The Society for the Advancement of Ecclesiological Theology

June 17, 2010 by Gerald Hiestand

Ecclesial Theology as the Foundation of Popular Theology

Popular theology and ecclesial theology share much common ground. Both are concerned with the life of the church. Both are prophetic and call the church to action. But ecclesial theology pushes beyond the introductory nature of popular theology, and serves as its ground. Indeed, the ecclesial theologian engages in ecclesial theology as a necessary first-step in laying a solid foundation for his popular theology. In other words, a significant function of ecclesial theology is to make sure that one’s subsequent popular theology is built on a solid footing. Thus ecclesial theology may not always be “user-friendly” to the average Christian. But ecclesial theology is always concerned with the sitz im leben of the average Christian.

Too many popular theologians are forced to build their popular theology on the foundation of academic theology. And too many serious theologians don’t bother with popular theology at all. The ecclesial theologian writes in both directions, always with a view to the Church.

Categories: Ecclesial Theology | Popular Theology