why study theology?

So I have started to read/study a book called Bible Doctrine by Wayne Grudem. It's basically systematic theology for every believer, not just people who want to go to seminary...so I guess that would be me, right. If you don't know systematic theology is the study of what the entire Bible say about a certain topic. I am really excited about learning what scripture says about different topics so that I will know why I believe what I believe and even maybe find out what I believe about topics I don't have an opinion on right now. Before this "season" in my life, I never really understood why someone would want to study/learn about theology. I didn't really think it was that important or that I needed to learn about it. But that is what the first chapter of the book was about...what is theology and why study it and how to study it. So I have answered basically what it is already, but why study theology? First, because the Lord has called us to it. In Matt 28:19-20 it states,

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Not only were we called to go and evangelize and baptize people but we were also called to teach them everything Christ commanded us. Now how will I be able to accomplish this part of the Great Commission if I don't know things for myself? I won't.

On top of the fact that it is a call on my life as a disciple to study theology, it will also give me a more accurate picture of who the Lord is and so won't I be able to relate with him better if I know Him more intimately. I think so.

Me studying theology isn't about me knowing lots of big words and concepts, but about knowing God, so that He can be glorified and praised through my life and by me knowing Him.

I am really excited about this.