Systematic Theology

"Good systematic theology does not put God in a box; it clarifies the implications of what he has revealed of himself. Good systematic theology does not misrepresent Scripture; it is shaped by solid exegesis and narrative analysis. Good systematic theology does not idolize reason; it depends on revelation and points out the areas of mystery.
We all have a systematic theology. It is whatever conclusions, assumptions and frameworks we use to interpret the Bible and world. Those who resist the study of systematic theology do have a systematic theology – the problem is that it is unexamined, unconscious and unpredictable. The latter feature is troubling in ministry. When a minister does not pay attention to systematic theology, imagining that he merely reads the Bible, church members will find themselves subjected to an unpredictable ministry. Parts of the Bible will be exalted to paradigmatic status; others will be sidelined. Regular reading and preaching through the entire Bible will not alleviate this – the unexamined, intuitive systematic theology will shape and guide every step of exegesis and preaching. Unpredictability arises from keeping one's systematic theology a secret (from oneself and others)." (Peter Sanlon, 'Simply God')