The Difference Between Thinking Biblically Knowing Theology

What’s the Difference between Thinking Biblically and Knowing Theology?

We are living in a day where news and information comes flying towards us at lightspeed. Even more so as we navigate this novel coronavirus we are battling. What is the real story? Who can I trust to tell me what I need to know? What do I do with conflicting pieces of information? It can be dizzying and disorienting, to say the least. There is a necessary ingredient we need in our mix these days more than ever. That ingredient? Discernment.

Discernment over Data 

The Proverbs of Solomon call out time and time again for us to be people of wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to take in data, determine that which is true and helpful, and then live skillfully as a result of what we understand. Wisdom, and her twin sister discernment, are an essential part of learning to think Biblically so as to live in such a way the God’s truth is honored and His character is exalted. The person who takes in everything he hears becomes a “reactor”, whereas the person who takes in information and then measures it against the message and mission of the King, lives richly. “How much better to get wisdom than gold!” (Proverbs 16:16) The accumulation of doctrinal data, while necessary information, does not make one wise. Discernment must be employed if you want to live steadfastly in the joy of the Lord.

Love in our Learning 

Paul explained to Timothy that, “The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” (1 Timothy 1:5) Make no mistake, the Gospel has content to it, and there is much to learn in our study of Holy Scripture. However, our learning is never to end at learning, but must end at love. A friend can know a lot about you and still not love you. In the same way, you can know a lot about God and what His Word teaches, and still not love Him. That kind of knowledge not only produces arrogance (1 Corinthians 8:1), but leaves one feeling empty, alone, and is of little value to those around him. Love is to “build up” others. That is one essential fruit of loving God “with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37). Your learning produces love in your heart for the Lord, and it is a spring of blessing to those around you. 

I love studying theology, and love teaching others of the wonders of God’s Word and character. But I want something far greater than smart theologians who can study the Word rightly. I want humble learners, wise livers, and joyful lovers who find their delight in Christ alone. May this be how we grow in the Lord at Crossroads as we learn to Think Biblically.

Pastor Mark Spansel