If there’s a term for the meaninglessness of life, like absurdism, then there’s a word for the opposite. Theology is the study of religious beliefs and finding purpose from a higher being. It’s a way for believers to dig deep and connect further to their spiritual faith.
While theology covers the study of all religions, this article will focus on Christian theology inspired by the seminars I’ve attended. For those who want to learn something new or want to reinforce their faith, these theology recommendations will cover the history of the Christian faith, learning who God is, and His principles and teachings as another way of looking at the meaning of life.
What’s the Point of Theology?: Wisdom, Wellbeing, and Wonder by Alister E. McGrath
Starting with a question some have concerning spiritual beliefs, author McGrath draws from his previous skepticism of the Christian faith. As an atheist turned Christian, McGrath explores how theology brings personal wisdom and growth to seasoned believers and those interested in putting their faith in Christ. Reading this book will change your outlook on life. Appreciate what you have instead of worrying about what you don’t. Theology is not simply researching religious belief but opening our eyes to what it does inward in a person.
The Bible: A Global History by Bruce Gordon
One way to get into the pages of the Bible is to know its history. Jesus’s instruction before He left was to spread His message throughout the world, and His written word survived due to the continuing strong belief of the people. However, how people interpreted and used the Bible varied in history, as explored in Gordon’s book. The professor from Yale explores the church’s progression from two thousand years ago, from the scattered monasteries in desserts, and hidden churches in China, to the remote villages in Guatemala in the present time. With the singular voice of God remaining the same, it’s how people took His word that affected the world.
Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World by Tom Holland
For those who like to study ethics and morality, you’ll like this. Author Tom Holland (not Spider-Man), explores that the Western beliefs formed in the new world were not revolutionary, but rooted in Christianity. That’s probably not news to anybody living in the U.S., but Dominion details how religion has shaped the modern world. A history lesson from the founding of Christianity to the present day, readers will question the world views we hold. Is morality common sense or something from the divine?
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
Making his case defending his Christian belief, C.S. Lewis dives into the core theme that makes his religion. He defends that our moral thought process and decision-making come from a Creator who is a moral being. Don’t worry, it doesn’t get preachy, especially from the mind known for the Christian allegory in his stories. Believers and nonbelievers will be equally entranced by this legendary author’s collection of powerful faith. Broadcasted during WWII, Mere Christianity makes a strong case for those wanting answers to a higher power.
Tokens of Trust by Rowan Williams
Mixing Christian history with theology, Williams writes about how to find meaning in believing in God. All types of people ask questions such as: Can God possibly be almighty in the midst of so much evil and disaster? To what purpose is the church called? And what does it really mean to follow Christ in today’s broken world? Doubt is an unfortunate contender. Anyone in their faith will waver most of the time. However, Williams acts as a compassionate guide through the doubt with enthusiasm.
Though theology is a professional term, it’s all about tuning in to the word of the Bible or of any other religious belief. These books are like reinforcements in keeping and understanding why they choose to have faith.
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