Theology, Neil Postman, and the Bible

One of the writers who made me think in a new way in college was Neil Postman in Teaching as a Conserving Activity and Amusing Ourselves to Death. In writing on the capacities of the natural sciences, he states: "Science does not provide the answers most of us require. Its story of our origins and of our end is so say the least, unsatisfactory. To the question, 'How did it all begin?', science answers, 'Probably by an accident.' To the question, 'How will it all end?;, science answers, 'Probably by an accident.' And to many people, the accidental life is not worth living. Moreover, the science-god has no answer to the question, 'Why are we here?'"

A good sermon uses theological insights to present core beliefs of the Christian faith in the minds and hearts of a congregation, such that their faith is expanded and made to connect with everyday life. Theology offers reflective wisdom for the wellbeing of the listeners of sermons. Preachers become theologians as they interpret and apply the Christian understanding of how to live in the here and now. They connect faith and life as they answer "why are we here" and "how shall we live."

Good theology embraces preaching, spirituality, and pastoral care in the presentation of the gospel, and speaks into every life from the pages of the Bible.