When Theologians Disagree

Check out this informative post from Justin Taylor, answering the question, "What if two theologians I respect disagree about Scripture’s meaning?" He writes:

"The answer to this is virtually the same as if the question had been, “What if two theologians I respect agree about Scripture’s meaning?” In either scenario, the proper response is to imitate the “noble Bereans” of Acts 17. These were Jews who listened to Paul and Silas proclaim God’s Word in their synagogue. We are told that “they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” In other words, they combined eager reception of teaching along with daily inspection to see if they were hearing was true.

"The fact that godly theologians, whom we admire, disagree on certain issues is not something that we should receive as a threat to our confidence, but rather we should view it as an invitation to carefully and prayerfully think. Take time to ask questions about what you are hearing or readings: What are the claims being made? What are the arguments? What are the assumptions? What are the implications? What are the relevant Bible passages?

"In 2 Timothy 2:7, Paul gives Timothy a command (“Think over what I say”), followed by a reason that is also a promise (“for the Lord will give you understanding in everything”). And James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom [if you have a pulse, then you fit in this category!], let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” So whether your favorite theologians agree or disagree, if you want to decide what you believe and to have wise understanding, then the biblical pattern is to ask, to think, and to believe. God will hear your prayer, bless your efforts, and give you help."