Most people think a theologian is someone who has spent thousands of dollars studying the Bible at the most exclusive seminaries of the world. Perhaps they are an author of books that reveal the deep secrets of a portion of the scriptures. Maybe they are the sequestered souls who fellowship only with God and keep themselves pure from worldly attachments. What does it mean to be a theologian?

The term theology comes from two Greek words: theos, meaning God and logos meaning word or rational thought. Theology therefore is God—thought or rational reasoning about God. Whether we realize it or not, we all have thoughts and ideas about God. We are all theologians of sort representing or misrepresenting God and his word. We often pass down our learned theology from our parents, grandparents, a former pastor, a television minister, or an impassioned friend.

I believe one of the most prolific categories of modern day theologians is found in the music industry. Immediately, I can think of groups who represent and misrepresent God and his word. Consider these ten song titles and how they characterize God. Think about how they have influenced your faith.

“God is so good” — Pat Barrett

“God gave rock and roll to you” — Petra

“Country by the grace of God” — Chris Cagle

“God only knows” — Beach Boys

“Dear God” — Sara McLachlan

“Have a talk with God” — Stevie Wonder

“God’s not Dead” – Newsboys

“Jesus take the Wheel” – Carrie Underwood

“Dear God” – Nick Jonas

“You Raise me up” —Josh Groban

Six years ago, I experienced a crisis of faith. It was not a crisis that challenged me, not to believe, but it was a crisis of unanswered questions and emotional pain for me and my loved ones. All the Bible studies I had taught and the scriptures I had memorized sustained me, but I needed an energized, revelation of the character and love of God to get me through the crisis. I needed a psalm, a hymn, a “theos/logos experience. The following song, “Worn” by Tenth Avenue North provided my healing, restoring theology in the crisis.

“Worn”

I’m tired

I’m worn

My heart is heavy

From the work it takes to keep on breathing

I’ve made mistakes

I’ve let my hope fail

My soul feels crushed

By the weight of this world

And I know that You can give me rest

So I cry out with all that I have left

Let me see redemption win

Let me know the struggle ends

That You can mend a heart that’s frail and torn

I want to know a song can rise

From the ashes of a broken life

And all that’s dead inside can be reborn

‘Cause I’m worn

I know I need

To lift my eyes up

But I’m too weak

Life just won’t let up

And I know that You can give me rest

So I cry out with all that I have left

Let me see redemption win

Let me know the struggle ends

That You can mend a heart that’s frail and torn

I want to know a song can rise

From the ashes of a broken life

And all that’s dead inside can be reborn

‘Cause I’m worn

And my prayers are wearing thin

I’m worn even before the day begins

I’m worn I’ve lost my will to fight

I’m worn so heaven so come and flood my eyes

Let me see redemption win

Let me know the struggle ends

That You can mend a heart that’s frail and torn

I want to know a song can rise

From the ashes of a broken life

And all that’s dead inside can be reborn

Yes, all that’s dead inside will be reborn

Though I’m worn

Yeah, I’m worn

Songwriters: Jason Ingram / Jeff Owen / Mike Donehey

Worn lyrics © Essential Music Publishing

This song became my theology during this crisis season. It gave hope as I sang, “Let me see redemption win, let me know the struggle ends, that you can mend a heart that’s frail and torn.” Six years later I smile when I listen to “Worn” and I know it represents a God who never fails to rescue his child!

If you have theology through music or a person, that is contrary to the character of God, replace it with a theos/logos that truly represents a loving God and watch your faith grow!