What is theology proper / Paterology?
Theology Proper / Paterology: A Graduate-Level Examination
Theology Proper, also known as Paterology, is the branch of systematic theology that focuses specifically on the study of God, particularly God the Father. This area of study seeks to explore the existence, nature, and attributes of God as revealed in Scripture, as well as His unique role within the Trinity. Derived from the Greek words theos (God) and logos (word or study), Theology Proper systematically addresses the foundational truths about God, ensuring a biblically accurate and theologically robust understanding of His character and works.
Key Questions Addressed in Theology Proper / Paterology
1. Does God Exist?
The question of God’s existence is foundational to theology proper. Scripture does not attempt to prove God’s existence but assumes it from the very beginning:
Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”
Additionally, Romans 1:19–20 teaches that God’s existence is evident through creation:
“Because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.”
This innate knowledge of God is confirmed in Psalm 14:1: “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.’”
The widespread acknowledgment of God’s existence, even among those who deny Him, suggests an inherent awareness of the Creator, further emphasizing humanity's accountability to Him.
2. What Are the Attributes of God?
The attributes of God reveal His essence and character. Theology proper explores both communicable attributes (those shared with humanity in some measure) and incommunicable attributes (those unique to God).
Incommunicable Attributes:
Eternality: God is without beginning or end.
Psalm 90:2: “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.”
Immutability: God does not change.
Malachi 3:6: “For I am the Lord, I do not change.”
Omnipresence: God is everywhere at all times.
Psalm 139:7–10: “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.”
Communicable Attributes:
Love: God’s love is perfect and unconditional.
1 John 4:8: “He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”
Justice: God is perfectly righteous in His judgments.
Deuteronomy 32:4: “For all His ways are justice, a God of truth and without injustice; righteous and upright is He.”
Wisdom: God’s decisions are always perfect and for His glory.
Romans 11:33: “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!”
Understanding God’s attributes enables believers to worship Him with greater awe and reverence, recognizing His majesty and holiness.
3. What Does the Bible Teach About the Trinity?
The Trinity is a central doctrine in Christian theology, affirming that God is one in essence yet exists eternally in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Theology proper focuses on the role of God the Father within the Trinity.
Unity of God:
Deuteronomy 6:4: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one!”
Plurality within Unity:
Matthew 28:19: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
The Father is revealed as the source of divine will and the One who sent the Son to accomplish salvation (John 3:16) and the Spirit to sanctify and empower believers (John 14:26). Understanding the Trinity helps believers comprehend the unique roles of each Person within the Godhead.
4. Is God Sovereign, and Do We Have Free Will?
God’s sovereignty refers to His supreme authority and control over all creation. He orchestrates all things according to His will:
Isaiah 46:10: “Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure.’”
At the same time, Scripture affirms human responsibility and the reality of free will:
Joshua 24:15: “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve.”
Reconciling God’s sovereignty with human free will is complex, but both truths are clearly taught in Scripture. God’s sovereignty does not negate human responsibility, and human choices operate within the framework of His divine plan.
Paterology: God the Father
Paterology, a subset of theology proper, focuses specifically on the role and attributes of God the Father. He is the eternal source of all things, the initiator of salvation, and the One who sent the Son and Spirit into the world:
Ephesians 1:3–4: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.”
John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
The Father’s unique role within the Trinity highlights His eternal relationship with the Son and Spirit, His authority over creation, and His intimate involvement in the redemption of humanity.
Practical Applications of Theology Proper / Paterology
Worship: Understanding God’s nature deepens worship and reverence. Recognizing His holiness, love, and sovereignty inspires awe and gratitude.
Trust: God’s immutability and faithfulness assure believers of His unchanging promises.
Relationship: Knowing that God is personal and relational encourages believers to seek Him in prayer and study His Word.
Mission: Understanding God’s desire for salvation (2 Peter 3:9) motivates believers to share the gospel.
Conclusion
Theology proper and Paterology lay the foundation for a proper understanding of God’s nature and attributes. By exploring questions of God’s existence, attributes, sovereignty, and role within the Trinity, believers gain a fuller appreciation of who God is and how He relates to His creation. As Romans 11:33 declares, “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!” This study calls us to worship, trust, and serve the God who reveals Himself as holy, loving, and sovereign.
