Everyone to some degree or another is one. Ever wander where your at know and where you want to be at?
Tabloid Theologian: One who constructs his or her theology based upon naïve hearsay information that has no basis in fact and very little, if any, evidence to be believed. Many times people are Tabloid theologians because of the theology"s appearance of originality. As well, it can be "cutting edge" in many people"s minds.
Folk Theologian: One who uncritically and unreflectively constructs his or her theology according to traditions and religious folklore. The Folk theologian is often very dogmatic and militant about his or her beliefs.
Lay Theologian: A layperson, who constructs his or her theology and who, unlike the folk and tabloid theologian, is . . .
(1) more reflective upon learned theological concepts
(2) likely to formulate a system of beliefs which distinguishes between essential and non-essential doctrine
(3) more critical of unfounded traditions
(4) willing to use study tools
Ministeral Theologian: A layperson who constructs his or her theology and who, unlike the lay theologian is . . .
(1) educated in theological methodology
(2) able to use study tools and resources at a more effective level
(3) able to openly critique personal theology against competing models
(4) intent on devoting more time to reflection so that theological integration can take place.
Professional Theologian: One who constructs his or her theology and makes a living doing so. They usually. . .
(1) are didactically purposed toward lay and pastoral theologians
(2) conduct practical original research
(3) critically evaluate common theological trends and folk theology.
THESE ARE THE ONES MOST OFTEN ACCUSED OF QUENCHING THE SPIRIT when they compare tradition vs scripture.
Academic Theology: A professional theologian who constructs his theology with an overly speculative and critical spirit. His dialogue can usually come only with other theologians. It is often called "Ivory Tower theology."
Everyone is a theologian. The question is where do you fall in on the catagories? By knowing this maybe it will help someone evaluate where they are now and where they would like to be. WHAT KIND OF A THEOLOGIAN ARE YOU??????
RE: Where are you at now and where do you want to be?
I want to be a faithful student and I want to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. I want to know what He said and did and what He meant by what He said and what He was showing us by what He did.
I want to know if the translators have translated in as precise a way they should have.
Outside of Scriptural study I want to be in tune enough to realize what the Spirit is telling me personally.
I want to not have my eyes closed to truth.
__________________ And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
Where are you at now and where do you want to be?
