The third approach is a theology-driven life where theological exposition of God’s Word has a tangible impact on how you live your life. God reveals biblical truth for the purpose of not merely engaging the mind, but also engaging the heart and will so that we are challenged, changed, and conformed into the image of Jesus. All biblical truth, rightly appreciated, will be useful and transformative.

There are essentially three approaches to life and ministry. The first is a life of robust theological study divorced from a pursuit of conformity to the image of Christ. The second is a quest for practical and purposeful living void of theological substance—and driven by a self-centered desire for performance. The third is a theology-driven life. It is only as we come to realize the third approach in our lives that we will avoid falling into either of the first two pits.

Three Approaches 

The first approach is one in which we might enter in on theological study merely for the sake of intellectual inquiry. Those who adopt this approach find the study of doctrine enjoyable–sometimes even to the point that it becomes idolatrous. We can very easily make an idol out of our knowledge of truth. The outcome may even appear to have admirable qualities to it–such as theological precision, robust intellectual engagement, and a serious exploration into truths revealed in Scripture.

The second approach is one of pursuing practical solutions for everyday living, divorced from theology. The conviction here is that life should make sense and should be stewarded well by making the most of it. Sometimes this results in employing “life coaches” to assist in the process. The problem, however, is that living skillfully apart from the truth results in a “whatever works” pragmatism. This approach might also result in an emotionally-driven, pseudo-relationship with God.

The third approach is a theology-driven life where theological exposition of God’s Word has a tangible impact on how you live your life. God reveals biblical truth for the purpose of not merely engaging the mind, but also engaging the heart and will so that we are challenged, changed, and conformed into the image of Jesus. All biblical truth, rightly appreciated, will be useful and transformative.

The Puritans understood this approach so well. Though they were intensely theological, they always ensured that their theology was imminently useful. Doctrine was never expounded simply to make sinners smarter. The text of God’s Word was carefully woven into the context of people’s lives so that they could experientially know God. They understood what Paul meant when he spoke of “the truth which accords with godliness” (Titus 1:1).

Correct Answers Don’t Impress Jesus

The fruit of sound doctrine is godly living. God-centered theology activates faith in the ordinary life. Truth fuels engagement with the world from a biblical framework and guides a believer to think God’s thoughts and to understand the implications of them in ever aspect of our lives. Where there is lack of serious engagement of truth to life it is evident that we have not rightly handled the Word of God and appreciated the God-given purpose to transform us into the likeness of His Son.

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