Personal Theology Study
Believers deepening their understanding of God through systematic Scripture study.
Key Takeaways
Theology is the study of God through His self-revelation in Scripture - knowing God is our highest calling and greatest joy (John 17:3)
Sound doctrine protects believers from error and provides the foundation for transformed living (Titus 2:1, Romans 12:2)
The Trinity - one God in three persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) - is the foundational doctrine of Christianity (Matthew 28:19)
Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, resulting in works that glorify God (Ephesians 2:8-10)
All true theology is centered on Christ - He is the fullest revelation of God and the fulfillment of all Scripture (Colossians 1:15-20)
Theology should lead to doxology - true knowledge of God results in worship, not merely information (Romans 11:33-36)
Major Areas of Systematic Theology
Our theology Bible study covers the essential doctrines of the Christian faith. Explore our comprehensive features designed to help you grow in sound doctrine and spiritual maturity.
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Theology Proper (God)
Study the nature, attributes, and works of God - His sovereignty, holiness, love, justice, and eternal purposes revealed in Scripture.
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Christology (Christ)
Explore the person and work of Jesus Christ - His divinity, humanity, incarnation, atonement, resurrection, and present ministry.
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Pneumatology (Holy Spirit)
Understand the person and work of the Holy Spirit - His deity, role in creation, regeneration, sanctification, and spiritual gifts.
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Soteriology (Salvation)
Study the doctrine of salvation - election, calling, regeneration, justification, adoption, sanctification, and glorification.
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Ecclesiology (Church)
Examine the nature, purpose, and structure of the church - its mission, ordinances, leadership, and relationship to Christ.
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Eschatology (End Times)
Explore biblical prophecy and the end times - Christ's return, resurrection, judgment, heaven, hell, and new creation.
Theology Study in Action
See how believers are growing deeper in their knowledge of God through systematic theology study
Academic Study
Seminary students and serious learners exploring doctrine systematically.
Church Doctrine Classes
Congregations learning foundational Christian doctrines together.
Small Group Theology
Community groups exploring doctrine together in fellowship.
Pastoral Preparation
Pastors grounding their teaching in sound theological study.
Family Theology
Parents teaching children the foundational truths about God.
Theology Study Topics
Comprehensive studies covering each major doctrine. Pair with our inductive Bible study for deeper Scripture engagement.
Theology Proper - The Doctrine of God
Understanding who God is through His self-revelation in Scripture
- The Existence of God - Romans 1:19-20, Psalm 19:1-4
- The Trinity - Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14
- God's Attributes - Holiness, Love, Sovereignty, Omniscience
- God's Names in Scripture - Yahweh, Elohim, Adonai
- The Decrees of God - Ephesians 1:11, Romans 8:28-30
- Providence and Sovereignty - Daniel 4:35, Proverbs 16:9
Christology - The Doctrine of Christ
Studying the person, nature, and work of Jesus Christ
- The Deity of Christ - John 1:1-14, Colossians 1:15-20
- The Humanity of Christ - Hebrews 2:14-18, Philippians 2:5-11
- The Incarnation - John 1:14, 1 Timothy 3:16
- The Atonement - Romans 3:21-26, 2 Corinthians 5:21
- The Resurrection - 1 Corinthians 15:1-20
- Christ's Present Ministry - Hebrews 7:25, Romans 8:34
Soteriology - The Doctrine of Salvation
Understanding how God saves sinners through grace
- Total Depravity - Romans 3:10-18, Ephesians 2:1-3
- Election and Calling - Ephesians 1:4-6, Romans 8:29-30
- Regeneration - John 3:3-8, Titus 3:5
- Justification by Faith - Romans 5:1, Galatians 2:16
- Sanctification - 1 Thessalonians 4:3, Hebrews 12:14
- Perseverance and Glorification - Philippians 1:6, Romans 8:30
Pneumatology & Ecclesiology
The Holy Spirit and the Church in God's plan
- The Person of the Holy Spirit - Acts 5:3-4, John 14:16-17
- The Work of the Holy Spirit - John 16:8-11, Romans 8:14-16
- Spiritual Gifts - 1 Corinthians 12-14, Romans 12:3-8
- The Nature of the Church - Ephesians 1:22-23, 1 Peter 2:9
- Church Ordinances - Matthew 28:19, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
- Church Leadership - 1 Timothy 3:1-13, Titus 1:5-9
What Our Community Says
Real testimonials from believers transformed by studying theology through Scripture
"Bible Way's theology study transformed how I teach my congregation. The systematic approach through Scripture, rather than just abstract concepts, makes deep doctrine accessible to everyone. My church now loves theology because they see it directly in God's Word."
Pastor David R.
Senior Pastor, Houston
"As a seminary student, I appreciate how Bible Way balances academic rigor with devotional warmth. The theology study helped me connect the dots between different doctrines and see how they all point to Christ. It's been invaluable for my studies and my faith."
Jennifer M.
Seminary Student, Chicago
"I was intimidated by the word "theology" until I started this study. Now I understand it's simply knowing God through His Word. Our small group has grown deeper in both knowledge and relationship with the Lord through this systematic approach."
Marcus W.
Small Group Leader, Atlanta
Theology Study Resources
Everything you need to study Christian doctrine systematically. Access alongside our online Bible study platform.
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Systematic Theology Overview
Comprehensive introduction to each major doctrine with key Scripture references and practical applications.
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Doctrine Comparison Charts
Visual aids comparing different views on theological topics to help you understand various perspectives.
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Scripture Index by Doctrine
Organized collection of Bible verses categorized by theological topic for quick reference.
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Historical Creeds Study
Study guides for the Apostles' Creed, Nicene Creed, and other foundational Christian statements.
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Theological Terms Glossary
Clear definitions of important theological words with Scripture references and examples.
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Discussion Questions
Thought-provoking questions for personal reflection or group study of each doctrine.
Understanding Systematic Theology
A theology Bible study approaches Scripture topically, gathering what the entire Bible teaches on particular subjects. While verse-by-verse study examines books in order, systematic theology organizes biblical teaching into categories: the doctrine of God (theology proper), Christ (Christology), the Holy Spirit (pneumatology), humanity (anthropology), sin (hamartiology), salvation (soteriology), the church (ecclesiology), and last things (eschatology). This approach helps believers see how individual passages fit into the grand story of Scripture and prevents the error of building beliefs on isolated verses taken out of context. The goal is to understand what the whole Bible teaches about each topic.
Sound theology is essential for spiritual health. Paul told Timothy to "watch your life and doctrine closely" (1 Timothy 4:16) and instructed Titus to teach "sound doctrine" (Titus 2:1). The early church devoted itself to "the apostles' teaching" (Acts 2:42). Throughout history, the church has summarized essential doctrines in creeds and confessions - not to replace Scripture, but to faithfully summarize what Scripture teaches. Studying theology through resources like our Romans Bible study and Gospel of John study grounds your beliefs firmly in God's Word.
Benefits of Theology Study:
✓Know God more deeply
✓Protection from error
✓Foundation for living
✓Confident faith
✓Deeper worship
✓Effective witness
Start Your Theology Study Journey
Whether you're a new believer wanting foundations or a mature Christian seeking depth, join thousands growing in knowledge of God. Perfect for new believers, adult studies, and all who want to know God more.
What You'll Learn
- The nature and attributes of God
- The person and work of Jesus Christ
- The doctrine of salvation by grace
- The church and its mission in the world
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"I always thought theology was for pastors and professors. Bible Way showed me that every Christian is called to know God and His truth. Now I understand why I believe what I believe - and it's transformed my relationship with the Lord."
Thomas K.
Business Owner, Dallas
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about studying theology through Scripture
What is systematic theology and why should I study it?
Systematic theology is the organized study of what the whole Bible teaches on particular topics. Rather than studying Scripture book by book (though that's valuable too), systematic theology gathers all that Scripture says about subjects like God, Christ, salvation, and the church. You should study it because: (1) It helps you know God more completely by seeing His full self-revelation, (2) It protects you from error by showing how doctrines connect and where false teaching deviates, (3) It provides a solid foundation for Christian living - what you believe shapes how you live, (4) It enables you to "give a reason for the hope you have" (1 Peter 3:15) to others, (5) It leads to deeper worship as you understand more of who God is. The goal isn't intellectual knowledge for its own sake but knowing the living God personally and loving Him with your whole mind (Matthew 22:37). Every Christian, not just pastors or scholars, benefits from understanding the basic doctrines of the faith.
What are the main branches or categories of systematic theology?
Systematic theology is typically organized into several major categories, each examining what Scripture teaches on a particular subject: Bibliology is the study of the Bible itself - its inspiration, authority, inerrancy, and how we should interpret it. Theology Proper (or "the doctrine of God") examines who God is - His existence, attributes (holiness, love, sovereignty, etc.), and works. Christology focuses on Jesus Christ - His divine and human natures, incarnation, life, death, resurrection, and present ministry. Pneumatology studies the Holy Spirit - His person, deity, and work in creation, salvation, and the believer's life. Angelology covers angels, demons, and Satan. Anthropology (theological) examines humanity - creation, the image of God, and human nature. Hamartiology is the doctrine of sin - its origin, nature, and effects. Soteriology is the study of salvation - how God saves sinners through grace and faith in Christ. Ecclesiology examines the church - its nature, purpose, ordinances, and governance. Eschatology covers "last things" - death, resurrection, Christ's return, judgment, heaven, and hell. Understanding how these categories relate helps you see the coherent story of Scripture.
How do I know if a theological teaching is biblical?
Discerning whether theological teaching is biblical requires several steps: First, does it have clear Scripture support? Look for explicit biblical statements, not just ideas derived from silence or speculation. The Bereans were commended for examining the Scriptures to verify what they were taught (Acts 17:11). Second, consider the whole counsel of Scripture. True doctrine is supported across the Bible, not built on isolated verses taken out of context. Third, check how it aligns with the historic Christian faith. While tradition isn't authoritative like Scripture, the church's consistent teaching over 2000 years provides wisdom. New "discoveries" that contradict what the church has always believed should be viewed skeptically. Fourth, examine the fruit. Does this teaching lead to greater love for God and neighbor, holiness, and humility? Fifth, seek wise counsel. Proverbs repeatedly commends seeking advice from godly teachers. Sixth, consider whether it ultimately points to Christ and the gospel. True theology is Christ-centered. Watch out for teachings that minimize sin, exalt human ability, deny Christ's sufficiency, or add to the gospel. Sound doctrine will always magnify God's grace and Christ's work while calling for faithful obedience.
What is the Trinity and why is it essential to Christianity?
The Trinity is the foundational Christian doctrine that there is one God who eternally exists in three persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - each fully God, yet one God, not three gods. This doctrine is derived from Scripture: Jesus claims equality with the Father (John 5:18, 10:30), the Holy Spirit is called God (Acts 5:3-4), yet there is only one God (Deuteronomy 6:4, Isaiah 44:6). The baptismal formula names all three equally (Matthew 28:19), and Paul's benedictions do likewise (2 Corinthians 13:14). The Trinity is essential because: (1) It preserves monotheism while accounting for all Scripture teaches about the divine nature of the Father, Son, and Spirit. (2) It makes salvation possible - the Father sends the Son, the Son accomplishes redemption, and the Spirit applies it. Without the Trinity, the gospel falls apart. (3) It explains God's eternal love - before creation, the Father, Son, and Spirit existed in perfect loving communion. God didn't need to create to have someone to love. (4) It's the foundation of Christian worship and prayer - we pray to the Father, through the Son, by the Spirit. Denying the Trinity puts you outside historic Christianity and distorts the gospel itself.
What does the Bible teach about salvation (soteriology)?
The Bible teaches that salvation is entirely the work of God's grace received through faith in Jesus Christ. Key components include: (1) Humanity's Problem - All have sinned and fall short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). Sin brings death and separation from God (Romans 6:23, Isaiah 59:2). We cannot save ourselves. (2) God's Solution - While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Jesus lived the perfect life we couldn't, died the death we deserved, and rose victoriously. (3) Salvation by Grace Through Faith - "By grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works" (Ephesians 2:8-9). We contribute nothing to our salvation except the sin that made it necessary. (4) The Process of Salvation - Theologians identify stages: election (God's eternal choice), calling (God drawing us), regeneration (new birth), conversion (repentance and faith), justification (declared righteous), adoption (made God's children), sanctification (becoming holy), and glorification (final perfection). (5) Assurance and Perseverance - True believers are kept by God's power and will persevere to the end (John 10:28-29, Philippians 1:6). This brings great security while also calling for self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5).
How should I approach theological disagreements with other Christians?
Christians have disagreed on theological matters throughout church history, and approaching these disagreements wisely requires discernment. First, distinguish between essential and non-essential doctrines. Essential doctrines (the Trinity, Christ's deity and humanity, salvation by grace through faith, Christ's bodily resurrection) define Christianity itself - disagreement here means someone has departed from the faith. Non-essential doctrines (church governance, baptism mode, end times details, spiritual gifts) are important but Christians can disagree while remaining brothers and sisters. Second, maintain humility. Recognize that you might be wrong and that faithful Christians have held different views. "In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity." Third, engage charitably. Represent others' views accurately, assume good faith, and argue positions not persons. Fourth, prioritize Scripture. Let the Bible, not tradition or preference, arbitrate disputes. Fifth, seek unity where possible without compromising truth. Jesus prayed for Christian unity (John 17), and Paul urged believers to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit" (Ephesians 4:3). Sixth, know when separation is necessary. Some false teaching is so dangerous that Paul says to avoid such teachers entirely (Titus 3:10, 2 John 1:10-11). Seventh, keep the main thing the main thing - the gospel of Jesus Christ.
What is the relationship between theology and practical Christian living?
Theology and practice are inseparable - what you believe shapes how you live. Paul's letters typically contain doctrinal teaching followed by practical application, often connected by "therefore" (Romans 12:1, Ephesians 4:1). Doctrine is the foundation; practice is the building. Consider how beliefs affect behavior: If you believe God is sovereign, you can trust Him in trials. If you believe salvation is by grace, you won't try to earn God's favor through works but will serve Him from gratitude. If you believe in Christ's return, you'll live with urgency and hope. If you believe in the resurrection, death loses its terror. If you understand the church as Christ's body, you'll prioritize Christian community. Conversely, practical problems often reveal theological deficiencies. Anxiety may indicate a weak view of God's sovereignty. Pride suggests a misunderstanding of grace. Despair may mean forgetting the resurrection hope. This is why Paul tells Timothy to "watch your life and doctrine closely" (1 Timothy 4:16) - they're a package deal. Good theology pursued merely academically produces arrogance and dead orthodoxy. But healthy theology that grips the heart transforms worship, relationships, work, suffering, and every aspect of life. True knowledge of God always leads to love for God and neighbor.
Why are historic creeds and confessions valuable for theology study?
Historic creeds and confessions - like the Apostles' Creed, Nicene Creed, Westminster Confession, or London Baptist Confession - are valuable resources for theology study, though they're not equal to Scripture. Their value includes: (1) They summarize biblical teaching concisely. Rather than studying each doctrine from scratch, creeds distill what Scripture teaches on key subjects. (2) They connect us to the historic church. Christianity didn't begin with us. The church has been wrestling with these texts for 2000 years, and we benefit from their work. C.S. Lewis called this "the democracy of the dead" - giving voice to past believers. (3) They protect against error. Most creeds were written to address specific heresies. The Nicene Creed answered Arianism (denying Christ's deity); definitions of Chalcedon addressed confusion about Christ's natures. Studying them helps us recognize old errors in new packaging. (4) They provide doctrinal unity. Churches that share confessional standards have clarity about their beliefs and can identify false teaching more easily. (5) They model careful theological thinking. Learning how past Christians articulated difficult doctrines helps us do the same today. The key is holding creeds subordinate to Scripture - they're valuable precisely because and insofar as they accurately summarize biblical teaching. Scripture alone is the final authority.
What does systematic theology teach about the church (ecclesiology)?
Ecclesiology - the doctrine of the church - addresses who the church is, what it does, how it's organized, and its relationship to Christ. Key teachings include: (1) The Nature of the Church - The church is the body of Christ (Colossians 1:18), a temple being built (Ephesians 2:19-22), a flock under Christ the shepherd (John 10), and a bride awaiting the bridegroom (Ephesians 5:25-27). It exists in local expressions (individual congregations) and the universal sense (all believers everywhere and throughout history). (2) The Church's Purpose - Worship (glorifying God together), instruction (teaching God's Word), fellowship (encouraging one another), evangelism (proclaiming the gospel), and service (meeting needs). (3) Church Ordinances - Most Protestants recognize two: baptism (initiation into the visible church) and the Lord's Supper (ongoing remembrance of Christ's death). Debates exist about baptism's mode and subjects, and about Christ's presence in communion. (4) Church Government - Different models include episcopal (bishops over churches), presbyterian (elders governing together), and congregational (local church autonomy). Each claims biblical support. (5) Church Membership and Discipline - The church is called to guard its purity through careful membership and discipline (Matthew 18:15-20). (6) Church and State - The church has a distinct mission from the state and shouldn't be controlled by civil government, though Christians engage as citizens.
What are the main views on eschatology (end times)?
Eschatology studies "last things" - death, resurrection, Christ's return, judgment, and the eternal state. Christians agree on these core truths: Christ will return bodily, the dead will be raised, there will be final judgment, and believers will enjoy eternal life with God while unbelievers face eternal punishment. However, there's considerable disagreement about details: (1) The Millennium - Premillennialists believe Christ returns before a literal 1,000-year reign on earth; postmillennialists expect the gospel to triumph before Christ returns; amillennialists interpret the millennium symbolically as the present church age. (2) The Rapture - Pretribulationists believe the church will be taken before a 7-year tribulation; midtribulationists and posttribulationists place it later. Some don't hold a separate rapture at all. (3) The Tribulation - Views differ on whether Revelation's judgments are future literal events, were fulfilled in the first century, or represent ongoing spiritual realities. (4) Israel and the Church - Some see distinct programs for ethnic Israel and the church; others see the church as spiritual Israel. Despite disagreements, all Christians share "the blessed hope" of Christ's return (Titus 2:13). The purpose of studying eschatology isn't to satisfy curiosity but to live in light of eternity - with hope, urgency, and faithfulness.
How does theology help me in spiritual warfare?
Solid theological knowledge is essential for spiritual warfare because the devil's primary tactic is deception. Jesus called Satan "the father of lies" (John 8:44), and Paul warns against his "schemes" (2 Corinthians 2:11, Ephesians 6:11). Here's how theology equips you: (1) Truth as Defense - The "belt of truth" is the first piece of armor (Ephesians 6:14). Knowing sound doctrine helps you recognize lies. When Satan twists Scripture (as he did with Jesus in the wilderness), theological knowledge exposes the distortion. (2) Understanding the Enemy - Theology teaches Satan's nature (created, fallen, limited), tactics (accusation, temptation, deception), and defeat (at the cross). He's a real but already-defeated foe. (3) Assurance of Victory - Theological understanding of Christ's finished work, the Spirit's indwelling, and God's sovereign protection provides confidence. Greater is He who is in you (1 John 4:4). (4) Recognizing False Teaching - The most dangerous attacks are often doctrinal heresies that lead people astray. Knowing truth helps you spot counterfeits. (5) The Sword of the Spirit - God's Word is our offensive weapon (Ephesians 6:17). Deep knowledge of Scripture - what it means, not just what it says - empowers you to wield it effectively. (6) Prayer - Theological understanding of God's character, Christ's mediation, and the Spirit's help transforms prayer from wishful thinking to confident appeal to the King.
How do I begin studying theology if I'm a new believer?
Beginning theology study as a new believer should be exciting, not intimidating. Here's a practical approach: (1) Start with the Basics - Focus first on the core doctrines: Who is God? Who is Jesus? What did He do to save me? How should I respond? Resources designed for new believers will cover these foundations without overwhelming complexity. (2) Read Scripture First - Before reading books about the Bible, read the Bible itself. Start with a Gospel (John or Mark), then explore other New Testament books. Let Scripture shape your thinking before secondary sources do. (3) Find a Good Church - The church is God's designed context for growth. A healthy church will teach sound doctrine and provide discipleship. Learning theology in isolation is dangerous. (4) Use Accessible Resources - Many excellent resources explain theology clearly for beginners. Look for catechisms (question-and-answer summaries of doctrine), basic systematic theology books, or church membership classes. (5) Ask Questions - Don't be afraid to ask your pastor or mature believers about things you don't understand. Questions are healthy; pretending is not. (6) Be Patient - Theology is a lifetime study. You won't master it quickly, and that's okay. Focus on foundational truths and build from there. (7) Apply What You Learn - Don't just accumulate information; let each truth you learn shape how you live and worship. Knowledge without application produces arrogance. (8) Pray for Understanding - Ask the Spirit to illuminate Scripture and help you understand truth (1 Corinthians 2:12-14).
Trusted Theology Resources
Additional external resources to deepen your theological study
Gospel Coalition Theology
Articles and resources on systematic theology from evangelical scholars
thegospelcoalition.org →Got Questions - Theology
Biblical answers to common theological questions
gotquestions.org →Desiring God Resources
Sermons and articles on doctrine from John Piper and others
desiringgod.org →Ligonier Ministries
Reformed theological education from R.C. Sproul's ministry
ligonier.org →