Originally posted in Rabyd Theologian 2.0 on April 8th, 2011.
Christology is in its simplest form the study of Christ in both his nature and person. “Who was Jesus and what did he do?”
The issues involved in who Christ was and is are extensive. The include his humanity, divinity, relationship to the Father and Holy Spirit, incarnation (God in flesh), etc.
The issues in what he did and its significance are also large: virgin birth, miracles, teachings, his death, burial and resurrection are there and what significance they have. That covers a lot of ground.
The source documents for all this study are the New Testament with reference to the Old Testament. Historical studies come into play as well like “When the Jews heard the term ‘Christ’ what did they think?” is a valid question. Needless to say it is very difficult to become and expert in Christology.
Of course, throughout history there has been a lot of debate on all these issues over 2000 years and the views on all the above have major variance in opinion. The point is when you hear the term ‘Christology’ you know someone is talking about Jesus, what he did and who he was.
Next: Soteriology