Introduction

Many individuals, including myself, view their relationship with God through the lens of Christian theology. However, it's important to understand that the title 'Christian,' as is often used today, doesn't originate from the original scriptures. It's a term that has evolved over time, often carried with it baggage and misunderstanding. In this article, we explore the deeper, more meaningful aspects of Christian theology, highlighting three crucial areas that have profoundly moved my heart.

The Misconception of 'Christian'

It is essential to first address the term 'Christian' and its historical context. The word has been used in various ways, often by Greeks and Romans as a label or even a persecutory term. Neither the Father nor God, as referred to in the scriptures, calls His children 'Christians.' The term was invented by the Greeks and later adopted by the Romans as a way to label and potentially persecute.

The term 'Christian' often leads to the perception of a vast sea of competing cults, each claiming to be obedient to God. In reality, true followers of Jesus are not bound by religious teachings and rituals but by a direct communion with God through the still small voice. This direct relationship contrasts starkly with the traditional religious pursuits that can often be marred by the noise of human interpretations and traditions.

The Transformative Power of Christian Theology

Since my semi-retirement, I've had the luxury of time to immerse myself in the study of Christian theology. This exploration has not only broadened my understanding but has caused my heart to resonate with the profound truths I've discovered. Theology, etymologically defined as the study of God and our relationship with Him, is a critical and multifaceted discipline. Here, I'll delve into three key areas that have particularly captured my attention:

Trinitarian Theology

One area that greatly moved my heart is Trinitarian Theology, as explained by scholars such as Robert Letham and Fred Sanders. Trinitarian Theology explores the nature of God in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This doctrine is central to Christian belief, affirming the unity and distinctness within the Godhead. Letham and Sanders provide a comprehensive understanding of this complex yet beautiful truth, emphasizing its importance in understanding the relationship between God and humanity.

Covenant Theology

A second area that profoundly impacted me is Covenant Theology, as expounded by Michael Horton. Covenant Theology delves into the continuous nature of God's relationship with humanity and His promises throughout the ages. This includes the Abrahamic, Mosaic, and New Covenant. Horton offers a deep and nuanced exploration of these covenants, showing how each one builds upon the previous and culminates in the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.

Union with Christ

A third area of theology that has deeply moved my heart is Union with Christ, as examined by Marcus Johnson. Union with Christ explores the idea of being in Christ, which embraces the interconnectedness of believers with Christ's life, death, and resurrection. This theology emphasizes the transformative power of Christ and our ongoing participation in His life. Through this union, believers gain not just forgiveness, but a real and living relationship with God.

Religion as a Business and Cult

It is worth noting that much of modern religion, as I understand it, often resembles a business or a cult more than a lived relationship with God. I grew up in the Southern Baptist tradition, but my current perspective is more agnostic. I believe that while there is clearly something designed and created everything, the current religious establishment often lacks genuine understanding of its purpose.

For those seeking a direct and meaningful relationship with their creator, I urge them to bypass organized religion and its elaborate rituals. Instead, engage in direct communication with the divine. Talking to your creator alone, instead of flipping through a book that you have no clue where it came from, is the true path to understanding and love.

I hope that by exploring these areas of Christian Theology, we can foster a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God, one that is not bound by labels or cultural norms but is rooted in a direct and personal communion with the divine.