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The -Ologists




 Let's begin by borrowing an idea from C.S. Lewis in his book, Mere Christianity . He explains the difference between a geologist, a zoologist, a psychologist, and a theologist.

When a geologist studies a rock, he has total control. The rock is captive--the relationship, one-sided. A zoologist has a more difficult time. She must sneak upon the animal or capture it for study to occur. Thus her contact is somewhat limited. A psychologist faces a situation that requires the cooperation of his subject. He must establish trust and confidence in order to know his patient. For the theologists, things are completely opposite the geologists. They cannot come to know God unless God allows it to happen. They have no control. The initiative is His.

It must be this way. If God is no more than a phenomena to be studied or captured or even bargained with, His stature is not above the rocks or animals or people we know. If we can control or manipulate God or the universal force or whatever it is some people think equates to God, then logically we are God and He is somethin

Many New Age philosophers teach this to be true. God is what we discover him to be. Scripture, however, teaches about a God who was and is and is to be, the great I Am of Exodus, who exists quite apart from our experiences. We don't define Him--He defines us.

So, if God wants us to know Him, He must show himself to us, and--He has. "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." (John 1:14) He has welcomed us to know Him by coming to our world in the flesh of Jesus Christ. He continues to make Himself known in the person of the Holy Spirit and inspired scripture, and has always made himself known in His remarkable creation.

Thank God. We do not bear witness to a stone, an animal, or a mere human being. We bear witness to God--Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Without Him, we are helpless. Without His spirit, we reduce God to a concept--our concept--and then we miss Him altogether.





About the Author:


 Steve Graner is a Christian educator and familyman employed by the Minot, ND Public School District. A licensed laypastor, he is passionate about Christian writing and Christian drama. Along with family and friends, Steve has performed numerous self-written dramas and musicals for area church audiences.