Foundations of Christian Theology

  • Foundations of Christian Theology (Contents)

    Types of Theology: Major Branches, Subfields, and Theological Traditions Biblical Theology Systematic Theology Historical Theology Practical Theology Philosophical Theology Contextual and Liberation Theologies

  • Types of Theology: Major Branches, Subfields, and Theological Traditions

    1. Biblical Theology Definition Biblical Theology focuses on tracing the progressive revelation of God throughout the narrative and texts of the Bible. It seeks to understand Scripture according to its own historical, literary, and theological contexts, emphasising the unfolding story of salvation history. Specialised Subfields Prominent Theological Traditions/Systems Representative Scholars…

  • Biblical Theology

    1. Introduction Biblical Theology is a discipline within Christian theology that focuses on the progressive revelation of divine truth throughout the narrative and texts of the Bible. Rather than systematising doctrine abstractly, it seeks to understand theological themes and doctrines as they unfold historically and literarily within Scripture itself. The…

  • Systematic Theology

    1. Introduction Systematic Theology is a foundational discipline within Christian theology that seeks to organise the diverse teachings of Scripture into a coherent, comprehensive, and logical framework. It addresses fundamental doctrines concerning God, Christ, humanity, salvation, the Church, and last things, providing a structured articulation of Christian belief. Unlike Biblical…

  • Historical Theology

    1. Introduction Historical Theology is the discipline that examines the development, context, and transmission of Christian doctrines, practices, and theological reflections throughout the history of the Church. It seeks to understand how theological ideas have evolved in response to biblical revelation, cultural contexts, ecclesiastical controversies, and socio-political circumstances. By tracing…

  • Practical Theology

    1. Introduction Practical Theology is a branch of Christian theology concerned with the application of theological insights to the everyday life and ministry of the Church. It bridges the gap between doctrinal reflection and lived Christian experience by addressing areas such as pastoral care, worship, ethics, spiritual formation, and mission.…

  • Philosophical Theology

    1. Introduction Philosophical Theology is a branch of theology that employs philosophical methods to explore, clarify, and defend theological doctrines. It addresses fundamental questions about God’s existence, nature, and attributes, as well as the rationality of faith and the coherence of Christian belief. Philosophical Theology serves as a bridge between…

  • Contextual and Liberation Theologies

    1. Introduction Contextual and Liberation Theologies represent theological movements that develop Christian doctrine and praxis in response to specific cultural, social, political, and economic realities. They emphasise the lived experience of marginalized and oppressed communities, seeking to articulate a theology that promotes liberation, justice, and transformation. These theologies challenge dominant…