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191 Interesting Theology Research Paper Topics For You To Try

Do you know how to write a theology paper? Well, first you will need to find and research the best topic that you are interested in. However, it can be frustrating to some extent when you are not sure of what is expected of you, and what to do your research on.

As students, you need to consult your professors in college to know the best topic to choose for your research. Hence, be assured that after you decide on a topic, we will provide online help from there.

It can be difficult to find the right research topic for your University project. However, we have made it easier for you! We have provided a variety of topics that you can choose from.

Theology Research Paper Topics

Most of these topics are based on Christianity research paper topics. They help you visualize more how religion and society correlate. They are based on the various values and evidence behind them.

The issues that cause immorality in the church.
The role of religious institutions in ensuring peace and harmony.
The influence of the different church doctrines on Education development.
The effectiveness of faith in Christian life and how it impacts people.
What are the major contributors to divisions in the church?
The Biblical examination of why there are divisions in the church.
The Christian model of living and how it impacts society.
The religious conflicts in different parts of the world.
How persistent violence affects religious institutions.
The principles of religious institutions funding.
The role of religious institutions in state politics.
The impact of transformational leadership on leader’s performance.
The impact of a church minister’s family relationship on the growth of the church.
The implication of the involvement of religious institutions in politics.
The leadership styles and welfare programs impact salvation.
The major effects of servant leadership on Pentecostal fellowship.
Evaluate the impact of church leadership on church growth.
How does leadership affect the growth of churches?
How do parental curses affect the spiritual growth of children?

Theological Essay Topics

These are topics that you can use for your theological essays. They are simple to comprehend and will help you to get a better understanding of religion. They are also based on the beliefs of society.

Factors responsible for the division of people in religious institutions.
The moral effect of premarital sex among young teenagers.
Evaluate the effect of the sectarian crisis in the church.
How does parenting affect spiritual growth in children?
The impact of church separation at different ages for spiritual growth.
The truth behind speaking in tongues and its influence on spiritual growth.
Evaluate the impact of the use of new technology in providing spiritual growth to individuals.
The influence of the relation between the laity and clergy in building the church.
The impact of corporate social responsibility on society.
The various Christian ethics and impact on the church growth.
Do churches contribute to healthy living in society?
Illustrate the cardinal dimension of the Christina CSR – Corporate social responsibilities.
Evaluate proliferation and its impact on religious institutions.
Nature and faith roles for a Christian.
How does the administration of a religious institution affect its growth?
The nature and role of faith in different religions.
The effect of different denominations in the growth of the church.
Evaluate the accepted Christian life and its impact on society.
Describe Christianity as a way of life.

Research Topics in Theology

Are you looking for the best research topics in theology? Why not start with these? They are based on modern society and religions.

Evaluate the two views of theology and their impact on current life.
Provide a comparison between Armenians and classic Calvinism.
Evaluate the triumph of Armenians and its dangers.
Examine the Christian doctrine of security.
Evaluate God’s foreknowledge and human freedom and the problems associated with it.
Examine God’s immutability aspect and influence on everyday life.
Provide a detailed paper on the Biblical perspective of the tension of the son of God’s death as predestined by God.
Evaluate the pre-existence of the Son of God.
Examine the existence of God’s son concerning the historical dimension of the Biblical witness to God.
Evaluate the modern inerrancy debate and its impact on the church.
Discuss the reflections on the Theology of Worship.
Distinguish between the scripture and culture and impact on the society.
Distinguish humans through atheism and secularism.
How is humanism portrayed in society?
Discuss the problem of natural evil and its impact on society.
Analyze the Biblical perspectives on the second coming of the son of God.
Provide the popular ideas on the second coming of Christ.
Discuss the nature of God and its relation with living beings.
What are the popular concepts surrounding the second coming of Jesus Christ?
What are the speculations on the end times?

In Depth Theology Essay Topics

These are other theology essay topics that you can use. They are based on real-life circumstances and the consequences of some occurrences. They will help you get a better understanding of what you learn at school.

Evaluate the two Biblical stories and their impact on human understanding of creation.
Evaluate the protestant principle of faith alone as traced through Habakkuk and Paul.
How does faith impact how people live with each other in society?
Evaluate homosexuality as shown in the Bible.
Evaluate God’s love and human love.
Discuss Nehemiah’s life and the question of identity.
Explain synergism in fulfilling the mission of the Church.
How do you understand the term born again in Christianity?
What are the different views that people have about God?
What is subjected as Holy Living?
What justifies someone living a Holy life?
What is the importance of Christian creed, confessions, and catechism in Christianity
How do creeds of reformation help in faith-building?
Discuss the collection of Biblical studies, and theological reflections that address Women in the Ministry.
The impact of historical theology on modern Christianity.
Evaluate the heritage of Holiness in Christianity.
Evaluate the Day of the Lord and related metaphors in terms of Biblical passages.
What is the difference between prophetic and apocalyptic eschatology?

Bible Thesis Topics

The Bible is a great book, however, you need great intervention to understand it fully. Here are some topics that you can start with to understand the basis of the Bible.

Evaluate the Old Testament in the Bible as twenty passage
What are the implications of the day of the Lord and related metaphors of accountability?
Provide a literary analysis of the Book of Genesis.
Evaluate the term, “Limited God” in terms of His level of knowledge about humanity – new things he learns about humans
Analyze the Old Testament’s concept of the Torah from the Biblical traditions.
Evaluate the theoretical analysis of the Old Testament practice of sacrifice and how it differs from appeasement of the gods or physical means to forgiveness.
Evaluate the social ethics in the revelation and experience of God in human history.
Analyze the 4 Old Testament passages that use “us” to refer to God.
Evaluate Psalm 51 and the transformation language.
Evaluate Nehemiah and the Question of Identity.
Write an essay on the role of the wisdom and psalm traditions which provide a basis on the realities of life from a basis of Faith.
Analyze using different Bible passages on whether Jesus had to die.
What are the assumptions based on the death of Christ?
Evaluate the self-understanding of Jesus and its impact on society.
Analyze the social relationship of Jesus and its implication on modern life.
What is the relation between Jesus, Religion, and Politics?
Retrace the journey of Jesus Christ during his whole life.
What were the implications of the death of the Messiah?
What were the tensions involved in the overcoming of the death of the Messiah?
Analyze various passages in the book of Psalms and their impact on daily living.

Theological Discussion Topics

These topics are mainly based on discussions. This is on the various phenomenon and beliefs associated with them. They are also based on different religions across the world.

Evaluate the effect of the church in society in the 21 st century.
Evaluate Buddhism in Japan as compared to the one in China.
What are the basic ideas and beliefs behind honor killings in some religions?
What are the major differences between parables in the Bible and fairy tales?
Evaluate the organizational structures of the Buddhists n Thailand and other parts of the world.
Why do priests in certain religions never marry and stick to celibacy?
How was Jesus different from other prophets in the Bible?
How is the Islamic and Christian religion-related?
Evaluate the rise of mega-churches
Why abortion is strongly disregarded in Christianity?
What are the reproductive rights for women in Islam?
State the effects of homosexuality in different religions.
Provide the Biblical account of how the World was created.
The various effects of Greek culture on Christian theology.
Early Christian fellowship and encounter with Jesus.
Evaluate the sacred ceremonies in Christianity and their significance.
Discuss our ancestors and their spiritual beliefs.
Which scientific research and proofs disagree with Christian theology
Evaluate our ancestors and their spiritual beliefs

Religious Research Paper Topics

Have you ever thought of doing a religious research topic? Why not try any of these!. The topics will also help you get a better understanding of the world and various phenomena.

Discuss the emergence of the new religion and its effects.
Evaluate world science and religion.
Is there a big difference between the Christian and Islamic history?
Evaluate world religions with no God – how did people live?
Discuss the phenomenon and implications of the trickster gods.
Examine the influence of religion in theocratic states.
What are the effects of the Greek religion and European culture myths?
What is the impact of religion on modern Japan’s culture?
What are the considerations that children are innocent souls in the religious discourse?
Evaluate the polytheistic religion and mythology
Discuss the similarities of images of god and myths associated.
The role of women in Islam.
How does religion impact people’s daily life?
Evaluate animalism and totemism in the manifestation in the modern world.
What are the Greek myths and religion’s impact on the European culture?
Describe the phenomenon of trickster gods.
The similarities and differences of monotheistic religions.
Evaluate how atheism is a religion.
Evaluate the theocratic states and their influence on religion.
Is there an existence of world religions that have no gods?
Provide the history of Christianity.

Expanded Religious Topics to Write About

Do you know the best religious topics to write on? With the various topics at hand, it can be hard to choose one. However, these topics are unique and will make you get a different perspective on life.

What is the concept of the soul in different religions?
Evaluate the history of Judaism.
Evaluate the Nordic mythology and religion in the modern world.
Describe religious counseling versus classical psychology.
What is the attitude of sex in different religions?
Evaluate whether children are considered innocent in all religions.
Do you think faith can help overcome the harshness of puberty?
Examine female clergy in different religions.
Evaluate the concept of reincarnation in world religions.
Explain the history of Hinduism and its impact on Indian culture.
What is the impact of the crisis of faith in the world?
Is yoga a health or religious practice?
How is the afterlife considered in different religions?
Evaluate religion and economics.
Evaluate Confucianism and its impact on the modern world.
Discuss female clergy in different religions.
Debate whether a world full of so much evil can exist with an all-loving omnipotent God.
How do all religions lead to the same mountaintop?
How do wars use politics as a mask when religion is the core?
Is the Great Flood story known across all religions?

World Religions Research Paper Topics

These topics are mainly based on world religions and their impact on the modern world. The topics are broad to ensure you get a better understanding of the various religions in the world.

Can atheism be considered a religion on its own?
How are animalism and totems manifested in the modern world
Discuss the various philosophies such as post-modernism, fatalism, nihilism, and relativism
How military action is ethically justified through religion?
Can the religious leanings of a politician led to him or her losing an election?
Compare the modern Egyptian religious traditions to those from the presynaptic period.
Evaluation of what Confucianism is and its impact on the world.
How does the Gnostic faith different from modern Christianity?
How do new religions cannibalize the rituals that were being used in past religions?
How is the Bible different from all other books?
How does pure land Buddhism purport to reform the current Buddhist religion?
Discuss how God only exists in the minds of people who follow him?
How do the various religions deal with the end of the world?
Discuss the hypostatic union.
What was the Egyptian’s understanding of divinity’s existence?
Evaluate the existence of guardian angels and how one can be?

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177 Theology Research Paper Topics for College Students

Theology is the study of the spiritual, the divine, and religious beliefs. Studied in colleges and universities, theology explores the human faith and reveals what it means to have a balanced look at religion as a whole. The purpose is to learn more about a religious tradition and not just find religious topics to write about. Theology can be biblical, systematic, historical, and practical. Biblical theology involves the use and interpretation of the Bible. Systematic theology explains theology as a comprehensive unit. Historical theology probes the past to inform the future. Practical theology establishes a certain truth as an act of practice. Yet, theology can also be political, seeing how religions continue to shape political decisions. In short, theology can be many things. So, in this article, we provide different topics on theology, from practical to political. But before you dive in, quickly check how to outline a theological research paper.

Brief Theology Research Paper Outline

From ideation to paper, writing a theology paper has never been easy. However, it’s also not exactly difficult. If you want to know how to write a theology paper, you’ll need not just the will to write it but also tips and outlines. Here we have provided tips for clear theological writing. Read on.

Introduce The first attempt at writing a theology research paper is to introduce your topic. Of course, you can’t clarify what your reader does not know about. Often, you are tempted to assume your readers have prior knowledge but do not fall into that trap. Always think your reader is dealing with a new topic so you can better introduce the topic.
Use headings Headings make your paper appealing and straightforward. Good titles make your professor smile and ensure a better grade. If you don’t know how to go about your headers, check the style guide. Also, be mindful of headings that do not capture the content.
Keep a good topic sentence A topic sentence highlights your main idea. Usually at the beginning of a paragraph, it informs your reader what to know about the section. Without a good topic sentence, your paper might be lost.
Research The body of your paper contains the outcome of your research. Your study must be detailed and concise. If you make a claim, you have to prove it. Do not just research and write, thinking your reader will fathom what you are saying. Do your research in sync with your sources.
Conclude Your conclusion should capture your thesis. A very good conclusion does not leave anything in the body of your thesis out, especially the important parts. Your topic sentences should also inform your conclusion.
Use sources It’s impossible to write a paper filled with your opinions only. No doubt, you’ll source views from others and incorporate them into your study. Whatever the opinions and wherever you source them, you should reference them correctly.

Now that you’re familiar with the process of outlining a theology research paper, find below exciting theology topics to choose from for a successful theology thesis.

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General Theology Research Paper Topics

Do you know that Plato invented theology? According to him, theology represents the eternal realities of forms and ideas. This thought process has been a critical determinant of general belief and faith. So, if you’re looking for general theological essay topics, the following should help:

Explore the concept of life after death in general theology.
The differences between Buddhism in Japan and China.
Contributions of the church to modern democracy.
Impacts of parables and fairytales in world religions.
Prophethood in theology and the concept of discipleship.
Perspectives of abortion in Abrahamic faiths.
Views of gender equality in Abrahamic beliefs.
Perspectives of sexuality and identity in Abrahamic religions.
Islam Vs. Christianity: significant differences and similarities.
Impacts of homosexuality on religion and the way forward.
Creation of the world in Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism.
Effects of Greek and Roman culture on Christianity.
Why women cannot hold leadership roles in some religions.
Are abortions allowed in Islam and Christianity?
The widespread impacts of the concept of heaven and hell on society.
Science and religion: where they agree and disagree.
The study of the old testaments and similarities in the Quran.
The evolution of worship from the 20th century to the 21st century.
Why do we need theology, and what can it do to improve the world?
A comparative analysis of the Trinity in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.
The role of theology towards eradicating global religious terrorism.
The contribution of theology in fostering international religious terrorism.
What does faith mean in Buddhism, Sikhism, and Taoism?
What Islam teaches about gender, sexuality, and identity.
What the portrayal of a black devil means to African Americans.
The existence of God pre-creation in central religious faith.
Evolution of Holy books: a comparative study of the Quran and the Bible.
Evolution of places of worship: a comparative study of the church and the mosque.
Evolution of prophethood: a comparative analysis of Jesus and Muhammed.
Impacts of religion on humanity: promotion of peace and harmony.

Systematic Theology Paper Topics

Plato invented general theology, but Bartholomäus Keckermann is the father of systematic theology (dogmatic theology). The German contributed immensely to the growth, order, and rationalism of religious doctrines, particularly Christianity. Listed below are some fascinating systematic theology paper topics for your dissertation:

Systematic theology: Expectations vs. reality.
Will systematic theology ever rule the world?
The church and the rise of democracy.
Differentiate between Catholic and Roman dogmatism.
Explain the atonement of the person and the work of Buddha.
Perspective about dogmatic theology beyond Anathema.
What is the doctrine of scripture in the catechism of Hinduism?
Discuss the incarnation of divinity and humanity.
Explore comparative theology in the liturgy of the word.
Historicity and ahistoricity in systematic theology.
A brief treatise on Calvinism and dogmatic theology.
Understanding the difference between practical theology and systematic theology.
The relationship between dogmatic theology and religious education.
Hermeneutic principle and the divinity of self-revelation.
The dogmatism of blood atonement and the foundation of faith.
Systematic theology: Death and hell as tools of evangelism.
Systematic theology: overview, impact, and implications.
Dissect the dogmatic theology of Jesus, humanity, and the Trinity.
The systematic theology of the Islamic tradition on animals.
Effects and impact of liberation theology.
Principles and policies of systematic theology.
Roman and Catholic perspectives on systematic theology.
The issue of Israel and the evangelical approach.
Differentiate the biblical from the evangelical.
Perspectives of an African-American on systematic theology.
The justification of faith and the construction of new theories.
Modern and postmodern evolution of Buddhism.
Interpret the systematic concept of God and love.
Discuss the perspectives of the spiritual darkness and light.
Impacts and contributions of systematic theology to climate change.

Historical Research Topics in Theology

Stanley James Grenz made tremendous impacts on historical theology. Alongside Guretzki and Nordling, they described historical theology as that aspect of theology that looks at how faith, beliefs, and doctrines develop throughout history. The purpose is to identify theological errors and avoid them in the future. Some exciting historical research topics in theology include:

Explore the contributions of Dietrich Bonhoeffer to systematic theology.
Wolfhart Pannenberg’s contributions to dogmatic theology.
Paul Rorem, St. Augustine’s confessions and influence: a historical review.
Explore the historical logic of the Trinity in Hinduism and Christianity.
The histology and confessionalism of Jonathan Edwards.
A historical treatise on Buddha beyond theological studies.
Past Jewish traditions and the understanding of gender equality.
A historical overview of the relationship between race, religion, and culture.
The historical injustice of the church and the dogma of secularization.
Modernism vs. the historical teachings of the Quran on sexuality?
A comparative analysis of historical and contemporary theology.
The history of pastoral theology: development, impact, and implications.
Contributions of Friedrich Schleiermacher to historical theology.
The history and development of evangelism in Abrahamic religions.
The history of Judaism theology in the United States.
Historical contributions of John Calvin to pastoral theology.
Biography of Watts and Wesley: two Christmas hymn composers.
Then and now: religion in the face of a pandemic.
Contributions of Africa to the Muslim mind.
Historical differences of Buddhism in Japan and China.
Violence against women through the dark history of the medieval church.
The value of socio-historical theology in the genealogy of faith.
The historical account of the most excellent sermons in Christology.
Most extraordinary African-American women in the history of the church.
Contributions of Bernard of Clairvaux to the church.
History of lost and forgotten books in Christian theology.
Account the history of salvation during the Spanish Reconquista.
Modern and classical views on the theology of baptism.
The historical impact of the theology of discipleship.
A brief historical treatise of the martyr’s cause in Islam and Christianity.

Practical Theological Discussion Topics

The father of modern practical theology, according to many theologians, is Fredrick Schleiermacher. Also known as liberal theology, practical theology attempts to reflect on the alignment and modification of religious practices. It is the democratic aspect of theology devoid of sentiments and biases. Check out a few of the most common practical theological discussion topics below:

Application of Delphi survey tool in understanding church trends.
Spiritual advocacy and the current overlapping roles of evangelists.
The inclusiveness of the disabled in the theology of humanity.
A comparative analysis of the growth of global youth ministries.
An investigation into the practical celebration of God.
The practical interpretation of African cultures in understanding theology.
The religious rituals of remembrance, cleansing, and reincarnation.
Foundational practical theology vs. post-foundational practical theology.
A comparative analysis of practical theology across all religious denominations.
From theory to practice: The role of the Holy Books in modern humanity.
Practical theology of the 20th century vs. the 21st century.
The principles, objectives, and limits of practical theology.
Understanding theology: the international perspective of practical theology.
The globalization of Christianity through the practice of peace and tolerance.
An inquiry into the instrument of peace reconciliation in Buddhism.
The practice of Islam: The conflict of submission and peace.
Deconstructing Judaism through the divinity of the soul.
An empirical study of the body and the soul.
The role of hearing sermons as a tool of community and diversity.
The religion of art: The religious use of songs, stories, and parables.
The practical exploration of God as an entity in significant religions.
The dilemma of ministering to the 21st-century youth.
Love, humanity, religion: What the books say.
A practical reflection on religious law systems as against modern law systems.
The technology of religion: from crude tools to devices.
Exploring the reflective practice of Taoism.
The glory of suffering: A reflection on religious martyrdom.
Theological education: overview, roles, practices, impacts, land limits.
The religious morality of the poor and the challenge of growth in Africa.
The symbolism of salvation and reincarnation.

Religious Research Paper Topics in Theology

Do you ask the difference between theology and religion? There is a thin line between religion and theology. Theology is the study of religions, while religion is a system of belief and worship. Therefore, religion is an integral part of theology. However, there would be no theology if there were no system of faith and belief to study. To better understand what we’re saying, take a look at some of the most fascinating world religions research paper topics below:

What do you understand about the movement of black churches?
What role does religion play in the economy?
The theory of creation: Differences and similarities in significant religions.
What’s the stand of religion on the resurgence of homosexuality?
The emergence of new religions and what it means to society.
The agreement and disagreement of science and world religions.
Trace the history of Christianity after the birth of Jesus Christ.
Trace the history of Islam before and after the birth of Muhammed.
What world religions say about God as a supreme being.
The spirituality of the soul in the mystery of religion.
Nordic religion: role, impact, and methodology in the modern world.
Discuss the triad of the female goddesses extensively in religion.
Impacts of Buddhism in modern Japan and China.
Dissect the concept of behavioral sex in different religions
What is the correlation between societal morality and religious laws?
How similar and different are religions on the images of gods and myths.
Influence of gender on religious practices and general spirituality.
What role do women play in Islam?
Discuss Confucianism and contributions to the world.
Discuss Sikhism and its contributions to the world.
History of Hinduism and its significant contributions to modern India.
Why is Ramadan a holy month in Islam?
Why is Christmas a holy month in Christianity?
The differences and similarities between the Bible and Quran.
The influence of technology on the disposition of religion today.
Explain climate change and the role of religion.
What is the link between religion, hell, and heaven?
A comparative analysis of evangelical methods in Islam and Christianity.
The relationship between Islam, Christianity, and other religions.
An empirical study of the history of Judaism.

Political Theology Essay Topics

Whether you are dealing with Bible thesis topics in theology or Christianity research paper topics, if you look close enough, you will find political nuances in them. Religion and politics share some strong similarities. Since the church makes policies, there is no doubt politics is an essential part of theological discussions. Here are political theology essay topics for insight:

The contributions of religion to the first world war.
The implications of Christianity in the second world war.
What roles does religion perform during Hitler’s rule?
The perspective of the church on gun control in America.
An empirical study of the politics of the Catholic popes.
Terrorism and the politicization of Islam.
What is the political stand of Abrahamic religions on homosexuality?
Explore the concept of transgender rights as religious rights.
The support of the church regarding the influence of white supremacy.
Democracy: impact of the rule of law on religious leaders.
Can religion be separated from the government?
What do you think about vaccination and the spirituality of faith?
What are the views of religion on nuclear war?
The conflict of war and the intersection of religion.
Politics of Vatican City: the emergence of a new black pope.
The political evolution of the church.
Middle East crisis: How Islam is helping and ruining.
Can the growth of China be linked to the practice of Buddhism?
Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance. How true?
The politicization of Hinduism through the dowry system.
Can the growth of Israel be linked to the practice of Judaism?
How Hinduism is viewed by other religions and the politics of their international relations.
Religion and the political backwardness of Africa.
Impact of Christianity on Africa and the Middle East.
How religions are driving the quest for gender equality.
American politics and religion: agreements and disagreements.
Has democracy ever worked in any religious patterns?
How the church contributed to the rise and fall of black slavery?
What are the political roles of the Pope?
Science and technology as a new religion.

Is Your Theology Research Paper Too Difficult?

Theology studies the structures and patterns of faith. Student theologians would be asked to either explore practical theology topics or general theology research questions. If you’ve ever wanted to put some on paper but don’t know how to go about it, we can help you with any theology questions you have. Our college paper writing help services boast incredible US writers who can speak and write English as a Native Language (ENL). Our online writing assistance team comprises the best professors and first-class university students—proven professionals in theological thesis writing and other areas. Book our custom, fast, and cheap writing help now for top-notch results and high grades.

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164 In Depth Theology Research Paper Topics To Write About

Theology is a systematic study of the nature of God and religious belief. It’s an academic discipline which is usually taught at colleges and universities as well in secular seminaries and focuses on helping students understand concepts such as life and death and helps them lead lives in which they obey the laws passed on from the specific god or gods they worship.

How to write a theology paper, christianity research paper topics, world religions research paper topics, research paper topics on theology, bible thesis topics for college students.

Students of theology will typically use various forms of analysis and argument to argue, explain, and critique a wide variety of theology paper topics. The trick is in finding the right religious topics to write about to present original and strong arguments that a wide audience will find interesting.

There are many things students should know about writing and structuring a research paper for the college and university levels. Research papers should contain an introduction, several body paragraphs, and a conclusion. They should also include a bibliography where you list all citations and resources used to support arguments. The following are steps students should take when writing an assignment:

Select a Manageable Topic and Start Researching It Keep things simple. Brainstorm topics you are interested in and can manage within the parameters of the assignment. Start your research early to ensure you can get all the resources you need to fully answer your research questions and support your argument.
Develop a Handful of Thesis Statements to Start With Make a list of about 2 or 3 thesis statements. They don’t have to be perfect at this point. The important thing is that you have a few options you can think through as you start finding information and supporting evidence and examples.
Brainstorm Your Argument and Create an Outline As you settle on a thesis statement and supporting arguments you need to create an outline to keep your ideas organized. Throughout your research, you will find several examples and pieces of evidence that can get lost without an outline.
Write the First Research Paper Draft Quickly The most effective way to write the first draft is to sit down and write it as quickly as possible. You don’t need to make corrections. Just get your ideas down on the page and follow your train of thought so that you can come back later and make effective revisions.
Revise Your Outline and Research Paper Set your research paper aside for a few days. Rethink and revise your outline and use it to guide your writing for a second draft. There is always room for improvement and a revised research paper will ensure that you effectively present your arguments.
Edit, Proofread and Put in the Finishing Touches Finally, you need to edit, proofread, and put the finishing touches in 3 separate exercises. You need to do each of these with 3 different mindsets. It’s a good idea to have someone assist you with each step to ensure you do this correctly.

The following theology research paper topics can be modified to fit a variety of assignments, including short essays, long essays, theses, dissertations, any research papers on religion and even presentations. Feel free to share any of these theological discussion topics with others who may find them interesting to use for an assignment.

Christianity is among the largest religions in the world and provides opportunities to study from several perspectives. Here are 40 religious research paper topics that are great for a theology paper on Christianity:

The role of the Templar Knights in Christianity.
Examine and discuss the role of life after death.
Depictions of Christianity in modern literature.
Explore and discuss Christianity’s opinions about marriage and family.
The spread of Christianity around the globe.
Contemporary concerns about science and religion.
Explore the ways that the Third Reich changed Christianity.
Discuss the way Christianity was depicted in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.
Explain how miracles and science contradict one another.
Explore Christian tradition and the contemporary family unit.
The role of Christianity across different centuries.
Explore the role wealth has among Christians.
Consider different psychological principles and Christian applications of sin.
Examine and discuss the future of Christianity.
Discuss the rise of contemporary Christian cults.
Explain the impact Christianity has had on European relations.
Explain the difference between Christian and Social Morality.
Examine the role of the Holy Trinity in modern Christianity.
Discuss the role of Christianity in Latin America.
Examine the impact Christianity has on helping the homeless.
Christian youth outreach programs and sexuality.
Explore modern Christian views about marriage and divorce.
Explain the major principles of Christianity.
Explain how Christianity influenced American expansion.
Analyze how Christian activism has changed over the last 20 years.
Examine Christian views about homosexuality.
The Reformation’s influence on modern Christianity.
Analyze the arguments between atheism and monotheism.
Examine the changes in Christian values over the decades.
Discuss the spread of Christianity around the world.
Compare and contrast major and minor Catholic Saints.
The Spanish Inquisition and the roles of clergy today.
Discuss the ways public health warnings affect Christian values.
Explain why Moses was an unlikely prophet.
Explain the role Mormonism has in Christian traditions.
Examine instances of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church.
Depictions of evil and hell in literature.
Examine modern Christian family values and society.
Explain the role Christianity has on poor African countries.
Describe the contributions of Christian churches to the world.
Discuss the role that the belief in miracles has on modern Christianity.

According to independent researchers, it’s believed that there are over 43000 religions in the world. This means that there are thousands of theology essay topics one can explore to develop a great research project:

Describe the impact science has on world religions.
Explain the influence Islam has on international affairs.
Describe and discuss the relationship between science and world religions.
Analyze and discuss the role of women in Islam.
Analyze religious systems of animalism and totemism.
Explain how Zoroastrianism influenced Greek philosophy.
Explain the role religion has on international relations.
Explain how different religions view life after death.
Discuss how different religions affect people’s lives.
Compare and contrast world religions’ perspectives on terrorism.
Discuss the role astronomy has in many of the world’s religions.
Discuss the similarities and differences in Native American religions.
Explain Greek Philosophy during the Hellenistic Period.
Discuss the ways Greek Philosophy Early Islamic Philosophy.
Explain the importance of ritualistic sacrifice in the Mesoamerican religion.
Explore the role ethics and metaphysics had on Ancient Greek Philosophy.
Explain the principles of Aztec culture and religion.
Discuss the influence Zoroastrianism has had on Iranian culture.
Explain how religion affects people’s views about the universe.
Discuss the spread of Buddhism around the world.
Discuss the impact of Ancient Roman and Greek Myths that influenced European culture.
Discuss the influence Buddhism has on global politics.
Explain the role of cosmology in the ancient Aztec and Maya religions.
Explain how life after death in Islam influences terrorism.
Describe the importance of prayer in the Islamic Faith.
Describe how Roman Catholicism blended with the Mayan Religion.
Explore the role Native American religions influence modern Native American culture.
Explain the role of human sacrifice in the Aztec religion.
Discuss the dualistic cosmology principles in Zoroastrianism.
Compare and contrast the Aztec and Mayan religions.
Explain how Greek Philosophy influenced Western culture.
Discuss the creation myths in ancient religions.
Explain how Buddhism influenced Eastern culture.
Compare and contrast prayer rituals between Islam and Christianity.
Explore some of the religious traditions of the Aztecs that influence modern Mexican culture.
Explain the modern interdependence between religions and laws.
Explain the role Mormonism had on Western expansion in the United States.
Discuss how different religions view the creation of life on Earth.
Discuss the ways Mazdayasna influence Islam and the Baha’i Faith.
Discuss the phenomenon of theocratic states in the modern world.
Explain how Ancient Greek Religion influenced Roman Religion.

Theological essay topics are popular because they open conversations that contribute to various modern philosophies and perspectives. Students should have no trouble finding information searching the web and conducting academic research:

Describe the impact the Church has had on modern culture.
Discuss how different religions perceive life after death.
Explain how modern religions view reincarnation.
Describe the position Christianity has on homosexuality.
Explain why religions emphasize the need to serve their gods.
Compare and contrast the essence of religion.
Discuss what it means to have religious faith in the modern world.
Explain how ancient religions viewed reincarnation.
Discuss how different religions explain the Big Bang Theory.
Discuss the position Buddhism has on homosexuality.
Explain how the big bang theory is viewed among different religions.
Compare and contrast the ways different religions practice prayer.
Explain the reasons why some religions divide into sects.
Compare and contrast how the devil is perceived among different religions.
Explore the role of prayer and meditation in different religions.
Discuss the influence religious institutions have on education.
Discuss the issues that cause immorality among the clergy.
Explore what religions say about sex before marriage.
Explain how different religions explain the existence of dinosaurs.
Compare and contrast what different religions say about sin and holiness.
Compare and contrast Japanese and Chinese Buddhism.
Discuss Christian ethics and their influence on the growth of the religion.
Explain how the role of the Church has changed in the last century.
Discuss the reasons why the Church is divided into several sects.
Evaluate the current state of the Vatican.
Explore and discuss how different religions explain earth science.
Discuss the role of the family on the spiritual growth in children.
Explore the role Christianity has in the Middle East.
Explain why some terrorists use Islam as an excuse to
Compare and contrast the ways different religions view life on Earth.
Explore the role technology has on religious growth.
Discuss the position Islam has on homosexuality.
Explore the role that religious institutions play in promoting peace.
Analyze and discuss the effect of the sectarian crisis in the church.
Discuss the major principles of Chinese Christianity.
Discuss how the Vatican’s politics affect secular Christian sects.
Explain how different religions view religious officials and celibacy.
Discuss why some religions have become larger while others have become smaller.
Explain how some religions have trouble growing their followers.
Describe the impact Christianity has had to fight poverty.
Discuss the way religion reconciles with modern mythology.

To impress an audience with a great paper, students need to select current research topics in theology that push the envelope in each area of study. The following ideas are great for a research project related to the Bible:

Compare and contrast metaphor versus literal in the Bible.
Explore and discuss how the Bible explains the universe.
Explain how the Bible perceives war and slavery in the New Testament.
Discuss the role of miracles in the Old and New Testaments.
Explore the role of marriage in the Old Testament.
Compare and contrast how different sects interpret the Bible.
Describe how Protestants interpret the Bible.
Explain the significance of the resurrection of Jesus.
Describe the differences between the Bible and Koran.
Examine the use of the Bible in literature.
Explain the Biblical account of the Earth’s creation.
Explain the major differences between the Old and New Testaments.
Discuss how the New Testament explains Judaism.
Explore how the Bible perceives the importance of celibacy.
Examine the message of the Book of Romans in the Bible.
Compare and contrast the teachings in the Bible and the Koran.
Explore what the New Testament says about adultery.
Examine the treatment of Egypt in the Old Testament.
Discuss how the Bible reconciles slavery in the Old Testament.
Explore how capital punishment is treated in the New Testament.
Discuss the role the Roman Empire played in crafting the Bible.
Discuss what the library says about the lost tribes of Israel.
Discuss the treatment of other religions in the Bible.
Explain how the New Testament inspired the Civil Rights Movement.
Describe the reasons why Mormonism separated from popular Christianity.
Compare and contrast literal versus figurative interpretations of the Bible.
Explore the role of Democracy and Communism in the Bible.
Examine the role that personal suffering plays in the Bible.
Explain the use of metaphor in the Christian Bible.
Explore what the New Testament says about the Christian model of living.
Explain the degree of severity among the 10 Commandments.
Explain the treatment and depiction of Satan in the Bible.
Discuss how the Gnostic Texts differ as presented in the English Bible.
Explain the role the Gnostic Gospels have on modern society.
Analyze gender roles in the New Testament.
Compare and contrast Catholic and Christian interpretations of the Bible.
Evaluate and discuss Biblical translations and their application today.
Examine how modern literature references the Bible.
Discuss the apocalyptic prophets in the Old Testament.
Describe the difference between Jesus and other Biblical prophets.
Discuss what the Bible says is the reason for the division of the Church.

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189 Social Media Research Paper Topics To Top Your Paper

Social media has been around since the late 1990s and refers to the means of interaction and communication between groups of people from all over the world. It allows them to create, share, and exchange information, ideas, and conversations in virtual communities over the internet. Society embraced social media and it was made popular by individuals that wanted to connect with others but quickly became a tool used by businesses and organizations to promote products and services and is now a vital component in building relationships, broadcasting, and marketing at small- and large-scale levels.

Different Types Of Social Media
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Excellent Social Media Research Topics
Easy Research Topics About Social Media
Research Papers On Social Media For College
Social Networks Topics For Graduate Students
Popular List Of Social Networks Topics For 2023

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186 Theology Topics for Discussion, Thesis, & Research Paper

As you may know, theology is the study of religion: its history, traditions, philosophy, morality, and literary works. Are you looking for theology topics? Here, you’ll find plenty of interesting theology topics to write about! Our extensive list includes ideas for a research paper, essay, and discussion, along with theology thesis topics. Read on to discover the most engaging biblical and Christian theology research paper topics and more!

🏆 Best Theology Topics for Discussion

✍️ theology essay topics for college, 👍 good theology research topics & essay examples, 🎓 most interesting theology research paper topics, 🔎 unique theological research topics, 💡 simple theology essay topics, ⛪ master of theology thesis topics, ❓ questions about theology, ✝️ christian theology topics, 📖 biblical theology topics.

Saint Augustine vs Aquinas: Theological Approaches Comparison
Neo-Orthodoxy Theology: Barth, Brunner et al.
“Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling” Book by McMinn
Scriptural Authority and Theological Interpretation
Theology: Virgin Mary as a Goddess
Psychology and Theology: Worldview Issues, and Models of Integration
Eternal Life in John’s Gospel: Theological Perspective
“Christian Theology” by Millard J. Erickson In his book “Christian Theology”, Erikson critically examines the nature of Jesus Christ through a discussion of the most prominent theological trends and opinions.
Theological Reasoning as a Basis for Faith Theological reasoning strives to pose questions and answer them in terms of sacred theology. Meaning, essences, causes, distinctions, and so on compose the core of reason.
The Ashari Theology in Sunni Islam The Ashari theology is among the early primary theologies establishing itself as the most important, dominant, and influential tradition of systematic theology in the Sunni Muslim.
Apologetics as a Theological Discipline Apologetics is an old discipline of theology that involves the defense of ones’ religious position by systematically reasoning out disputed issues.
Leadership in Church and Its Theological Aspects In theology, leadership has various meanings, but all have their foundation in Christ. All leaders aspire to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and lead others to redemption.
The Importance of Theological Study of Film The research paper seeks to build a constructive discussion by defying the notion that although the theological study of films is trendy, it is ultimately a meaningless exercise.
Narrative Theology: Biblical Metanarrative Biblical metanarrative can underpin systematic and biblical theology, presenting a progressive narrative of God’s revelation to mankind.
Theory and Theology of Helping People The theoretical approach to helping people is found in biblical, Christian, and Church values different from the psychology of helping people.
Missional Praxis: The Fruit of Theological Reflection Missional praxis is the “fruit” of theological reflection, the path to knowledge, perfection, and the acceptance of high, spiritual, and moral values.
Understanding the Holy Trinity in Christian Theology The assertion the solo God lives as or in 3 mutually supernatural beings is a popular way to describe the Christian belief of the Holy Trinity.
Psychological and Theological Perspectives on Anthropology Psychological and theological perspectives on anthropology have some things in common; for example, they employ the scientific method to some extent.
Theological Translatability, Inspiration, and Authority in Religious Traditions The genesis of human inspiration is a major topic in almost every religion. Degrees of the authoritativeness of scriptures are another important thing in religious traditions.
Peculiarities of Religious Belief in Theology The intended audience is theologians and religious communities as well as all people interested in the issue of belief.
Liberation Theology in Mid-20th Century Latin America Liberation theology is a movement in Catholic beliefs and socioeconomic mobility which emerged in mid-20th century Latin America.
Lutheran Theology and Its Implications for Contemporary Church and Society Martin Luther’s theology started the reformation in Germany through his famous 95 Theses and, in doing so, helped model the contemporary society and Protestant Church.
The Positioning of Systematic Theology The paper states that the purpose of theology is not to investigate God’s phenomenon but to explore issues of belief and approaches to following biblical teaching.
Courage and Paul Tillich’s Philosophy and Theology The research argues that courage is not merely an ethical value but an ontological conception and is opposed by the classical purely moral perspective on courage.
Theology: Discipleship and a Healthy Church The report presents a disciple-making plan aimed to improve the organization’s efficiency in the task of making disciples and boost evangelistic efforts.
Biblical Theology and How to Practice It Scholars have used different evangelical approaches to accurately articulate the significance of Christ-themed biblical theology and its prospects.
Theology and Contextualization in Latin America This paper discusses theology and contextualization in Latin America and aims to give a full-fledged description of contextualization’s impact.
The Limits of Language in Theology Apophatic theology suggests that everyone should try to reach beyond the image someone creates when speaking about God, his essence, or plans regarding humanity.
Global Mission Theology of Samuel Escobar In his thesis on Global Missions, Samuel Escobar, a Latin American theologian, argues that Christian theology is contextual.
Thinking through Paul: Survey of His Life, Letters and Theology The authors of the book “Thinking through Paul: Survey of His Life, Letters and Theology” wanted to analyze the significance of Paul’s life to Christians.
Thomas Aquinas: Philosopher and Theologian To this day, Aquinas is widely studied by the philosophy scholars all around the world as a great example of a pragmatic Christian theologian and philosopher.
The Incarnation of Christ: Theological Survey The theory of the Incarnation of Christ is the central teaching of the Christian church. It says that God took a fleshly appearance and a human nature.
The Theology of Christ Through the Ancient Ecumenical Councils It is essential to trace the development of Christ’s theology through the ancient ecumenical councils and reflect on how they developed the Church’s understanding of Jesus.
Predestination: The Theological Concept In theology, predestination is the belief that God has predetermined all events, generally concerning the person’s ultimate fate.
Theological Vision of “Pleasantville” by Gary Ross “Pleasantville” by Gary Ross is a movie that brilliantly shows how worldviews are transforming, causing rapid social change.
Christian Theology and World Religions: Christianity and Islam Christianity and Islam share many similarities, although they are two distinct religious traditions. The paper analyzes their similarities and differences.
Religious Study and Theology. I AM statements I AM statements are found both in the New and Old Testament. In the New Testament, the Gospel according to John emphasizes the statements.
“Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling” by Mark McMinn In “Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling,” Mark McMinn comes up with a healing model, which involves need, sense of self, and relationship with God.
Theology of Hope: Moltmann and Pannenberg This essay attempts to compare and contrast the theologies of Moltmann and Pannenberg within the rubric of Theology of Hope.
Calvinism and Arminianism in Historical Theology Calvinism and Arminianism are theological systems that introduce methods to explain the relations which develop between God and people, which are directed to achieve salvation.
Biblical Theology of Sexuality and Sex Sexuality, coupled with loyalty, is God’s gift for lovers who want to start a family and be with each other for a long time.
Early Christology: Historical Theology Historical theology provides research on the way that the Church has undergone interpreting the Scripture under various conditions determined by the different epochs.
The Old Testament Theology Review This paper provides the Old Testament theology review, including approaches to Old Testament theology, discussing God and creation, worship and sacrifice, God and the future.
Theological Challenges Between Judaism and Christianity Judaism originated from the covenantal relationship between the Jews and God. Christianity emerged from Judaism, and both faiths believe that God is the creator of the universe.
Theology of Family Life, Marriage and Parenting Religious marriage is possible when a ceremony is conducted (simultaneously or separately, depending on religion) with the couple being wed in the eyes of God.
Liberation Theology and Its Expressions This essay delves into and delineates the uniqueness of three expressions of liberation theology within the context of each other.
Process and Secular Theology: Tillich and Bonhoeffer This essay proceeds by delving into the connection between the theology of Tillich and Process Theology and the connections between the thoughts of Bonhoeffer and Secular Theology.
Augustine and Organization of Latin Theology Donatists were exclusively an African schismatic sect who viewed themselves as the true heirs to Christianity and claimed to be the church of martyrs.
Book Review of “Paul the Jewish Theologian” by Young In the book “Paul the Jewish Theologian”, Young reveals Saul of Tarsus as a rejected individual who never departed from his Jewish roots.
Paul, the Jewish Theologian by B. H. Young The title of the selected book for this review is Paul, the Jewish Theologian: A Pharisee among Christians, Jews, and Gentiles.
Integrated Theory of Leadership from Theological Perspective This paper has demonstrated that the integrated theory of leadership relies on an adaptive leadership style and theological beliefs.
White Theology and Its Core Characteristics This paper looks at the factors that distinguish white theology and the ways in which it manifests itself in the Pentecostal church.
Theological Differences Within the Major Christian Traditions Christians are followers of Christ who use the bible as the primary religious book for conducting services and personal spiritual nourishment.
Divine Currency: The Theological Power of Money in the West Money in Christianity is a dangerous matter, which requires careful and proper management to stay on the path of Christ.
The Theology and Science Roles and Relationships The relationship between science and faith is a relevant topic in theology, and the synthetic approach is one of the most viable solutions.
The Religious Pluralism Theological Framework The current theological framework for responding to religious pluralism was significantly shaped by Alan Race’s threefold typology.
“Grace Without Nature”: Theological Understanding of the Imago Dei The essay “Grace without Nature” significantly contributes to expanding human understanding of the meaning of the formula imago Dei.
Integration Model: Theological Reasoning The paper dissects a case study of two couples who are unmarried. It references Piaget, Freud, and Sullivan’s psychological theories and offers adaptations.
Psychology and Christian Theology Integration Finding connections between psychology and Christian theology might be a first step toward integration, and an integrative perspective can lead to the search for parallels.
Latin American Liberation Theology Latin American liberation theology was the prime example of contextual theology manifesting in the region, where the praxis model or method of theology was utilized.
Natural Theology Book by William Paley In his book Natural Theology, William Paley paid considerable attention to the criticism of contemporary transformist concepts.
Theology: Japan’s View of Christianity Christianity is one of the most extensively practiced religions worldwide, and, in some countries, it even has the status of a state religion.
Liberation Theology and Gutierrez’s Contribution to It This essay will examine liberation theology’s background and provide a detailed overview of Gutierrez’s contribution to it.
Theological-Political Treatise According to Spinoza, superstition stems from the willingness of individuals not to link everything to certainty.
Biodiversity, Environmental Ethics and Theology This paper will focus on the issue of decreasing biodiversity, explaining how environmental ethics and theology apply to this problem.
The Holocaust Impact on Jewish Theology Holocaust had a major impact on Jewish theology by providing an earth-shattering tragedy the likes of which the Jewish have never seen in the past, to explain.
The Research of Theological History There is a hermeneutical problem in Genesis 1: other approaches exist apart from a traditional one; the summary approach to view entered theological debates in the twentieth century.
Theology in the Context of World Christianity Perception of shame and guilt in different cultures plays an important role in people’s personalities and their vision of the world itself.
Lutheran Theology and Its Implications for Contemporary Church and Society This study, therefore, focuses on Lutheran theology and explains why Luther can be regarded as the founder of the modern church and society.
Malcolm X, a Revolutionary. Philosophical Theology Malcolm X is the eminent personality of the 20th century, widely known for his combat against African-American harassment.
Theology Doctrine Universalism The purpose of this paper is to discuss universalism. Universalism is a doctrine in theology that refers to universal salvation.
Christian Theology and World Religions Religion in the context of human history has been a part of people’s existence for many centuries; for some, gods were the creators of the word and its masters.
Martin Luther King and His Theology Analysis Martin Luther was born in the age of Renaissance, which was blossoming with its artists and their works and which had a positive impact on the development of his personality.
Religious Studies and Theology: Paganism in the Military Paganism has spread far and wide in society. From academia to the military, the practice of paganism is being accepted and accommodated just like other religions.
Theology History: Forms of Beliefs Humans began to worship physical forms commonly seen around them in the form of oceans, mountains, the sun and the moon, animals, and even weather.
Theology Concepts Brief Review The gentiles were religiously accepted as Christians by the early Christians because they both common beliefs Jesus Christ.
Religious Studies & Theology: The Davidic Kingdom The paper is about David – one of the most prominent rulers who united many tribes and established a strong monarchy for the people of Judah and Israel.
Black Theology and Its Impact on Drug Addiction I have chosen the topic of Black Theology and its impact on drug addiction because I have experienced the impact of opioid addiction on my family.
Theology in the Enlightenment Age The enlightenment age started gaining momentum in the 13th when Thomas Aquinas recovered the Aristotelian logic that was primarily used in defending Christianity.
Evangelical Theology of Grenz and Olson This essay evaluates Evangelical Theology in terms of the affirmations of Grenz and Olson defining what God’s transcendence and immanence are in relation to Evangelical Theology.
Roman Catholic Theology of Rahner and Kung This article evaluates the theology of Rahner and Kung in terms of how much they pushed for the envelope of traditionally accepted Roman Catholic theology.
Marriage Theology Through the Protestant Reformation
Human Qualities Within Theology
Christian Theology and Greek Culture
The Youth and Islam Theology
Understanding Dialect, Philosophy, and Theology Through Scholasticism
Relationship Between Theology and Spirituality
Philosophy, Theology, and Ideology
Christian Worship Music and Theology
Roman Catholic Theology and Contemporary Culture
Relationship Between Science and Theology
Biblical Foundations for Health Theology
Theology and Theologians: Differences and Similarities
Biblical Foundation for Developing Contextual Theology
Immortality: Philosophy and Theology
Christian Theology and the Doctrine of Evangelism
Influential Ideas for Protestant Theology
The Universalism and Annihilationism Theology
Holy Trinity and Systematic Theology
Christian Theology, Family, and Marriage
Wesleyan Theology and the Concept of Salvation
The Theology and Anthropology of Mormonism
Appropriation, Politics, and Theology in the Gospel of Mark
Liberation Theology and the Catholic Church
Galileo Galilei and His Impact Theology
Sexual Theology: Biblical Insight on Sexuality
Wilfred Cantwell Smith’s World Theology
Understanding Political Theology and Its Application in the Canadian Democracy
The Most Important Contribution to Eucharist Theology
Relationship Between Theology and Natural Science
Christian Mediation and Theology
Catholic Moral Theology and the Medical Field
Buddhist and Christian Ethics Theology
John Calvin and the Calvinist Theology
Christian Theology and Feminist Theology
The Relationship Between Theology and Economics: The Role of the Jansenism Movement
Comparative Feminist Theology Analysis
Twentieth-Century Christian Theology and ‘Holiness’
John and Matthew’s Theology
Hierarchical Church and Liberation Theology
Contemporary Theology and Orthodoxy of the New Testament
Christian Theology and Market Economics
Biblical Paradigm and Ministry Theology
Jerusalem Politically Contested City Theology Religion
Urban Theology Using the Old Testament
Christian Theology and Religious Beliefs
Catholic Theology and Scripture Assignment
Family and Mass Media Influences Theology Religion
Church History and How It Fits With Biblical Theology
Mathematics and Theology Blossoming Together
Christian Counseling, Theology, and Spirituality
African American Women and Womanist Theology
Philosophy and Christian Theology
Christian and Navajo Creation Theology Religion
Integrating Psychology With Christian Theology
The Theology, Christology, and Pneumatology of the Book of Revelation
Integrating Change Models and the Theology of Leadership
Christianity and Faith, Evangelization, Life and Theology
Liberation Theology and Discernment
Anne Hutchinson and Her Theology Theory
Psychology Theology and Spirituality in Christian Counseling
Does Religious Theology Undermine the Basic Doctrines of Christianity?
What’s the Difference Between Reformed Theology and Calvinism?
What Is the Contribution to and Impact of Feminist Theology in Judaism?
Is Christian Theology More Modern Than Islamic Theology?
What Is the Difference Between Philosophy and Theology?
How Does Mormon Theology Explain Intersex People?
How Does Moral Theology Differ From Moral Philosophy?
What Is the Difference Between ‘Biblical’ and ‘Systematic’ Theology?
Is Constantly Asking Questions a Good Way to Get Better at Christian Theology?
How Did the Reformation Influence Eucharistic Theology?
Is Theology an Actual Science or a Pseudoscience?
What Is a Relationship Between Religion and Theology?
Has Theology Made Any Contribution to Knowledge in the Past 500 Years?
Is It True That Early Christianity Was Much Closer to Islam in Theology?
What Is the Purpose of Heaven and Hell in Christian and Islamic Theology?
What Parts of Hindu Theology Are Similar to Greek Theology?
What Effect Did Plato Have on Augustine and the Origins of Christian Theology?
What Are Some of the Most Controversial Views in Christian Theology?
What Is the Fundamental Theology Behind Why Jews Disagree With Islam?
How Do Jehovah’s Witnesses Reconcile Matthew 8:11 With Their Theology?
Is There a Way to Discuss the Deeper Theology of Religion Without the Extremist Positions?
To What Extent Has “Existentialism” Influenced Theology?
What Are Some Examples of the Apophatic Nature of Orthodox Theology?
Why Is It Important to Differentiate Spirituality, Theology, and Philosophy?
How the Church Handles Postmodernism Theology?
The concept of the Holy Trinity and its significance in Christian theology.
Atonement in Christianity: an analysis of different theories.
Theodicy: the issue of evil in the world created by benevolent God.
The views of death and afterlife in Christian eschatology.
Different theological perspectives on the nature of God.
Bioethics from the Christian ethics perspective.
The meaning and significance of Christian sacraments.
The role of women in Christian theology.
Liberation theology and its connection to social justice.
Faith and science: Christian views on evolution and the origin of the universe.
Covenant theology as an approach to interpreting the Bible.
Did Jesus Christ fulfill the messianic prophecies in the Old Testament?
Analysis of the biblical concept of the Kingdom of God.
A historical-critical approach to interpreting the Bible.
The role of the Mosaic Law in the Old and New Testaments.
Analysis of ethical teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount.
Prophets’ call for social justice: analyzing the Old Testament.
The apocalyptic imagery in the Book of Revelation.
How does the Bible address the problem of suffering?
The biblical understanding of Israel as God’s chosen people.

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StudyCorgi. (2022, March 1). 186 Theology Topics for Discussion, Thesis, & Research Paper. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/theology-essay-topics/

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These essay examples and topics on Theology were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

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35 Inspiring Theology and Religion Research Topics for Undergraduates

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Picture this – you're sitting at your desk, a blank document open on your screen, the cursor blinking back at you. The task? A research paper for your theology and religious studies class. The problem? You have no idea what your topic should be. We've all been there. Whether you're a novice researcher or a seasoned academic, choosing a research paper topic can be daunting.

But fear not, brave scholar! Whether you're interested in the spiritual beliefs that have shaped societies over millennia or the philosophical debates that underpin religious thought, theology and religious studies offer a vast, rich field to explore. So, let's turn that daunting task into an exciting opportunity. In this blog post, we'll explore 30 inspiring research topic ideas for undergraduate theology and religious studies students. But first, let's better understand this intriguing field of study.

The Power of Interfaith Dialogue

Interfaith dialogue plays an instrumental role in promoting understanding, respect, and peace between people of different religious and cultural backgrounds. It encourages constructive conversations that facilitate empathy and respect for diversity. Here are several aspects to focus on:

1. Necessity of Interfaith Dialogue in a Multicultural Society

Explore how interfaith dialogue can help create cohesive multicultural societies.
Potential sources: Studies on multicultural societies, case studies on successful interfaith dialogue initiatives.

2. The Role of Interfaith Dialogue in Peacebuilding

Analyze how interfaith dialogue has been used as a tool for peacebuilding in areas of religious conflict.
Potential sources: Reports from international peacekeeping organizations, historical accounts of conflict resolution.

3. Interfaith Dialogue and Mutual Understanding

Discuss the significance of interfaith dialogue in promoting mutual understanding and respect among diverse religious communities.
Potential sources: Interfaith dialogue guides, accounts of interfaith initiatives.

4. Education and Interfaith Dialogue

Examine the role of education in fostering interfaith dialogue and how it can be integrated into educational curricula.
Potential sources: Educational policies, studies on religious education.

5. The Role of Religious Leaders in Interfaith Dialogue

Investigate the influence of religious leaders in encouraging or discouraging interfaith dialogue.
Potential sources: Statements and speeches of religious leaders, accounts of interfaith meetings.

6. Interfaith Dialogue and the Media

Discuss the role of media in promoting or impeding interfaith dialogue, and how it can be used constructively.
Potential sources: Media studies on religious coverage, case studies on media's role in interfaith initiatives.

7. Obstacles to Effective Interfaith Dialogue

Identify common obstacles to interfaith dialogue and propose strategies to overcome them.
Potential sources: Studies on interfaith dialogue, reports on religious conflicts.

8. Interfaith Dialogue and Social Justice

Explore how interfaith dialogue can contribute to social justice movements and the advocacy for human rights.
Potential sources: Reports from human rights organizations, accounts of social justice movements involving interfaith dialogue.

9. The Future of Interfaith Dialogue

Consider the future of interfaith dialogue in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world.
Potential sources: Futuristic studies on religion, expert opinions on the future of interfaith dialogue.

10. Case Studies of Successful Interfaith Dialogue

Analyze case studies of successful interfaith dialogue initiatives and draw lessons from them.
Potential sources: Records of successful interfaith dialogues, interviews with participants.

In this journey of understanding the power of interfaith dialogue, it's crucial to approach each topic with respect and sensitivity, acknowledging the diversity of beliefs and practices within and across religious traditions.

Exploring World Religions: Comparative Studies

Exploring world religions through a comparative lens allows for a deeper understanding of the diversity, complexity, and richness of different religious traditions. This section of the dissertation could delve into the following areas:

1. Methodologies in Comparative Religion

Discuss various approaches to comparative religion studies, their benefits, and potential limitations.
Potential sources: Academic texts on comparative religious studies, methodology guides.

2. Comparative Analysis of Major World Religions

Examine key religious concepts, beliefs, practices, and rituals across major world religions such as Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and others.
Potential sources: Religious texts, scholarly articles, ethnographic studies.

3. Similarities and Differences in Religious Practices

Identify and discuss similarities and differences in the ways that different religions approach worship, ritual, and community life.
Potential sources: Ethnographic studies, scholarly articles on religious practices, religious texts.

4. Comparative Analysis of Religious Philosophies

Analyze the philosophical underpinnings of different religions, comparing their approaches to questions of morality, existence, knowledge, and the nature of the divine.
Potential sources: Religious philosophy texts, scholarly articles on religious philosophies, expert opinions.

5. Comparative Study of Religious Myths and Stories

Compare and contrast the myths, stories, parables, and legends that form part of the narrative traditions of different religions.
Potential sources: Religious texts, scholarly articles on religious narratives, studies on mythology.

6. Interactions and Influences among Religions

Discuss historical interactions between different religions and how they have influenced each other's development and practices.
Potential sources: Historical accounts, scholarly articles on religious interactions, studies on syncretism.

7. The Role of Religion in Society: A Comparative Analysis

Analyze the societal roles of religion in different cultures and societies, examining how different religions interact with and influence social structures, norms, and values.
Potential sources: Sociological studies on religion, case studies, historical accounts.

8. Comparative Study of Religious Reform Movements

Compare and contrast various religious reform movements across different religions, examining their causes, impacts, and outcomes.
Potential sources: Historical texts, scholarly articles on religious reform movements, case studies.

9. The Evolution of Religions Over Time

Explore how various religions have evolved over time, comparing the ways in which they have adapted to changes in society, science, and technology.
Potential sources: Historical studies, scholarly articles on the evolution of religions, religious texts.

10. Case Studies in Comparative Religion

Conduct in-depth case studies of particular aspects of different religions, drawing out points of comparison and contrast.
Potential sources: Case study reports, academic articles, religious texts.

Comparative studies of world religions can serve to broaden our perspectives, deepen our understanding, and foster greater respect for the variety of religious experiences and expressions around the world.

Religious Influences on Society and Culture

Religion profoundly influences society and culture. It is a force that shapes our understanding of morality, law, and human relationships, influences our arts and literature, and plays a key role in social cohesion and conflict. This section of the dissertation would explore these influences in the following ways:

1. The Role of Religion in Shaping Morality

Investigate how religion forms moral codes and principles in different societies, examining the ways in which these codes shape behavior and social norms.
Potential sources: Sociological and philosophical texts, religious doctrines, scholarly articles on morality and religion.

2. Religion and the Formation of Law

Explore how religious principles have influenced legal systems around the world, from religious laws themselves to secular laws influenced by religious thought.
Potential sources: Legal texts, religious scriptures, scholarly articles on law and religion.

3. Religious Influences on Arts and Literature

Examine how religion has influenced various art forms and literature, from religious iconography in visual arts to religious themes in literature.
Potential sources: Art history texts, literary analysis, scholarly articles on religion in arts and literature.

4. The Impact of Religion on Social Cohesion and Conflict

Discuss the dual role of religion in promoting social unity and causing conflict, drawing from historical and contemporary examples.
Potential sources: Sociological and historical texts, case studies, news articles, scholarly articles on religion and conflict.

5. Religion and Cultural Identity

Explore how religion contributes to the formation of cultural identities and how these identities can influence religious practices and beliefs.
Potential sources: Cultural studies, ethnographic research, scholarly articles on religion and identity.

6. Religious Influences on Gender Roles

Examine the role of religion in shaping gender norms and expectations in different societies.
Potential sources: Gender studies, sociological texts, scholarly articles on religion and gender.

7. The Role of Religion in Education

Investigate the role of religion in shaping education systems, curricula, and philosophies of education.
Potential sources: Education policy documents, scholarly articles on religion and education.

8. Religion and Social Change

Analyze the role of religion in social movements and societal changes, such as civil rights movements, environmental movements, or movements for gender equality.
Potential sources: Historical texts, sociological studies, scholarly articles on religion and social change.

9. The Influence of Religion on Healthcare and Well-being

Discuss how religious beliefs and practices can influence attitudes towards health, disease, medical ethics, and well-being.
Potential sources: Medical ethics texts, scholarly articles on religion and health, case studies.

10. Case Studies in Religious Influence

Conduct in-depth case studies of specific instances of religious influence on society and culture.
Potential sources: Case studies, historical texts, academic articles, cultural analyses.

Religion's pervasive influence on society and culture is a fascinating area of study. Understanding these influences can provide insight into how societies function, how cultures develop, and how individuals form their identities and worldviews.

Religion and LGBTQ+ Rights: A Comparative Study

The intersection of religion and LGBTQ+ rights is a hotly debated topic in both academic and public spheres. Understanding how different religions view and influence LGBTQ+ rights can provide valuable insights into broader societal attitudes and legal frameworks. Here are some aspects you could delve into:

1. Religious Doctrines and LGBTQ+ Rights: A Comparative Analysis

Compare the doctrines of different religions regarding LGBTQ+ issues.
Explore how these doctrines have evolved over time.
Potential sources: Religious texts, theological studies, writings from religious leaders.

2. The Role of Religion in Shaping Societal Attitudes Towards the LGBTQ+ Community

Analyze the influence of religious beliefs on societal attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community.
Explore differences and similarities across various cultures and religions.
Potential sources: Sociological studies, surveys on religion and societal attitudes, academic papers on religion and LGBTQ+ rights.

3. The Impact of Religious Lobbying on LGBTQ+ Legislation

Examine the influence of religious lobbying on laws related to LGBTQ+ rights.
Consider both progressive and conservative religious movements.
Potential sources: Legislation history, records of religious lobbying activities, studies on religion and public policy.

4. LGBTQ+ Rights Advocacy Within Religious Communities

Explore the role of LGBTQ+ advocacy groups within religious communities.
Discuss how these groups navigate the intersection of religious beliefs and LGBTQ+ rights.
Potential sources: Statements and publications from advocacy groups, news articles, interviews with advocacy group members.

5. Religion, Conversion Therapy, and Mental Health

Investigate the practice of conversion therapy within religious communities.
Discuss its impacts on mental health and legal responses to this practice.
Potential sources: Psychological studies, survivor testimonies, legislation documents.

In this part, your objective is to shed light on the complex relationship between religion and LGBTQ+ rights. Ensure that your analysis respects the diversity of views within each religion and emphasize the importance of promoting understanding and human rights.

Choosing Your Topic: A Handy Guide

Having established a broad context of the study of religion, it's now time to choose your specific research topic. The selection of a topic is critical as it sets the direction for your research and, ultimately, the success of your dissertation. Here are some guidelines that may help you:

Personal Interest : Select a topic that genuinely interests you. Your passion for the subject will help to sustain your motivation during the often arduous process of researching and writing your dissertation.

Familiarity : While it can be exciting to venture into new territory, choosing a topic you are already familiar with can often prove beneficial, especially if you're already well-versed in some of the literature or theoretical approaches related to your topic.

Originality : Although your topic should be based on established scholarship, it should also make an original contribution to the field. Avoid merely summarizing existing research; instead, seek to provide a new perspective or uncover previously unexplored aspects.

Feasibility : Keep in mind practical considerations such as the availability of resources, time constraints, and the scope of your project. You want your project to be challenging, but also achievable within your given timeframe and resources.

Relevance : Consider the relevance of your topic to the current academic discourse. Selecting a topic that relates to ongoing debates or recent developments in the field can help to ensure that your research will be of interest to others.

To guide you through the process of choosing your topic, here are a few steps you might follow:

Brainstorming : Start by brainstorming a list of potential topics. Don't worry about being too precise at this stage.

Preliminary Research : Conduct some preliminary research on each of your potential topics. Read recent journal articles, check out related books, and familiarize yourself with the current discourse surrounding each topic.

Narrowing Down : After conducting your preliminary research, narrow down your list of potential topics. Discard topics that don't seem feasible or that don't hold as much interest for you as others.

Refinement : Once you have a shortlist of potential topics, refine each one. Develop a research question for each topic and consider what kind of research would be necessary to answer it.

Final Selection : After refining each topic, make your final selection. Choose the topic that you are most interested in, that is most feasible, and that will make the most significant contribution to the field.

Seek Feedback : Once you've selected your topic, seek feedback from your dissertation advisor and other mentors. They can provide valuable insight and help to further refine your topic.

Remember, your dissertation is a significant piece of work that represents a culmination of your academic journey. Choose a topic that not only fulfills the requirements of your degree but also allows you to showcase your intellectual curiosity and scholarly skills.

Understanding Theology and Religious Studies

Theology and religious studies is a diverse and fascinating field, delving into the depths of human history, culture, philosophy, ethics, and more. It's not just about studying religious texts and rituals; it's also about understanding how these beliefs and practices shape societies, influence individual behavior, and impact global events.

Whether you're studying a mainstream religion like Christianity, Islam, or Buddhism, or exploring the philosophies of lesser-known or ancient religions, you'll find that this field is ripe with intriguing research questions. This field allows for a broad array of research approaches, encompassing historical, philosophical, anthropological, sociological perspectives, and even engaging with modern debates around politics, human rights, and scientific progress.

So, whether you're drawn to the metaphysical questions or the practical implications, theology and religious studies provide a rich field of research that can help illuminate the world in surprising and insightful ways.

Now that we have a good grasp of the field let's delve into some potential research topics that might pique your interest. The following topics are designed to be diverse, covering a wide range of areas within theology and religious studies. Each topic will come with some bullet-pointed guidelines on how you might approach your research. Ready? Let's jump in!

The study of religion is a broad and multi-faceted field that offers numerous potential topics for dissertation research. The intersection of religion with society, culture, politics, and personal identity provides a fertile ground for intriguing questions and deep scholarly exploration.

Whether examining the theological complexities of a single faith, comparing the similarities and differences between multiple religious traditions, investigating the societal impact of religious practices and beliefs, or diving into the transformative potential of interfaith dialogues, the opportunities are vast and varied. The key is to choose a topic that resonates personally, offers a chance for original research, and contributes meaningfully to the ongoing academic discourse.

In this ever-evolving world, understanding religion’s role and impact becomes increasingly significant. By choosing a topic that contributes to this understanding, you engage in a conversation that spans across cultures, continents, and centuries, gaining insights that extend well beyond the academic sphere and into the diverse realities of human existence.

Your dissertation is more than a paper; it is an intellectual endeavor that can have an impact in academia and beyond. It is a testament to your commitment, intellect, and passion in your chosen field. Choose wisely, dedicate earnestly, and let your work add a valuable brick to the edifice of knowledge that the study of religion is.

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221 Unique Theology Research Paper Topics That Will Improve Your Grade

Theology is the discipline that studies religious beliefs and the divine – as well as the spiritual aspect of our life. If you are looking for practical, theoretical or biblical theology ideas for your next research paper, you are in luck! We have just updated our list of theology research paper topics and have added new topic ideas. In total, we have 221 amazing theological essay topics that you can use right now.

Of course, all our topics are free. You can use them as they are or reword them to suit your purpose. Perhaps the best thing about our list of awesome topics is that they are all original (at the time of writing). You can now find an interesting, unique theology research paper topic in minutes.

Learning How To Write A Theology Paper

But perhaps you don’t know how to write a theology paper and are looking for some help. Keep in mind that our experts are always at your disposal, ready to assist you with writing, editing and proofreading your essay. If you just want somebody to point you in the right direction, you have arrived at the right place. Here are the basic steps of writing a research paper on a theology topic:

Pick an original topic that you are confident you can write about. Research the topic (or have an expert do it for you). Write the introduction. This is where you will include your thesis statement (what you aim to achieve with your research). Don’t forget to include some background information about the topic. Write the literature review chapter. You must show that your research and results fill a gap in knowledge. This is why the literature review is important. Write the research methodology chapter. This is the part where you will list and describe each and every method you have used to gather the data and analyze it. Don’t discuss the results, just the methods. Write the data analysis chapter. This is the chapter where you present you readers with the results of your research and experiments. Don’t discuss what the data means yet, just present it. Write the results chapter. Finally, you can discuss the results of your work. Show you readers why the results are relevant and important. Show them how your results have answered the most important research questions. Write the conclusion. Here, you will need to restate the thesis statement and summarize all the key findings. Make it clear that your research, results and analysis have supported your thesis. Create the references page. This is where you will list all the materials, publications and other works that you have used to write the paper. Edit and proofread your research paper until it is perfect. Don’t lose points over some minor mistakes!

Now that you know the steps you need to take to write a research paper, it’s time to show you the list of theology paper topics we’ve promised. Feel free to choose any of these ideas for your next research paper:

Easy Theology Paper Topics

We’ll start our list with some pretty easy theology paper topics. You shouldn’t have any trouble writing an excellent research paper on any of these ideas:

Discuss the concept of heaven in difference religions
An in-depth look at Sikhism as a world religion
Research 2 Abrahamic religions
Research the role of women in various religions
Talk about the Quran
The differences between science and religion
Talk about the Trinity in Christianity
Analyze the role of heaven and hell
How was Buddhism created?
Discuss religious terrorism in 2023
The link between the church and democracy
The history of the Old Testament

Research Topics In Theology

It’s time to talk about some research topics in theology that are more in-depth and narrow. Just pick the one you like and start writing your paper today:

Discuss the concept of gender equality in Islam
An in-depth look at prophets in the Quran
Research the most popular parables in the Bible
Talk about the evolution of holy books
Analyze the Old Testament
Analyze the New Testament
Research the similarities between the new Testament and Quran
Analyze the way Christianity treats abortion
Talk about the history of Hinduism
Discuss the concept of life after death
An in-depth look at the role of religion in human history
Talk about the promotion of harmony in the Bible
Research differences between the Old and the New Testament

World Religions Research Paper Topics

Are you more interested in writing about world religions? No problem, we’ve got you covered. Check out this list of brand new world religions research paper topics:

Discuss the concept of end times
Talk about theodicity
Research the history of Judaism
Talk about the innocence of children
An in-depth look at
Research the role of female clergy
Analyze the economics of religion
Talk about Hinduism in Indian culture
What is Exegetical theology?
An in-depth look at Jainism
Talk about the role of Christianity in world history
Research the inception of Spiritism

General Theology Essay Topics

If you are looking for a topic that is not too narrow, you could give our list of general theology essay topics a try. Here are our best ideas from our theology thesis writing service :

An in-depth look at religious wars
Talk about the end of the world
Research the Nordic mythology
Analyze the Gnostic faith
An in-depth look at Confucianism
Talk about atheism as a religion
Research the hypostatic union
Analyze the impact of Buddhism on the modern world
Research the concept of reincarnation
An in-depth look at modern Egyptian religion
Talk about how Christians view sexuality
Talk about the forms of evil

Bible Thesis Topics

Our experts have put together a list of exceptional Bible thesis topics for high school, college and university students. You can use any of them for free:

Discuss the concept of omnipotent God
An in-depth look at the Redemption of Christ
Talk about the 10 doctrines of the Bible
An in-depth look at The Last Things doctrine
Research a verse of the Bible
An in-depth look at the way the Bible was written
Research 3 parables
Analyze Divine Identity in the Bible
Talk about accountability in the Bible
Discuss the concept of Salvation
Talk about Satan’s role

Christianity Research Paper Topics

Do you want to write your research paper on a topic related to Christianity? Take a look at our original Christianity research paper topics:

Discuss the concept of Christianity
Talk about the Old Testament
Research the history of Christians
An in-depth look at Christians in Ancient Rome
Discuss the concept of Descent Into Hell
Talk about the Day of Judgment
Analyze the 5 basic beliefs of Christians
Research the main values of Christianity
An in-depth look at a monotheistic religion
Talk about the Creation

Islam Paper Topics

Islam is the second largest religion in the world, so why not write your research paper on it? Here are some interesting Islam paper topics for students of all ages:

Discuss the concept of God in Islam
An in-depth look at chapter 4 of the Quran
Talk about Resurrection in Islam
Analyze divine destiny in the Quran
Research the Prophet Muhammad
Discuss the concept of Salah
An in-depth look at law-bearing prophets
Research the origins of Islam
Talk about acts of worship
An in-depth look at divine destiny in the Quran
Research the written records of Prophet Muhammad’s life
Talk about fasting in Islam

Hinduism Research Paper Topics

In case you are interested in writing about Hindus, we’ve got your back. We have a long list of Hinduism research paper topics right here for you:

Discuss the concept of Dharma
An in-depth look at Vedic yajna
Discuss the concept of Artha
Analyze the origins of Hinduism
Talk about Vaishnavism
An in-depth look at unity in Hinduism
Discuss the concept of spiritual transformation of humanity
Research a Sanskrit text
Talk about the Hindu Renaissance
Discuss the concept of refraining from injuring living beings
An in-depth look at diversity in Hinduism
Talk about Mahatma Gandhi

Judaism Topic Ideas

If you prefer to write about Judaism, our writers have created a list of Judaism topic ideas that you won’t find anywhere else. Check it out below:

Discuss the concept of
Talk about the role of Jews in world history
Research the origins of Judaism
An in-depth look at the role of King David
Research a Rabbinic hermeneutic
Talk about Palestine
Analyze the differences between Karaites and Samaritans
Discuss the concept of Halakha
Research the Jewish movement in Israel
Discuss the concept of Enlightenment
An in-depth look at the study of Torah
Talk about Tanakh texts

Buddhism Paper Topics

Of course, we also have a long list of unique Buddhism paper topics that you can use right now. Remember, you can reword any of our topics to suit your needs:

Discuss the concept of Liberation in Buddhism
An in-depth look at the Mahāsaccaka-sutta
Discuss the concept of the state of nirvana
An in-depth look at Karma
Discuss the concept of dukkha
Research the role of The Great Vehicle
Research the Four Noble Truths
Analyze Buddhism in India
Discuss the concept of rebirth in Buddhism
Talk about the Paths to Liberation

Taoism And Confucianism Paper Topics

Our list wouldn’t be complete without some original Taoism and Confucianism paper topics. Choose one of these ideas and start writing your paper in 5 minutes:

Discuss the concept of Proper Rite in Confucianism
Talk about Taoism in China
Research the origins of Confucianism
Analyze Confucianism during the Tang dynasty
Talk about the history of Taoism
Discuss the concept of Benevolence in Confucianism
Talk about Junzi
Analyze female shamans in Taoism
An in-depth look at Chinese martial arts
Talk about cosmology in Taoism
Research meritocracy in Confucianism
An in-depth look at Tao and Te

Spiritism Research Paper Ideas

Are you interested in writing about Spiritism? You can get some nice bonus points, because it’s not an easy subject. Here are some of our greatest Spiritism research paper ideas:

Discuss the role of Franz Mesmer
An in-depth look at the Swedenborg
Research the conjoining of science, philosophy, and religion
Discuss The Spirits’ Book
Spiritism vs. Occultism
Research the origins of Spiritism
Talk about the Fox sisters
Discuss the concept of Mediumship
Analyze Spiritism in France
An in-depth look at the 5 basic tenets
Talk about Spiritism as a moral doctrine

Theological Discussion Topics

We have some of the best theological discussion topics on the Internet, and you can use any of them right now without having to pay anything (or even give us credit):

Discuss the concept of dogmatic theory
Analyze the inception of Calvinism
Discuss the concept of postmodernist theology
Talk about religious education in the UK
Analyze the Holy Trinity
Research the role of animals in Islam
Talk about God and love
An in-depth look at religion’s role in climate change
Research the life and work of Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Controversial Religious Research Paper Topics

There are many controversies you can talk about when it comes to religion. Here are the most interesting controversial religious research paper topics we can think of:

Discuss the role of science
An in-depth look at guilt and shame in the Bible
Analyze anxiety in religious texts
Talk about substance abuse
Research religion and politics
Discuss the concept of morality
Talk about the role of religion
Research the role of women in Christianity
Talk about religious wars

Interesting Religious Topics To Write About

If you are just looking for interesting religious topics to write about, you have arrived at the right place. Check out our latest ideas below:

Talk about the origins of the New Testament
Talk about Christian theology
Talk about homosexuality in the Bible
Research the existence of guardian angels
Talk about religion in Ancient Greece
Analyze religion in Ancient Egypt
Analyze the origins of the Old Testament
Talk about atheism

Difficult Theology Essay Topics

Want to impress your professor? Looking to demonstrate your research paper writing skills? Choose one of these difficult theology essay topics and start writing:

Talk about the beliefs of our ancestors
Analyze a verse of the Bible
Research a parable in the Bible
Analyze a new religion
Research proof that disagrees with the Bible
An in-depth look at ancient religions
Talk about a polytheistic religion
Analyze Buddhism in China and Japan
Talk about Psalm 51

Historical Research Topics In Theology

The history of religions can be a captivating lecture, so why not write your research paper on some historical research topics in theology? Here are some great ideas:

Talk about the history of Judaism
Analyze the transformation language in the Bible
Research the inception of Taoism
Analyze the history of Islam
Analyze the inception of Confucianism
Talk about the history of Christianity
Research the history of Hinduism
Research the history of Sikhism

Best Theology Research Questions

Did you know that the best way to get your creative juices flowing is to read some research questions? Our best theology research questions are listed below:

Can you discuss the concept of politics from a religious standpoint?
Can you provide an in-depth look at Christadelphians?
What are religious politics?
How does the Catholic Church organize itself?
What are some Amish views on politics?
What is the politicization of religion?
What are Illiberal Religions?
What are some LGBT rights issues in the US?
What was the reason for the Catholic Crusades?

Topics Related To Religious Systems

In case you want to analyze various religious systems around the world, you will surely find the list of topics related to religious systems very interesting:

Discuss the concept of Judaism
An in-depth look at Christianity
Talk about Islam
Analyze Buddhist beliefs
Research the Hindu belief system
Analyze Agnosticism
Research Animism
Research Deism
Talk about Esotericism

Advanced Theological Essay Topics

Finally, we have a list of some more advanced theological essay topics that you can write about. Be warned, these topics are not simple at all:

Discuss the concept of belief
Talk about faith in Islam
An in-depth look at religious faiths in the UK
Talk about Atheism
Analyze Determinism as a religion
Research the belief in the supernatural
Analyze the sacred writings of Confucianism
Talk about the relation between humanity and spirituality
Research Hinduism as the oldest religion in the world

Theology and Politics Around the World

The link between theology and politics can’t be denied, no matter where you live. Here are some topics related to theology and politics around the world:

Discuss the concept of God within polytheistic religions.
Talk about the role of women in Eastern religions.
Research the role of the Catholic Church in Italy
Analyze what the effects of religion on various governments.
Research different types of religious leaders
Analyze Buddhist roles in politics.
Research what the most important theological concepts are.
Analyze theology and how it revolves around human perception.
Talk about political effects on religion.

Get Help From A Professional

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How to Write a Seminary Research Paper

Introduction

Research papers are one of the best ways to learn in seminary—which is why so many teachers assign them. A research paper trains you in how to gather information, interpret it, and present an informed opinion persuasively.

And yet seminary research papers can be very frustrating if you don’t follow a basic, tried-and-true process:

There are four steps to the study process: narrowing your focus, gathering research, deciding your thesis, and building an outline.

1. Narrow your focus

All the best guides (see list below) share a common thread of advice: narrow your focus. Here are three tips for narrowing the scope and focus of your paper so you don’t bite off more than you can (or should) chew.

Mind your word or page count. If your paper is supposed to be fewer than 10 pages, you’ll need a narrower topic you can address substantively within that amount of space.
Research what interests you. You’ll be spending a lot of time researching, so if possible, choose a topic you truly want to learn about. Tip: If you’re in seminary, write as many of your papers on one topic as possible so that you become a bit of an expert on it.
Narrow your topic. The narrower your topic, the easier your process. That’s because you can be more selective in what to research and argue. For example, “What led to the Reformation?” is a giant topic—book-length, really. But something like, “What was Martin Luther’s 3rd of the 95 Theses, and how did he come to it?” is a subtopic you could write a short, interesting paper on.

Note: Only choose topics of which you have some general knowledge. You may need to read introductory material at length to write narrowly on an unfamiliar topic.

Resources for paper writing

How to use Logos for writing and research (video) , a great place to start.
How to write an effective paper from the University of Toronto.
Advice on theological writing from the esteemed John Frame. Frame’s words have more to do with the writer (you) than the mechanics.
A well-written 14-page guide to writing research papers in history and theology

Writing & Research: A Guide for Theological Students by Kevin Gary Smith

Written in a simple yet engaging style, Dr. Kevin Smith applies his years of experience and expertise in scholarly writing and research in this introduction for new and continuing undergraduate or postgraduate students. This publication provides helpful guidelines and illustrations on all the elements that go into producing an academic work.

2. Gather research

Next to narrowing your focus, nothing is more important for the research process than knowing where and how to gather sources. It also will lead to much higher quality work.

Note: Though the next step in our process has to do with deciding your thesis, you may have a provisional thesis statement even by this point. If you do, this part will move quicker, because you’ll know just what to look for. If not, that’s okay—you can read more broadly to find a topic that interests you.

Broadly speaking, there are four main places to conduct your initial research. The following is adapted from Surviving and Thriving in Seminary (Lexham Press, 2016).

Dictionary articles

Biblical and theological dictionaries summarize and introduce a particular topic in as concise a manner as possible. For this reason, they are the best place to start the research process for every paper. Reading a dictionary article will provide you with a quick and comprehensive overview of your subject. After reading several dictionary articles, you will begin to feel you have a general understanding of the topic, and this will provide you with a solid base from which to begin reading further.

Dictionary articles also provide a basic bibliography on the subject at the end of each article. Flipping to the end of the article will usually provide you with a good bibliography immediately. If you make note of the sources in the bibliographies from different dictionaries on the same topic, you will likely already have more sources than you can handle. If you end up with more sources than you can realistically track down, prioritize sources in more recent dictionaries. A dictionary article written in 1950 may be very valuable, but its bibliography will not have more recent scholarship on the issue. Dictionary articles apply best to biblical studies, theology, and church history. Ask your professors which dictionaries they recommend you use, or see the sidebar for our recommendations.

Commentaries

Commentaries apply primarily to exegesis papers and papers related to biblical theology. Commentaries, like dictionary articles, attempt to give a summary of a particular issue—only this time the issue is the proper meaning of a particular section of the Bible. Some commentaries are more comprehensive than others; it largely depends on the commentary series. To determine which commentaries are the best for the passage you are looking at, we recommend asking your professor or consulting the website bestcommentaries.com. Take care when choosing a commentary, because not all are created equal. For research papers, academic commentaries are what you need to use, as they engage with the academic discussion of the biblical book. Bestcommentaries.com is helpful in this regard, since it tags commentaries as technical, pastoral, or devotional.

Like dictionary articles, each commentary will include a bibliography. Some commentaries have a selected bibliography at the end of a passage; others have all their sources listed in the general bibliography for the whole book. Even without a selected bibliography, you can gather sources by taking a good look at the footnotes to see what is cited. Consult a few top-notch academic commentaries, and you will have a wealth of sources to use. Something to also keep in mind is the age of the commentary. The newer the commentary, the more up-to-date the bibliography.

Book bibliographies

If you are researching a particular topic and have access to either a book or a book chapter that covers the topic, then the bibliography and footnotes of these sources will provide you with a wealth of possible sources for your own research. Like the above methods, you will need to judge for yourself based on the title if the source is worth your time.

ATLA serials

The above suggestions will usually yield enough sources that you will not need to go hunting for more (unless you are working on a thesis or a topic not well covered by a dictionary). If your bibliography for your paper is still thin, ATLAS is the place to go. ATLA (American Theological Library Association) Serials is an online collection of journals for the study of religion. This includes not only Bible and theology, but the area of practical theology and even other religions as well. This database is a subscription service, and every good seminary library has access to it. ATLAS makes every part of its sources searchable, so you can search by keyword to find journal sources.

Lexham Bible Dictionary (free)

As dictionaries go, this one is quite recent—and it’s free, which is shocking given its quality. You’ll turn to this one often. Bonus: It’s digital, which makes it even easier to navigate and cite.

Other recommended dictionaries

The following come recommended by H. Daniel Zacharias and Benjamin K. Forrest, authors of Surviving and Thriving in Seminary (Lexham Press, 2016).

Alexander, T. Desmond, and Brian S. Rosner, eds. New Dictionary of Biblical Theology .Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2000.
Cross, F. L., and Elizabeth A. Livingstone, eds. The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church . Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press, 2005.
Di Berardino, Angelo. Encyclopedia of Ancient Christianity . Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2014.
Freedman, David Noel, Gary A. Herion, David F. Graf, John David Pleins, and Astrid B. Beck, eds. The Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary . New York: Doubleday, 1992.
Green, Joel B., Jeannine K. Brown, and Nicholas Perrin, eds. Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels . Carlisle, Cumbria, U.K.: Paternoster Press, 2000.
McKim, Donald K., ed. Dictionary of Major Biblical Interpreters . Downers Grove, IL; Nottingham, England: InterVarsity Press, 2007.

* The authors recommend all works in IVP’s Bible Dictionary Series .

Logos Bible Software (free)

Logos is a collection of digital books and periodicals designed for theological research. Using its various guides (such as the Topic Guide, Passage Guide, or Sermon Starter Guide), you can conduct relevant searches across your whole library.

Explore Logos features

3. Decide a thesis

After choosing a topic and familiarizing yourself with it, you are ready to decide and draft your thesis. Your thesis is your paper’s north star. It directs the resources you use, the points you make, even the sentences you strike—everything in your paper exists to support your thesis.

Your thesis is your main point or argument and should:

Be about one sentence long
Appear near the end of your paper’s introduction
Be arguable, not a simple fact

On that last point: a proper thesis is one you have to prove. You need to make a statement someone could argue against.

Not a thesis: Martin Luther drafted the 95 Theses.
Thesis: Luther’s 95 Theses were born from his personal religious experience.

You will be collecting data and insights to support your thesis. Think of your paper as one side of a debate. You are making a case for the truth of your thesis, citing supporting evidence as well as answering likely objections.

Ideally, your thesis is also original—a point no one has argued before. This is harder to achieve until further on in your academic career.

From Topic to Thesis: A Guide to Theological Research by Michael Kibbe

Adapted from the publisher description: This affordable and accessible tool walks students through the research process, focusing on five steps: finding direction, gathering sources, understanding issues, entering discussion, and establishing a position. Its goal is to take students directly from a research assignment to a research argument—in other words, from topic to thesis.

4. Build an outline

The outline is the skeleton of your work and will do wonders for you in terms of organization.

Do not just start writing. If you write without a map for where you will go, you will wander. More than likely, you’ll spend too much time on cursory points and then scrunch the most important parts of your paper down to stay within your word count limit.

Instead, outline the flow of your paper.

Example outline

Generally speaking, you can think of your outline in terms of paragraph units.

Introduction (one paragraph or several, depending on paper length)
Supporting point (paragraph)
Subpoint (etc.)
Main Point (several pages)
Conclusion (one paragraph or several, depending on paper length)

The content in “supporting point” paragraphs will be insights from your research. So here you are plugging in material you’ve read, either as paraphrased material or direct quotes (both cited, see below), to support your conclusions.

Why write an outline?

The value of a detailed outline is you can scope out the exact flow of your paper, at least provisionally. It’s true that while writing your paper, your outline will shift—this is normal and right. You may end up placing more paragraphs under a subpoint than you first envisioned, perhaps even realizing that a subpoint is substantive enough to be a main point.

But your process will be much smoother, and your paper will flow much better, if you have an outline sorted out before you begin writing.

Logos Sermon Builder

If you are conducting your research in Logos (or even if you aren’t, really), the Sermon Builder Tool is extremely helpful for building your outline. Though it’s designed for sermons, its features are ideal for organizing your thoughts and gathering your research into an outline.

Explore the Sermon Builder tool .

Logos Notes Tool

In addition to the above, Logos notes and highlights are helpful for research. Any note or highlight you make on a resource is automatically saved and collected, so you can easily access them later. This gives you a simple paper trail for your research process.

Write Your Paper

Assuming you’ve filled out a substantive outline, this is the fun part of the process. You’re finally stitching your research together into a finished product.

There is much to say about what makes for good theological writing (and you should read all of it), but a few pieces of advice are worth highlighting:

Follow the style guide of your college or university. If none exists or this doesn’t apply, know that Turabian is the standard style among biblical and theological writing.
Write to inform, not impress. Many amateur writers adopt a high-falutin voice when they begin writing. Don’t. Write as if your professor (or your mother, depending on your audience) asked you a simple question and just wants a plain answer. Avoid verbal fluff like “the aforementioned” and cliches like “since the dawn of time.” Generally speaking, write how you talk.
Topic sentences are the first sentence of a paragraph and tell the reader what the paragraph will be about. Think of it like the writing in marker on a moving box: “KITCHEN, plates and cutting boards.” For example, “Martin Luther experienced intense inner turmoil concerning his sin” would be a good topic sentence for a paragraph about Luther’s many failed attempts to deal with his sin.
Transition sentences are the last sentence in a paragraph that connect what was just said to what’s about to be said. For example, you might conclude the above paragraph with, “It was this unceasing turmoil that led Luther, in desperation, to reconsider justification,” and then begin the next sentence with this topic sentence, “A rediscovery of biblical justification was at the heart of Luther’s 95 Theses.”

Tip: Many writers find it helpful to imagine a real person as the audience of their paper. This helps them use more grounded, simple language and break through the clutter to get straight to the point. For example, you might imagine that you are writing to your teenage sibling or a college student with zero knowledge of the Bible.

“ How to write an effective paper ” by Tyndale Seminary

This is a mercifully short yet comprehensive guide, and it’s organized well. Consider it a crash course in the most important rules of theological writing.

Elements of Style

This is a short, punchy, classic work about writing. It mainly covers grammar and style—from the right way to use commas to how not to be boring. If you ever write anything, you should read this book.

Cite Sources

If you are currently in Bible college or seminary, you can ignore this and refer to your Academic Handbook, which will cover this material in greater detail.

If you are not, consider these three broad rules for citing your sources.

1. Cite everything

First things first: never plagiarize . As the adage goes, “If you’re unsure, cite it.” That is, if you have any inkling that what you are saying is not your own idea, cite whose idea it is (and if you don’t know, look; and if you still can’t find out, say something like, “This is not my original idea, and despite looking at length, I cannot seem to find where I heard this.”).

The single most important part of the citation discussion is that you acknowledge the source of any idea that is not your own or already well known and circulated (e.g., in theological writing you do not have to cite John 3:16 when you mention that believing in Jesus gives you eternal life).

2. Track your citations from the start

You should be thinking about your bibliography from the moment you begin researching. If you consult a resource—even one you don’t think you’ll cite in your paper—take down that source’s information. You’ll be glad you did.

And with that, create a system. A great tool is Zotero. You can use it to track all your research and easily generate citations in various styles (APA, Turabian, etc.). John Frame also has some helpful points on using sources in the earlier parts of this article.

3. Cite correctly

It is not enough to drop an article URL or a book title with a page number. A charge of plagiarism can be leveled at you even for incorrectly citing material.

Again, if you are in school, follow the rules of your academic handbook. If not, adopt a common style guide like APA or Turabian, and consult online guides like EasyBib or the Chicago Manual of Style for help.

More than likely, your paper will include in-text citations (usually footnotes) and a bibliography. The format of each one is different, as you’ll see from the guides mentioned.

Logos Bible Software

Logos will automatically cite your sources any time you copy-paste from Logos into a Word document, making it easy to build your bibliography in your preferred style.

Read about how Logos automates citation.

Now that you have your paper written, your sources cited, and your bibliography written, it’s time for the finishing touches.

These have to do with grammar and aesthetics, primarily. Here’s a recommended checklist:

Make sure your paper is all one font type and size . Generally fonts like Times New Roman or Arial in size 12 are safe.
Double-check that page numbers are accurate.
Create a title page , typically containing the title of your paper, the course it’s for, your school, your name, and the date.
Print out your paper and don’t read it for 24 hours . Approaching your paper with fresh eyes will help you see many errors and opportunities for improvement. (In fact, do this step twice if possible—once after your initial draft is complete, and again before you print the paper you’ll hand in.)
After 24 hours, read the printed version of your paper , marking corrections with a red pen. If your copy is particularly marked at the end of this process (more than five corrections per page, on average), repeat this step.
Create a backup of your paper, whether digital or physical (or both).
Hand in your paper in a folder. (This may seem overboard, but packaging your paper like it’s important will give your professor the impression that you took the assignment seriously.)

The road to a solid research paper isn’t short, but it is worn. Follow these steps and you’ll arrive at a solid paper—but even better, you’ll have learned a lot in the process, trained your mind in the art and craft of critical thinking, and become a better writer in the process.

Logos Staff

Logos is the largest developer of tools that empower Christians to go deeper in the Bible.

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Research Guides

Systematic Theology

Do a Systematic Theology Paper
Reference Works
Systematic Theologies
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Doctrine of Man
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Resources on How to Write a Research Paper

We've all been there. We know (sort of) on what we want to write, but we don't really know how to write it, how to organize our thoughts, or how to organize our research. It's fun to read, but it's another thing to articulate, analyze, and synthesize our thoughts.

Here are some ideas/resources that might help you along the way:

John Frame, professor of Philosophy and Systematic Theology at RTS, wrote a helpful step-by-step process for how to write a theology paper. You can access it for free here .
Michael Jensen (D.Phi. at Moore Theological College) has written a short, topically-arranged book, How To Write a Theological Essay (78+pages), available on reference at SBTS. Find it here .
The Craft of Research, accessed here , gives a book-length treatment of the subject.
The Writing Center , located in the library, has a staff dedicated to helping you craft an excellent paper.

Here is some advice regarding Systematic 1, 2, or 3 class papers specifically:

Start Early. Begin planning your paper the day before the first day of the class. You'll get first crack at the books, you'll get to ask the professor about any research "snags" you hit along the way, you'll get plenty of time to edit and refine, you'll learn more about the subject, and you'll finish the assignment stress-free.
Define the question. Every paper seeks to answer a question. The sooner you discover what that question is and the more specific you can make your question, the better off your paper will be. Once you have your question, the answer to that question can be your beginning thesis statement. This thesis statement, with refining, will begin your writing effort on a good foot to having a strong paper.
Discover the lead, competing positions regarding your particular question. This requires reading, and sometimes reading broadly. You want, in this step, to be able to summarize precisely the arguments/positions regarding your research subject.
Pick a position. Which available position wins out and why? Is there one that is "the best"?
Defend it against the best objections. One common problem of bad theology papers is that students fail to treat their objectors fairly. It doesn't do you or the world any good to argue against a position nobody actually holds. Moreover, it's disingenuous and academically uncouth.

Your paper should not look like your research. It's feasible that your actual paper will look something like this:

Introduction (define the problem), Thesis (state your solution), Methodology (preview how you will demonstrate your Thesis).
Summarize the available and most persuasive positions (including your own).
Support your position.
Defend your position against the best objections.
Conclusion. Restate your position in light of your paper. This is not a simple "copy" and "paste" of your Introduction. It is the final appeal to your readers for why your position is superior in view of all you've just said.

Remember, you are not done until you have edited your paper. Read through it again, editing as you go, and then have someone else read through it so you have another set of eyes looking at what will be the finished product.

Distinction between Primary and Secondary Sources

It is often the case that when doing theological research, it will be important to examine Primary Sources . A primary source is an author's first-hand account of the event being studied. Examples include: diaries, letters, journals, memos, interviews, manuscripts, newspaper articles of current events, photographs, records of government agencies like birth or death certificates, and minutes of conferences or agencies. Secondary Sources interpret/analyze the event in question.

Here's a clarifying example from the ATLA website : "A letter from a Union soldier to his wife during the Civil War would be considered a primary document. A book written by a historian that discusses letters written by soldiers during the Civil War would be a secondary source, even if it includes those letters we consider primary sources. " The distinction is relevant for researchers because interpretations of primary sources may be incorrect. If you rely only on secondary sources, your own conclusions may be, consequently, skewed.

For Systematics:

A primary source would be the original (or definitive) edition of a work. Examples (again from the ATLA site) would include:

Ausgewahlte Werke —the 1883 or “Weimar” edition of Martin Luther’s works. (Also available online as a subscription database by Proquest.)
Institutio Christianae Religionis —John Calvin’s Institutes ( definitive version in 1559) although the 1560 French edition is also considered definitive.
Grundkurs des Glaubens —Karl Rahner’s Foundations of Christian Faith in German.
Systematische Theologie— Wolfgang Pannenberg’s Systematic Theology in German.
Kirchliche Dogmatik— Karl Barth’s Church Dogmatics in German.
While not a “definitive” edition of their works, many theological librarians use the Christian Classics Ethereal Library to look at the works of the early church fathers, originally published in print as Early Church Fathers series.

A secondary source would be a later, non-definitive edition, a non-definitive translation, or an examination of a particular facet of the primary source. For example, Paul Helm's John Calvin's Ideas is a secondary source because it is an analysis of Calvin's works; Balthasar's The Theology of Karl Barth is a secondary source for the same reason.

If you're unsure what an author's primary works are, you can peruse the Enclopedia of Christian Theology by Lacoste or The Oxford Companion to Christian Thought to get an idea of particular theological thinkers and their primary works. These are helpful, but not comprehensive guides to theological research. If you ever have trouble finding primary literature, contact a research expert at the library or attempt to dialogue with a researcher in your field of interest.

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Below are downloads (PDF format) of the M.A. (Religion) theses of some of our graduates to date.

Note: Certain requirements for current thesis students have changed since earlier theses were completed.

156 Theology Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best theology topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on theology, ⭐ simple & easy theology essay titles, 🔎 interesting topics to write about theology, ❓ theology essay questions.

The Mu’tazilites’ and the Ash‘arites Theological Stances Mu’tazilah is an Islamic school founded by the Mu’tazilites who affirm that the ideal unity and everlasting nature of God makes possible for the creation of the Quran as it could not be co-everlasting with […]
Book of Jonah and Its Theological Message It depicts the infinitude of God’s love and character and disparages the narrow ideology that God’s interest is limited to Israel as shown by His interest in the dwellers of Nineveh, Israel’s ancient enemies. The […]
Scriptural Authority and Theological Interpretation: Importance of Distinction The distinction between scriptural authority and the theological interpretation of the scriptures is important in discerning the flaws of human beings as interpreters of God’s instructions.
Sikhism: Religion and Theology Childhood and the naming ceremony: Just after the birth of the baby, parents go to the gurudwara with the baby where Guru Granth Sahib is opened and a random reading is done.
Desmond Tutu, South African Theologian In the year 1975, Tutu was given the position of the dean and he served in this capacity in St. Tutu immediately realized the lack of willingness of the South Africa’s white government to engage […]
Charismatic Theology: Mission in the Spirit In other words, Charismatic is a term referring to Christians who hold the notion that the doings of the Holy Spirit experienced in the early Church, such as miracles, tongue speaking, and healing, are also […]
Theology: Exposition of Matthew 24 and 25 The prophets of the Bible pointed out, and as what the Jews also believed, the destruction of Jerusalem, the Temple in particular, and the places surrounding it was the foretold end of the world.
Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling The author adds that the counselor needs spiritual maturity in a bid to get the client to the same level of maturity.
Holy Trinity: A Modern Theological Approach The concept of the Trinity is revealed by the theologian using the example of the structural analysis of the Gospel of John.
The Fall of Satan – A Theological Study Thesis: Though the fall of Satan has been narrated and interpreted in multiple ways, the underlying theme is that Satan is an angel who falls as a result of his envy, pride, and arrogance and […]
Islamic Theology and Philosophy These religions have fundamental differences in their approach to Allah, to the destiny of man, and the position of man in the world, to the sin, good, and evil, to the Judgment day and the […]
Nursing Theology To non-Christians, the moral and social principles should guide the nursing professionals whereas to Christians the feeling of love should motivate the nurses.
Muhammad Rashid Rida, a Prominent Islamic Theologian From these sources, Rida learnt of the risk that Christian European posed to the world of Islam and the need for a stronger Islam to counter this threat.
The Nile Valley vs. Western Cosmology and Theology The social ideals of the ancient Nile Valley cosmology and religion differ from those inherent in the cosmologies and theologies of Western civilization.
Theological Reflection Journal The doctrine of God is complex and central to the tenets of the Christian Church. One of the crucial aspects to reflect on within the study of this subject is the existence of the Lord, […]
Jay E. Adams: A Theology of Christian Counseling Due to the fact that man is dependent on his creator, it can, therefore, be concluded that there is significant need for the use of theology in counseling.
Theology and Context of the Colossians Christ Hymn This paper examines the history, background, and context of the book of Colossians as well as the theology and significance of the Christ Hymn to a postmodern world. The authorship of the epistle to the […]
Contemporary Roman Catholicism: Biblical Theology The Bible marks the foundation of Catholicism and Christianity grown on the pillars of the books contents, its translation and importantly its interpretation among the believers. Catholics believe in the Bible as their revelation to […]
Philosophical Theology The marriage between philosophy and theology led to the birth of philosophical theology. Notable to mention is that, the theory of atonement was used both in philosophy and theology doctrines.
History of Christian Theology The life of Jesus Christ as a man who was born and lived in Bethlehem in Israel and his verbal teachings are used as the anchors of Christianity as a religion.
Overview and Analysis of Hispanic & Latino Theology The Hispanic theology is shown as a representation of the religious and theological inflections of the Hispanic people staying in the United States.
Theology: “The Powers That Be” by Walter Wink The topic of the book is spiritual and religious; it is the continuation of previous works of the author on the exploration of the powers that guide human lives, and the way they may provide […]
Theology and Ethics of Early Christianity: Paul’s and James’ Teachings The works of Paul have been criticized by a group of scholars who believe that they have massive contradiction from the works of other apostles, especially James, who was one of the disciples of Jesus.
Theology: Religion and Healthcare The methods of medicine are based on theological beliefs such as hospitality, the impossibility of healing the body without the soul, and medicine as a divine gift as life and the human body.
Perception and Understanding of Theology According to the definition of Etzel and Small, the study of historical theology focuses on the creation of doctrines over time and God’s acts, as shown in the history of the Christian church.
Image of Salvation: Everyday Theology The Bible presents a variety of representations of salvation that will rescue a person’s soul from the grip of original sin and give him access to the divine realm.
Theological History and Young-Earth Creation The recent history of mankind presents a new field for testing evolution and the creation of a young Earth against each other.
Pauline Theology in Moo’s and Schreiner’s Views Pauline theology relates to the beliefs of the apostle Paul about God, and the world, that he expressed in his letters in the New Testament and his thoughts recorded in the Book of Acts.
“Sanctification in Lutheran Theology” by Scaer Good deeds in the life of a Christian are not just abstinence from sin and evil but an opportunity to feel and reflect God’s love.
Theology: Religious Representatives in Modern Warfare Such a factor is remarkably accurate in the treatment of prisoners of war, for it is the responsibility of the religious representative to ensure that the military is not cruel to the disarmed.
The Theology of Sound: A Critique of Orality I am interested in examining the history of communication and language by investigating the orality era in Walter Ong’s book, Orality and Literacy. Although the nature of orality is homeostatic, it carries a considerable way […]
Defense of God’s Love Using Systematic Theology The detailed analysis of the nature of God such as the living God implies that in His infinite spirit, He is alive and is the source and the support of every life form.
Supersessionism or Replacement Theology It is based on the suggestion that God has taken away the blessing gifted to Jewish people because of their sins and has given it to the church.
The Sermon on the Mount and Moral Theology The Sermon on the Mount is the Sermon of Jesus Christ, which expresses the essence of the New Testament moral law and its difference from the Old Testament.
Religious Pluralism and Theology of Religions Hick argues that mankind is in the process of transitioning from a perspective of Christianity as the one and only genuine faith to a novel comprehending of Christianity as part of many global religions, all […]
Developing a Christian Theology of Religions It concerns the fact that all people in Christianity are considered God’s slaves, and the concept of slavery is humiliating for everyone, especially today.
Teaching Theology: Augustinian Confessions The article under consideration is written by Stimming and deals with the use of Augustinian Confessions when teaching theology in the classroom.
Ethical Issues in Social Sciences, Humanities, Law and Theology The purpose of this report is to study the topics of research ethics, their principles, and those ethical responsibilities that researchers have both to the participants in the experiment and society as a whole.
Divine Love for Creation: A Modern Theological Approach Feinberg’s shift of emphasis is to preserve the idea of the salvation of the human soul and full divine sovereignty but changes the very modality of divine presence.
New Testament Church and Missional Theology Examining the ways of using the Missional Theory in encouraging compliance with the principles of the New Testament Church, one should focus closer on the values and ideas that the aid New Testament Church invites.
Liberation Theology in the United States One of the main reasons that contributed to the rapid development of liberation theology in America was the increased cases of oppression to the minority.
A Theological View on God and Religion in Creating Legal Laws Moral laws should base on God’s commands because; God is the giver of universal objectivity of morality, God gives the ultimate justice, and God is the creator and giver of all human knowledge.
The Age of the Earth: Theological and Science Perspectives For the former, the answer is linked to God creating the Earth, while the latter try to discover methods that would provide hints and evidence of the actual date on which the Earth emerged.
Theology: Love of God Love for God is expressed in the fulfillment of His commandments. It is especially important if the speech concerns a conversation with people of a different cultural background0.
Religious Studies and Theology The book which is 230 pages explores the 2005 anniversary of Fawkes gun powders plot as one of the most famous plots in world history.
What Was the Crime of Galileo? Article Analysis The first proposition was that the sun is the center of the universe and entirely immovable by location, while the second was that the earth is not the center of the universe nor immovable, but […]
“A Theology of Liberation: History, Politics, and Salvation”: Liberation Theology in Latin America The liberation theology is concerned with the meaning of Christianity and the true mission of the Church which includes the fight against oppression.
Creation in the Ignatian Theological Context The Ignatian vision is one of the perspectives from which it is possible to study the creation of humanity, people’s relationship with God, and the ethical principles of life.
Implications of Theological and Psychological Reflections on Human Behavior The Bible talks about the works of the human flesh which are evident in the commission of sins and also warns about the dire consequences of not inheriting the kingdom of God.
Religious Studies & Theology This is a step that takes time to build and fulfill and the larger the number of intercessors, the larger the ministry will be.
Krishna, Vedas, Kami and Other Theological Concepts The concept has great significance in the Chinese religion and the philosopher, who introduced it, is considered to be a follower of Laozi.
Biblical Context of Women and Theology The difficulty in affirming the extent to which the term diaconate” means or the connotation of the rite by which women were ordained to diaconate is challenging to fix.
Religious Studies and Theology: Christianity As described by the author ” to be a catholic, therefore, is to be a kind of religious person, and a kind of Christian belonging to a specific Eucharistic faith-community within the worldwide, or ecumenical, […]
Religious Studies and Theology: The Old Testament Abraham’s faith continues to develop, and his bond with God strengthens when he is asked to take his son to a place where he will offer sacrifice to God. Abraham was a man of faith […]
Theological Imagination and Secularization Gorski noted that the separation of the state and religion, that had prevailed in the 19th century, generated the secularization that completely changed the basis of theological imaginations.
Lartey’s Postcolonializing God: An African Practical Theology Emmaneul Lartey’s Postcolonializing God: An African Practical Theology consists of six chapters that are accompanied by the author’s comments, elucidations, and demonstrative examples, testifying to the importance and adequacy of Lartey’s approach to the African […]
God and Darwin’s Evolution Theory: A Theological Approach The descent of God reiterates the theology of evolution in which Jesus postulates himself as a slave and not as God. Hence this makes the theology of nature and the essence of the entirety of […]
Religious Studies and Theology: Kumbh Mela This pilgrimage is said to be held in a variety of locations depending on the Planet Jupiter and the sun. What would be the result of a struggle between the gods and the demons?
Are Roman Williams’ Ideas on Theological Integrity Justified in Medieval Context? According to him, medieval theologians were not honest in their speeches and discourses, as they did not lead the people in the very right ways of the Christ, but in their own ways of thinking […]
Religious Studies and Theology: Al-Hajj in Islam Al hajj is performed between the eighth and the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. This period is called Dhu al-Hijjah.”The pilgrimage in this ceremony begins with the donning of the Ihram”.
Aquinas and Faith: Theological Theories Aquinas asserts that true faith should believe in what has been revealed by God The agreement that characterizes faith is being wholehearted and not timid. Through revelation one accepts the propositions in faith that God […]
Religious Studies and Theology. Polygamy in Islam Women usually have a lesser desire for sex compared to men and therefore the man can get this attention from another wife when one is not able to have sex. In this case the man […]
Theological Teaching in the Flow of Christology The power of word and the power of spirit characterize Jesus one being of the Father and related to humanity as well.
The Impact of Steven’s Ideas on Theology and Ministry Those theses might be listed as follows: the identification of reflective practice in the sphere of worship leading; the interrelationship of the already mentioned worship to doctrine, concerning such religious fields of it as “atonement”, […]
New Testament Theology: Introductions to the Books of the Bible In this verse, Paul urges the believers to emulate the example of Jesus Christ by being of a humble nature and obedient.
Religious Studies and Theology: Hinduism The religion places emphasis upon the importance of truth, like any other religion the main aim of Hinduism is to make the people aware of the supreme power and considering the same the people under […]
Salvation Concept in Christian Theology Jesus Christ was sent to the Earth to save people’s souls, and give the way to the kingdom of God. Due to this, it is significant to be conscious of the matter and some of […]
Theological Concept and Leadership Forces Leading is the activity of coordinating and maintaining the rapport of all members of the management towards achieving the objectives of an organization.
The Problem of Evil in Religion and Theology In the viewpoint of religion and theology, the issue of evil is the trouble of reconciliation the existence of evil or suffering in the world with the existence of a god.
Theology of Christian Marriage in “The Four Loves” by Lewis C.S. The Four Loves explores the nature of love from a Christian perspective through thought experiments and examples from literature wherein the “need-love” seen in a child for its mother, and the gift-love as exemplified by […]
Liberation Theology in Latin America Analysis Nevertheless, to the discomfort of the official church, the poverty issue was now fully in the political arena. During the decade of the 1960s sections of the church in parts of Latin America loosened the […]
Theology of the Old Testament. Religious Evolution The first or the primary stage of religious evolution is the Mana or Fetishism which is the most prehistoric stage of not only religion but the entire human race.
Theology, Interview, and Via Salutis In today’s world, much preference is given to individual relationships with the Lord, while both Old and New testaments pinpoint the importance of communion in the course of the Christian journey.
Role of Reason Within Theology Based on the doctrines that are presented by the modern church community, the understanding of the mysteries of faith comes through studying the science of God and the ideas that are considered in the Scripture.
Historical Theology Structure In the structured essay below, you will be asked to compare and contrast reform in the Catholic church prior to the Reformation with that of Luther and Zwingli. Be sure to provide two sets that […]
Characteristic Theology and Practice of Religion Through the latter, the Orthodox believes that the fundamental purpose of the church is to glorify, bless, and praise the Holy trinity constituting the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Theology: The Quran and Its Exegesis In his book ‘Major Themes of the Quran’, Rahman seeks to explain the teachings provided in the Quran. She is of the opinion that God is close to man.
Reformation Theology as the Source of Religious Faith The three major teachings from Martin Luther regarding reforming the church include the fact that faith in God’s gift of forgiveness is very essential and is the only way through which individuals could win salvation […]
Theology: “The Early Narratives of Genesis” by James Orr It is against this awakening that the creation of Earth should not be seen as a myth but a true account of what actually transpired.
Practical Theology and Church Visitor’s Authority Concept For the 21st century church, it is especially important to identify itself in the context of exile that is a resource of renovation, as stated by Beach.
Process and Secular Theological Schools of Thought Additionally, the paper will discuss secular theology and the relation it has with the philosophy of Bonhoeffer. Finally, the paper will discuss the validity of the views on God as presented in process theology and […]
“The Last Wave” Film and Its Theological Concepts Symbols in the film connect the spirit of nature with the mystical experience of the tribe and prophetic dreams of the main hero.
Worship, Its Historical and Theological Evaluation And it is possible to say, that the same telos is represented in the service outlined in the second part of the assignment. The achievement of the new life and the good associated with it […]
Black Liberation Theology and Black Movement The idea of equality in the face of God is the major point of connection between the Black Theology and the Black Power Movement.
Psychology and Theology in Christian Counseling On the negative side is that prayers might enhance the relationship between the client and the counselor to the level of the patient thinking the counseling prayers are enough to sustain him.
Poverty in “A Theology of Liberation” by Gutierrez The most critical aspect in which this state deviates from the former two is that a poor person perfectly understands the necessity to abide with God and, simultaneously, the debilitating effect of poverty.
Book of Exodus in Judeo-Christian Theology The book of Exodus is one of the fundamental points of Judeo-Christian theology in that it depicts the end of slavery and the commencement of the newly emancipated Jew’s journey to the Promised Land.
Historical Theology: The Main Ideas of Reformation The figure of Martin Luther and his importance for the appearance and development of new ideas is described. However, Luther hoped for the peaceful reformation of society and church.
The Origin of Humans: Mythology, Cosmology and Theology In religion, mythological cosmology deals with the study of a body of beliefs based on religious, mythological, historical and esoteric traditions about the creation and the origins of man and the universe.
Theology of Global Missions Work In the context of missions work, the key phrase is the following: “And in you all the families of the Earth will be blessed”.
Mythology and Theology: Joseph Campbell’s Views This paper will try to explore the relationship between theology and mythology in respect of Joseph Campbell. According to Campbell, in his article “The Power of Myth,” mythology relates very closely to theology.
Religious Tolerance and Theology Therefore, tolerance can be defined as the aspect of respecting people in their different nature and not demanding any same action from their beliefs From the Jewish perspective, extending their laws to encompass other religions […]
Luke-Acts Theological Content In the parables of the Pharisee and the tax collector and the persistent widow in Luke 18: 1-8, the essence of prayer intensely comes out as a distinctive tool that executes desired changes.
The Theological Concept of Luke-Acts In addition to the fact that the reader has to use the translated medium, for the most part, the fact that the Biblical scriptures can be interpreted in a number of ways also creates a […]
Christian Prophets’ Teachings – Theology It refers to the worship of other ‘gods’ apart from the heavenly God, who is the creator of the heavens and the earth.
Holy Spirit in Today’s World – Theology The Scriptures tend to take up a most important part in God’s dealing with human beings, and it is, therefore, not surprising to learn that more often than not, people have replaced the role of […]
Theology as a Contributor to War From the book of Genesis in the Old Testament, the first war is portrayed between two brothers. The chain of command and science of war was long overdue in the theological world.
William Paley’s Natural Theology Paley’s argument on the existence of God, the way he compares and contrasts God and his creation with a watch and a watchmaker, is relevant and to some extent realistic.
Cloning in Terms of Society and Theology The aim of this paper is to establish the implications of cloning on society and understand the theologians are saying about cloning.
Moral Theology and Ethics Principles The right approach is to follow the above discernible norms for the best behavior. Every believer should use the scriptures and natural laws in order to lead a better life.
Human Rights in Relation to Catholic Theology The church declared the acts of slavery as infamy and conjured to discourage slavery since it was dishonored God and destroyed the lived of many people.
John Hick Philosophical Theology The theory’s hypotheses are internally coherent, in consent with the Christianity religious tradition, and the world is revealed from the natural and moral evil facts, and scientific inquiry. Through this, God will bring back justice […]
Foundations of the Living Science of Moral Theology He questioned the care that god provide to humans and the equality before the eyes of God. It is the truth of God that is being applied to the lives of human beings that they […]
Chapters 23-32 in John Frame’s “Systematic Theology” While focusing on Part IV “The Doctrine of the Word of God” and Part V “The Doctrine of the Knowledge of God” from John Frame’s Systematic Theology, it is possible to note that these parts […]
Chapters 1-12 in Frame’s Systematic Theology Chapters 1-12 from John Frame’s Systematic Theology provide the background for understanding the idea of theology in general and systematic theology in particular and present the information on the basic definitions, the Biblical Story, and […]
‘Psychology, Theology and Spirituality in Christian Counseling’ by Mark McMinn Psychologists’ work is to guide people into unraveling the reality of life by pushing them to discover the self in a bid to get to the bottom of their own troubles.
Dispensationalism: Is It Biblical? The second aspects, which is portrayed in the definition, relates to the fact that God has allowed man the power of choice. In this case, it was noted that the aspect of dispensation date back […]
The Main Problems of “Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Christian Belief” by John Frame One of the best ways to solve this problem is to approach it from the point of view of God’s love for mankind.
“Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Christian Belief” by John M. Frame The book goes further to analyze God’s will and power. Christians should use this book in order to establish the best relationships with their God.
Contemporary Accounts of Nature and Grace: Karl Rahner’s Christian Theology and Hindu Theology The studies have helped in the elimination of stereotypes against the followers of Hindu religion and encouraged Christian thinkers to reflect on the foundations of their religious beliefs through the motifs of Hindu.
“On Moral Medicine: Theological Perspective in Medical Ethics” by Stephen Lammers and Allen Verhey One of the strongest and captivating essays in this book is the one by Edmund Pellegrino, “The Necessity, Promise, and Dangers of Human Experimentation”, because the author touches upon different aspects to analyze one and […]
God in Christianity: Theology and Philosophy The Author of “The Shape of Catholic Theology “tries to explain the importance of God in Christianity and how theology relates to philosophy.
Historical and Theological Context of Byzantine Iconoclasm The need to ensure that the actions and beliefs of the people of the Byzantine Empire were acceptable to Christ, and drew favor from the heavens, was born out of the prevalent belief of the […]
Theology, Philosophy and Science in Islamic Civilization In conclusion, it is evident that there was coexistence between theology, philosophy and science in the making of the Islamic civilization.
Implications of Inter-Religious Dialog Towards a Universal Theology of Religion For any inter-religious dialogue to take place effectively, there are some rules that have to be adhered to, the main purpose of initiating the dialogue should be considered by the two parties involved.
Christian Theological Entities In other aspects, the term describes a community of protestant churches whose hallmark lies in their contrarian approach to theological and doctrinal interpretation of scriptures and Christian beliefs. Catholicism should learn and appreciate the importance […]
John Gresham Machen: American Theologian At a certain interval of consciousness, he wrote a telegram with the help of a colleague that proved to his colleagues to have been his last word to the faithful.
Theology of Hope: Moltmann and Pannenberg Based on the founders of the dogma, theology of hope analyses eschatology from the resurrection of the Messiah onwards rather from the creation of the universe.
History of the Dalit Theology in India In Christianity, the main aim of women is to ensure that both genders are represented in the management of the affairs of the church.
Religious Studies and Theology- Major Themes in Quran This is one of the scriptures which indicate that God is in control of the events happening in the Universe. This is reflective of the love of God to man.
Evil in the Theology and Practice of Hinduism and Christianity To understand the concept of evil in Hinduism one should understand the meaning the concept of karma, which is believed to be one of the simplest and at the same time one of the most […]
What is Theology – Faith and Reason in Theology Paul Ricoeur specialized in philosophy and of relevance to this paper are his thoughts on the effect of the past on the present.
Christianity: Theological Themes in Jesus Life The sensitivity of the matter have drawn the attention of many theologians to add their views and understanding of the events and circumstance of the life of Jesus Christ and his role as the founder […]
Tasting the Fruit From the Tree of Knowledge: The Many Ways to Consider and Handle the Torrent of Information From a Theological Standpoint One of the obvious advantages of the information torrent is that it can be used as a powerful means to help spread the Word of God and His commandments to begin with.
The Book of Genesis: Towards Understanding Creation Theology The theology of creation as reflected in Genesis presents the Church’s thinking and views about the relationship between the almighty God and the physical world as it is informed by our own comprehension of the […]
Who Is God in Theology?
What Is a Theological Idea?
How Does Contextual Theology Apply to the Crisis in Syria?
What Role Does Tradition Play Within Theology?
How Does Sacramental Theology Describe the Symbolic Link Between God and Christians?
What Are the Effects of Greek Culture on Christian Theology?
Why Do Scientific Research and Proofs Often Disagree With Christian Theology?
What Is the Value of Theology?
Does Dispensation Theology Differ From Covenant Theology?
What Are Ways That Theology Helps Us?
Why Do We Need to Have Basic Knowledge and Ideas of Theology?
What Is the Basis of Theology?
How Could Theology Be of Help to Our World?
What Is Christian Theology? Is It the Same for All Christians? Should It Be?
Who Is Jesus Christ in Christian Theology?
What Is the Importance of Theology?
How Is Theology Related to Religion?
What Is Theology Reflection?
How Is Theology Applicable in Education?
What Is Theology of Faith?
How Can Studying Theology Help You in Your College Life and Your Future Professional Practice?
Is Theology Still Relevant Today?
What Do Theologians Do?
Who Founded Theology?
What Is the Difference Between Theology and Christianity?
Why Is Natural Theology Important?
Is Theology Part of Philosophy?
How Does Theology Relate to the Bible?
What Is Educational Theology?
Why Is Systematic Theology Important?
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250+ Theology Research Topics That Will Fetch You an A+ Grade

Table of Contents

Theology is an academic discipline that talks about divine, spiritual, and religious beliefs. Across the globe, many educational institutes offer degree courses in theology to help students understand the concepts of religion and human faith. If you are a student who is pursuing a degree in theology or religious studies, then to obtain graduation, for your final assignment, you must submit a thesis on theology research topics.

In case, you are unsure what research topic to choose for your theology thesis, check this blog post. Especially to help you out, here, we have compiled some latest theology research topic ideas. Also, we have provided the key steps for writing an excellent theology research paper. Continue reading to update your knowledge of theology thesis writing.

Steps for Writing a Theology Research Paper

A theology research paper is a type of academic paper that is being prepared on any particular theology topic. Basically, theology is composed of historical, biblical, systematic, and political viewpoints. For writing a theology research paper, you can pick any religion and analyze a topic or subtopic of it from various perspectives.

You may think that writing a theology research paper is easy. But actually, it is not. Theology is a subject that is closely associated with religions and beliefs. As religion is a sensitive discussion topic, you need to be more careful with your opinions and craft the research paper in a non-controversial manner. Also, when writing the theology essay, most importantly, you should try to persuade your readers with valid evidence supporting your opinions about the topic.

If you are not sure how to prepare an impressive theology research paper, then strictly follow the below-mentioned steps.

First, search and find the latest theology research topic that is comfortable for you to write about.
Conduct deep research on the selected topic and gather important ideas and points for research paper topics discussion.
Prepare a neat and clear research paper outline with the collected ideas.

Theology Research Paper Writing

With the help of the essay outline, begin writing the research paper. In the research paper, make sure to organize your opinions and ideas in different sections.
Craft an introductory paragraph. It is the opening part of the research paper where you have to include crispy background information on the topic and a strong thesis statement.
Next, write a literature review. Through your literature review chapter, you should explain how your research and results fill the knowledge gap.
Present details about the research methodology. Here, you should explain what research method you have used to gather and analyze data. In this chapter, avoid sharing details about your results instead talk only about the research methods.
Prepare a data analysis chapter and simply present the results of your research. Here, just mention what data you have used without any detailed explanation.
Write the results chapter. Through this chapter, you should explain to your readers the results of your work, why the results are important, and how the results have answered your research question.
Finally, close your research paper with a conclusion paragraph. In the conclusion section, you should summarize all your findings and add a thesis restatement.
Add a reference page. In the reference section, you should list the details of all the research materials, publications, and other sources you have used in the research paper.
Before submission, proofread the entire research paper and edit the errors in it.

By following all these steps you can come up with a brilliant theology research paper. But remember, the final draft of the research paper that is ready for submission should not contain any errors or plagiarism. Also, when writing the research paper, strictly adhere to your professor’s or university’s research paper writing guidelines, if there are any.

List of the Best Theology Research Paper Topics

In the research paper writing process, topic selection is the most important step that is challenging to handle. If you want to score an A+ grade, then a high level of importance should be given to the topic selection.

Basically, theology is a broad subject with plenty of topics for you to choose from. But when you have many topics, you can find it tough to select a good topic. So, in order to make the topic selection process easier for you, here, we have filtered and prepared a list of the best theology research topics.

Explore the entire list and identify an ideal topic from an area that you have strong knowledge of.

Simple Theology Research Topics

Discuss the economics of religion.
What is Exegetical theology?
Write about theodicy.
Explain the Spirits’ Book.
Explore the origin of Spiritism.
Define postmodernist theology.
What is the role of religion in climate change?
Write about the Fox sisters.
Analyze the Holy Trinity.
Explain your views about God and love.
Explore modern Egyptian religion.
Research the origin of Calvinism.
Describe various religious wars.
Explain the concept of a Mediumship.
Talk about atheism as a religion.
Cultural specifics of religions.
The role of religion in the history of education and Science.
Religion and individual from the perspective of social psychology.
Discuss women’s role in various religions.
Explain the concept of heaven in different religions.
The difference between religion and science.
Discuss Sikhism as a world religion.
Discuss the role of heaven and hell.
Christian Theology and World Religions: Christianity and Islam
“Psychology, Theology, and Spirituality in Christian Counseling” Book by McMinn

Easy Theology Research Topics

Explain the life after death concept.
Analyze the Gnostic faith.
Write about the evolution of holy books.
What are the various forms of evil?
Compare Quran and Bible.
Describe the concept of heaven in different religions.
Explain the role of women in various religions.
What is the role of heaven and hell?
What is the difference between religion and science?
Religion in the globalized world.
Religion and crime: forgiveness and punishment.
The political impact of religion.
What are the links and similarities between the two testaments of the Bible?
Differences in the mode of worship between the 20th century and the 21st century
Why some terrorists use Islam as an excuse for killing people
Are terrorists really as devoted to their religions and beliefs the way they prove they are?
Does dispensation theology differ from covenant theology?

Biblical Theology Research Paper Topics

Write about Psalm 51.
How was Jesus different from other prophets in the Bible?
Explain the concept of homosexuality as discussed in the Bible.
Explain Nehemiah and the question of identity.
Explore the assumptions based on the death of Christ.
What are the popular parables in Bible?
How is the Bible different from all other holy books?
Explain the Ten doctrines of the Bible.
Compare the Old and the New Testaments.
What is the role of Satan?
The effectiveness of faith in Christian life and how it impacts people.
What are the major contributors to divisions in the church?
The Biblical examination of why there are divisions in the church.

Interesting Religion Research Topics

Write about Animism and Deism.
What is the relationship between humanity and spirituality?
Discuss the beliefs of Buddhists.
Talk about the religious conflicts in different parts of the world.
Explain Esotericism.
Investigate the existence of guardian angels.
Analyze the concept of religion in Ancient Egypt.
Talk about religion in Ancient Greece.
What are the reasons for the Catholic Crusades?
Write about ancient religions.
The Christian model of living and how it impacts society.
The religious conflicts in different parts of the world.
How persistent violence affects religious institutions.
The principles of religious institutions funding.

Hinduism Research Topics

What is the meaning of dharma in Hinduism?
Trace the origin of Hinduism.
Talk about Vedic Yajna.
Discuss the Hindu Renaissance.
Write about Vaishnavism.
The politicization of Hinduism through the dowry system.
What is the doctrine of scripture in the catechism of Hinduism?
Explain the history of Hinduism.
How do other religions view Hinduism?
Explain the creation of the world in Hinduism.
What does Hinduism say about Artha?
Talk about Hinduism in Indian culture.
Explain the diversity in Hinduism.
Research a Sanskrit text.
Talk about the Hindu belief system.

Christianity Research Topics

Explain the beliefs of Christians.
What are the various Christian ethics?
What are the main values of Christianity?
Describe Christianity as a way of life.
Explain the history of Christians.
How does Christianity treat abortion?
Explain the concept of Christianity.
What role does Christianity play in world history?
Talk about the Day of Judgment.
Analyze the Redemption of Christ.
Write about Christians in Ancient Rome.
What is the role of women in Christianity?
How does the Christian model of living impact society?
Explain Christian theology.
Discuss the significance of the Christian creed, and confessions in Christianity.
Talk about the sacred ceremonies in Christianity.
Explain Trinity in Christianity.
What is the heritage of Holiness in Christianity?
Discuss the impact of historical theology on modern Christianity.
Nature and faith roles for a Christian.

Research Topics on Buddhism

What is the effect of Buddhism on the modern world?
What does Buddhism say about Karma?
Trace the origin of Buddhism.
Talk about Buddhism in India.
What does dukkha in Buddhism mean?
Write about the creation of the world in Buddhism.
Explain the organizational structures of the Buddhists in Thailand.
Compare Buddhism in Japan and China.
Discuss the modern and postmodern evolution of Buddhism.
What is the meaning of faith in Buddhism?
Discuss the concept of Liberation in Buddhism.
Describe the work of Buddha.
Explain the concept of rebirth in Buddhism.
Talk about humanity in Buddhism.
Explain the concept of the state of nirvana.

Islam Research Topics

What is the meaning of God in Islam?
Talk about Resurrection in Islam.
Discuss the concept of gender equality in Islam.
Talk about fasting in Islam.
Track the origins of Islam.
Are abortions allowed in Islam?
Why is Ramadan a holy month in Islam?
Creation of the world in Islam.
Discuss the history of Islam before and after the birth of Mohammed.
What does Islam teach about gender, sexuality, and identity?
Talk about divine destiny in the Quran.
What are the reproductive rights of women in Islam?
Write about the Prophet Muhammad.
What is the role of women in Islam?
Discuss the concept of Salah.

Judaism Research Topics

Explain Tanakh texts.
Have a closer look at the Jewish movement in Israel.
What is the role of Jews in world history?
Compare Karaites and Samaritans.
Discuss the concept of Halakha.
Can the growth of Israel be linked to the practice of Judaism?
Talk about Palestine.
Write about the history of Judaism.
What does Judaism say about Enlightenment?
Discuss the history of Judaism theology in the United States.

Read more: Great Religious Research Paper Topics That Will Boost Your Academic Scores

Taoism and Confucianism Research Topics

Talk about Taoism in China.
Analyze female shamans in Taoism.
Discuss the history of Taoism.
Explain the concept of Proper Rite in Confucianism.
Research the origins of Confucianism.
Write about the contributions of Confucianism to the world.
Analyze Confucianism.
Discuss the effect of Confucianism on the modern world.
Explore the reflective practice of Taoism.
What is the meaning of faith in Taoism?
Analyze meritocracy in Confucianism.
Discuss the concept of Benevolence in Confucianism.
Talk about Junzi.
Analyze Confucianism during the Tang dynasty.
Write about Chinese martial arts.

Historical Theology Research Ideas

Explain the historical impact of the theology of discipleship.
Discuss the historical contributions of John Calvin to pastoral theology.
What is the value of socio-historical theology in the genealogy of faith?
Write about the history of lost and forgotten books in Christian theology.
Prepare a historical overview of the relationship between race, religion, and culture.
Analyze the past Jewish traditions.
Compare historical and contemporary theology.
Write about the history of pastoral theology.
A brief historical treatise of the martyr’s cause in Islam and Christianity.
Discuss the history and development of evangelism in Abrahamic religions.

Political Theology Research Topics

What is the role of religion in World War I?
Explain the views of religion on nuclear war.
Can religion be separated from the government?
Discuss the political roles of the Pope.
Write about the politics of Vatican City.
What is the role of religious institutions in state politics?
Discuss Augustine’s political and social opinions.
What are religious politics?
What are some Amish views on politics?
Discuss American politics and religion.
What are Illiberal Religions?
Discuss the conflict of war and the intersection of religion.
What is the role of Christianity in World War II?
Write about Terrorism and the politicization of Islam.
Describe the political evolution of the church.

Practical Theology Research Topics

The inclusiveness of the disabled in the theology of humanity.
Explore the practical celebration of God.
Analyze practical theology across all religious denominations.
Discuss the principles of practical theology.
Explain the international perspective of practical theology.
Write about the symbolism of salvation and reincarnation.
Explain the practical exploration of God as an entity.
A practical reflection on religious law systems as against modern law systems.
Interpret African cultures in understanding theology.
Prepare an empirical study of the body and the soul.

Systematic Theology Research Paper Topics

Compare Catholic and Roman dogmatism.
Explain the principles and policies of systematic theology.
What is systematic theology ?
What are the contributions of systematic theology to climate change?
Will systematic theology ever rule the world?
Compare practical theology and systematic theology.
What are the effects of liberation theology?
Describe the viewpoints of Romans and Catholics on systematic theology.
Explain the incarnation of divinity and humanity.
Discuss the perspectives of spiritual darkness and light.
Historicity and historicity in systematic theology.
The systematic theology of the Islamic tradition on animals.
Explain the systematic concept of God and love.
Why are death and hell considered tools of evangelism?
Perspectives of an African-American on systematic theology.

Captivating Theology Discussion Topics

What is the meaning of the soul in different religions?
Is yoga a health or religious practice?
Describe the phenomenon of trickster gods.
Discuss female clergy in different religions.
Talk about religion and economics.
What is the nature of God and its relation with living beings?
Explain the ideas and beliefs behind honor killings in some religions.
Discuss the reflections on the Theology of Worship.
How does religion impact people’s daily life?
Describe the difference between God’s love and human love.

Amazing Theology Thesis Topics

Discuss the effect of the sectarian crisis in the church.
How do the leadership styles and welfare programs impact salvation?
What are the principles of religious institution funding?
Do churches contribute to healthy living in society?
What is Eschatology?
What are the primary effects of servant leadership on Pentecostal fellowship?
Discuss the loss and betrayal based on Theology.
Discuss the polytheistic religion and mythology.
Describe the rise of mega-churches.
Explain the relationship between science and theology.
The impact of the scripture and culture on society.
How is humanism portrayed in society?
Explore our ancestors and their spiritual beliefs.
Explore the pre-existence of the Son of God.
Describe Roman Catholicism.
Understanding dialect, philosophy, and Theology through Scholasticism
Discuss the connection between God, humanity, the world, salvation, and eschatology
Critical analysis of the impact of the dowry system on Hinduism
Describe the factors that make Hindu Dharma different from the Sanatan Dharma
Sanatan Dharma is developed in the interest of the ultimate well-being of humanity that a profound sense of inquiry is brought into everyone’s life: Explain
Discuss the impact of “Existentialism” on theology
Discuss the reasons that make it important to differentiate theology, spirituality, and philosophy
How the Church handles postmodernism theology?
Theology is a pseudoscience: Explain
Discuss the theology behind the Palm Sunday

Trending Theology Research Ideas

Discuss the idea of mankind undergoing a spiritual metamorphosis.
Look for a Sanskrit text; discuss the Hindu Renaissance.
Examine Confucianism in Tang Dynasty China
Discuss the background of Taoism.
Talk about the Confucian idea of benevolence.
Talk about the idea of not hurting living things.
An in-depth examination of Hinduism’s diversity
Mention Mahatma Gandhi
Talk about the idea of postmodernist theology.
Describe religious instruction in the UK.

Outstanding Theology Research Topics

Compare and contrast major and minor Catholic Saints.
Explain Greek Philosophy during the Hellenistic Period.
Describe how Roman Catholicism blended with the Mayan Religion.
Discuss the ways Mazdayasna influences Islam and the Baha’i Faith.
Compare and contrast the Aztec and Mayan religions.
Explain the role Mormonism had on Western expansion in the United States.
Discuss what the library says about the lost tribes of Israel.
Explain how different religions view religious officials and celibacy.
Discuss how the Gnostic Texts differ as presented in the English Bible.
Discuss how the New Testament explains Judaism.

From the list of 250+ amazing ideas, choose any topic that matches your interest and compose a detailed theology research paper with proper evidence. In case, you need an expert to offer you help with theology research paper topic selection and writing, contact us for quick assistance.

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Exploring Faith and Belief: Religious Research Paper Topics

Table of contents

1 Challenges in Religious Research Paper Topics
2.1 Christian Research Paper Topics
2.2 Islam Research Topics
2.3 Siddhartha Essay Topics
2.4 Buddhism Essay Topics
2.5 Hinduism Research Paper Topics
2.6 Judaism Religion
2.7 Theology Research Paper Topics

Exploring the realm of religion opens a multitude of avenues for scholarly inquiry. Research papers on religion delve into profound questions that have captivated humanity throughout history. These studies not only illuminate the intricacies of faith and belief systems but also examine their profound impact on culture, society, and personal identity.

Choosing a research topic about religion requires a thoughtful consideration of a wide spectrum of beliefs, practices, and philosophical interpretations. From the rituals that bind communities to the spiritual philosophies that drive individual conduct, religion research topics offer a rich tapestry of areas for academic exploration. With such diversity, the challenge lies in pinpointing a singular path that resonates with both current discourse and timeless questions of the human experience.

Challenges in Religious Research Paper Topics

Navigating religious research paper topics presents a unique set of challenges. Crafting research questions about religion demands sensitivity and a deep understanding of diverse belief systems. Scholars often grapple with the subjective nature of spirituality, striving to maintain academic rigor while exploring profoundly personal and often religious controversial topics. The multifaceted nature of religious research paper topics also requires an interdisciplinary approach, intersecting with history, sociology, psychology, and theology.

Additionally, researchers must balance insider and outsider perspectives, often working to gain the trust of faith communities while preserving critical distance. Research papers on religion must also contend with varying interpretations of sacred texts and practices, which can vary widely even within a single tradition. Moreover, the dynamic nature of religion, constantly evolving in the face of modernity and globalization, poses a challenge to researchers aiming to capture the contemporary religious landscape accurately. The task, then, is to approach these topics with a blend of scholarly curiosity, methodological precision, and cultural competence.

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List of 70 Religion Topics to Write About

Embark on an intellectual journey with this curated list of 70 religion topics, each offering a unique window into the diverse ways faith shapes and is shaped by the world we live in.

Christian Research Paper Topics

Diving into Christianity offers a rich vein of inquiry for scholars. These biblical topics for research papers present fresh perspectives on age-old discussions, inviting a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most-followed faiths.

The Evolution of Christian Thought in Postmodern Society
Analyzing the Role of Women in Early Christian Communities
The Influence of Christian Ethics on Modern Business Practices
Cross-Cultural Interpretations of Christian Symbols in Global Contexts
The Impact of Digital Media on Christian Worship and Community
Environmental Stewardship and its Theological Roots in Christianity
The Psychological Effects of Christian Practices on Mental Health
A Comparative Study of Christian Mysticism and Contemporary Spiritual Movements
The Political Expressions of Liberation Theology in Latin America
Christian Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence and Bioethics

Islam Research Topics

The study of Islam uncovers a tapestry of cultural, theological, and historical themes. These research topics on religion provide a platform for a nuanced exploration of Islam’s multifaceted impact on the world.

Modern Interpretations of Sharia Law in Various Islamic Societies
The Role of Sufism in Contemporary Islamic Practice
Islamic Economic Principles and Their Application in the 21st Century
Gender Dynamics within Islamic Theology and Practice
Islamic Artistic Expression in the Digital Age
The Influence of Islam on Classical Scientific Discovery and Philosophy
The Political Significance of Islam in Non-Majority Muslim Countries
Interfaith Dialogues between Islamic and Western Philosophical Traditions
The Evolution of Islamic Educational Institutions from Classical to Modern Times
The Representation of Islam in Western Media and its Societal Impact

Siddhartha Essay Topics

Hermann Hesse’s “Siddhartha” is a rich narrative ripe for exploration, intertwining themes of self-discovery and spirituality. These religion topics to write about offer a pathway to understanding the profound messages embedded in this classic tale.

The Concept of Enlightenment in Siddhartha Versus Traditional Buddhist Teachings
River Imagery as a Symbol of Life’s Journey in Siddhartha
Siddhartha’s Relationship with Nature as a Reflection of His Spiritual Quest
The Influence of Hermann Hesse’s Personal Beliefs on the Portrayal of Religion in Siddhartha
Comparing Siddhartha’s Ascetic Life with Modern Minimalist Movements
The Role of Mentorship and its Impact on Siddhartha’s Spiritual Evolution
The Dichotomy of Material Wealth and Spiritual Fulfillment in Siddhartha
Siddhartha’s Search for Authenticity Amidst Societal Expectations
The Function of Love in Siddhartha’s Journey Towards Self-Actualization
Relevance of Siddhartha’s Lessons in the Context of Contemporary Religious Practice

Buddhism Essay Topics

Buddhism, with its profound philosophical foundations and global influence, provides a fertile ground for scholarly exploration. These religious research topics and world religion paper topics delve into the heart of Buddhist doctrine and its practical implications in today’s world.

The Intersection of Buddhist Philosophy and Contemporary Psychotherapy
Ethical Consumption and Environmentalism through the Lens of Buddhist Teachings
The Role of Meditation in Modern Healthcare as Influenced by Buddhism
Analysis of Buddhist Responses to the Challenges of Globalization
The Adaptation of Zen Aesthetics in Western Art and Architecture
Buddhist Principles in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding Efforts
The Impact of Technological Advancements on Traditional Buddhist Practices
A Study of Gender Roles within Buddhist Monastic Communities
The Influence of Buddhism on Western Philosophical Thought
Exploring the Growth of Buddhist Tourism and its Cultural Impacts

Hinduism Research Paper Topics

Hinduism’s rich tapestry of mythology, philosophy, and cultural practices presents an expansive field for academic inquiry. The following religion topics for research paper encompass both the depth of Hindu traditions and contemporary issues, offering a platform for insightful discourse.

Analyzing the Impact of Hinduism on India’s Environmental Policies
Feminine Divinity in Hinduism and its Influence on Gender Roles
The Evolution of Hindu Temple Architecture Over Centuries
Caste System Interpretations in Modern Hindu Society
Yoga as a Global Phenomenon: Origins and Transformations from Hindu Traditions
The Role of Hinduism in Forming India’s National Identity
The Philosophy of Karma and its Relevance to Modern Ethics
Ayurveda: Ancient Hindu Science of Health in the Modern Wellness Industry
The Dynamics of Hindu Pilgrimage: Economy, Ecology, and Tradition
Hindu Rituals and their Psychological Implications in Contemporary Practice

Judaism Religion

The exploration of Judaism offers insights into one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, rich with history and tradition. While the following topics are not centered on religion research paper topics, they reflect the depth and diversity inherent in Jewish studies.

The Influence of Jewish Mysticism on Contemporary Religious Thought
The Preservation of Jewish Traditions in Diaspora Communities
Jewish Perspectives on Bioethics and Modern Medical Dilemmas
The Role of the Synagogue in Jewish Cultural and Religious Life
The Impact of the Holocaust on Theological Understandings in Judaism
Jewish Contributions to Interfaith Dialogue and Peacebuilding
The Evolution of Kosher Laws and Their Application in the Food Industry
The Intersection of Jewish Law and Modern State Legislation
The Role of Hebrew Language Revival in Jewish Identity Formation
Jewish Feminist Theology and its Quest for Gender Equality in Religious Practice

Theology Research Paper Topics

Theology, the systematic study of the divine, invites scholars to probe the depths of religious belief and practice. These theology research paper topics are designed to inspire critical thought and original analysis on various aspects of spiritual inquiry.

The Role of Prophecy in Abrahamic Religions Comparative Study
Liberation Theology’s Influence on Social Justice Movements
Theological Responses to the Problem of Evil in Different Faiths
The Impact of Feminist Theology on Traditional Religious Practices
The Integration of Theology and Science in the Modern World
The Concept of the Afterlife in Theological and Philosophical Perspectives
Ecumenism and the Pursuit of Christian Unity in Theology
Theological Underpinnings of Contemporary Environmental Ethics
The Influence of Digital Media on Theological Education
The Role of Ritual in Expressing and Shaping Theological Beliefs

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How to do Research on Religion

Whether reading biblical passages or considering the inherent meanings of religious artifacts, enormous opportunities exist today for students, researchers, and believers to more fully explore the common characteristics, conceptions (and misconceptions), methods, practices, and traditions of religions from around the world.

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To satisfy your strong desire to explore traditional and nontraditional religions, differences between one religion over another, laws separating church and state, or deeply rooted religious theories or changing attitudes towards religion, almost everything in the world related to this specific field of study is accessible in some form. This article surveys a large selection of sources for research papers on religion and theology.

Selected Subject Headings

Listed below is a sample of a few broad Library of Congress subject headings—made up of one word or more representing concepts under which all library holdings are divided and subdivided by subject—which you can search under and use as subject terms as well when searching online library catalogs for preliminary and/or additional research, such as books, audio and video recordings, and other references, related to your research paper topic. When researching materials on your topic, subject heading searching may be more productive than searching using simple keywords. However, keyword searching when using the right search method (Boolean, etc.) and combination of words can be equally effective in finding materials more closely relevant to the topic of your research paper.

Selected Keyword Search Strategies and Guides

If your topic is “prayer in the public schools,” for example, enter “prayer” and “public schools” with “and” on the same line to locate sources directly compatible with the primary focus of your research paper. To find research on more specific aspects of your topic, from your list of keywords that you developed, alternate with one new keyword at a time in between (for example, “prayer and equality and public schools,” “prayer and free speech and public schools,” “prayer and protests and public schools,” “prayer and religion and public schools,” “prayer and states and public school,” etc.).

For additional help with keyword searching, navigation or user guides for online indexes and databases by many leading providers—including Cambridge Scientific Abstracts, EBSCO, H.W. Wilson, OCLC, Ovid Technologies, ProQuest, and Thomson Gale—are posted with direct links on library Web sites to guides providing specific instruction to using whichever database you want to search. They provide additional guidance on how to customize and maximize your searching, including advanced searching techniques and grouping of words and phrases using the Boolean search method—of your topic, of bibliographic records, and of full-text articles, and other documents related to the subject of your research paper.

Selected Source and Subject Guides

As part of your preliminary research to find appropriate resources for your research paper, information source and research guides are available at most public and academic libraries and are keyword searchable through your library’s online catalog (to search and locate guides enter your “subject” followed by these keywords one search at a time: “information sources,” “reference sources,” and “research guide”). Printed guides available for this subject area include

American Religion and Philosophy: A Guide to Information Sources , by Ernest R. Sandeen and Frederick Hale, 377 pages (Detroit, Mich.: Gale Research Co., 1978)

A Guide to Information Sources for Social Work and the Human Services , by Henry N. Mendelsohn, 136 pages (Phoenix, Ariz.: Oryx Press, 1987)

Religion Information Sources: A Worldwide Guide , by J. Gordon Melton and Michael A. Koszegi, 569 pages (New York: Garland Pub., 1992)

Theological and Religious Reference Material: General Resources and Biblical Studies , by G. E. Gorman and Lyn Gorman (Westport, Conn.: Greenwood Press, 1984)

In addition to these sources of research, most college and university libraries offer online subject guides arranged by subject on the library’s Web page; others also list searchable course-related “LibGuides” by subject. Each guide lists more recommended published and Web sources—including books and references, journal, newspaper and magazines indexes, full-text article databases, Web sites, and even research tutorials—you can access to expand your research on more specific issues and relevant to the subject of your research paper.

Selected Books and References

Dictionary of American Religious Biography , 2nd ed., by Henry Warner Bowden, 720 pages (Westport, Conn.: Greenwood Press, 1993)

This revised and enlarged second edition offers 550 biographical sketches, including 125 brand-new entries, of the most prominent religious figures in history “reflecting America’s cultural and religious diversity.” Each entry summarizes the subject’s personal history and his or her contributions to religious life, followed by a list of sources. Appendixes provide easy cross-referencing of subjects by religious denomination and place of birth.

Dictionaries

Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible , edited by David Noel Freedman, 1,425 pages (Grand Rapids, Mich.: W. B. Eerdmans, 2000)

Written by 600 leading scholars of all theological persuasions, this first-rate illustrated dictionary covers nearly 5,000 books, persons, places, and major terms noted in the Bible. Each entry critically analyzes each biblical book and related writings, as well as their “cultural, natural, geographical, and literary importance.”

Religious Sites in America: A Dictionary , by Mary Ellen Snodgrass, 508 pages (Santa Barbara, Calif.: ABC-CLIO, 2000)

Comprehensively explores some 160 worship groups and religious centers in the United States, including their origin, history, location, and purpose.

Encyclopedias and Guides

Encyclopedia of American Religions , 8th ed., by J. Gordon Melton, 3 vols., 1,253 pages (Detroit, Mich.: Gale, 2009)

This three-volume reference, updated in 2009, features descriptive essays on more than 2,300 prominent and obscure North American religious groups in the United States and Canada, from Adventists to Zen Buddhists, and 22 religious families. Entries focus on the origins and traditions of each religious group. Also available online and in an e-book edition.

The Encyclopedia of Christianity , edited by Erwin Fahlbusch et al., 912 pages (Grand Rapids, Mich.: W. B. Eerdmans; Leiden, Netherlands: Brill Academic Publishers, 2008)

This five-volume set, an English version of the German edition, Evangelisches Kirchenlexikon, thoroughly surveys the 2,000-year history of Christianity from a global perspective. Articles discuss religions and their philosophies and include statistical information on other continents and more than 170 countries in context. Relevant social and cultural issues are likewise discussed, including armaments, genocide, and racism, as well as biblical and apostolic traditions.

HarperCollins Concise Guide to World Religions: The A-to-Z Encyclopedia of All the Major Religious Traditions , by Mircea Eliade and Ioan P. Couliano, with Hillary S. Wiesner, 320 pages (New York: HarperCollins, 1999)

Fascinating A-to-Z guide that explores 33 major religions and religious traditions around the world, from Buddhism to the religions of Africa and Oceania. Entries also cover religious figures, histories, mythologies, mystical techniques, and sacred texts in context.

Religions of the World: A Comprehensive Encyclopedia of Beliefs and Practices , edited by J. Gordon Melton and Martin Baumann, 4 vols., 1,507 pages (Santa Barbara, Calif.: ABC-CLIO, 2002)

Features core essays on major religious traditions and also 1,000 religious groups and 276 recognized nations and territories, principally focusing on the development and practice of those religions covered.

Contemporary American Religion , by Wade Clark Roof, 2 vols., 861 pages (New York: Macmillan Library Reference, 1999)

This highly recommended reference features more than 500 well-written articles on contemporary religion, religious personalities, and other popular topics, such as fundamentalist Christianity, Feng Shui, Elvis cults, and temptation. Each article is followed by a list of references for further study. Approximately 200 black-and-white photos and graphics complement the text. An e-book version was published in 2003.

Selected Full-Text Article Databases

Academic Search Elite (Ipswich, Mass.: EBSCO Publishing, EBSCOHost, indexing/abstracting: 1984– , full text: 1990– )

Provides access to full-text articles on current and past events and a broad range of academic disciplines. Abstracts are indexed since 1984, full-text articles from 1990 to the present.

ATLA Religion Database (Chicago: American Theological Librarian Association/Cambridge Scientific Abstracts/EBSCO Publishing, EBSCOHost/National Information Services Corp./OCLC, 1949– )

This premier online database—also known as the Religion Index Database—indexes more than 1.9 million citations, with some full text, of articles, book reviews, and essay collections from some 1,577 journals and 15,300 multi-authored works from the past 50 years in all fields of religion. Subcategories include religious research in such fields as anthropology, business, history, law, medicine, sociology, and psychology. Also available in compact disc form as ATLA Religion Database on CD-ROM, both versions correspond to the printed editions of Religion Index One: Periodicals, 1949– ; Religion Index Two: Multi-Author Works, 1960– ; Index to Book Reviews in Religion, 1949– ; Research in Ministry: An Index to D.Min. Project Reports and Theses, 1981– ; and Methodist Reviews Index, 1818–1985.

ATLA Serials Online (Chicago: American Theological Librarian Association, 1924– )

Offered individually and as part of the ATLA Religion Database, this full-text collection covers 50 religion and theology journals, including more than 50,000 articles and book reviews, from 1924 to the present in the fields of archaeology, Bible study, ethics, missions, pastoral ministry, philosophy, religion, society, and theology. Journals include Arts, Archaeology, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, Christian Century, Eastern Buddhist, International Bulletin of Missionary Research, and many others.

InfoTrac Religion & Philosophy (Farmington Hills, Mich.: Thomson Gale InfoTrac, indexing: early 1980s– , full text: 1983– )

Updated daily, this Web database contains more than 1.1 million articles discussing the impact of religion on culture throughout history, including arts, literature, and language, culled from more than 250 academic journals and magazines covering all aspects of religion and related disciplines, among them, anthropology, archaeology, and philosophy.

International Medieval Bibliography (IMB) (Leeds, U.K.: University of Leeds; Turnhout, Belgium: International Medieval Institute, 1967– )

Indexes full-text articles from more 4,000 periodicals and 5,000 miscellaneous volumes, including conference proceedings, essay collections, and Festschriften, on the Middle Ages in Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa from c. 400 to 1500. IMB online is the electronic version.

LexisNexis Academic Universe (Dayton, Ohio: LexisNexis, 1970– )

Current events database offering full-text articles on a broad spectrum of fields and subjects, including news, business, legal information, country and state profiles, federal case law, the U.S. Code, the Constitution, and court rulings.

ProQuest Direct (Ann Arbor, Mich.: ProQuest/UMI, indexing: 1971– , full text: 1986– )

This online database indexes citations and abstracts to articles from popular magazines and newspapers as well as general and academic journals in all fields of study, many of them in full text from 1986 to the present. Disciplines covered include culture, current events, history, literature, psychology, religion, sociology, and women’s studies.

The Philosopher’s Index (Bowling Green, Ohio: Philosophy Documentation Center, Bowling Green State University/Cambridge Scientific Abstracts, 1940– )

This online index cites journal articles, books, contributions to anthologies, and book reviews from nearly 570 journals of philosophy from 43 countries. Topics covered include aesthetics, epistemology, ethics, metaphysic logic, political philosophy, and the philosophy of law, religion, science, history, education, and language, with links to full-text where available. The Philosopher’s Index: A Retrospective Index to Non-U.S. English Language Publications from 1940 is the print equivalent to this electronic edition.

ProQuest Religion (Ann Arbor, Mich.: ProQuest, 1986– )

Updated daily, this Web-based database—formerly called ProQuest Religious Periodicals—features a fully searchable index of more than 150 titles, including 130 full-text religious periodicals, including Catechist, Cistercian Studies Quarterly, Journal of Biblical Literature, Old Testament Abstracts, Spiritual Life, Theological Studies, and 85 other English-language religious publications. Indexing is for items published since 1986, with full-text material from the early to mid-1990s. Articles are available in different formats (text or image).

Religion and Philosophy Collection (Ipswich, Mass.: EBSCO Publishing, EBSCOHost, 1975– )

This essential tool for researchers and students of theology and philosophical studies features abstracts and full-text articles from nearly 300 journals, including almost 250 peer-reviewed titles. Subjects covered include biblical studies, epistemology, major denominations, philosophy, religious history, and world religions. Journals indexed in the collection include Archaeology, Biblical Interpretation, British Journal for the History of Philosophy, Catholic Historical Review, Christianity Today, Comparative Sociology, Ethics, Greek Orthodox Theological Review, Islamic Law and Society, Journal of Jewish Thought and Philosophy, Method and Theory in the Study of Religion, and many more.

Wilson OmniFile Full Text Select (Bronx, N.Y.: H.W. Wilson Co., Wilson Disc/WilsonWeb, January 1994– )

High-quality indexed and abstracted articles, all in full text on CD-ROM and online, culled from the following H.W. Wilson databases: Readers’ Guide Abstracts, Humanities Abstracts, General Science Abstracts, Social Sciences Abstracts, and Wilson Business Abstracts.

Selected Periodicals

America (New York: America Press, Inc., 1909– , weekly)

Published and edited by lay Roman Catholics, this national Catholic weekly, founded by Jesuits of the United States in 1909, offers commentary and opinion from various standpoints on many social and political issues, written by well-known writers and theologians. Contents include timely and thought-provoking articles, book, film or art reviews, and special issues on crucial topics and prominent individuals. Articles from earlier published volumes are referenced in such major print and online indexes as Catholic Index, Guide to Social Science and Religion Periodical Literature, New Testament Abstracts, Old Testament Abstracts, and The Reader’s Guide to Periodical Literature. Back issues of America are available online through ProQuest Religious Periodicals from 1988 to the present.

Christian Century: An Ecumenical Magazine (Chicago: Christian Century Co., 1884– , biweekly)

Established in 1884, this biweekly nondenominational journal has offered a moderate to liberal viewpoint on matters of religion, politics, and society. For more than 100 years, the publication has published articles by some of the most respected theologians, historians, and church leaders examining ethical and social issues, contemporary concerns, and religious and moral issues. In addition, the staff-written and contributed articles and editorials have focused on such topics as poverty, human rights, economic justice, international relations, national priorities, and popular culture from a religious perspective.

Christianity Today (Carol Stream, Ill.: Christianity Today, 1956– , biweekly)

Founded by Protestants more than 40 years ago, Christianity Today features in-depth news, articles, editorials, and reviews on Christian life of interest to ministers and other religious professionals. Each issue explores the major challenges facing Christians today, including education, family, life ethics, money and business, persecution, politics and law, sexuality and gender, and social justice, all written from an evangelical Christian perspective. Issues from 1994 to the present are accessible through the publisher’s archives page at http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2013/ .

Commentary (New York: American Jewish Committee, 1945– , monthly)

Adhering to its mission to “clarify public opinion on problems of Jewish concern,” this monthly journal focuses on major Jewish issues in United States and abroad. Published since 1945 by the American Jewish Committee, each issue provides commentary and opinion on political topics and problems of bigotry, human rights, and Jewish cultural interests. Full-text of the journal is available via the online databases PCI Full Text (1945–90), and Expanded Academic ASAP (1992– ).

Commonweal (New York: Calvert Pub. Corp., 1924– , 22 times yearly)

Reflecting a largely Roman Catholic perspective, this award-winning, independent opinion journal, edited and managed by lay Catholics, focuses on contemporary and social issues of interest to Roman Catholics. Each issue comprises columns, editorials, essays, letters to the editors, and reviews of books, movies, plays, and other media. Tables of contents with selected links to articles in current and past issues, from 1997 to the present, are retrievable online at http://www.commonwealmagazine.org/ . Issues are also searchable back to 1924 but full-text articles require a nominal fee.

Journal of the American Academy of Religion (Oxford University Press, 1933– , quarterly)

One of the top academic journals in its field, Journal of the American Academy of Religion features scholarly articles exploring a variety of theological issues. In addition to provocative and insightful articles, each issue includes a large section of reviews of current literature. The journal is indexed and abstracted in such popular databases as ATLA Religion Database, Guide to Social Science and Religion in Periodical Literature, Humanities Index, ISI: Current Contents, New Testament Abstracts, Religion Index One: Periodicals, Religious and Theological Abstracts, and Religious Periodical Index. To browse full text .PDF (2001– ) and HTML articles (2000– ) from past issues, visit the publication archives at http://jaar.oxfordjournals.org/content/by/year .

Journal of Early Christian Studies (Baltimore, Md.: Johns Hopkins University Press/North American Patristics Society, 1993– , quarterly)

The official publication of the North American Patristics Society (NAPS), this quarterly scholarly journal principally focuses on the study of Christianity and late ancient societies and religions from AD 100–700. Contents of each issue include engaging articles about traditional patristics scholarship, new themes, and methodologies, plus an extensive book review section. Previously published issues are indexed and abstracted in several leading databases, including Arts and Humanities Citation Index, ISI: Current Contents, Humanities Index, MLA International Bibliography, and New Testament Abstracts.

Modern Judaism: A Journal of Jewish Ideas and Experience (Baltimore, Md.: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1981– , three times yearly)

This interdisciplinary scholarly journal discusses the modern Jewish experience. Articles address topics relevant to “the understanding of Jewish life today and the forces that have shaped that experience.” Modern Judaism is indexed and abstracted in a variety of online databases, including ATLA Religion Database, America: History and Life, Arts and Humanities Citation Index, Historical Abstracts, Humanities Index, Index to Jewish Periodicals, and many others. Full-text access of past issues is offered online through ProjectMUSE (1996– ).

Religious Studies Review (Hanover, Pa.: Council on the Study of Religion, 1975– , quarterly)

Published by the Council of Societies for the Study of Religion in association with Valparaiso University since September 1975, this scholarly journal reviews more than 1,000 publications annually in the field of religious studies and related disciplines. Each issue includes lengthy essays on recent books or single-topic articles. In addition, the journal publishes bibliographies and a registry of religious dissertations completed or currently in progress.

Selected Web Sites

Adherents.com ( http://www.adherents.com/ )

Reportedly the second most frequently visited general religion site on the Internet, this independently operated Web site features 43,870 adherent statistics and religious geography citations of published membership/adherent statistics and congregation statistics for some 4,200 religions, churches, denominations, and more worldwide.

Glossary of Religious Terms ( http://www.religioustolerance.org/glossary.htm )

This Web page offers a helpful glossary of important terms for various religious groups around the world.

Religious Movements ( http://www.has.vcu.edu/wrs/ )

Part of the Religious Movements Homepage Project at the University of Virginia, this Web site offers an archived version of profiles about more than 200 different religious groups and movements in the world today, as well as essays, articles, and other valuable resources through 2003 following the passing of its editor Jeff Hadden.

Virtual Religion Index ( http://virtualreligion.net/vri/ )

Global directory cataloging a myriad of religion-related Web pages with links from the Rutgers University Religion Department.

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Michael Milton and Faith for Living, Inc.

October 30, 2017

What is Theological Reflection and Critical Thinking and How do I Use it in a Graduate-level Research Paper?

“How do I write a research paper for seminary? And just what exactly is ‘theological reflection’ and ‘critical thinking?'”

Good questions. Necessary answers.

In response, I am humbly providing the following guide to my students in graduate theological and religious studies (seminary). This guide may, however, be of help to others (of other disciplines) in graduate school, particularly as the student seeks to incorporate critical thinking into the paper. And, yes, I do believe that we can define both critical thinking and theological reflection.

Writing a Research Paper in Theology and Religious Studies

A brief guide, michael a. milton, phd, mdiv., mpa, the james ragsdale chair of missions and evangelism; president, the d. james kennedy institute for reformed leadership.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14

Graduate-level research and writing can be a mystery of sorts. It doesn’t have to be. Let me give you some concrete steps that I trust will be of some assistance.

Definitions:

Theological reflection:.

The ability of a student to isolate a presenting issue and place it within the larger framework of systematic or Biblical theology; moving from the immediate context to a practical application.

Critical Thinking:

The demonstrated ability of a student to review a presenting issue, literature and experiences that can speak to the presenting issue, and the demonstration of tools (i.e., theological reflection) to come to terms with the implications of the presenting matter. Coming to terms may include practical application to a pressing real-world problem, or being able to merely state the problem in the simplest terms for further study.

A Suggested Framework of a Research Paper in Theology and Religious Studies Incorporating Theological Reflection and Critical Thinking

State the question of your papers.

E.g., “Holiness is ordinarily associated with sanctification. Yet, the question of this week is ‘What is the meaning of vocational holiness?’ The question, thus, links sanctification with one’s call to and, possibly, to the faithful practice of that vocation.”

Isolate the theological issue at hand.

The theological issue that is surrounding the larger question has presenting issues that if not grasped or followed can have negative consequences. The theological issue can, also, hopefully, have constructive or spiritually healthy results. Speak to these. Explore these within the instructor’s stated limits of words or pages.

Thus, a student might respond to the question of the week supposed in the previous paragraph:

“The Bible states that shepherds must be faithful to ‘know well the condition of your flocks and give attention to your herds’ (Proverbs 27:23). This command calls us to reflect upon the matter of faithful pastoral ministry. It, also, becomes, in a sense, “The Imitation of Christ” (De Imitatione Christi by Thomas a’ Kempis). For the Lord Jesus Christ identified Himself as a “Good Shepherd” in the Gospel of John (10:11-18).

Thus, the student might postulate from this Biblical survey, “The real matter at hand may be characterized as faithfulness: faithfulness in the God-ordained calling and in a greater understanding of what that vocation entails.”

Integrate your readings, research, and, not always necessary, your experience, but, certainly, always, your critical thinking.

Use scholarly indexes (e.g., ATLA, JSTOR, etc.) to research peer-reviewed journal articles on “Jesus as Good Shepherd,” or “vocational holiness,” or “Faithful Gospel Ministry,” or “Shepherd as a metaphor for pastors in the Old Testament.” Be creative in the way you use key words and phrases for your search.
What is most relevant in citations? Some “authorities” are not allowed (e.g., Wikipedia), but even such cites can be helpful in “following the footnote trail.”
The taxonomy of citation authorities might be listed as:
Other peer-reviewed articles (if not in Theology and Religious Studies, then, perhaps, is a social science, or archeology, etc.);
A volume by an SME (an SME by acclamation of the Academy or by peers in the profession, not by his or her own self-identification);
Popular SME publications (e.g., “Christianity Today”);
Interviews with SMEs, documented and articulated in correct Turabian layout;
Other books (e.g., “East of Eden” by John Steinbeck might provide insight into the human condition).
“Our assigned text also says …”
“In my own life, I have seen how this has worked both positively and negatively. Once, when I was in school . . .”
See the Turabian Guide here.

Conclusions

Restate the question.
Summarize the research.
Make your concluding statement.

Other Resources

Writing the Weekly Research Paper: https://michaelmilton.org/2016/07/24/writing-the-weekly-research-paper/
A Brief Guide for Writing Theological Reflection Papers:
https://michaelmilton.org/2014/08/13/a-brief-guide-for-writing-theological-reflection-papers/
A good source for research (in addition to the Library database, always your first destination): “Annotated Links to Websites on Religion and Theology:” https://www.wabashcenter.wabash.edu/resources/website-on-religion/

Research and Course Guides
Systematic Theology (Revelation, Tradition, and Doctrine)
Ecclesiology

Systematic Theology (Revelation, Tradition, and Doctrine): Ecclesiology

Getting Started
Reference Works
Finding Books
Finding Articles
Doctrine of God
Christology
Trinitarian Theology
Pneumatology
Anthropology
Soteriology
Eschatology

Introduction

Ecclesiology is an in-depth scriptural and historical examination of the mystery of the Church. Explores the historical origins of contemporary issues in ecclesiology such as universal salvation, Chrisitan unity, authority and collegiality, the role of laity and infallibility. Additional topics include the mission, membership and ministries of the Catholic Church in the world, and its relationship to other churches.

The Catholic Church is highly organized, with local parishes as its building blocks and a central government in the Vatican. Catholics are defined as those who are in communion with the pope.

Recommendations

Lumen Gentium

Dominus Iesus

Ecclesiology I The Church: The People of God Since these are websites -- check with your professors to see if they will let you use any of these links for your papers.
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