Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes

Recap from Biblical Theology

Biblical theology highlights differences, developments, and author-specific emphases.

Systematic theology seeks unity/coherence across all books.

Quote (Köstenberger & Goswell): Bible’s unity grounded in God’s unity; diversity from time, genre, authors, circumstances.

Defining Systematic Theology

Wayne Grudem: “Any study that answers, ‘What does the whole Bible teach us today?’ about any topic.”

Summarizes Scripture in brief, clear, carefully formulated statements.

Focuses on present-day understanding for Christians.

May use terms/concepts not in single author but from combining teachings.

Key Assumptions of Systematic Theology

God inspired authors so Bible reflects what He wanted (no coercion).

Coherence exists: One divine mind behind Scripture → consistent thought.

Possible to identify “final form” (mature teaching) by considering all verses.

Progressive revelation means later texts clarify earlier (development allowed).

Bible shapes our thinking/categories (not vice versa).

Why Do Systematic Theology?

Organizes jumbled ideas into shelves (categories).

Helps detect contradictions or gaps.

Standard categories (traditional 8–10 volumes):

Bibliology (Bible)

Theology proper (God)

Angelology/demonology

Anthropology (humans)

Hamartiology (sin)

Christology

Pneumatology (Spirit)

Soteriology (salvation)

Ecclesiology (church)

Eschatology (end times)

Bible Is Organic, Not Systematic

Scripture grows naturally (like a tree), not in neat textbook chapters.

Our categories are helpful tools, not perfect boxes.

Rule: If forced to shoehorn Bible into doctrine OR accept less precision, choose Bible.

Never change Scripture to fit beliefs; change beliefs to fit Scripture.

Practical Value

First learned categories → organized chaotic ideas.

Allows deeper thinking on topics.

Reminds us doctrines approximate God’s mind; stay humble.

Conclusion: Systematic theology synthesizes whole Bible for coherence.