What is Christian theology?
{{Christianity}} '''Christian theology''' is the study of [[Christian]] belief. Christian [[theologian]]s use analysis and argument to understand, [[explanation|explain]], test, [[critic#critique|critique]], defend, or promote Christianity. Christian theology starts with the [[New Testament]]. [[Saint Paul]], in his letters, and his speeches ([[Acts of the Apostles]]), draws upon his training as a [[rabbi]] and on his experience of [[Christ]]. He started outside [[Damascus]] to explain to [[Jew]]s and [[Gentile]]s the meaning of the [[crucifixion]] and [[resurrection of Jesus]]. In the [[History of Christianity]], later writers such as [[Luther]] and [[John Calvin]] have stressed the [[Bible]] as the basis of theology. The bible as a source is not without controversy. [[Catholic]] and [[Orthodox]] theologians have also stressed the importance of [[Church]] [[tradition]] for the [[faith]]. [[Thomas Aquinas]] and [[Saint Augustine]] are among the most important writers within the [[Roman Catholic Church]]. Differences in theology have led to the many [[denomination]]s within [[Christianity]]. This started with the separation of Jesus' followers from [[Judaism]]. Later came the [[Great Schism]] and the [[Reformation]]. After Luther's quarrel with the [[Pope]], [[Reformed churches]] like the [[Lutheran]]s and [[Baptist]]s are established. [[Calvinism]] is very important within [[Protestantism]], although the followers of [[Jacob Arminius]] do not accept it. Attempts at compromise in [[England]] between the Catholics and [[Puritans]] lead to the establishment of the [[Church of England]]. Later movements include [[Methodism]], [[Liberal Christianity]], [[Pentecostalism]], and [[Liberation theology]]. == Christian creeds == Many important ideas in Christian theology are summarized in statements called [[creed]]s. These were usually written by councils of Christians as a statement of their most central beliefs. Most major Christian churches agree with the [[Nicene Creed]]. == The question of evidence == Most scho