What is a “Blue Collar Theologian?”

Everyone and I mean EVERYONE is a theologian and far too often we are cerebral or emotional theologians. We profess Christ, we think about Christ, we want to feel Christ, but our hands and feet are not doing the work of Christ.

In a post for my Introduction to Christian Theology class I referred to myself as a “Blue Collar Theologian” (it has stayed with me since). Too often it seemed as though we discussed Christ and His Work on the Cross but that it did not really apply to us, like it was only for the people we minister to. To be fair, our class was completely online, so I very well could be wrong about this (I hope and pray that I am!).

“Blue Collar Theologian” is a term/word/reminder to be humble and vulnerable for Christ. It is NEVER easy to be vulnerable and to show the outward signs of struggle, especially in professional or academic circles. Being a “Blue Collar Theologian” is a reminder that Christ is my Boss, my Master, He directs and guides me. I am His hands and feet. A “Blue Collar Theologian” is one who is willing to get in the trenches with people no matter how dark, ugly and dirty. A “Blue Collar Theologian” also recognizes when they need to lay aside pride and ask for help from their fellow believers when life is dark, ugly and mundane. A “Blue Collar Theologian” is one who will do whatever is required/necessary to help others to come to know Christ and to build up His Body.

Please know I do NOT nor am I suggesting that I get this right all the time or even most of the time! I fail a lot. Being a “Blue Collar Theologian” is not without risk. It is having the heart and mind of Christ with the boldness, courage and confidence of Paul. Being a “Blue Collar Theologian” requires me to decrease and Christ to increase (John 3:30). I pray you will join me!

Father God, it is my prayer that each one of us will become a “Blue Collar Theologian.” Lord, I ask that You will convict us where our theology does not align with Yours and where we are not putting Your Word into practice. Lord, may we seek You as we live out the faith You have entrusted to us. It is in Your strength that we are able to do anything. I thank You Father for Your grace, mercy and love. Lord, good theology moves from head, to heart, to hand. May we be so moved by You and for You that we will risk vulnerability and embarrassment to bring others closer to You. Lord, I ask that we will become “Blue Collar Theologians” in Jesus’s Name, through the power of the Holy Spirit, to the glory of God the Father, Amen!