Discuss the Definition and the source of christian theology , and how Essay - 1

Discuss the Definition and the source of christian theology , and how is systematic theology related to biblical theology and christian ethics - Essay Example Systematic theology’s exact beginnings are uncertain although Origen’s work, On First Principles, during the third century Greek Church, is one of the earliest works on it (Fiorenza, 2011, p.7). Systematic theology has continued to develop since this time, although it also has become the product of criticisms because of its ambiguous definitions, components and directions, among other reasons (Healy, 2009, p.25). This paper describes the definitions and elements of systematic theology, compares it with other branches of theology, discusses its effects on Christian ethics, explores its interrelationship of different doctrines, and understands how it can be applied through the decision-making process of believers. Theologians do not agree on an exact definition of systematic theology because of a number of reasons, such as shifting approaches to theology across time (Williams, 2006, p.199) and differences in perceptions of the importance of â€Å"systematic† as a biblical discipline (Healy, 2009, p.25), so the paper provides its definitions to show its scope and dynamic characteristics. Before defining â€Å"systematic theology,† this paper defines â€Å"theology† first. Theology basically pertains to the â€Å"the study or science of God† (Erickson, 1998, p.22). This definition is too simplistic, however, because God’s works and His relationship with His believers are also subjects of theology (Erickson, 1998, p.22). A comprehensive definition of theology is it is a: ..discipline which strives to give a coherent statement of the doctrines of the Christian faith, based primarily on the Scriptures, placed in the context of culture in general, worded in a contemporary idiom, and related to issues of life. (Erickson, 1998, p.22) The next to be discussed are the different meanings of systematic theology. Enns (2008) uses