V. The Subject and Source of Theology.

What do we study when studying Systematics? As mentioned previously, we do not begin with what we believe, and then search the Bible to unearth support for support our opinions. This is far too subjective. Rather, the subject matter is, as B.B. Warfield (1851-1921) stated, “God in His nature and in His relations with His creatures.” The only place we can find information on this is from God’s revelation of Himself.

Theology is the study of God and His dealings with us. Where do we find the facts? The facts of God and His dealings with man can only be known correctly based on God’s revelation of Himself. God has revealed Himself to us in various ways: (1) God’s Creation, (2) God’s Providence in personal experience, (3) God’s Law, (4) God’s Son Jesus Christ, and most importantly, (5) God’s Word, the Bible. Why is the Bible the most important? Because the Bible is the only objective truth. The Bible is the most objective source of revelation available to man. While it can be interpreted in numerous subjective ways, the Bible itself (as long as it is translated accurately) is objective truth. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 speaks of the inspiration, and, therefore, the authority of Scripture. Isaiah 40:8 testifies of its unchanging character.

The Roman Catholic Church trusts equally in the Bible and the traditions of the Church. The problem with this position is that the traditions of the Church frequently contradict themselves and the Bible. Modern evangelicals make a similar mistake regarding the Bible and culture instead of the Bible and church tradition.

Reformation Protestants look to Scripture alone (Sola Scriptura). While we learn from the history and traditions of the Church, we cannot look to them as authoritative, since they are fraught with error and contradiction.