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NASB | Matthew 5:44 "But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 5:44 "But I say to you, love [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for] your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, [Prov 25:21, 22] |
Subject: Praying for the 'World'. |
Bible Note: Dear MJH, Please excuse me if I quibble here a bit: I am at variance with your statement that "Systematic theology, for all its good points, often removes the 'mystery' of God that is so wonderful." Systematic theology is the branch of theology which deals with the logical categorization of Biblical truths. It traces the self-revelation of God through the Scriptures as a whole and then carefully organizes it by doctrine. It answers the all important question, "What does the whole counsel of Scripture teach us about any given topic?" Systematic theology helps prevent us from making errors. For example, if we are talking about Christology, systematic theology helps us deal with the humanity and the diety of Christ at the same time. In theology proper -- the study of the attributes of God -- it helps us deal with God's mercy and His love at the same time. It lifts us into proper understanding of the entire Word of God, rather than allowing us to fall into error by overemphasis of one doctrine while ignoring another. How often have we seen people in those kinds of errors?! Consequently, systematic theology permits us to more clearly see what God has to say about Himself. If He has said it, it is important for us to understand it. The wonder of God -- which is perhaps what you really mean by the word "mystery" -- is more thoroughly appreciated through systematic theology than it ever has been through any other vehicle. In reaction to intellectualism, statements like the one you made have become quite common. However, I am convinced that they miss the point. Biblical theologians do not seek to promote intellectualism. They simply promote the importance of the intellect. God is a cognitive being who has given man the gift of cognition. Furthermore, He has communicated to man about Himself. Communication itself implies the tacit admission of rationality in both the sender and the receiver. Our supreme authority is the Scriptures. Our intellect must be brought to bear, with the aid of the Holy Spirit, in order to understand what God has said of Himself. No other activity than this is more important in human existence. Again, I apologize, but I can't quite restrain myself from jumping in on some topics. :-) Please don't misunderstand: on the whole, I've appreciated your posts. In Him, Doc |