Reasons For The Study Of Spirituality From A Theological...

ntroduction The aim of this essay is to discuss Wolftiech’s reasons for the study of spirituality from a practical theological perspective. It will do this by outlining the reasons for study found in Wolftiech s writings. Resultantly, it will discuss the strengths, weaknesses, and implications of Wolftiech s reasons viewed from a Reformed theological frame of reference. Finally, a conclusion will be offered suggesting a reforming approach to Practical theology. Wolftiech s reasons Wolftiech considers practical theologians as having a rich understanding of the nature of practice and possessing methods for constructing critical dialogue between traditions and contemporary contexts , as well as an explicitly formative and†¦show more content†¦Theologians such as have also offered definitions of theology which wholeheartedly embrace this idea. John Frame has defined theology as: the application of the Word of God by persons to all areas of life 7 This idea of whole life application has an impact upon our thought/orthodoxy, our action/orthopraxis and our affection/orthopathos.8,9 However, this definition, in contrast to Wolftiech, gives primacy to the authority of Scripture. Within the reformed perspective, primacy is given to scripture as the rule for faith and life .10Frost and Hirsch assert that orthodoxy – right belief – is an indispensable element of any Christian discipleship. It is evident the church frequently sees orthodoxy in the narrow sense, as a commitment to propositional truth, assuming that the knowledge of God is only received cognitively, However, the cognitive knowledge of God needs to be balanced by orthopraxy and orthopathy in order for the believer to come to a full-orbed, biblical engagement with (and knowledge of) God. 11 Conversely, Wolftiech at times places much emphasis on pathos. When dealing with the question of pneumatology and religious experience, appeal is made to questioning