humanity and human experience of the divine.
religious studies
focuses on humanity and humans' experience of the divine
Sacramental Theology
focuses on the study of Christian worship
general revelation
given to all humans includes nature conscience The things that we come in contact with reveal god in a general sense