Learning Theology through the Church's Worship

It has often been pointed out that systematic theology textbooks are a little dry. That is probably due to the way academics write their books. It is also because of the nature of systematic theology that made the teaching of it rather challenging. Thus, it is a balancing act of teaching this form of theology in an interesting and practical way, to be sensitive to our current contexts without diluting the contents. What if we could begin not with the theology itself but with the visible expressions of systematic theology? Answer: Liturgy and worship. Professor J.I. Packer has often said that "Theology leads to Doxology." Essentially, that means all theology will naturally lead us to the worship of God. Author Dennis Okholm pounces on this opportunity to use liturgy as a window to learning systematic theology. After all, if we want to show fellow believers and church-goers the relevance of systematic theology to everyday life, there is no better way than to use the familiar symbols of a regular Church worship service as a springboard to such a great educational opportunity of the church.


He begins the book by explaining the link between theology, ethics, and why they end in worship. He calls it "liturgical ophthalmology" that communities of worship cultivate perspective, and perspective helps us understand theology. He says that "It is in the church that we learn the language and engage in the practices or rituals that will train us to see reality as disciples of the crucified, risen, and ascended Christ." Theology is for the community. Using the order of worship as a general framework, Okholm uses the familiar symbols of the liturgy of the Word and of the Eucharist to as our "liturgical ophthalmology." He reminds us that the way forward is not to use our own abilities but to depend on God through the practice of prayer. In "praying the collect," we think of God prayerfully and pray to God thoughtfully. By keeping theology and prayer together, we are reminded that all truth comes from above and how we understand depends on God paving the way for insights. We learn to listen. We believe that understanding theology is a grace of God. Just like the liturgy of the Word, theology is about hearing the truth and responding in understanding. We respond by reciting the Creed. By beginning with God, we learn to worship the Holy Trinity as God reveals Himself to us. We learn Christology through the pondering of the creed which shows us how the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. Like most theological texts, the author describes how throughout history the many heresies that arose due to the difficulty in comprehending Christ's divinity and humanity. We learn of God as Creator and Sustainer. In the confession of sins liturgy, we begin to appreciate the theology of sin and anthropology. Confession is quickly followed by the seeking after forgiveness, presenting us an opportunity to understand the doctrine of salvation, or soteriology. In communion, we can only commune with God through the help of the Holy Spirit, which leads us to the field of pneumatology. The "Passing of the Peace" ritual is an extension of our practice of ecclesiology. Here, Okholm briefly describes some of the different church polity for our awareness. There is the episcopal polity that is largely hierarchical. The congregational polity is more about the practice of the priesthood of believers. The presbyterian polity depends on a synod, or board of elders as a governing body. The practice of the sacraments like the Baptism and the Eucharist are important rituals practiced by all churches. Finally, there is the dismissal and the benediction in which the author connects with eschatology.

My Thoughts
First, the positive. This has been a fascinating overview of systematic theology through the view of "liturgical ophthalmology." I think it is creative and highly relatable for laypeople. In fact, such a project should spur many to study systematic theology more intentionally. Theology is for all people. I applaud the author for this creative way of teaching through the rituals of worship.

Secondly, the negative. This method of using liturgy as a gateway to theology has its limits. Many theological textbooks cover a lot more depth. The best that this volume could do is to invite interested readers to embrace systematic theology more willingly. This book alone is simply a preface to seeing the relevance of theology to liturgy, and vice versa. Thus, anyone interested in systematic theology should not just read this book. There is a lot more material not covered by Okholm. Perhaps, Okholm could include some resources for the benefit of such readers.

Thirdly, this book need not be used as a primer to study theology. It could be a way to spur one to understand and appreciate our church rituals more. Backed by theological truths, it breathes life into the way we celebrate the Lord's Supper and the Baptism. It helps us be thoughtful each time we sing or we recite the creeds. It makes us more appreciative of the traditions passed down to us from our spiritual forefathers.

Professor Dennis Okholm is Professor of Theology at Azusa Pacific University in Los Angeles, California. He is also an ordained minister with the Presbyterian Church of America.

Rating: 4.25 stars of 5.

conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Baker Academic and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.