Theological reflection is the process of thinking critically and prayerfully about God, the Bible, and Christian faith and practice in order to discern God’s voice, will, and direction for our lives. It involves examining our beliefs, experiences, and practices in light of biblical truths and integrating what we are learning into how we think and live as followers of Jesus.
There are several key components to theological reflection:
Examining Our Experiences
We all have experiences in life – encounters with others, challenges we face, decisions we make, events that happen around us. Theological reflection starts by intentionally examining these experiences – the people we interact with, our thoughts and feelings, how we respond. We ask questions like “What happened? How did I feel? How did others respond? Why did I respond the way I did?” Carefully reflecting on our experiences helps us notice themes, trends, and patterns that reveal deeper insights.
Connecting With Scripture
A vital part of theological reflection is connecting our experiences with what the Bible teaches. We take the themes and questions that surface in reflecting on our life experiences and explore what Scripture says. We look at biblical teachings, stories, commands, examples, parables and more to gain God’s perspective. Some key questions we might ask are “What does the Bible say about this? What biblical truths apply? How might this experience illustrations biblical principles?” Comparing our experiences with Scripture provides greater understanding.
Discerning God’s Voice
As we connect our experiences with biblical truth, we also listen for what God might be saying to us through the process. We take time to pray, asking God to speak to us through His word and Spirit. We are listening for His voice, asking, “Lord, what are you saying to me through this situation and what I’m learning in Your word? How do you want me to apply this? How should I think, feel, and respond differently according to Your truth?” Theological reflection helps us discern His personal voice and direction.
Applying God’s Truth
The goal of theological reflection is not just to gain information but to apply God’s truth to our lives. As we learn from reflecting on experience and studying Scripture, we then ask “How does this change how I think or live? What adjustments do I need to make in my attitudes and actions?” Perhaps we realize we need to express more grace, demonstrate an attribute of God, establish a new habit, serve someone, or repent of a wrong thought or behavior. True learning leads to application.
Shaping Our Worldview
Consistent theological reflection renews our minds and transforms how we see the world. As we repeatedly connect experiences with Scripture and apply God’s truth, it changes us. It exposes unbiblical thinking and behaviors that we confess and turn from. It aligns our perspective and priorities more closely with God’s heart and purposes. It shapes a biblical worldview – how we interpret events and understand the world around us.
Producing Spiritual Growth
Theological reflection fuels spiritual growth and maturity. As we honestly examine ourselves in light of God’s truth, we become aware of areas He wants to develop in us. Our character is refined, fruit of the Spirit increases, we grow more like Jesus. This growth also equips us to minister to others. Theological reflection helps us find meaning and purpose in all of life and makes us more usable vessels for Kingdom work.
Strengthening Relationship With God
Ultimately, theological reflection deepens our relationship with God. His word and truth take deeper root in us. We know His heart better and align ourselves with His purposes. Our love and awe grows as we grasp more of who He is. We learn to rely on His Spirit working in and through us. We come to God with greater humility, intimacy and dependency. Theological reflection bears fruit of knowing and delighting in God above all else.
Key Principles
Here are some key principles to keep in mind regarding theological reflection:
- Make it a regular spiritual practice, not a one-time exercise.
- Be open and honest with yourself and God.
- Follow where God leads; don’t try to steer the outcomes.
- Be ready to take action based on what you learn.
- Integrate it into community; share insights with others.
- Look for confirmation from other believers.
- Remember it’s about life transformation, not just information.
Getting Started
Here are some practical steps to help you start integrating theological reflection into your spiritual journey:
- Pick a recent or impactful experience and reflect on what happened.
- Jot down your thoughts, reactions, and any lessons learned from that experience.
- Bring those insights to God in prayer, asking what He wants to teach you.
- Read and meditate on a relevant Bible passage, looking for connections.
- Write down what you are hearing from God and how you will apply it.
- Share with a trusted friend regarding what you learned.
- Look for regular times to integrate these steps into your daily routine.
Resources
Here are some additional resources that can aid you in learning and practicing theological reflection:
- Too Deep for Words: Rediscovering Lectio Divina by Thelma Hall
- The Transforming Power of Lectio Divina by LeRoy Homan
- Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-Group Ministry by J. Ira Harris
- Bernard of Clairvaux: On Loving God by Emero Stiegman
- Experiencing God Day-By-Day: The Devotional and Journal by Henry T. Blackaby and Richard Blackaby
Classes on spiritual formation and discipleship at a local church, seminary, or Christian college can also provide guidance. A spiritual director, pastor, or mature believer can serve as a mentor. Online articles, podcasts, and videos offer further help. Most importantly, pray for the Holy Spirit to guide your practice of theological reflection.
Benefits
Cultivating theological reflection as a spiritual practice offers tremendous benefits including:
- Deeper insight into experiences and how God is at work
- Strengthened connection between our story and God’s story
- Increased ability to discern God’s personal guidance
- Spiritual growth and transformation into Christlikeness
- Renewal of the mind and development of a biblical worldview
- Intimacy with God as we delight in His truth
- Purpose and meaning as we align with God’s purposes
- Capacity for ministry as character and abilities increase
Theological reflection helps us live with godly wisdom, compassion, and power for the glory of God.
Cautions
While incredibly beneficial, there are some cautions to keep in mind with theological reflection:
- Don’t become overly introspective or morbidly self-critical.
- Beware of reading into Scripture what we want it to say.
- Keep praying for spiritual discernment and insight.
- Submit conclusions to other mature believers.
- Remember that application is the goal, not just information.
- Guard against pride; growth is God’s work in us.
- Allow God’s grace when we struggle to fully understand or apply truth.
With humility and persistence, theological reflection will bear good fruit in due season (Luke 8:15).
Conclusion
Theological reflection is a powerful spiritual discipline that connects real life with God’s truth to transform us. By intentionally examining life experiences in light of Scripture, we grow in wisdom, understanding, and love of God. This fuels spiritual maturity, ministry to others, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges for God’s glory. While requiring effort, its rewards are abundant and eternal. May God grant us grace as we engage in regular theological reflection!