Theology, according to Erickson, functions within a specific cultural and historical context, and has evolved from long-standing dominance of certain doctrines to a rapid progression of emerging and often short-lived theologies. Theological trends signify a shift towards individual theologians from theological schools or movements, and a move towards global perspectives that challenge Western theological dominance. The current knowledge explosion compels theologians towards specialization, limiting the scope of systematic theology, and influencing a trend towards extremism, behavioral sciences, and the non-denominational. Erickson advocates the construction of a theology as an academic and artistic undertaking. The process should start with the biblical exegesis, progress to biblical theology, and then to systematic theology. He also emphasizes the need for conscious selection of a central motif to guide interpretation and application of doctrines. For instance, his choice is the magnificence of God. Erickson suggests the importance of organizing subjects, subtopics and subdivisions in theology based on their relative importance for efficient use of time and resources. He also highlights the need to classify and assign various levels of authority to theological statements based on their source. Adding to this, he advises scrutinizing historical treatments for their practical value in contemporary theological expressions, and viewing the Bible in its authentic historical and cultural contexts, to preserve and convey the true meaning of its teachings. The practice of reading the Bible should progress from biblical theology, through examining its cultural representation, to systematic theology. Erickson emphasizes distinguishing between the essence of doctrine from specific cultural practices of a particular time or place. He also argues for the importance of extrabiblical sources of theological knowledge and the need to express old doctrines in contemporary terms. Despite the shifting trends, Erickson underscores that theology must remain true to its principles while evolving to maintain its cultural relevance and sensitivities. Erickson's theological method goes beyond the inductive and deductive, into a realm of adduction, blending elements of science and art. The construction of theological methodology, then, involves creativity and adaptation similar to the process of forming scientific theories. It's an adductive approach described as an overlap of the artistic, scientific approach, and creativity, with an emphasis on continual learning and adaptation. This approach is mirrored by the concept of adduction in theology, which blends science and art as it embraces creativity and adaptation.
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