Sitting under the shade of an ancient tree on a mountaintop somewhere in Noklak, I find myself immersed in contemplation, watching the mist roll over the distant hills. The cool mountain breeze carries the scent of damp earth and wildflowers, evoking a sense of solitude and reflection. With a worn-out copy of The Divine Names and the Mystical Theology resting on my lap, I ponder the responsibility borne by theologians and the immense weight of their calling. Theology is not merely an academic pursuit but a sacred vocation-one that demands an commitment to seeking truth, engaging with Scripture, and guiding the faithful in understanding the mysteries of God. In these quiet moments, away from the distractions of the world, the realisation dawns that theologians do not simply study; they shape the spiritual and ethical consciousness of Christian society. Their influence reaches beyond seminaries and pulpits, extending into the very heart of communities, where faith must translate into action. Moreover, their work strengthens not only the Church but also the moral and ethical foundation of the nation, inspiring responsible citizenship rooted in Christian values. The theologian’s voice must echo beyond religious circles, influencing public policy, ethical standards, and social justice initiatives with biblical wisdom. The calling is not only to study and teach but to transform lives, strengthen communities, and guide the world toward a deeper recognition of divine truth. Their work, rooted in divine revelation, is an ongoing dialogue between faith and reason, history and modernity, guiding humanity toward the eternal truths of God.
The role of theologians in Christian society extends far beyond intellectual study into the very fabric of faith, doctrine, and Christian living. Theology, the pursuit of understanding God and His divine revelation, is not merely an intellectual exercise but a sacred duty that shapes the Church’s spiritual, moral, and communal life. Theologians are entrusted with interpreting Scripture, preserving doctrinal integrity, and equipping believers to live out their faith with conviction. Their role is not confined to scholarly discourse but encompasses guiding the Church in navigating contemporary challenges while remaining anchored in biblical truth. In a world where theological confusion and moral relativism abound, the work of theologians becomes even more vital in ensuring that the Church remains steadfast in its mission and in its commitment to the Gospel. They must engage not only with theological texts but also with the lived experiences of believers, ensuring that faith remains both relevant and transformative. Additionally, theologians bear a social responsibility, advocating for the oppressed and addressing systemic injustices through the lens of Scripture. In fulfilling this duty, theologians also strengthen the moral consciousness of the nation, fostering a culture of justice and ethical responsibility. Their influence is not limited to believers alone; it extends to policymakers, educators, and community leaders who look to Christian principles for guidance in governance and societal transformation. As custodians of divine wisdom, they must bridge the gap between theological ideals and societal realities, ensuring that moral truths are not lost amidst the chaos of modern life. Their voice is one that must echo across generations, calling forth leaders who will uphold justice, mercy, and faithfulness in every sphere of society.
From the earliest days of the Church, theologians have played a crucial role in articulating the faith and defending it against heresies. The apostle Paul, writing to Timothy, emphasised the necessity of sound doctrine: “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers” (1 Timothy 4:16). Theology is not an abstract pursuit but a matter of salvation, as the correct understanding of God shapes the believer’s relationship with Him. Jesus Himself underscored the importance of knowing the truth, declaring, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). Theologians serve as guardians of this liberating truth, ensuring that the Church remains steadfast in the faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 3). Their role is akin to that of the prophets in ancient Israel, who proclaimed God’s truth even in times of apostasy and rebellion (Jeremiah 1:9-10). Theologians must remain vigilant, for history has shown that theological errors can lead entire generations astray, affecting not only individual faith but the collective witness of the Church. Their work, however, is not solely about defence; it also involves inspiring society to build a world that reflects Christ’s justice and mercy. Theological reflection, when translated into action, has the power to reshape societal structures, bringing about meaningful change in communities burdened by injustice and inequality. Their influence in shaping educational curricula and ethical frameworks ensures that Christian teachings continue to offer wisdom in an ever-changing world. Furthermore, theologians have the sacred task of ensuring that the faith is not diluted by cultural shifts but remains a beacon of divine truth for generations to come.
The work of theologians extends beyond doctrinal formulation to the practical application of theological principles in the life of the Church. Paul exhorted the Romans, saying, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2). This renewal of the mind, a central task of theologians, enables believers to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom rooted in divine revelation. Theologians help bridge the gap between Scripture and contemporary challenges, providing biblical insights on ethical, social, and political issues. In an age where technology and globalisation shape human interactions, theologians play a key role in addressing questions of bioethics, artificial intelligence, and the moral responsibilities of Christians in the digital era. They must also consider how the rise of social media and instant communication impacts theological discourse, ensuring that truth is not compromised in the pursuit of relevance. Furthermore, theologians must challenge society to recognise the value of human dignity and confront exploitation in all its forms, urging believers to take an active role in social transformation. Their engagement in public discourse ensures that Christian ethics contribute meaningfully to national conversations on justice, policy, and governance. By doing so, theologians affirm that faith is not a private affair but a force that must actively shape the world for the better. Their role in ethical leadership extends beyond the Church and into institutions of governance, education, and global humanitarian efforts. Their scholarship becomes a guiding light not only for Christian communities but for broader society, fostering a culture that upholds truth, justice, and compassion.
Theologians serve as the intellectual and spiritual guides of Christian society, ensuring that the Church remains rooted in biblical truth. They defend the faith, provide ethical guidance, promote unity, engage in apologetics, mentor future generations, and ultimately lead believers into a deeper knowledge and love of God. Their work is indispensable for the health and vitality of the Church, as they illuminate the path of righteousness in accordance with God’s revealed Word. As Paul charged Titus, “Teach what accords with sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1), theologians must remain steadfast in their calling, upholding the faith with integrity, wisdom, and devotion. They must remember that their work is not just for this age but for generations yet to come. Theologians are not merely scholars; they are the torchbearers of divine wisdom, ensuring that the light of God’s truth continues to shine in an ever-darkening world. Their impact transcends time, as the seeds they plant in hearts and minds today will bear fruit for eternity. More than intellectuals, theologians are also the moral conscience of society, calling upon Christians to rise above apathy and actively serve as instruments of God’s justice and compassion. Through their dedication, they contribute not only to the Church but also to the spiritual and ethical fabric of the nation, fostering a legacy of righteousness and service. Their influence, grounded in Scripture, extends beyond theological discourse into real-world transformation, compelling individuals and societies to align their lives with God’s divine purposes, ensuring that every believer becomes a beacon of truth and light in an ever-changing world. The work of theologians is a sacred trust, a divine commission that demands faithfulness, courage, and an commitment to truth.
(Dr. Aniruddha Babar, Academician and Independent Researcher. Director “Project Constitutional Justice- A People’s Initiative”, Tuensang, Nagaland)