systematic theology

noun

: a branch of theology concerned with summarizing the doctrinal traditions of a religion (such as Christianity) especially with a view to relating the traditions convincingly to the religion's present-day setting

Examples of systematic theology in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Iwuchukwu, who had a Ph.D. in systematic theology and an M.A. in journalism from Marquette University, originally hailed from Nigeria. Laura Barcella, Peoplemag, 20 Jan. 2023 Very few Christians have a good mastery of systematic theology. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 5 Sep. 2011 Noted for his work in historical and systematic theology, much of his research advances the dialogue between science and religion. Karl Moore, Forbes, 26 Jan. 2022 Known for his humor and his sprinkling of jokes into homilies, Berchmans holds master’s degrees in physics, journalism and systematic theology, as well as a doctorate in mass communications, according to St. Paul of the Cross. Jennifer Johnson, chicagotribune.com, 13 July 2021 The Blues Brothers had a mission from God, too — and a much more developed systematic theology than the one clouding the mind of the esteemed gentleman from South Bend, Ind. Kevin D. Williamson, National Review, 8 Sep. 2019 Aspiring pastoral candidates were inspired by his capacity to teach systematic theology and apologetics, the defense of the Christian faith. Russell Pulliam, Washington Post, 15 Dec. 2017 Luther helped to popularize the idea that faith can help people connect to their neighbor, not just God, said Lois Malcolm, professor of systematic theology at Luther Seminary. Mike Ellis, USA TODAY, 31 Oct. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'systematic theology.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of systematic theology was in 1696

Dictionary Entries Near systematic theology

Cite this Entry

“Systematic theology.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/systematic%20theology. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

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