The Danger Of Theology

Our flesh is so easy to feed. Reformed theology, puritan teachings or the theology of our 17th century forefathers can become rations to our wicked flesh. I must confess that I have made theology an idol in my life. I fed my flesh not my soul. I praise God that He made me realize my idolatrous intent while I was studying His Word.

The Truth is extremely important. It is necessary to correctly exegete a text to fully expound a Biblical Truth. It is also essential to elaborate the doctrinal basis of salvation and regeneration. However, our walk with God should not be restricted to such. As Paul Washer says, "The Truth is not an end. It is a means to a greater end."

So often I cry out for revival, the exhortation of the fullness God's Truth and the advancement of His Kingdom. I have forgotten the purpose of all of these. I have focused on God's work, not Him.

Dear friends, it is important to be totally obedient and passionate for the things of God. It is also a wonderful thing to radically adhere to Biblical standards and be watchful in our narrow journey, but this is not the end. Christianity is not just about doing the right thing. Christianity is not just about obedience, correct exegesis or morality. It is about being with God, walking with Him, experiencing Him, dwelling in His presence, worshiping Him and loving Him with all our hearts.

To be passionate to the things of God is wonderful but are we passionate for Him? To be honest, I was more passionate for revival than God. When was the last time we just sat beside Him alone while admiring His greatness?

It is true that God's glory is the most important thing but let us not forget His unconditional love for mankind. He just loves us so much. Jesus died on the Cross not only for the glory of the Father but also because He loves men. An immature reformed writer would probably say at this moment: "That's not doctrinally sound. He just died for the elect!". Dear friend, it is true that Christ paid the sins of His elect alone, however, we cannot deny the fact that He loves men. Are we so dull that theology has twisted our minds instead of enriching our hearts?

I can't help but weep over my sin but at the same time rejoice whenever I remember the words of our great Jesus while He was being crucified: "Father, forgive them, they do not know what they are doing." It is not wrong to despise cultural, humanistic Christianity because it does not esteem the work of Christ. However, it is also important to understand that hatred for sin, separation from the world and the pursuit of Truth are simply means to a greater end. We empty our hands not only for the sake of purity but also to hold unto Him even more. To know Him doesn't just mean to get the right data about Him. To know Him means to develop an intimate, Spirit-empowered relationship with Him. It is true that God doesn't need us or our service but it is not right to make this an excuse to separate ourselves from Him and confine Christian living in a systemic box of morality and correct exegesis.

In conclusion, God wants our hearts. He wants our love all to Himself. Our obedience should be based on our love and passion for Him, not on ethics or morality. Our journey to God is a journey. As attractive and enticing theology might be, it is not the end. We haven't even seen a fraction of God's glory. I don't even think we could ever contain His greatness in our puny minds. Nevertheless, let us sprint with a passion and love not only for the Truth, but for God Himself.