How to Think Theologically Quotes

“Giving up embedded theology (even when necessary) is often painful. Could this be because we believe that if we disregard certain theological beliefs, we are somehow showing disrespect to those who were so instrumental in shaping our faith?”
― Howard W. Stone, How to Think Theologically

“Although special services like ordained ministry, religious orders, and missionary activities are high and noble callings, all Christians are summoned to be faithful servants of God in the context of their life situation. Whatever their age, gender, marital status, ethnicity, health, occupation, social roles, or talents, Christians are to serve God in all that they do.”
― Howard W. Stone, How to Think Theologically

“Christians who seek to formulate an adequate view of sin, salvation, and how sinners are saved are duty-bound to take seriously the diversity of Christian language.”
― Howard W. Stone, How to Think Theologically

“Fitchett, George, Assessing Spiritual Needs: A Guide for Caregivers. New York: Academic Renewal Press, 2002. Fitchett provides a way to assess the spiritual needs of people.”
― Howard W. Stone, How to Think Theologically

“MacHaffie, Barbara J. Her Story: Women in Christian Tradition. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2003. MacHaffie’s is a well-respected book focusing on the too-often neglected contributions of women in the church generally, including theology.”
― Howard W. Stone, How to Think Theologically

“Theological analysis: The investigative side of theology that seeks to sort out and evaluate the understanding of faith implicit or explicit in any given statement or action. Theological construction: The synthetic (integrative) side of theology that seeks to fashion a fresh exposition of the meaning of faith in the Christian message.”
― Howard W. Stone, How to Think Theologically

“Ask any of us: What is your concept of God, your understanding of sin or salvation, your account of the nature and purpose of the church, or your Christian view of right and wrong? Caught short by the question, we may come up with a pat answer. This is understandable. Or we may hesitate and stammer, unless we have stopped at some earlier point to consider the matter. And yet our day-to-day decisions are based upon this embedded theology.”
― Howard W. Stone, How to Think Theologically