At the root of the term "apologetics" is "apology". NO, we are not talking about saying "I'm sorry" here. Let's take a closer look as to its actual meaning & origin. Dictionary.com noun, ( used with a singular verb) 1. the branch of theology concerned with the defense or proof of Christianity. Etymonline.com apologetics "branch … Continue reading Apologetics
Christian
Soteriology
The study of salvation or, more specifically, the doctrine of salvation from our sins. Etymology: (from etymonline) "1847, in reference to health; 1864 in reference to salvation, from German soteriologie, from Greek soteria "preservation, salvation," from soizein "save, preserve," related to sos "safe, healthy," of uncertain origin (perhaps from PIE root *teue- "to swell"). With … Continue reading Soteriology
Defining & Where to Next
This week I thought I'd take a short break from the series to give you a preview of what I've got planned coming up. So far I've gone over Theology and then moved onto other "ologies" that are related to the study of God. Those have included Epistemology and Eschatology, each with their own posts … Continue reading Defining & Where to Next
Eschatology
The study of final things. This area of study is more directly an area of study within theology unlike epistemology - which was more directly an area of study from philosophy. It is concerned with studying and understanding what has been revealed about the end of times - the end of the world as we … Continue reading Eschatology
Epistemology
Epistemology - a big word referring to the study of knowledge itself. This isn't as cut and dry to define as some areas of study as it is effectively a branch of philosophy but still an important one for those studying the Scriptures. "Theory of knowledge" is another common definition of this area of study. … Continue reading Epistemology
Theology – part 2
There are many subcategories or areas of study within theology - each with their own names. You will be seeing these as we progress through this series. For now, I want to zero in on an issue that some quibble over on the topic and that is in regards to division. Theological differences have created … Continue reading Theology – part 2
Theology – part 1
Theology is commonly defined as the study of God. From etymonline.com: [mid-14c., "the science of religion, study of God and his relationship to humanity," from Old French theologie "philosophical study of Christian doctrine; Scripture" (14c.), from Latin theologia, from Greek theologia "an account of the gods," from theologos "one discoursing on the gods," from theos … Continue reading Theology – part 1
Disputation on the Power of Indulgences (Luther’s 95 Theses)
When: OCTOBER 31, 1517 Out of love for the truth and the desire to bring it to light, the following propositions will be discussed at Wittenberg, under the presidency of the Reverend Father Martin Luther, Master of Arts and of Sacred Theology, and Lecturer in Ordinary on the same at that place. As such he … Continue reading Disputation on the Power of Indulgences (Luther’s 95 Theses)
Reformation Sunday
Traditionally, Reformation Sunday is observed on the Sunday at the end of October. This year that was October 29th. It is observed as a day to remember the Protestant Reformation, Martin Luther's 95 theses, as well as a day to express appreciation to pastors and elders who guide the flock at our churches. Traditions surrounding … Continue reading Reformation Sunday
Sola
The 5 solas of the Protestant Reformation are originally written in Latin and each indicate an aspect in the Christian faith with the world "alone" attached, or "sola". In my previous post, I addressed the topics of indulgence and salvation as it relates to the Catholic church and the Protestant Reformation. If you have not … Continue reading Sola