Biblical Theology vs. Philosophical Theology

What is God really like? What attributes does he have? Why are they important for us to know?

This is a Q&A follow-up on our animated video, What is God Like?

Do you want focused training in Christian Apologetics and Theology from wherever you are...for free? Register for our Equip program and join a community of thinkers journeying together.

[davidclark]

Dr. Craig is correct here. Philosophy and Theology were only seen as separate disciplines until very recently.

[ThoughtDecoder]

Love this! Excellent question and detailed response.

[waitstill]

The vast majority of pastors major in theological studies, rather than their bible. The tens of thousands of Christian denominations is proof of this.

A theology degree (M.Div.) is the study of religious beliefs and theory. This would be like majoring in religious confirmation bias.

It’s the tail that wags the dog.

[kito-]

Why should it be first, and what does that mean?

[tonygonzalez]

Sorry, I don't agree. The Scripture is sufficient.

[Stowerslemalu]

But Criag if the NT are merely generally reliable historical documents, how can we trust it is give us a consistent revelation of who God is? How can we trust the NT to actually expound upon and give us a theology of resurrection when all your approach concerns itself with is a minimal fact method that undergirds the inference to the resurrection? I dont see how this approach justifies a consistent authoritative revelation.

[jaggedlines]

I don't believe philosophical theology is the correct term. It is either Theology or Philosophy.
To marry these terms together invites the reader/student to allow the philosophical to be the concept by which we interpret scripture.

For instance, the theory of evolution is a philosophy that has infiltrated biblical theology.
Do we therefore interpret scripture through the lens of evolution, or do we ' by faith ' (not reason ) accept the biblical account of creation?

Is it necessary to ' reason ' that the Genesis account only makes sense through the philosophical lens?

No, I don't think so.

Allow the 'academics ' amongst us to reason away so they can sleep better at night.
For me, I will choose Theolgy over Philosophy every time.

And I sleep really well. Thanks for asking.

[farazahmad]

You can't use natural theology to conclude God as The father, the son and the holy spirit. GOD IS PURE from what you associate. GOD is one and unique and there is nothing like Him. May God almighty Guide all of us.