Bad Theology Hurts People: Why Biblical Theology Matters

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How Reading the Bible as One Unified Story Protects the Church and Clarifies the Gospel

Bad theology is not a harmless disagreement. It does not merely create different opinions — it shapes what people believe about God, salvation, Scripture, and the purpose of the church. Over time, bad theology leads to distorted preaching, shallow discipleship, and confusion about the gospel itself.

While theological systems may look different on the surface, many share a common root problem: they mishandle Scripture. Whether it is the Prosperity Gospel, open theism, or any belief system that subtly shifts trust away from Christ, the issue is not preference or tradition — it is theology.

Bad theology always produces bad fruit.

Why Theology Is Not Optional for Christians

Theology simply means the study of God. Every person who has ever thought about God — believer or unbeliever — is already doing theology. The only question is whether that theology is biblical.

Good theology matters because it:

  • Helps Christians interpret the Bible correctly
  • Protects the church from false doctrine
  • Grounds preaching and teaching in the gospel
  • Shapes how believers counsel and disciple one another
  • Forms the foundation for faithful Christian engagement with culture

When theology is weak, every area of Christian life eventually suffers.

Scripture is clear:

“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)

Wisdom is not merely intelligence or information. Biblical wisdom is the ability to live rightly before God — and it begins with reverent submission to Him, not cultural pressure or personal opinion.

Why So Many Christians Get Theology Wrong

Many people approach the Bible looking for quick answers rather than lasting understanding. They often jump straight to controversial or emotionally charged topics — end times, predestination, spiritual gifts — without first learning how Scripture is meant to be read.

The issue is often motivation. When the Bible is read primarily to confirm what someone already believes, Scripture stops shaping the reader and instead becomes a tool for self-justification.

The Bible was never meant to be mined for isolated proof texts. It was written to be understood as a unified message.

Everyone Is a Theologian (Whether They Admit It or Not)

You do not need formal theological training to be a theologian. If you have ever asked questions about God, meaning, purpose, or morality, you are already engaging in theology.

The Bible explains why this is universal:

“The heavens declare the glory of God…” (Psalm 19:1)

“Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes… have been clearly seen.” (Romans 1:20)

Creation itself presses the reality of God upon humanity. This is known as general revelation — God revealing His existence to all people, at all times, in all places.

Ecclesiastes describes this reality by saying that God has set eternity in the human heart. Human beings are wired to ask ultimate questions.

The Limits of General Revelation

General revelation points people toward God, but it does not save. It awakens awareness, but it cannot provide redemption.

Because of this, many people respond by distracting themselves, redefining spiritual longing, or explaining God away entirely. Modern culture offers endless substitutes — success, pleasure, identity, information — but none of them satisfy.

Salvation requires something more.

Special Revelation and the Authority of Scripture

The Bible describes a second form of revelation: special revelation. This is God making Himself known in ways that cannot be discovered apart from His direct action.

Special revelation includes God speaking through prophets, revealing Himself through Jesus Christ, and preserving His truth in Scripture.

“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16)

Scripture is not merely informative — it is transformative.

“The word of God is living and active…” (Hebrews 4:12)

God chose written revelation because it can be preserved, examined, studied, and faithfully passed down through generations. The Bible is not a human invention; it is God’s authoritative means of revealing Himself clearly.

What Is Biblical Theology?

Biblical theology is not simply collecting verses or memorizing doctrines. It is learning how to read the Bible the way God intends it to be read.

Biblical theology is the discipline of reading the Bible as one unified story, written by one divine Author, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ — so that every part of Scripture is understood in relation to Him.

This is not a modern invention. It is the way Jesus Himself read Scripture.

After His resurrection, Jesus explained how the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms all pointed to Him (Luke 24:27, 44–47). Scripture, rightly understood, is Christ-centered from beginning to end.

The Central Message (“Headline”) of the Bible

Every story has a central message that brings clarity to everything else. The Bible’s headline is the gospel:

Jesus Christ suffered for sin, was raised from the dead, and offers forgiveness and new life to all who trust Him.

The Old Testament anticipates this reality.

The New Testament proclaims and explains it.

When Christians read Scripture rightly, they ask: How does this passage relate to Christ and the gospel?

Without this framework, the Bible can be reduced to moral instruction, self-help advice, or religious tradition.

Why Biblical Theology Matters Today

Jesus issued a sobering warning:

“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about Me.” (John 5:39)

It is possible to read the Bible and still miss its purpose.

Biblical theology protects the church from that error. It keeps Christ at the center. It guards against legalism, moralism, and cultural Christianity. And it ensures that Scripture leads not merely to knowledge, but to saving faith.

Final Thought: Theology Shapes Lives

Bad theology hurts people — but good theology anchors them.

It shapes how Christians read Scripture, understand salvation, live the Christian life, and engage the world. Most importantly, it keeps the focus where it belongs: on Jesus Christ.

If Scripture is read in a way that does not lead to deeper trust in Christ, deeper dependence on His grace, and deeper submission to His Word, something has gone wrong.

The goal of biblical theology is not to win arguments — it is to know God rightly and worship Him faithfully.

Mini Book Review of “Guard: A True Story of Duty, Sacrifice, and Leadership in Kentucky’s Maximum Security Penitentiary” by Philip Parker

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I truly enjoyed this memoir from former Warden Philip Parker. Parker details his career from green prison guard to tenured Warden in both Kentucky and Ohio. The evolution of prison management over the course of Parker’s career was of particular interest to me. Too often, reforms and necessary changes in the prison system are seen in a negative light and portrayed as growing “soft” on the treatment of sentenced criminals. In reality, changes were necessary to improve the safety of staff and the incarcerated population. This was strikingly evident in Parker’s story. I also enjoyed seeing the difference between Kentucky’s system and that of my home state – Ohio.

Parker’s career was remarkable. His experiences managing both inmate and staff were quite revealing. I very much appreciated this memoir. If you find prison management or prison systems of interest, you will greatly enjoy this work.

Mini Book Review of “Ever Reforming: Dispensational Theology and the Completion of the Protestant Reformation” by Dr. Andy Woods

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Quite frankly, this book blew me away and cemented Dr. Andy Woods in my mind as one of the premier Biblical teachers and scholars working today. Much is made these days of reformed theology. Of those I follow on X (formerly Twitter) reformed Christians seem quick to label other Christians as heretical. One of their favorite targets are Dispensationalists. It should be noted I consider myself a Dispensationalist and attended a Grad School that taught from that perspective, but I’ve always strived to place the Reformers in their proper and important historical perspective. I’ve never actually seen the two at odds.

In this book, Dr. Woods gives a generous account of the reformers (Luther, Calvin, etc.) and clearly demonstrates the importance of their recapturing proper hermeneutical methods from the Catholic Church. To do so, Woods retraces the early church Fathers from Antioch to Alexandria. In doing so, he demonstrates the allegorical drift the Church underwent, and how the Reformation marked a return to a responsible literal method of interpretation.

Woods then fits Dispensationalism into this context (thus the title – Ever Reforming). As Woods demonstrates, Dispensationalists take the literal hermeneutics of the Reformers and applies it to all Scripture, including prophecy. As such, it doesn’t stand opposed to Reformed Theology, but rather compliments it and takes it full circle.

This is certainly the most informative and well-written book I’ve read in all of 2024 and I am sure I will return to it time and time again. I highly recommend it.

Mini Book Review of “The Falling Away: Spiritual Departure or Physical Rapture? A Second Look at 2 Thessalonians 2:3” by Dr. Andy Woods

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This short read from Dr. Andy Woods is essentially a long research paper that examines 2 Thessalonians 2:3. The verse reads, “3 Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction” (NASB). Dr. Woods makes the argument that the “apostasy” referred to in 2 Thessalonians 2:3 refers to a physical departure (rapture) rather than a spiritual falling away that is argues by some. I will admit that I am somewhat befuddled by any hermeneutic that denies a rapture and am even more puzzled by those who seem offended by the notion. This little book will gently challenge those who have been taught the rapture is a work of imagination and will do so in a manner that is responsible in light of Scripture. At just 43 pages, it is well worth the time for any student of Scripture.

Mini Book Review of “The Coming Golden Age: 31 Ways to Kingdom Ready” by Dr. David Jeremiah

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I much enjoyed this book from David Jeremiah. It is essentially a systematic study of Christ’s Millennial Kingdom. It is astounding how much can be learned about the Kingdom from a careful study of Scripture and Jeremiah presents it in a manner that is easy to digest and comprehend. Obviously, Jeremiah presents this study from the vantage point of premillennialism. Premillennialism is the natural conclusion from a common sense reading of Scripture and this book helps solidify that interpretation. Scripture culminates in the Millennial Kingdom and that Kingdom serves as a bridge to eternity. Other eschatological interpretations (ex: amillennialism or post-millennialism) robs God’s Word of its depth and grandeur. As such, a proper understanding of the Kingdom is essential for understanding God’s Word. This book brings the Kingdom to life. As I read it, I found myself looking forward to Christ’s return more so than I ever have. I can not recommend this book enough for those who are seeking a better understanding of Scripture. In addition to the book, I also purchased the accompanying study guide and have watched several of Jeremiah’s sermons covering the topic. I highly recommend you do the same.

Mini Book Review of Evangelical Garbage: How Evangelism is Confused, Manipulative, and Downright Dangerous by Randy White

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Dr. Randy White hosts an extensive online ministry that includes the “Ask the Theologian” podcast and YouTube videos. He is an advocate of what he refers to as “Right Dividing” or “Right Dividers” which seems to be a movement of sorts within the Church, though, it is one I am not familiar with at all. In fact, calling it a movement may be a bit generous. With that said, White’s podcasts are entertaining and normally thought-provoking, though I normally seem to agree with only about half of what he says. This book, which takes evangelicalism to task, fits that mold exactly. About half of what White says may be applicable and half comes off as being written by an egotist with a personal axe to grind.

White paints with too wide a brush in the book and lumps all evangelical churches into one group. It his eyes, evangelicals are all far more interested in entertainment and tickling ears than they are being loyal to God’s Word. While there may be individual churches that deserve such rebuke, White’s scope seems to be off a bit.

I do appreciate White’s online ministry and honestly he does a remarkable job of breaking down and teaching dispensationalism. There are times though that he goes off on tangents and seems to inject his own opinions while claiming he is rightly-dividing. For instance, White spent an entire sermon railing against quiet times … and if memory serves, even dedicates pages of this book to argue the notion of quiet times (times set aside to study, pray, meditate, reflect, and such) just aren’t advocated by Scripture. On this matter, I can’t help but wonder what his point is. Surely, an argument for a quiet time of study could be made from Scripture; even if it’s not explicitly prescribed by Scripture. And I wonder if he thinks quiet times are hurting people or damaging their walk. It’s a little befuddling to me.

This book was a miss in my estimation. But I suppose not everything can be a home run.

Mini Book Review of ‘Endure: How to Work Hard, Outlast, and Keep Hammering’ by Cameron Hanes

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I must admit I had never heard of Cameron Hanes prior to stumbling on this book. I thought I was about to read the inspiring story of an ultrarunner but this work turned out to be much, much more. Hanes is a peer, friend, and contemporary of David Goggins whom I am convinced is the toughest man on the planet. Hanes may be close second. Hanes’ ultra running exploits, however, serve to fuel his true passion – bow hunting. I would imagine Hanes is a well-known figure among bow hunters. I don’t own a bow or hunt, but I learned somethings from Hanes. First, Hanes extolls the virtues of working harder than anyone else to excel at what he’s passionate about. For him, that’s bow hunting, but for others it may be something else. Hanes credits his hunting success not to being naturally gifted, but rather his willingness to work harder than anyone else.

His story begs the question … are you willing to work hard to get where you want to be? If not, why are you doing it? Hanes works harder than anyone. To excel during deep mountain hunts searching for big game, Hanes participates in ultraruns and lifts weights. He does this so he can climb higher, go deeper, and carry out his kills where others wouldn’t be able to do so. It’s an incredible example. Examining his life makes me ponder the fine line between obsession and sacrifice. It makes me wonder how much is too much. I have an obsessive personality bordering on OCD … but I often fail to channel my obsessions in a positive way … and often obsess on the wrong things. However, the obsessive part of my spirit appreciates Hanes. He is an example of how to do things right.

I was surprised when I discovered a spiritual element to Hanes’ story. It was noted that the most influential person in his life was a Christian who lived by his faith. This alone stands as a testament to the power of Christ. Hanes dips his toes a bit into the water of faith in this story but seems to stop just short of immersing himself. I am not sure where he stands explicitly on Christ or God’s Word, but I would love to see him explore that side of his story more in the future. I am a firm believer that true health encompasses mind, body, and spirit. And would enjoy hearing Hanes’ perspective on the spiritual side of things. Hanes is an inspirational guy, and the thought of how many people he could influence for Christ is staggering … and I pray he would be led in that direction.

I enjoyed this book tremendously. Much like a Goggins read, Hanes story is told with some foul language, but not in a way that detracts from the lessons within. I recommend this for runners, hunters, and for anyone looking for inspiration.

Mini Book Review of “The Antichrist: What You Can Know. What You Need to Know.” by Dr. Randy White

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I am fond of Dr. Randy White and his ministry even though I find myself disagreeing with him quite often. There are times I think he is being unnecessarily cantankerous in his response to traditional hermeneutics and I quite often disagree with his conclusions, but for some reason I still appreciate him. Many times, his skeptical approach to the evangelical church forces me to dig a little deeper to determine where I stand on a particular issue and I appreciate that challenge. I found his online presence and then his books while doing some research for a series I was teaching on dispensationalism which Dr. White has a wonderful grasp on.

In this book, Dr. White examines the Antichrist from all angles taking all relevant Scripture, both Old and New Testament, into account. He practices sound methods and avoids the error of taking verses on an island and out of context that so many others have fallen into.

As is true of most of his work, I cannot say I agree with all of his conclusions. My biggest quibble was his argument that the antichrist will be Jewish. White is certainly not alone in this conclusion as many other scholars would agree with him. White references Daniel 11:37 as the proof text for his conclusion, “Neither shall [the antichrist] regard the God of his fathers … (KJV)” however, I am not sold on this interpretation. While the KJV does translate the word “Elohim” in this verse as God, both Thomas Ice and Dr. Thomas Constable argue the word can be translated as ‘God’ or ‘Gods’ which is why the NASB translates the same word differently. A singular translation may be possible, but it isn’t certain … and it surely isn’t certain enough to support an adamant theology upon. Meanwhile, there is multiple passages in Scripture that suggest the antichrist will be a gentile (Luke 21:24, Revelation 13:1, 17:15, Daniel 9:27).

I have long thought that many scholars that insist on a Jewish nationality for the antichrist are forcing a poor interpretation of Scripture to justify their antisemitism. I do not believe at all this is the case in this instance. There is no hint of that in this book … I just think Dr. White is wrong on this one. At the very least, he should be a little less dogmatic on the subject.

I will say that Dr. White does a good job of making complex concepts simple and I appreciate that. Honestly, if it wasn’t for Dr. White’s cantankerous nature, I would probably put this book on my recommended reading list … but he says things at times that would unnecessarily confuse and offend some Christians. For this reason, I am only giving this one four stars.

Mini Book Review of ‘The Last Hour: An Israeli Insider Looks at the End Times’ by Amir Tsarfati

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A friend gifted me this book and I must say I was pleasantly surprised. Amir Tsarfati is a Jewish Christian with a unique story. Orphaned and raised by a foster family in Israel, Tsarfati’s adoptive family kicked him out when he came to faith in Christ. He managed to overcome this obstacle and served his mandatory military service in the IDF rising to the rank of Major with a fair amount of responsibility.

All of this life history gives him a unique perspective as he approaches Scripture and Bible scholarship. This particular work is eschatological in nature examining Biblical prophecy as it pertains to modern day Israel – both in recent history and in the future. I appreciated Tsarfati’s take on end-times theology. I have long argued that good eschatology should not be sensational. Unfortunately, many teachers, pastors, and authors worry more about clicks and views than they do fidelity to Scripture. My dispensational professors is grad school often reminded us that when common sense makes good sense, seek no other sense … and Tsarfati’s approach to Biblical prophecy is chock full of good, common sense. He has the ability to take passages that may seem complicated and present them in a manner that that is easy to grasp.

I especially appreciated Tsarfati’s take on Ezekiel and will be diving in to my Bible to dig a little deeper on that text myself. I highly recommend this work for anyone who is interested in Biblical prophecy.

Mini Book Review of ‘Puddings to Podiums: From Fast Food Fat Man to Ultramarathon Champion’ by Nathan Flear

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This little book is not world class literature. It is however exactly what it is promoted to be. Author Nathan Flear details his transformation from sedentary to world-class level ultra runner. The subtitle suggests he transitioned from “fat man” to a champion and, as a former fat man myself, I sometimes think authors of this ilk over hype just how fat and sedentary they were in the beginning … and I suspect that may be the case here. Even if that’s the case, I appreciate when authors are willing share their journeys with honesty and transparency. Stories like these do offer hope for the rest of us. I may never be an ultra running champion, but I can take comfort in the knowledge that others have walked (or ran) similar journeys as I am attempting for myself.