JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES

Scope & Guideline

Connecting scholars through rigorous theological dialogue.

Introduction

Welcome to the JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of JOURNAL OF THEOLOGICAL STUDIES, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0022-5185
PublisherOXFORD UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1899 to 1913, from 1915 to 1995, from 2002 to 2024
AbbreviationJ THEOL STUD / J. Theol. Stud.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressGREAT CLARENDON ST, OXFORD OX2 6DP, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Theological Studies aims to provide a platform for scholarly discourse on various theological topics, with a focus on historical, philosophical, and practical aspects of theology. It encompasses a wide range of methodologies, from textual criticism to historical analysis, and emphasizes the interplay between scripture, tradition, and contemporary issues.
  1. Historical Theology:
    The journal frequently publishes papers that explore the development of theological thought throughout history, focusing on key figures, movements, and doctrinal controversies.
  2. Biblical Studies:
    A significant portion of the journal's content is dedicated to in-depth analyses of biblical texts, including textual criticism, hermeneutics, and theological implications.
  3. Patristics and Early Christianity:
    The journal emphasizes research on early Christian writers and their contributions to theological discourse, examining the evolution of doctrines and practices in the early church.
  4. Ecclesiology and Worship:
    There is a consistent focus on the nature and role of the church, including studies on liturgical practices, sacraments, and the relationship between faith and community.
  5. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    The journal encourages interdisciplinary research that connects theology with philosophy, history, sociology, and cultural studies, reflecting the complex nature of theological inquiry.
The Journal of Theological Studies is witnessing the emergence of several new trends and themes that reflect current scholarly interests and societal contexts. These trends indicate areas of growth and evolving discourse within the field of theology.
  1. Eucharistic Theology:
    Recent publications have shown a growing interest in the theological implications and historical development of Eucharistic practices, reflecting contemporary debates on sacraments in different Christian traditions.
  2. Interdisciplinary and Contextual Theology:
    There is a notable trend towards interdisciplinary approaches that integrate theology with contemporary issues such as environmental ethics, gender studies, and cultural contexts, allowing for a richer understanding of faith.
  3. Historical Reception and Interpretation:
    Emerging themes focus on how biblical texts and theological concepts have been received and interpreted throughout history, emphasizing the dynamic nature of theological discourse across different eras.
  4. Theological Responses to Modernity:
    An increase in research addressing the interactions between theology and modern philosophical thought, including postmodern critiques and the implications for faith, suggests a vibrant engagement with contemporary challenges.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of Theological Studies has maintained a strong focus on several core themes, certain areas appear to be declining in prominence based on recent publications. This shift may reflect changing academic interests and the evolving landscape of theological research.
  1. Modern Theology:
    Papers addressing contemporary theological movements and figures have decreased, suggesting a waning interest in recent developments in theology compared to historical perspectives.
  2. Ethics and Social Justice:
    There seems to be a decline in papers focused explicitly on ethical issues and social justice within theological contexts, potentially indicating a shift towards more historical and doctrinal studies.
  3. Ecumenical Dialogues:
    Research discussing inter-denominational dialogues and ecumenical efforts has become less frequent, possibly reflecting a narrowing of focus towards more specific theological traditions.

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