While engaging in theology, it characterizes one’s path and beginning steps, as in the Nicene Creed, is faith: We “believe.” Faith differentiates theology from other academic goals. Other disciplines include the first aspect of faith- “We believe that.” The foundation of Christian theology is we believe that God exists. We can’t limit theology to ordinary standards of educational practice because this makes God an object of study as if He is someone we hover over and control using specific methods.
Theology is an engagement with a person. God is ultimately the subject of theology, the person for which who calls and encounters us. “The fact is, we are not only to believe that God exists but also to believe in God, entering into a posture and disposition of trust and surrender” (Blackwell). We all might believe (knowledge) that eating salads will make us healthy, but it is not until you embrace eating it regularly, you commit yourself to that reality. The key is faith.
Once Confined to Darkness "NOW" Walking In Faith! 
Pingback: The Difference Between Belief That and Belief In – Tonya LaLonde
This is very true. The key is faith. 💗
LikeLiked by 1 person
❤Amen!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Marlon, I suspect there’s much more behind what you’re saying briefly here. I would expand this even further to include understanding and even intimacy. My reason for this perspective comes from the prayers of Yeshua the Christ to the Father (John 17). His relationship to the Father is, in part, a model for us. It shouldn’t be missed that Christ begins his prayer in the garden with the acknowledgment of his role in God’s will – to give eternal life to all whom the Father has given him (vs 2). He then goes so far as to associate that gift of eternal life with something quite unexpected – that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent (vs 3).
Although one could take that “knowledge” spoken of hear to mean something quite superficial, the depth of scripture and the wisdom of God suggests otherwise. In fact the book of Job is an example that spans the two-dimensional perspective of Job at the beginning (knows about God), but ends with a more intimate and three-dimensional perspective (experienced God personally). This more intimate view leaves Job feeling quite beside himself. All he can do is surrender in awe and wonder.
Like you, I’m suggesting for all Christians that it begins with trust and surrender, but at some point it can go deeper into the unity and oneness outlined in Christ’s prayer. That depth of understanding and oneness doesn’t happen by itself. Perhaps that’s why we’re instructed to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness,” (Matthew 6:33). It’s been my experience that doing so results in a growth in understanding and grasping a little of what Paul calls “the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!” (Romans 11:33). And I repeatedly find myself in the same position where Job left off – standing in awe and wonder.
Let’s keep seeking,
Gerard
LikeLike