what is a shade tree theologian?

I did a search on google for shade tree theologian to see if I could find my blog and instead found a man by the name of Jean-Marc Ela. By the way I never found by blog! Mr. Ela was an
author of theology and philosophy. One of his books "African cry" has been called "the soundest illustration of liberation theology in sub Sahara Africa." He was also quoted as saying that people should adopt a "shade-tree theology" in which small groups of believers can gather together to interpret the gospel in the light of their own particular circumstances.

First I have to say that I do not subscribe to liberation theology. Second I do not think any one should interpret the gospel in light of their own circumstances. I don't see how this is any different than relativism. So what did I mean by shade tree theologian?

When I first thought of this I was reminded of the term shade tree mechanic. I always thought of someone like this as a guy with a bunch of cars around that he would work on because it was something he loved to do. It was enjoyable to him and he found satisfaction in restoring old broken down wrecks into something someone could use. This person had little formal training however through years of hands on experience he is very comfortable around the engine of some old clunker.

That being said I do not really live up to this analogy. While I like reading about theology and philosophy and how to apply it to our lives I do not have years of experience with these subjects. That is what I hope to gain through my own personal study, both private and academic and through conversations with normal everyday run-of-the-mill people, which I consider myself. I am not the brightest person you will meet. I am not the most charismatic or funny person either. As a matter of fact I am very average in just about every way you can imagine. I just want to know more about God, the Bible, peoples world views and how to help others discover what I have and to help them apply all this to their lives.