Kitchen Table Theology
Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!
Kitchen Table Theology
What is Zoëology? The Doctrine of the Christian Life (Intro to Practical Theology)
Have you ever wondered why your faith sometimes feels more like a checklist than a living relationship?
Pastor Jeff and Tiffany kick off our Practical Theology series with an introduction to Zoëlogy; The study of the Christian life. We learn why beliefs must shape our behavior, how assurance of salvation lays the foundation for growth, and why active involvement in the church is essential to the Christian walk.
What We Discussed:
00:00 - Intro
Practical Theology, also called Applied Theology, is the study of how Christian doctrine shapes everyday life. Practical theology asks: How should what I believe change how I live?
03:12 - What is “Zoëology”?
The word Zoëlogy comes from two Greek words: zoe (life) and logos (word, study, discourse). Put together, it means the doctrine of the Christian life.
06:45 - Belief and Behavior
The key principle of zoëlogy is that belief determines behavior. A person who has been born again should display that new life in the way they live, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
09:16 - The Assurance of Salvation
Understanding that salvation is a gift through Christ’s finished work, not through human effort, is foundational. This confidence in being divinely forgiven lays the groundwork for spiritual growth and daily victory in the Christian life.
12:22 - The Role of the Church
Ecclesiology, the doctrine of the church, teaches that Christians are called into fellowship and service within the body of Christ. Believers are “fellow workers” with Christ (1 Corinthians 3:9) in building His church. Active participation, worship, service, and fellowship with other Christians are essential parts of living out practical theology.
Key Quote
“Practical theology is simply asking: how does what I know of God change how I live for Him?” – Pastor Jeff Cranston
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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!