Understanding Biblical Theology: Unfolding the Story of Redemption
Biblical theology is a discipline that seeks to understand the progressive revelation of God’s plan of redemption throughout the Bible. It is distinct from other theological methods, such as systematic theology, which gathers everything the Bible teaches on a particular topic, and historical theology, which studies how Christians have understood the Bible throughout history.
Tracing the Story of the Bible
The Bible tells one story about our Creator God, who made all things and rules over all. This story can be summarized in five words: creation, fall, redemption, new creation. Biblical theology seeks to understand how this story unfolds throughout the Bible, from the promise of redemption in Genesis 3:15 to the ultimate fulfillment of that promise in Jesus Christ.
Getting Back to Biblical Categories
Biblical theology encourages us to think in biblical categories, rather than imposing modern questions and categories on the text. For example, the concept of covenant is central to the biblical storyline, but it is not a category we commonly use in modern thought. By getting back to biblical categories, we can gain a deeper understanding of the Bible’s message.
Studying the Authors of Scripture
The Bible was written by many different authors over a period of 1,500 years. Each author had their own unique perspective and theological emphasis. Biblical theology provides a method for studying and learning from each author of Scripture, while also recognizing the unity of the Bible as a whole.
Seeing the Unity of the Bible
Despite the many different authors and genres of the Bible, it tells one cohesive story. Biblical theology helps us to see the connections between different parts of the Bible and to understand how they contribute to the overall story of redemption.
Christ at the Center
Jesus Christ is at the center of the biblical story. Biblical theology encourages us to read the whole Bible as a book about Jesus, and to understand how the different parts of the Bible point to him.
Understanding Our Place in the Story
As we understand the biblical story, we also come to understand our place within it. We are part of God’s people, united by faith to Jesus Christ. Our mission is to continue Jesus’ ongoing work of redemption in the world.
The Impact of Biblical Theology
Biblical theology has a profound impact on our understanding of the world and our place within it. It helps us to see the glory of God more clearly and to understand our purpose in life. As Paul wrote in Romans 11:33-36, “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!”
Conclusion
Biblical theology is a rich and rewarding discipline that helps us to understand the biblical story and our place within it. By tracing the story of the Bible, getting back to biblical categories, studying the authors of Scripture, seeing the unity of the Bible, and putting Christ at the center, we can gain a deeper understanding of God’s plan of redemption and our role within it.
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