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