Gregory of Nazianzus was serious about the art of theology (see here). He asks this question, “What is the right time” to do theology? This is the answer he gives:

Whenever we are free from the mire and noise without, and our commanding faculty is not confused by illusory, wandering images, leading us, as it were, to mix fine script with ugly scrawling, or sweet-smelling scent with slime. We need actually “to be still” in order to know God, and when we receive the opportunity, “to judge uprightly” in theology. [1]

Maybe it is just me, but I really appreciate the seriousness that Gregory presumes should accompany the theological tasks. He makes me rethink my approach.

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[1] Oriation 27.3 (trans. F. Williams)

In a world of blogs, Twitter, self-publication, and church gatherings that are equated with discussing theology in a pub, I wonder what people think of the following words written by Gregory of Nazianzus:

Discussion of theology is not for everyone, I tell you, not for everyone–it is no such inexpensive or effortless pursuit. Nor, I would add, is it for every occasion, or every audience; neither are all its aspects open to inquiry. It must be reserved for certain occasions, for certain audiences, and certain limits must be observed. It is not for all people, but only for those who have been tested and have found a sound footing in study, and, more importantly, have undergone, or at the very least are undergoing, purification of body and soul. For one who is not pure to lay hold of pure things is dangerous, just as it is for weak eyes to look at the sun’s brightness. [1]

I get the feeling Gregory may not have had a blog! Do we need to be a bit more serious, even cautious, about our theological speculation? Has the holy become too familiar?

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[1] Oriation 27.3 (trans. F. Williams)