Learn Some Theology

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. (1 Timothy 2:15)

Very few parishioners concern themselves about matters of theology, which is very unfortunate and discouraging. I have my concerns about how many modern church goers would be able to give a definition of justification by faith. They miss out on the comfort and assurance that theology brings to the Christian mind and faith. They would miss out on the assurance of Double Imputation, or the peace that is given by the Perseverance of the Saints. The worst possibility is that an unstudied Christian may easily fall into error or heresy. 

Ligonier (the ministry founded by R. C. Sproul) and Lifeway partner together every year to conduct a survey called “The State of Theology.” In 2025, it was clearly demonstrated that evangelical America is lacking in its knowledge of theology. 

Of those surveyed, 64% agreed with the statement that “Everyone is born innocent in the eyes of God.” Such a statement contradicts the theology that all mankind are born in sin and fallen creatures. King David wrote, “I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me” (Ps 51:5). 

In the survey, 53% agreed that “Everyone sins a little, but most people are good by nature.” Again this is contrary to Scripture. Paul quoted various Old Testament passages when he wrote, “as it is written, ‘There is none righteous, not even one; There is none who understands, There is none who seeks after God; All have turned aside, Together they have become useless; There is none who does good, There is not not even one’ ” (Rom 3:10–11). 

The concern with misunderstanding these doctrines is that we fail to see our need for salvation. We miss the fact that we need a radical change of our nature and heart in order to love God (John 3:3). 

Perhaps the most concerning part of the survey was that while 100% agreed that “The Bible is the highest authority for what I believe;” 47% of the same group agreed that “God accepts the worship of all religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.” It certainly begs the question, if God accepts worship from all religions, then why does Jesus teach about the eternal torment of hell? Furthermore, Jesus made it very clear that He is the only way to heaven (John 5:11–12; 6:65; 14:6; cf. Acts 4:12). Christianity is exclusive. If a man does not know Christ as His Lord and Savior then he will die in his sin and the wrath of God abides on him (John 3:36).

People always complain that theology causes dissension. However, if we do not learn theology, how are we to discern truth from error? As disciples of Jesus, we are called to learn these things. 

G. K. Chesterton said it well. “Theology is that part of religion that requires brains.” Please don’t check your brain at the door of the church.