An Introduction to Systematic Theology

At Iron Men we’ve embarked on a journey through systematic theology, guided by the work of Reformed theologian Charles Hodge. But what exactly is systematic theology, and why is it vital for our faith? Simply put, systematic theology is the discipline of organizing and structuring biblical information into a coherent framework, addressing major doctrinal topics such as God, Christ, salvation, and the church. It’s like a biblical dictionary, compiling and synthesizing scriptural truths to help us understand God and His works comprehensively.

Systematic Theology as a Discipline

Systematic theology differs from other theological disciplines, each offering unique perspectives on God’s revelation. Biblical theology, for instance, traces the development of doctrines across Scripture, revealing how themes unfold from Genesis to Revelation. Consider the Garden of Eden: a surface reading of Genesis 2–3 might see it merely as the setting of the Fall, but biblical theology uncovers deeper truths. As we trace themes through the Psalms, Prophets, and Revelation, we see the Garden as the first temple, Adam as its priest, and the New Jerusalem as its ultimate fulfilment, with the Tree of Life at its centre. This progressive revelation ensures we interpret earlier Scriptures in light of later ones, reading the Bible “backwards” to grasp its full meaning.

Historical theology, another discipline, examines how Christian doctrines have developed over the past 2,000 years. For example, early church debates clarified that Jesus Christ has two natures—divine and human—and two wills, a truth solidified against heresies like Monothelitism, which claimed He had only one will. This historical perspective guards against novel interpretations, as the Apostle Paul described the faith as “once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). Deviating from established doctrines, like inventing new views of the Trinity, risks straying from biblical truth.

A Way to Better Know God

Ethics, a further branch, applies biblical principles to moral living, drawing from both Scripture and human experience. Together, these disciplines complement systematic theology, which seeks to synthesize all biblical data into a structured whole. But why pursue this rigorous study? Systematic theology anchors us in God’s self-revelation, helping us know Him as He has revealed Himself, even though His infinite nature remains incomprehensible. As we climb “the mountain of the knowledge of God,” we grow in faith, aligning our understanding with Scripture’s truths.

At Iron Men, we chose Charles Hodge’s Systematic Theology for its Reformed perspective, which emphasizes a holistic biblical worldview. Being “Reformed” isn’t just about affirming election or predestination; it’s about embracing a comprehensive theology that integrates doctrines of God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, salvation, the church, and eschatology. A person who holds to election but denies Christ’s two natures, for instance, cannot be considered truly Reformed. The Reformation re-examined all aspects of biblical teaching, ensuring each doctrine aligns with Scripture and historical orthodoxy.

Systematic Theology Protects Us

Systematic theology also guards against fragmented beliefs. It challenges us to ensure our understanding of God is consistent across all areas of doctrine. For example, calling the Holy Spirit “it” rather than “He” reveals a misunderstanding of His personhood, a point systematic theology corrects by emphasizing His role as a divine person within the Trinity. Similarly, ecclesiology – the study of the church – reveals that the church’s roots extend beyond the New Testament, beginning with Adam and continuing through Abraham and Moses, as Paul notes, “not all Israel is Israel” (Romans 9:6).

By engaging in systematic theology, we avoid superficial readings of Scripture and ensure our faith is rooted in a robust, biblical framework. This study equips us to know God more deeply, live out His truth, and defend the faith once delivered. As we explore this blog series, let us pray for hearts strengthened and minds girded to interact with God’s Word, growing in the knowledge of Him who is our Creator, Redeemer, and King.