On the Virtue of Theological Jargon

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I post lots of things that are full of theological jargon, and I’m sure leave many scratching their heads. But I think it’s elevating. One of my former Bible College profs, Dr. Rex Koivisto, used to say “I like your altitude,” if he could tell you were tracking with things; stretching, and thinking deep thoughts about the Bible and the living God. If nothing else it is important for other Christians to understand that deep thoughts are available, often signified by “precision language,” or jargon. Theological jargon might appear to be merely academic jargon, but it isn’t. The best of theological jargon is intended to be doxological (worshipful), and to signify that people can attempt to talk about our wondrous God who is ineffable, and far beyond all comprehension; save Christ. The big words, relative to the God they are intended to articulate, are at the very outer reaches of what human language can “handle.” For me, as for the Apostle Paul, this is how worship irrupts; that is, coming to an end of our capacity to speak of the ineffable God, and yet still knowing that He simply is.
33 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
34 β€œFor who has known the mind of the Lord,
or who has been his counselor?”
35 β€œOr who has given a gift to him
that he might be repaid?”
36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen. -Romans 11

7 thoughts on “On the Virtue of Theological Jargon”

  3. Yes well put Bobby!
    As an age group competitive runner, on the athletic app Strava, I use the subtitle “doxology” on my name as an ever present reminder (ideally) even for me, that it is not about me. I did a Thanksgiving Run yesterday, posting a paragraph on many of the gifts in our Lord, of our Lord and from our Lord. Thank you for the praise scripture. I added it later to my post writing “what is doxology?
    This is doxology:” and quoted the above passage from Romans. If I did not praise Him, the rocks would cry out in my stead!

  5. Bobby – I think you should return to the previous format of the webpage. It was much easier to look through and find certain entries.

  6. Sorry anon. I didn’t like it. This is a trad blog format. I’m old school when it comes to blogs. You can use my archives to limit your searches, or categories; both in the sidebar.

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