Theology Glossary

The systematic defense of religious doctrines through reasoned argumentation and evidence.

The reconciliation of God and humanity through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, variously understood through models such as substitution, moral influence, and Christus Victor.

The officially recognized collection of books accepted as authoritative scripture within a religious tradition.

A summary of the principles of Christian religion in the form of questions and answers, used for instruction.

The branch of theology that studies the person, nature, and role of Jesus Christ.

An argument for God's existence reasoning from the existence of the universe to a First Cause.

A formal statement of Christian beliefs, such as the Nicene Creed or Apostles' Creed, used to define orthodox doctrine.

An official doctrine or set of principles proclaimed as authoritatively true by a religious body.

The theological study of the nature, structure, and mission of the Christian church.

The branch of theology concerned with the final events of history, death, judgment, and the ultimate destiny of humanity.

The critical interpretation and explanation of a biblical or sacred text, drawing on linguistic, historical, and literary analysis.

The unmerited favor and love of God toward humanity, often understood as the means by which salvation is granted.

A belief or opinion that contradicts the established orthodox doctrines of a religious tradition.

The theory and methodology of interpreting texts, especially sacred scriptures.

The quality of God being present and active within the created world and human experience.

The Christian doctrine that God became human in the person of Jesus Christ.

The act of God declaring a sinner righteous, a central concept in Reformation theology tied to faith and grace.

An a priori argument for God's existence based on the concept of a maximally great being.

God's ongoing governance and care for creation, encompassing both sustaining the world and directing history toward divine purposes.

The disclosure of divine truth to humanity, either through general revelation (nature, reason) or special revelation (scripture, prophecy, Christ).

A sacred rite recognized as a means of divine grace, such as baptism and the Eucharist.

The branch of theology that studies the doctrine of salvation.

The attempt to justify or explain God's goodness in light of the existence of evil and suffering.

The quality of God existing beyond and independent of the material universe.

The Christian doctrine that God exists as three co-equal persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) in one divine essence.