Bio and Beliefs

Note: I have decided that i will not erase prior versions of this faith statement, but merely write new statements as they seem necessary.  This way my statement of faith can be read more as a process of growth, than a mere abstract collection of beliefs.  That being the case, if you deem it worthwhile, continue on and read my journey of faith.

Written 1/15/07

I am a Kansas kid for my whole life now, recently married and in graduate school for theology.  I hope to teach theology and lead worship.  These are my two aspirations; kind of a odd combo, but i am a bit of a different fella. 

I have been married for about 7 months now (7/1/06) and am still learning as i go.  here is a pic of my wife and i: isn’t she beautiful!  How could i have gotten so lucky!

Theologically, i am a pilgrim (to use Pinnock’s metaphor), still on a journey.  Hence the title of my blog.  One thing that i am convinced of at this point that i don’t ever see changing is my view that theology, if it is to be Biblically based, must start first and foremost with who God has revealed himself to be in both his nature/character.  I believe this is huge because this starting place (hopefully) keeps my theology grounded in the relational nature of the Christian faith, while still allowing for abstract thought “later” on down the road.  This had led me to a couple of places of novelty and controversy (notably open theism & egalitarianism), and while i hold these positions tentatively, i do believe at this point that they square best with the affirmation that God is light (good, loving) and in him there is no darkness (wickedness, evil, favortism). 

I also see the doctrines of the Trinity and the Incarnation as fundamental truths for theology, b/c they reveal fundamental aspects of God’s nature.  This i hope keeps me on the straight and narrow road of traditional orthodoxy (although occasionally it leads me to unexpected and unusual places!).  I believe that the Nicene faith provides a hope for the reconnecting of all Christendom, although i am not sure what that should like.

So to sum up, i believe that theology begins and ends in the truths of the Trinity, Incarnation, and His goodness.  Understanding how to define and articulate what those truths are, as well as their implcations for the other areas of doctrine in the faith is the challenge, but this starting place will hopefully keep me connected intimately to God and enjoy His love for me throughout the process.   

My other interests are philosophy, cosmology, astronomy, historical philosophy and theology, psychology (particularly matters relating to mind), playing guitar, and the Kansas Jayhawks (KU basketball all the way in 07!).  I hope to have my other blogsite up and running soon.  It will be devoted to a massive project to blog about the historical developments in Philosophy & Theology.  I think knowing where these ideas come from are paramount to understanding them and their implications for today.  I am hoping that this can be a communal affair; i would gladly welcome others to blog with me on this huge endeavor, regardless of your views on Christianity.  Please check it out from time to time; it should be fun! 

Finally, please feel free to disagree with me.  I want to take my view that i am pilgrim seriously and have integrity, so call me out if i am misguided!  I may disagree, but hopefully we can learn from each other and experience God’s goodness deeper. 

Enjoy!