Different Types of Theology You Should Know

Theology is the study of religion. It examines human experience with faith and how it is expressed across different cultures. Even though a majority of students take theology in preparation for a career in the church, it is not a necessity. One should be aware that there are different paths within Christianity towards theology. In many Christian schools, the four Great Departments of Theology are: -

• Exegetical theology - It includes critical explication and interpretation of Scriptures. It is structured around the deep analysis of Scriptures, biblical criticism studying the origins of the Bible. It also studies the emergence of various biblical books, especially how they were collected and compiled together.
• Historical theology - It is the study of the development of Christian theology over time. It is often structured around various major periods in history that had a major impact on theology. Patristic period, Middle Ages, Reformation and Counter-Reformation period and the Modern Period are studied under it.
• Systematic theology - It is an attempt to incorporate and combine all theological sources and combine them. The structure is often arranged about major topics or categories of ideas that have been agreed upon for centuries. For example, Prolegomena, Doctrine of Man, Christology, Soteriology, Pneumatology, Ecclesiology, Eschatology, etc.
• Practical Theology - It is built over previously mentioned theologies but places emphasis on practical methods of living these ideas in our own lives in the present time. It is structured around Christian ethics and casuistry, Pastoral theology, Missiology, etc.

Being an expansive field, theology is difficult to contain within a singular perception. Though one shouldn't fret, for it is a journey, at the end of which one may often find themselves. Theology is for those who seek deeper spiritual truths and want to help others apply that truth to their life. Former students of theology can opt for a master’s degree in theology. It opens doors for graduates towards careers in the church or other ministry-related organizations, including teaching in Christian schools. Today you can even be a part of online theology courses. Getting into a Master's in Theology online is a viable option for those who seek knowledge from prestigious institutes around the world while staying at home.