What Systematic Theology Does

Read the text

Acts 20:17–32

Read the primary passage aloud twice. On the first reading, listen for the burden of the text. On the second, mark repeated words, contrasts, commands, promises, causes, and conclusions.

• Matthew 22:23–33
• Luke 24:44–49
• 2 Timothy 3:14–17

Language desk

Words that clarify—not words that perform.

Confirm each gloss by its use in this context. A lexicon offers possibilities; the sentence, paragraph, author, and canon determine what a word is doing here.

Form the doctrine

The theological claim

Systematic theology states the whole Bible’s teaching on a subject for belief and obedience.

Defense drill

Say it under pressure.

Answer the claim that doctrine is a man-made substitute for a relationship with God.

• State the opposing claim in a form its adherent could recognize.
• Open the controlling passage and establish the immediate context.
• Make one clear argument before adding supporting texts.
• Ask a diagnostic question, listen to the answer, and return to Christ and the gospel.

Wednesday assignment

Carry the truth into the week.

Draft a biblical definition of theology and support every clause with a text.