Pactical theology. What is it?

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by David Velasquez on May 22, 2010 at 2:43am

When we study the bible, different Doctrines, we find that ALL of the Word of God has practical implications to our renewing of the mind, which is what in turn guides us to act and react a certain way.

However there are doctrines in theology which do not have immediate implications in our day to day walk, yet shape our understanding of God, which understanding does contribute to shape our actions and reactions. I realize that what I just said sounds or appears to be an oxymoron, but there is no contradiction there.

Simply put there are doctrines that have immediate effects on our life if we apply them to our walk, while other doctrines do not have an impact on our day to day walk in a tangible manner.

Let me try to explain.

When we discuss matters pertaining to the account found on Genesis 1 and 2, of creation and a brother among us is incline to believe the Gap Theory and we debate the topic in love, we have a blast doing it, for we find worth in knowing the truth about all doctrines and matters pertaining to God and Godliness.

However how does the fact that I believe on the literal 6 day creation account affect my day to day walk? This is where Practical Theology separates from General Theology, if I may make up a term here.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by David Velasquez on May 23, 2010 at 12:58am

Amen and amen. You got it sis.

From your list I cud say one important characteristic of practical theology is that it pertains to questions everyone asks, and that everyone feels they need an answer to to live the christian life.

I have this among my PDF files and you can find it here:
http://groups.apu.edu/practicaltheo/LECTURE%20NOTES/Sanford/Sp%2008...

I enjoyed it and hopefully you do to.

Practical Theology Method

Definition: Practical Theology is the ongoing integration of theology into life.

Practical Theology Method
Step #1Experience
Step #2.. Exploration
Step #3..Reflection
Step #4.. Action

Step 1. Experience:
Clearly and critically assess current actions and responses.
Attempt to discern “land mines” in analyzing current situation, circumstance or action.
Develop an intellectual framework for assessing action

Step 2. Exploration:
Does Scripture directly address this issue?
Does the narrative of Scripture inform the issue?
Consider other authoritative voices that inform the issue.
Tradition, Reason and Experience

Step 3. Reflection:
Prayerful consideration of action.
Defining and/or redefining of convictions.
Deliberate about personal embedded theology.
Examination of God’s desired will.
Practice of spiritual disciplines: solitude; meditation, fasting, etc.

Step 4. Action:
Deliberate response vs “reaction”
Work as an agent of change.
Rearrange priorities.
Change existing behaviors.
Design a new plan of action

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Stacey Osana Arquines on May 23, 2010 at 1:59am

Is there such a thing as practical theology? What is it? What topics does it include? And which does it not include?

Yes when you wake up in the morning and when you breathe in and out thats step one of practical theology for to practical means the act of being humanly set in the mode of actions normal to society and in faith living in Christ....when I think of practical i think of what is settling and calm and peaceful and loving in a way that is and appears to others as an exemplifying life to live. Practical theology does not include mixed up doctrine not of sound thoughts expressed in any life course in human interaction with others.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by David Velasquez on August 18, 2010 at 9:02pm

I have not sis. Sounds like a good read though. Please do share any nuggets you find in it.

Interesting title (charismatic). It makes me think that it will focus on the Pentecostal denomination and what they view as practical theology.

• ▶ Reply