"For beyond the rote method of argument and analysis, theology can be beautiful. It often is, in fact- “did not our hearts burn within us”? Theology might gesture to that burning heart. It can fan it into flame. If it succeeds, we might all warm ourselves from its heat."
If theology is the study of the nature of God - perhaps even the heart of God - then systematic theology can surely ignite us toward that end. I cannot love someone I do not know. But even the telling and showing can be beautiful.
“I have found that I will do anything to avoid serious writing, including writing.” Well, that feels like someone holding up a mirror! Thanks for sharing your solution- it has me pondering, esp since I am tempted to try many of the fixes you did- an outside office, someone else to clean my house… maybe I just need some beauty.
Systematic theology has historically been dull almost by intention. While I have had some rapturous moments with Hodge, it is the exception that proves the rule. Exegesis that escapes literalism is accused of leaving off science. I think it is Ryrie (bless his wooden-hearted categories) who popularized theology as a science. What if theology was art? Might it even be consumable?
Thanks for this! I'm writing (and procrastinating) at this very moment. Fear is the thing behind much of my procrastination and beauty doesn't care one bit about fear.
"For beyond the rote method of argument and analysis, theology can be beautiful. It often is, in fact- “did not our hearts burn within us”? Theology might gesture to that burning heart. It can fan it into flame. If it succeeds, we might all warm ourselves from its heat."
If theology is the study of the nature of God - perhaps even the heart of God - then systematic theology can surely ignite us toward that end. I cannot love someone I do not know. But even the telling and showing can be beautiful.
Loved all of this.
“I have found that I will do anything to avoid serious writing, including writing.” Well, that feels like someone holding up a mirror! Thanks for sharing your solution- it has me pondering, esp since I am tempted to try many of the fixes you did- an outside office, someone else to clean my house… maybe I just need some beauty.
It’s more about reframing your why.
Systematic theology has historically been dull almost by intention. While I have had some rapturous moments with Hodge, it is the exception that proves the rule. Exegesis that escapes literalism is accused of leaving off science. I think it is Ryrie (bless his wooden-hearted categories) who popularized theology as a science. What if theology was art? Might it even be consumable?
Thank you. This is beautiful. :)
Thanks for this! I'm writing (and procrastinating) at this very moment. Fear is the thing behind much of my procrastination and beauty doesn't care one bit about fear.
I’d love to read it!