In How Many Ways Can Theology Be Understood?

(Excerpts from Francis Turretin)

Turretin explains that theology can be understood in several important ways, and these distinctions help prevent confusion.

1. Archetypal and Ectypal Theology

Archetypal theology is God’s own perfect knowledge of Himself.

• This belongs to God alone.

• It is infinite, eternal, and unchangeable.

• No creature can ever fully know God as God knows Himself.

Ectypal theology is the knowledge of God given to creatures.

• This is true knowledge, but limited.

• It depends entirely on God’s revelation.

• This is the theology taught in the church and in Christian schools.

2. Natural and Supernatural Theology

Ectypal theology is further divided:

Natural theology is what may be known about God from creation and conscience.

• It shows that God exists and is powerful.

• But it cannot save sinners.

• Because of sin, it is unclear and easily abused.

Supernatural theology is revealed by God in His Word.

• It shows the way of salvation through Christ.

• It is clear, sufficient, and saving.

• This is the theology that must rule Christian teaching.

3. Theology of Faith, Vision, and Union

Supernatural theology may be understood in three states:

• Theology of faith – what believers know now through Scripture, by faith.

• Theology of vision – what believers will know perfectly in heaven, by sight.

• Theology of union – the unique knowledge Christ has as God and man.

Christian schools deal chiefly with theology of faith, grounded in Scripture.

4. Theology as Doctrine and as Practice

Turretin also explains that theology is not only something to be known, but something to be lived.

• It teaches what we must believe about God.

• It also teaches how we must live before God.

Therefore, theology is not merely theoretical. It is practical, aiming at faith, repentance, obedience, and worship.

Summary

Francis Turretin teaches that:

• The word theology may rightly be used in Christian schools.

• Theology means the true knowledge of God revealed in Scripture.

• It can be understood in several ways, especially:

  • God’s perfect knowledge (archetypal)

  • Human knowledge by revelation (ectypal)

• True theology is biblical, humble, practical, and saving.

In short, theology is not a cold school subject, but the knowledge of God that leads to eternal life (John 17:3).