What Is Theology?

Theology is the study of God — His nature, character and relationship with humanity and the world. Explore what theologians do, the value of a theology degree and how Grand Canyon University’s College of Theology can equip you for ministry, education and deeper personal transformation.

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Read time 6 minutes

Nicole Sonnier

Published on Aug 26, 2025

Theology is not just a field of study; it's a meaningful pursuit that allows individuals to explore life's most profound spiritual questions. It involves understanding the nature of God and examining humanity's beliefs and values. Theology encourages students to engage in thoughtful reflection and purposeful living. It serves as both a scholarly discipline and a personal journey, helping people grow intellectually and spiritually as they seek truth.

If you feel called to ministry or wish to deepen your understanding of faith, studying theology can strengthen your worldview and prepare you to serve others with compassion and clarity. A theology degree provides more than just knowledge; it also develops the ability to think critically, communicate effectively and lead with humility.

A Straightforward Theology Definition

So, what is theology? A simple yet powerful definition is the study of God and religious belief. The word "theology" is derived from the Greek words Theos ("God") and logos ("word" or "reason"), which together form the phrase "reasoning about God." At Grand Canyon University, theology is approached as a discipline rooted in Scripture, aiming to help students develop a correct understanding of who God is and our relationship to Him.

"Theology is thinking of God," says Dr. Armen Oganessian, PhD, an associate professor in GCU's College of Theology. "When I say God, what comes into your mind? That's your theology. An orthodox, or good, theology is thinking of Him rightly."

This perspective makes theology accessible to everyone, not just pastors or professors. Everyone holds beliefs about God, and studying theology helps refine those beliefs in an accurate and meaningful way. Essentially, we are all theologians because we all think about God. The real question is whether we are thinking of Him rightly.

Understanding God correctly affects every aspect of life. As Dr. Oganessian explains, "Individuals are created to worship. So, when you have a bad theology — when you're thinking of God wrongly — you're worshipping the wrong thing. And that creates errors in your life."

What Is Theology the Study Of?

Theology is the study of the nature of God, the truth of Scripture and the spiritual questions that shape human experience. It is a discipline that explores the big questions: Who is God? What is the meaning of life? What is humanity's role in the world? Where do we find truth?

Students in theology programs often examine a broad range of topics and doctrines. At GCU, theology courses guide students through subjects such as biblical interpretation, systematic theology, church history and Christian ethics. These courses are designed not only to inform but also to transform, inviting students to grow in both knowledge and faith.

Dr. Oganessian describes a typical course progression: "Sometimes we begin with 'What is the Bible and why can I trust it?' Then we explore 'What does the Bible teach me about history, about who I am and about who God is?' We use terms like anthropology, theology proper, epistemology—but really, we're asking: Who am I? Who is God? Where do I find out about that? And the place I find information about that is – the Scriptures."

At GCU, the Bible is a central component of the curriculum. "We must go where the text leads us," Dr. Oganessian adds. "When we are having debates in the classroom, the arbiter of the discussion has to be the Bible. The Scriptures are the cornerstone of everything we do in class."

In theology classes, students are encouraged to participate in discussions, wrestle with complex ideas and ground their conclusions in Scripture. This approach fosters both intellectual discipline and spiritual maturity.

What Is a Theologian?

A theologian is someone who studies or practices theology, but the term is broader than it may seem. Theologians are not confined to an academic setting or a pulpit; in reality, anyone who reflects on the nature of God and the meaning of faith is engaging in theology.

"Everyone is always doing theology," says Dr. Oganessian. "Whether you like to or not, your mind is always thinking and doing theology. A misconception when you're getting a theology degree is that you're being introduced to something foreign. But all the theology degree is doing is giving you better tools to do this natural, innate thing that you do."

This means theologian is not a title reserved for a select few. It includes parents teaching their children about faith, counselors helping others navigate moral dilemmas and educators discussing spiritual themes with students. It is a term that applies to anyone committed to thinking deeply and rightly about God.

The Practical Power of Theology

Many people assume that theology is purely theoretical and impractical, but this view is far from accurate. Theology directly addresses the core aspects of how people live, lead and relate to one another.

Sometimes people think theology is impractical and just about learning big words. "Even some ministers would say, 'I don't need to know what the word supralapsarian means.' But when you realize that theology is about thinking of God rightly — and that your worship of God is the most important thing in your life, it becomes eminently practical," says Dr. Oganessian. "It's more practical than an engineering degree because it's going to affect your life greater than anything else."

Studying theology helps students understand their beliefs, sharpen their reasoning and build a solid ethical framework. It can also enhance empathy and emotional intelligence by encouraging students to engage with the stories and struggles of others. As a result, they can gain a better understanding of humanity and a greater capacity to serve.

What Can You Do With a Theology Degree?

Students can also develop organizational skills, learn to process complex ideas and become more articulate in both speech and writing while pursuing a theology degree. Dr. Oganessian adds, "Theology can create a better human. It can enrich your emotional life; help you enter into the lives of others and understand where they're coming from."

Theology provides a solid foundation for effective leadership. And not just leadership for its own sake, but leadership that aims for a good and godly purpose.

Why Study Theology at Grand Canyon University

GCU's theology programs are designed to help students grow intellectually, spiritually and professionally. A key feature of the university's approach is its commitment to a broadly evangelical perspective. "At other seminaries, you might be limited to one tradition — like Baptist or Presbyterian," says Dr. Oganessian.

"GCU is broadly evangelical. You can learn from a diverse community and study alongside and learn from people in different traditions, which can give you a richer and broader understanding of the faith."

— Dr. Armen Oganessian, PhD, College of Theology

GCU also offers small class sizes, direct access to professors and a strong sense of community. Students benefit from a supportive environment where meaningful dialogue and personal mentorship are central to the learning experience. Whether you're pursuing an undergraduate theology degree or seeking advanced study through a seminary master's program, GCU provides the academic foundation and spiritual guidance to help you.

Personal and Spiritual Growth Through Theology

Studying theology is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it is a transformative experience. "What you think about God is the most important thing about you," says Dr. Oganessian. "As I grow in thinking rightly about who God is, I grow as a person."

He shares how students often ask, "How do I get to a point where I can answer questions like you?" His response: it's not about memorizing facts. It's about living in the truth of theology. "I'm living in that other world — the world where God exists. And when you live in that world, your whole perspective changes."

This perspective not only deepens your faith but also shapes your character. Theology fosters the development of thoughtful and compassionate individuals who are prepared to lead, serve and love well in every context.

Discover GCU’s College of Theology’s Programs

Theology invites us to reflect on who God is, who we are and how we’re called to live. To prepare for ministry or find a path rooted in meaning, studying theology can offer a unique opportunity to sharpen your intellect, strengthen your character and guide you toward a life of purpose and service.

Explore the theology degrees available at Grand Canyon University and start your journey of faith, learning and impact.

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Nicole Sonnier

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Grand Canyon Education