Theological Terms: Christian Theology

Anthropology

The study of humanity; theologically, humanity as understoood within the framework of creation, fall, and redemption.

Christology

The study of the person and work of Jesus the Messiah and Lord.

Cosmology

The study of the origin, nature, and purpose of creation.

Ecclesiology

The study of the nature and purpose of the church.

Eschatology

The study of the last things (e.g. death, resurrection, judgment, heaven, and hell).

Hamartiology

The study of the nature and consequences of sin.

Heresy

The belief or teaching that denies something essential to the Christian faith.

Heterodoxy

Belief or teaching that differs from historic Christian doctrine

Orthodoxy

Belief or teaching that aligns with traditional Christian theology (from a Greek phrase meaning "right thinking" or "right worship").

Pneumatology

Study of the person and work of the Holy Spirit.

Soteriology

The study of salvation.

Systematic Theology

An approach to doctrinal thinking that prioritizes the logical organization of biblical teaching into categories (e.g. Christology, Pneumatology, Ecclesiology, Eschatology).

Theology Proper

The study of God and all things in relation to God.