This essay discusses the archetypal/ectypal distinction set forth by Amandus Polanus (1561-1610) within his definition of true theology (theologia vera) in his Syntagma theologiae Christianae. In that work, Polanus demonstrates that defining theology is the fundamental task of a theologian. To arrive at his definition of theology, Polanus draws together the in se/in nobis distinction of John Duns Scotus and the archetypal/ectypal distinction of Fransciscus Junius in De verae theologiae. The result is a theology that is communicated from God, by a gracious revelation, to his rational creatures. Through his use of these distinctions, Polanus demonstrates both continuity and discontinuity with contemporary and Medieval scholastic thought on this very important issue. As well, he grounds the whole of the Syntagma as an exercise of Christian piety that seeks to be both speculative (in the sense that it looks to Scripture) and practical. This essay discusses the archetypal/ectypal distinction set forth by Amandus Polanus (1561-1610) within his definition of true theology (theologia vera) in his Syntagma theologiae Christianae. In that work, Polanus demonstrates that defining theology is the fundamental task of a theologian. To arrive at his definition of theology, Polanus draws together the in se/in nobis distinction of John Duns Scotus and the archetypal/ectypal distinction of Fransciscus Junius in De verae theologiae. The result is a theology that is communicated from God, by a gracious revelation, to his rational creatures. Through his use of these distinctions, Polanus demonstrates both continuity and discontinuity with contemporary and Medieval scholastic thought on this very important issue. As well, he grounds the whole of the Syntagma as an exercise of Christian piety that seeks to be both speculative (in the sense that it looks to Scripture) and practical.