Historically Regulated Theological Synthesis

Christian theology often claims the authority of Scripture while relying on interpretive frameworks that function, in practice, as the ultimate authority. This tension is common in traditions shaped by sola Scriptura, where historical-critical conclusions may be selectively accepted or reinterpreted to fit existing doctrinal commitments. This paper proposes Historically Regulated Theological Synthesis (HRTS), a method designed to structure systematic theology so that it remains accountable to historical-critical interpretation and biblical theology while allowing for reasoned doctrinal development. HRTS is neither reductionist nor minimalist. It provides a transparent, disciplined framework for moving from text to doctrine. The paper outlines the stages of HRTS, its constraints, and its potential applications, and invites scholarly collaboration to refine the method.