SOCTP members find the academic study of Christian theology and philosophy significant because universally, humanity has historically and contemporarily expressed its deepest values and convictions in theological and philosophical terms. SOCTP also recognizes that such primary values and convictions are most commonly expressed through action and decision, and thus many SOCTP members focus on the application of Christian theology and philosophy in local, cultural or trans-cultural spheres.

SOCTP members recognize the unrivalled role of the internet as a global forum for these discussions and envision an historically unprecedented exchange of theological and philosophical intuitions. Exposure to diverse histories and tradition, brings one's own into greater focus and context. SOCTP's online commitment is grounded in this newly available dynamic through which rich and diverse theological and philosophical convictions literally become accessible locally.

SOCTP is a tool for understanding and appreciating not only that which is familiar, but also what may be theologically foreign or threatening. Theological and philosphical study helps make those who are different more familiar while helping us learn more about who we are, making our own traditions more focused and meaningful.

This desire for a more nuanced appreciation of others and a keener understanding of ourselves provides part of the rationale for the development of SOCTP. SOCTP welcomes inquiry into all theological and philosophical discussions, as well as all human activities associated with Christianity. It is inclusive of the whole range of methodologies in the human sciences.

SOCTP does not endorse or reject any specific tradition or practice within Christianity. Our commitment is, rather, to high standards of scholarship. SOCTP is a forum for informed opinion and scholarly research and does not override members' personal convictions and beliefs. SOCTP members are expected to make such decisions on their own , and the Society as a whole respects each member's decision.

SOCTP members include those who have a secular interest in the study of Christian theology and philosophy as well as those whose research is grounded in participation in a Christian tradition or community of practice. By bringing together scholars of diverse perspectives, SOCTP helps to ensure that academic theological reflection does not become disjoined from the realities of contemporary and historical Christian practice.

The same inclusive principles are applied to SOCTP's publication program. The Quodlibet Online Journal of Christian Theology and Philosophy publishes current scholarship that is representative of the spectrum of work in the field.

Since its inception, SOCTP has identified itself as both an academic society and professional association. Its commitment to advancing theological research and application is an expression of its mission as an academic society. As a professional association, SOCTP is also committed to developing programs that support its members' professional development. Such services include support for teaching, support for applications of practical theology, quarterly updates regarding recent resources relevant to these fields, and substantial online resources for member dialogue and exchange.