Systematic Theology: Key Terms, Concepts, and Reflection Questions

What is inspiration in the context of theology?

Inspiration refers to the process by which the authors of Scripture were guided by the Holy Spirit to write God's message.

What distinguishes animate objects from inanimate objects?

Animate objects are living beings, while inanimate objects are non-living entities.

What does 'Knowledge of God' encompass?

Knowledge of God includes understanding His origin, object, and essence.

What does the phrase 'Finitum non capax infiniti' mean?

It means 'The finite cannot comprehend the infinite,' emphasizing the limitations of human understanding of God.

What is the significance of conscience in theology?

Conscience serves as an inner sense of right and wrong, guiding moral decisions and reflecting God's moral law.

What is the creator-creation distinction?

It is the theological understanding that God (the Creator) is separate from and sovereign over His creation.

What are the primary texts of Christianity?

The Old Testament and the New Testament.

What is the purpose of theology?

Theology seeks to understand and explain the nature of God and His relationship with humanity.

What is the difference between dogma and doctrine?

Dogma refers to established beliefs that are authoritative, while doctrine encompasses broader teachings that may be subject to interpretation.

What is theological triage?

Theological triage is the process of prioritizing theological issues based on their significance to the faith.

What is the Trinity?

The Trinity is the Christian doctrine that describes God as three persons in one essence: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

What does the term 'Messiah' refer to?

The Messiah refers to the anointed one, expected to deliver and save God's people.

What is meant by 'New Creation' in Christian theology?

New Creation refers to the transformative work of God in believers, making them spiritually new through Christ.

What is the Shema?

The Shema is a central declaration of the Jewish faith found in Deuteronomy 6:4, affirming the oneness of God.

What does 'Credo' mean in a theological context?

Credo means 'I believe' and is often used to refer to statements of faith or creeds.

What is the Apostles' Creed?

The Apostles' Creed is an early statement of Christian faith summarizing core beliefs about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.

What is the difference between special revelation and general revelation?

Special revelation refers to God's specific communication through Scripture and Jesus, while general revelation refers to God's self-disclosure through nature and conscience.

What is a theophany?

A theophany is a visible manifestation of God to humans, often described in biblical accounts.

What does 'Imago Dei' mean?

Imago Dei means 'Image of God,' referring to the belief that humans are created in God's likeness.

How does human sin affect theological study?

Human sin distorts understanding and engagement with theological concepts, making it difficult to grasp divine truths.

What is the relationship between revelation and Scripture?

Revelation is God's self-disclosure, while Scripture is the written record of that revelation.