What does theology study?

The study of theology primarily focuses on understanding the nature of God, exploring concepts such as divine attributes, the relationship between God and humanity, and the implications of God’s existence on various aspects of life and belief systems. This discipline involves systematic examination of religious beliefs, doctrines, and experiences, often through philosophical and analytical approaches, aiming to gain deeper insights into the divine and spiritual matters.

While the other options relate to important aspects of religious studies, they do not encapsulate the core focus of theology itself. The nature of mankind and society can be examined through various disciplines, including sociology and philosophy, but they do not specifically pertain to the study of God. The application of biblical teachings is more about practical theology or ethics rather than the study of God himself. Similarly, the historical context of religious texts falls under biblical criticism or historical theology, which, while relevant, are subfields that support a broader understanding of theology rather than defining it. Thus, the main thrust of theology is indeed the formal study of the nature of God.