Theology and Religion (Essay Sample)

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Theology and Religion
Theology and Religion are terms that are often confused in their meaning and studies. Religion is based on beliefs and faiths in line with the acceptance of supernatural powers in the form of gods or God. On the other hand, theology focuses on theistic thought. The concept of theistic thoughts is common in Christianity. It concerns the acceptance of the existence of superhuman powers or God’s presence. Theology tends to work on religion. Religious thoughts and facts must have been in place before the development of theology. In short, theology defines and is based on religion (Bernhardt 2-3).
Both Religion and Theology have a lot in common but have differing approaches in their system of teaching. Religion is all about rituals, practices, and observances. It is characterized by sets of practices and beliefs agreed upon by groups of people. It is what one follows and believes devotedly (Bernhardt 4). On the other hand, theology concentrates on the study of God. It involves the study of religious truths and divine entities. In its study of God, theology concentrates on his attributes to creation and the universe. People should, therefore, understand that although the two terms seem similar and work side by side, they have different teachings of beliefs and practices and about God’s creation and existence (Bernhardt 6)
Sometimes theological studies about religion take place because the scholars want to colour their work. As of present, it is accepted that each human being has biases. It is, therefore, important to identify the biases so that the reader can make decisions while taking the bias into account. Religious persons and pagans have misunderstood religious studies that were never to be theology. Religious studies construct religious theories that are verifiable by others such as interview data, historical artefacts, and texts (Bernhardt 5). Although theology can also use verifiable evidence, its root is always on personal convictions. The conviction is a religious commitment that makes practitioners advocate unverifiable views and information out of passion (Bernhardt 7).
Religion exempts any form of rational analysis. It deals with manners and customs followed by communities and societies when practicing faiths or beliefs. Leaders from a religious perspective establish truths about its teachings whereas theological leaders embark on analytical truths. Theology also deals with rational analysis on religious faiths. It establishes proofs rationally and analyses the religious truths that emanate from religion. It ignores customs and tries to examine principles that form the basis of a given religion (Clooney, 15-17).
Religion has been in exis...