“What do I need to focus on?”
This is a regular question that I get. Sometimes it comes from guys who are looking at the potential of being in full-time ministry at some point. Other times it comes from men or women who just want to grow in their ability to serve the Lord. I always point them to 4 friends that they need to get acquainted with.*
1) Systematic Theology. This is the study of what the Bible says about a particular topic. It is a particularly important discipline because of the fact that the Bible is sufficient to tell us all that we have to know in order to grow in godliness and understanding (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Therefore, I can wring out the text on a topic and know what I need to know. Further, if I have built up a solid Systematic Theology then I can keep myself from biting on the shiny packages of false teaching. It’s like the rails on the bowling alley (not that I bowl)– it keeps you in line.
Suggestions for books: 1) Berkhoff, 2) Grudem, 3) Reymond
2) Historical Theology. This is the tandem to Systematic Theology. Historical Theology traces the development of theology throughout the history of the church. This is also helpful as it shows the various heresies and doctrinal battles that have occurred. So often, it’s the same demonic script, repackageed and resold. Knowing history helps in the present.
Suggestions for books: 1) Allison, 2) Berkhoff
3) Biblical Theology. This segment helps you to understand how the Bible fits together and what its main theme is. In short, Biblical Theology (with a particular emphasis upon the Redemptive Historical approach) aids students in understanding the big picture of God’s redemptive plan and how it dramatically unfolds. It prevents teachers from simply moralizing the OT teaching and ensures that every sermon is a Christian sermon.
Suggestions for books: 1) Vos, 2) Hamilton, 3) Goldsworthy
4) Applied Theology. This is simply how to apply the Scripture to the heart. Whenever you are in ministry (whether full-time or not) you have to apply to the heart. We are not simply laboring for information but transformation. To do this we have to carefully, thoughtfully, prayerfully and faithfully apply the Bible (Prov. 20:5; 2 Tim. 3:16-17).
Suggestions for books: 1) Anything from Tripp, 2) Puritans: Especially Owen and Sibbes
5) Bonus. I once heard Sinclair Ferguson say that he was discipled by two very godly men named John. The men were John Calvin and John Owen. If you listen to Ferguson you can hear what he means. If you are looking to dive into someone’s writings, pick up The Institutes or Psalms by Calvin. I love, absolutely love, very much cherish, The Glory of Christ and The Mortification of Sin (Volume 6 in General) by Owen. So, so, good.
Make these friends and they won’t let you down. Keep them close at hand; over time you will look back and be so thankful for their evident impact on your life and ministry.
*These suggestions are in addition to regular personal Bible study and devotion.