I don't know about that. I would argue he treated the Jews differently than he treated other peoples (treating his creation differently), or even Christ chose twelve out of many disciples (making some work harder than others).
There are well known theologians who are not believers. They study theology because they are fascinated by it. In fact, some claim they became non-believers through it.
I suppose I may have been defining terms a bit differently, but even fascination with Scripture is a faith in the idea of God, which is a very immature form of faith in Him.
Theology is a study of God (Greek theos + logia), a study of what people wrote about God through their faith in him. Some people may find theological arguments compelling because they express their beliefs in greater detail and in a more scholarly, authoritative way, thereby leading to a sense of "growing" in knowledge of God.
Agreed.
Why can both not be 'pleasing' to God, just as there may be different innumerable paths towards faith?
Agreed. If you'll excuse the question, where are we disagreeing? I have enjoyed this conversation, but I'm afraid I don't see any points of dispute anymore!
You are probably right. I think it is fair to say that most theologians were believers at the beginning of their studies, probably hoping to find more reasons to believe.
But for some, theology was a journey away from God for many reasons (Ehrhart, Pagels, etc). Others remained faithful but in quite an unorthodox way.
If you'll excuse the question, where are we disagreeing?
On pretty much everything. :)
I have enjoyed this conversation, but I'm afraid I don't see any points of dispute anymore!
I can see why. But that's because so far I have been stating the "official truth" rather than asking questions.