Something to Consider When Doing Systematic Theology
Contrary to the general understanding, systematic theology is more than memorizing a playbook of doctrines found in Scripture; it engages with different aspects of our reality.
When my husband and I first married, we invested in three-legged stools from Five and Below because we were on a college budget. Eventually, after three years, one of the legs broke off as we sat in it. Luckily, it was my husband and not me (haha)! This is important because anyone knows that a three-legged stool cannot simply stand on one foot or two.
Richard Hooker, an English theologian, and philosopher, is best known for using a metaphor involving the three-legged stool that helpfully explains the discipline of theology and authority. He argues that to achieve an ideal equilibrium in theological studies; one must thoughtfully consider the three pillars of this method. Various thinkers have added to Hooker’s metaphor by adapting it to (1) Scripture, (2) Tradition, and (3) Reason/Culture, as each represents a vital leg of this metaphorical three-legged stool, which helps teach us how to “do theology.”
Scripture: The Latin phrase, sola scriptura popularized by the Great Reformer Martin Luther, infers a hierarchical position of Scripture. The Bible is the principal source of Christian doctrine and revelation. Scripture governs theological thought and filters insights drawn from tradition, and culture. Sola scriptura does not mean “only the Bible” is credible; it really means “only the Bible is the final authority.” So as you “do theology,” remember that the Bible is prime, but do not neglect the voices of history and of your time.
Tradition: History matters. The accumulated knowledge of the Church Fathers, early councils, historical practices, and rituals is valuable. Church History provides invaluable insights for comprehending Scripture and preserving theological continuity. In the Netflix show ‘Wednesday,’ Wednesday Addams says this incredible line as she begs to be a vessel of change: “Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it.” I agree. So when “doing theology,” consider the voices and events of the past and learn from them.
Culture: Culture is an essential piece of “doing theology” because it provides purpose to our reason for knowing and learning. As human beings, we need to understand the world around us. The questions from 2000 years ago are different from the world we live in today. With different concerns emerging, the new realities need contextualized solutions. Take COVID, for example. A worldwide pandemic shut down church doors worldwide, and believers had to deal with a problem that has never been written about in the books. Understanding how culture and theology come together better invites us into real spaces where we can be salt in light instead of living in a theoretical ether removed from the suffering and questions of today’s current climate.
Within the domain of Systematic Theology, the adoption of the three-legged stool analogy from Richard Hooker presents a comprehensive conceptual framework between Scripture, Tradition, and Culture. It's important to note that the Bible is the primary and authoritative source of truth. However, tradition plays a crucial role in providing historical background and ensuring continuity in interpreting and applying biblical teachings. Additionally, culture serves as a significant factor in the practical implementation of theological principles. By cultivating and nourishing each component of this symbolic framework, we establish a solid basis for comprehensive theological comprehension and influential Christian praxis. So when you do theology, consider leveraging these pillars in your stewardship of interpretation and application.