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2 Timothy 2:15
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.”
We have come to the end of our study of the systematic theology of Scripture, and we pray that our time looking at the doctrines of the Bible has been edifying to you. At times, such a study requires looking at some very complex things and making careful distinctions that we might not otherwise consider but that must be made to understand the harmony of Scripture’s teaching. This work of discerning and codifying the system of doctrine contained in the Scriptures has been given to the church to equip the saints and to build up Christ’s body (Eph. 4:11–14). When we engage in such a study, we continue the work of the saints who have gone before us, even building on what they have done according to our circumstances and position in the church.
Ultimately, we study systematic theology not to elevate the discipline to a place equal to Scripture but to better understand Scripture. Paul tells us in 2 Timothy 2:15 that pastors have a duty to rightly handle the Word of truth, with some translations saying rightly “divide” the Word of truth. Either way, the task involves distinguishing doctrines from one another, explaining these doctrines bit by bit to build understanding, and so on. John Calvin comments on this text that “Paul assigns to teachers the duty of dividing or cutting, as if a father, in giving food to his children, were dividing the bread, by cutting it into small pieces.”
While the pastors, elders, and teachers in the church have a special responsibility in the task of codifying and promulgating the theology of Scripture, by extension we all have a part to play as well. In God’s providence, we each have our own unique calling and giftedness. Some of us will have a direct influence over many people, and others will influence far fewer individuals directly. Nevertheless, we are all called to know the truth of Scripture and to love its doctrine. Putting in the time to study theology, as we are able in light of our other responsibilities, will repay the effort with the renewal of our minds and continuing growth in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 12:1–2; 2 Peter 3:18).
Dr. R.C. Sproul rightly said that everyone is a theologian because everyone has thoughts about God. The only question is whether we will be sound theologians. Matthew Henry writes of Scripture that “it requires great wisdom, study, and care, to divide this word of truth rightly.” May we seek wisdom and study with diligence.
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
Not everyone can be a professional theologian, but everyone can grow in their understanding of biblical doctrine. In addition to studying the Bible, we ought to read books on theology as we are able. We are blessed to live in a day when many good and accessible resources are available. There is also much that is not trustworthy. Asking our pastors and other church leaders what they would recommend that we read is a good practice.
For further study
- Ezra 7:10
- Proverbs 1:1–7
- Acts 28:30–31
- Titus 2:1
The bible in a year
- Malachi 1–4
- Revelation 22