Good theology?

This weekend I was at Beaconsfield Baptist Church. We were blessed to have as the visiting preacher Stephen Gaukroger. Personally I'd never heard of the man but people were excited, and as it turns out rightly so! There is one thing in particular he said which was not the point of the sermon but rather a off hand comment he made. In reference to how he became a Christian he commented on his wonderful, Christian parents who (and take note of this) for a treat!!!! took him to the evening service at their church. (Guess they were doing church better then or something). Anyway, after the service he went home and said:

"Jesus, whatever is it my parents have, I want it."

He then said (paraphrased), "Now I know that isn't very theological..."

Oh really? Isn't it? To me it sounds like perfect theology and I'll explain why in a bit but first I wish to address how we (the church) view theology. It seems that unless we use big words that become way out of reach for the average layman that our theology isn't deemed "good". It seems strange to me. Karl Bath said that Theology is for the church and I wholly agree which is why I believe that simple statements are often greater then the most complex and pompous thesis. That is not to rule out the need or desire of academic Theology (surely not!) but rather to say that unless Theology can be whittled down to a statement such as this then it is in a poor state. What good is Theology if the church as a whole cannot understand it and act accordingly?

Back to Stephens comment.
We are commanded by God that we should teach children about him and that our lives should be a reflection of Jesus, so that people will turn and come to him:

"Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them." Deut 4:9

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matt 5:14-16

"Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behaviour of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives." 1 Pet 3:1-2

"Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us." 1 Pet 2:12

Perhaps then this comment was packed full of good theology after all.
From the mouths of babes...

Till next time!