Thinking Theologically Conference 2013: Theology = Lifeblood of the Church

We had a chat with TTC producer and pastor-teacher of CERC Robin Gan. He strongly believes that Christians need to learn how to think theologically, describing theology as the “life blood of the church”. Robin gave us some insight on why and how TTC has been beneficial for this local body.

From left: Robin Gan and the interviewer

How has CERC benefitted from attending this year’s TTC on “The Church”?

In general, Christians need to learn how to think theologically. When Gospel Growth Fellowship runs TTC each year, CERC benefits enormously from it because we get to spend time together working at this important skill, which really needs that concentration.

Theologically speaking, gospel and church are closely tied together. Getting it right pays huge dividends, getting it wrong is so dangerous. It’s almost too obvious to have to even state it, but CERC going to TTC, helps us to be a better church and stops us or prevents us from becoming a false church.

What do you mean by being a better church?

We constantly come under pressure as a church because we are actually trying to define and live out the Christian life under God’s kingdom, His Son’s rule. As a result, we’re under pressure when we make certain statements and live it out because people sometimes take offense or feel troubled by it. It is important that when people ask us, we are able to give them a reasoned, gracious, loving, accurate and properly thought out answer.

Theology is the life blood of the church in that sense. People will ask us “What do you believe? “Why do you believe it this way?” and sometimes, in the negative “How is that possible? We don’t agree!” Then, we have to defend ourselves and the gospel.

Why not do it in-house via weekly sermons?

Going away may seem like a luxury but it’s also a necessity. Being able to sit there to listen to talks that have been framed in concert with biblical input and also having seminars where we can discuss in groups ? to mutually edify each other and discover God’s thoughts, doing electives that help us sharpen our thinking in ministry context, really benefits us when it comes down to doing God’s ministry in the Klang Valley.

What if TTC did not exist?

If TTC doesn’t exist, CERC would have to do this in some shape and form…somehow. But because it does, it provides a service to us. It’s easier for us as a church to benefit from it.