One of my assignments for my Systematic Theology II class is to write a personal doctrinal statement on Christology, Soteriology and Pneumatology.

One of the difficulties of this is synthesizing my own thoughts around the outline of our class, which is what I am required to do. Another is, well, the matter of knowing how to express these matters on the fly, verses, unclogging it all an putting it on the page. Thirdly, there is a page requirement. I must do battle with writing superfluous language to fill a minimum fifteen page requirement and writing down only what I believe.

So far I have around four pages with notes where I need to go back and fill in some of the blanks and give verse support. I basically need to average around two pages a day and then use the last day to review and edit. I never imagined that this exercise would prove to be so difficult in the ways I described above.

On the other hand, this is indeed a necessary and helpful assignment in solidifying my positions and having a reference for future ministry. I am thankful for the wisdom of my professors in making us walk through something that will be beneficial for, not only how we minister to others, but also in how it will strengthen my own walk with Christ.

Have you ever considered writing down what you believe and giving Scriptural support? I know that you have read doctrinal statements and signed off that you believe them, but what about working through those things on your own, with only the help of an outline? I would encourage anyone who professes to know Christ, to challenge yourself on knowing why you believe what you believe. Get your Bible and a list of essential Christian doctrine and work it out. I believe you will find it fruitful!