BUILDING SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY
PREPARATION FOR LESSON 4
DOCTRINES IN SYSTEMATICS

In this lesson we will study the meaning, formation, and values and dangers of doctrines in systematic theology.

Before studying the lesson, read Romans 3 and 4 again, noticing this time how Paul goes beyond theological propositions to develop more complex doctrines, giving arguments and explanations in this passage. Write down your observations.

This lesson is divided into three sections:

General Orientation
Formation
Values and Dangers

Goals and Objectives of Lesson 4


GOALS

In this lesson, we would like to accomplish the following:

1. We hope you will grow in your appreciation for theological doctrines.

2. We hope you will make use of all the resources and activities of the lesson to understand the meaning and importance of doctrines.

3. We hope you make some changes in your life as a response to the teachings of this lesson. How does it change the way you read the Bible, think about systematic theology, and analyze contemporary expressions?

OBJECTIVES

When you have done the following, it will show that the goals are met:

1. Complete all the written assignments of the lesson, expressing your understanding of the importance of doctrines.

2. Obtain satisfactory grades on the tests, demonstrating that you can identify the following: a) the meaning of doctrines, b) the different aspects in the process of forming doctrines, c) the proper use of the Bible and of human reason in forming doctrines, and d) the values and dangers of doctrines.

3. Complete the questionnaire, in which you apply the teachings of the lesson to identify the doctrine expressed in a contemporary expression.

"Instructions for Lesson 3"


Carefully read the "Instructions for Lesson 3." You may want to print them out so that you can refer to them as you proceed through the assignments.

If you need a little reminder of how to do the assignments, go back to the instructions of lesson one and read the "General Instructions for Assignments" again.