Definitions

Question 1

Doctrine

Answer 1

A belief or system of beliefs

Question 2

Dogma

Answer 2

A specific belief firmly advocated or even required by a particular group. E.G., the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. All dogmas are doctrines, but not all doctrines are dogmas.

Question 3

Tenet

Answer 3

A principle held to be true by an individual or group

Question 4

Fundamental

Answer 4

Foundational belief in one’s overall collective doctrine. When used in the strictest sense, these are sine qua non (“without which there is no”) to a system. E.g. the Deity of Christ.

Question 5

Theology

Answer 5

From Greek Θεος and λογος; literally “God word” or words/message about God. A system of understanding re: who/what/is/are god/gods/goddesses/etc. with attendant issues (e.g. salvation).

Question 6

Philosophy

Answer 6

the analytical examination of fundamental assumptions or beliefs.

Question 7

Worldview

Answer 7

The (sometimes even unconscious) systematic perspective from which we view and process all data. The theological and philosophical lenses though which we assess all the world.

Question 8

Natural Theology

Answer 8

Those things we can learn and say about God (gods) by means of examining the created order. E.g., His transcendence. It is sometimes referred as common revelation

Question 9

Biblical Theology

Answer 9

That understand of divine things that can be derived from an organic (sequential/historical) study of the scriptures. The parts or portions are thus understood in terms of their context within that whole.

Question 10

Systematic Theology

Answer 10

The categorized understanding of divine things by means of applying texts (synthesizing) from across the entire canon with attention to other discipline, e.g. logic.