bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, designers and the Designing God: A critical look at some models
Authors: Du Toit C.W.
Published: August 2012

This paper examines some of the main positions in the debate on intelligence, design and purpose in nature. It seems that the machine metaphor with its ostensible Deistic implications, introduced by Boyle and Paley, still haunts discussion today as is clear from the anthropic principle. To deal with the issue, some ideas from the side of naturalism are discussed (Dawkins and Davies). The strict naturalistic approach of Dawkins is valued but also criticised for its lack of appreciation for the way humans perceive the world and thus view it through the lens of religion and spirituality – a quality Paul Davies tries to accommodate to some extent. Some comments are made on the ideologically based intelligent-design movement which utilises the concept of intelligence to prove a creator (Shannon, Dembski). From a theological perspective, the concerns expressed by Haught are discussed, namely, a discussion of purposeful design in a way that is less ideological than that of Dembski and Shannon (of the intelligent design movement). The efforts of some theologians (Gregerson, Drees, Rottschaefer and Pannenberg) are discussed in order to reach a conclusion which endeavours to do justice to naturalism as well as theological and spiritual concerns.
Resistance and nonresistance: New Testament perspectives on confronting the powers
Authors: Weaver Dorothy Jean
Published: August 2012

The New Testament depicts a world caught in the throes of an apocalyptic power struggle between the forces of God the Creator and the cosmic powers of evil. This study identifies two contrasting and complementary New Testament strategies for confronting these “powers”: resistance (Jas 4:7) and nonresistance (Mt 5:39). The motif of “resistance” is visible as Jesus resists the temptations of Satan (Mk 4:12-13 et al), “overcomes the strong man” (Mk 3:27 et al), and “heals all those who are oppressed by the devil” (Ac 10:38 et al). The motif of “nonresistance” is visible in Jesus’ passion as he is “handed over” (Mk 14:10 et al) and as he conquers the powers of evil through his death (Col 2:13-15 et al). For a comprehensive and balanced understanding of New Testament perspectives on confronting the powers of evil the motifs of “resistance” and “nonresistance” must be held in tension and in correlation with each other.
From text to intertext: Intertextuality as a paradigm for reading Matthew
Authors: Alkier Stefan
Published: August 2012

In this article intertextuality is introduced as one important part of a theory of the semiotics of biblical texts. Intertextuality is an essential factor for the generation of the meanings of a text in the acts of the production and reception of a text. It opens the internal structure of a text with regard to its relations to other texts. The semiotic concept of intertextuality distinguishes three ways of intertextual readings: production-oriented intertextuality, reception-oriented intertextuality and experimental intertextuality. This wide but differentiated concept of intertextuality can serve as a theory and helpful method for investigations of the history of biblical texts as well as for reflected school lessons, sermons and poetics in today’s times. An intertextual reading of the first chapter of Matthew provides a test case of this semiotic concept of intertextuality.
A challenge to change developments in feminist theology and feminist Christology
Authors: Bons-Storm Riet
Published: August 2012

Contextual theologies have made it clear that context, and the particular experiences a context gives, shapes thinking about the Divine and the world into a particular, contextual theology. Feminist theologians stress the point that the life-experience of women in general – and every woman of flesh and blood in particular – works as a context, seeing the world, thinking about the Divine from a particular perspective. The critique of feminist theologies is aimed in the first place to the presumptions and assumptions underlying texts, customs and politics. Feminist theologians ask basic questions about the acquisition of theological knowledge that exposes the cultural conditioning of Christian belief. This review article on the work of Lisa Isherwood and Dorothea McEwan demonstrates how many feminist theologians find in “Process Thought” a way of thinking that avoids the suppositions these presumptions and assumptions make.
Jesus in new contexts
Authors: Reinstorf Dieter H.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this review article is to participate in the current “Jesus studies” debate. “Jesus in New Contexts” is a collection of essays read at an international symposium held in June 1999 in Tutzing, Germany. The symposium endeavoured to provide an answer to the question: What can be known about the historical Jesus with the help of social-scientific models that is not known through other approaches? With this collection of essays a group of prominent international scholars provides wide range answers, depicting a world foreign to twenty first century readers, yet home to the historical Jesus. Characteristic of this edition is the inclusion of an essay that reflects critically on the methods and models employed by social scientists in reading a biblical text.
Paul’s call to be a holy man (apostle): In his own words and in other words
Authors: Pilch John J.
Published: August 2012

This brief survey and analysis of the statements made by Paul about his experience of God calling him to be an apostle in Galatians 1:15-16; 1 Corinth 15:8-9; 2 Corinth 4:6; and Philippians 3:12 were chiefly conducted from an intentionally limited social science perspective. The article argues that the investigator can gain deeper insights into Paul’s statements “in his own words” by submitting them to a social scientific analysis especially drawing upon psychological anthropology and cognitive neuroscience. These social sciences demonstrate that Paul’s call was received in an altered state of consciousness experience. As with all such experiences, Paul drew upon the latent discourse of his culture to interpret his vision. It was God’s intent and initiative to relate to Paul (Galatians) in an ASC. Paul considered his call experience and commission to be on par with experiences of the Risen Jesus by others (1 Corinthians). Paul also drew upon the full meaning of light imagery in his tradition (his culture’s latent discourse) to interpret his call (2 Corinthians). Finally, he was fully aware that his experience took place in an altered state of consciousness (Philippians) which was a well-known and familiar experience in his culture.
Diakonos and prostatis: Women’s patronage in Early Christianity
Authors: Osiek Carolyn
Published: August 2012

In spite of numerous studies on the patronage system in Mediterranean antiquity, little attention has been paid to either how the patronage of women was part of the system or how it differed. In fact, there is substantial evidence for women’s exercise of both public and private patronage to women and men in the Greco-Roman world, by both elites and sub-elites. This information must then be applied to early Christian texts to infer how women’s patronage functioned in early house churches and Christian life.
An overview of liberation theology in orthodox Russia
Authors: Negrov Alexander I.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this article is to demonstrate the presence of a theological system of socio-critical and socio-pragmatic strands within Russian Christianity at the beginning of the twentieth century. The political and social situation in Russia at that time was reflected in a reading of the New Testament that went far beyond the more customary ecclesiastic, dogmatic and ethical issues that had traditionally concerned Russian Orthodox theology. Among the Orthodox thinkers there were two camps that focused on anti-oppression issues. Some combined these issues with the liberationist ideology of the Russian Marxists and Socialists; while the other regarded these liberation movements as an anti-Christian way of interpreting Christianity. This article further claims that certain modern developments in Liberation Theology can be found in the period during which the Russian religious thinkers attempted to develop a theological perspective which paid attention to the social and political dimensions inherent in social democracy (Marxism).
A study of Luke 10 in context
Authors: Busse Ulrich
Published: August 2012

Chapter 10 in the center of Luke's Gospel serves as a good example by which the author's compositorial work directed at the reader can be illustrated. At the end of the sermon on the plain, Luke formulates his theological-practical maxim (6:46f): to hear and to do the Word of God. This is again illustrated in chapter 10 especially in the parable of the Good Samaritan and in the episode of Mary and Martha, in which instances reference is made to Stoic philosophy and ethics in a special way.
The social setting of Jesus’ exaltation in Luke-Acts (Lk 22:69 and Ac 7:56)
Authors: Loba-Mkole Jean-Claude
Published: August 2012

This article presents a model for “intercultural exegesis” and applies this model to Luke 22:69 and Acts 7:56. In this process, the term “Son of Man” is approached from two perspectives: that of a biblical culture in the first century Graeco-Roman world, and that of a current Christian culture in Africa. The study concludes that the “Son of Man” concept in the selected texts not only includes a reference to the eschatological saviour, judge and defender, but also creates a sense of Jesus’ solidarity with his fellow human beings. Such an understanding would certainly have led to Jesus’ exaltation by his followers, who lived under conditions of social turmoil in the Graeco-Roman world of the first century, and would lead to such an exaltation by those who experience similar circumstances in Africa today.
The call of blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52)
Authors: Menken Maarten J.J.
Published: August 2012

The story of Blind Bartimaeus (Mk 10:46-52) displays some traits that are unusual in a synoptic healing miracle and it displays most of the features of a call story. The genesis of the narration may account for the combination of these two genres: the story about the calling of the blind beggar Bartimaeus has been expanded by that of the healing of the blind man, where Jesus focuses attention on his faith. Next, the crowd was introduced to highlight Bartimaeus’ faith. Finally, the pericope was adapted to fit into Mark’s Gospel. The main editorial contribution of the evangelist is his contextualizing of the scene at the end of the section 8:27-10:52, which deals with Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, to suffering and death. In this episode Jesus calls Bartimaeus to follow him on his way. Mark added significance to the story by contrasting Bartimaeus with other characters, especially Peter, James and John, the foremost three disciples. This contrast may imply some criticism of leadership in the Markan community.
The Gospel of Matthew: Reconfigured Torah
Authors: Hays Richard B.
Published: August 2012

This essay surveys the evangelist Matthew’s reading of Israel’s Scripture. Rather than focusing only on Matthew’s distinctive formula quotations, we must observe the subtler ways that Matthew evokes scriptural images and patterns. The essay highlights four major aspects of Matthew’s reading of Scripture. (1) Matthew reads Israel’s Scripture as a story that highlights election, kingship, exile, and messianic salvation as the end of exile. (2) Matthew reconfigures Torah into a call for radical transformation of the heart. (3) Matthew highlights Scripture’s call for mercy, particularly by emphasizing Hosea 6:6 as the hermeneutical key to Torah. (4) Matthew interprets the mission to the Gentiles as the fulfilment of Israel’s destiny and the active embodiment of the authority of the Son of Man (Dn 7:13-14) over the whole world. Jointly taken, these strategies of interpretation produce a striking reconfiguration of Israel’s Torah.
Who is the “God” Nietzsche denied?
Authors: Groenwald André J. , Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

This article examines the reasons that brought Nietzsche to the point of declaring that God is dead, thus doubting the existence of God. Nietzsche’s was a reaction to modernity’s belief in progress as perceived through the philosophy of Hegel, while also being a reaction to the knowing subject of Descartes and Kant and the theology of Strauss. Nietzsche’s quest was for a concept of God that would be free from human domination.
Reflections on Donald Capps’ hermeneutical model of pastoral care
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

This article reflects on the hermeneutical model of Donald Capps, William Harte Felmeth Professor of Pastoral Psychology at Princeton Theological Seminary. Capps points to a similarity between pastoral actions and texts, but regrets that often there is a better understanding of texts than of pastoral actions. The article illustrates Capps’ conviction that theories of pastoral care lack methodologies for understanding what makes pastoral actions meaningful. He uses hermeneutics to make a contribution to the methodology of pastoral care. The article argues that viewing pastoral actions as texts and exploring the hermeneutical insights of Paul Ricoeur, will contribute to the understanding of the meaning of pastoral actions. Such a hermeneutical model uncovers how pastoral actions can be of world disclosing value to the individuals concerned. The article concludes by demonstrating how the notion of reframing in Capps’ theory of pastoral care is based on the concept of the hermeneutical arc in Paul Ricoeur’s philosophy.
Die Kindheidsevangelie van Tomas – historiese allegorie of mite in die vorm van ’n biografiese diskursiewe evangelie?
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

The Infancy Gospel of Thomas – historical allegory or myth in the format of a biographical discursive gospel?The article argues that the Greek version of the Infancy Gospel of Thomas in Codex Sinaiticus (Gr 453) represents the genre of a discursive-biographical gospel type and as a result, the narrative and argumentative structure of this infancy gospel is of importance. So too is the phenomenon that the narrative argument of the Infancy Gospel of Thomas is cast in the form of the ancient god-child myth. This article theorizes about myth by exploring it as folklorist art and its function as model for behaviour. In the Infancy Gospel of Thomas as a myth of a child-god the child Jesus acts as if he were an adult. This adult-like behaviour of the child Jesus is not interpreted in an allegorical way. Rather, as myth, the message is interpreted in a tautegoric manner and explained in a social scientific way.
The political responsibility of the church: On the necessity and boundaries of the theory of the two kingdoms
Authors: Van Wyk I.W.C.
Published: August 2012

The political responsibility of the church: On the necessity and boundaries of the theory of the two kingdomsThe voice of the church has fallen silent in the new political dispensation in South Africa. Many people in the Dutch Reformed Church in Africa (Nederduitsch Hervormde Church) argue that the church should keep its distance from politics. They are of the opinion that they could defend this position with the “Lutheran twokingdoms theory”. This article shows that the theory of the two kingdoms is not a uniquely Lutheran, but also a Calvinistic interest. It furthermore shows that this theory is not only interested in separating the two kingdoms, but also in bringing these kingdoms in relationship with one another. A plea is made for loyalty to both the Lutheran and Calvinistic traditions. The article also calls for a concentration on the three new challenges in South Africa, namely democracy, pluralism and Africanisation.
Church and culture: A religio-theological perspective
Authors: Van der Merwe P.J.
Published: August 2012

The ethnic church (“volkskerk”) is central to the ecclesiology and Church Order of the Reformed Church in Africa (Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk). This article questions notions of culture, ethnicity, ethnic people (“volk”) and ethnic identity as backdrop for answering the question on the responsibility of the church towards cultural and ethnic identity. It is conceded that civil religion remains an insidious threat to the church, as is also civil ideology. Lastly, it is contended that the main responsibility of the church towards culture, ethnic people, ethnic and social identity is one of apostolic prophetic presence and outreach.
Cultural criticism as an imperative for Christians
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

In this article cultural criticism is approached from an epistemological perspective, in other words from the viewpoint of a theory of knowledge that includes matters such as the nature of knowledge, its sources, criteria, possibilities, and limits. Seen from this perspective, cultural criticism represents a critical position towards those culturally oriented studies, which advocate a positivist schema in epistemology. A cultural-critical disposition in Christian theology is to question whether meaningful life depends on a Christian’s acceptance and conformity to the so-called “orders of creation” as divine imperatives. Since such compliance was biblically legitimated as God’s will and wisdom, cultural criticism seeks for another theological validation that can create space for an “alternative wisdom” within a postmodern paradigm. The article aims at showing that dialectical thinking paved the way for applying critical theory in the humanities, theology and biblical exegesis. In the article different critical theories in firstcontinental (Euro-centric) philosophy and Christian theology are discussed. It argues that cultural criticism should be seen as an imperative for Christians because they ought to build their lives on the “cultural wisdom” of Jesus of Nazareth, which pertains to a “cultural-critical” position in his time.
Spirituality and health: A narrativepastoral approach
Authors: Truter C.J. , Kotzé D.J.
Published: August 2012

Health is much more than the absence of illness; it is rather a “high level wellness” and a life with “meaningful life-possibilities”. This article indicates how meaningful life-possibilities and a high level of wellness can be socially constructed within a process of narrativepastoral therapy for a patient who is chronically ill and therefore cannot be cured. Pastoral care as a spiritual and religious act can play an important role in giving sense and meaning to people’s lives, and can play a preventive role in living with illness. This article furthermore shows how patients’ stories of illness can be centralised by means of narrative therapy and how a pastoral and ethical attitude of love and respect can create a climate conducive to better health and well being. We share how patients’ richer descriptions of their illness can produce a spiritual climate which can contribute to their better health.
The relation between church and world/culture in view of the Pauline “as if not” [foreign font omitted]
Authors: Pelser G.M.M.
Published: August 2012

In this study, the question is posed whether Paul was of the opinionthat, apart from proclaiming the gospel, the church should beinvolved in cultural matters and even take responsibility forfurthering cultural causes. The study focuses on to Paul’s advice tohis readers in 1 Corinthians 7:17-24, and especially 7:29-3I.Concerning the latter passage, the possibility of Stoic influence onPaul is weighed and, although such influence is not ruled outaltogether, it is argued that Paul’s advice should rather be seenagainst the background of his expectation of the imminent end ofthe world, as well as his conviction that the believer’s union withChrist makes any other relationship or involvement a matter of noconsequence. The final conclusion of the study is that althoughPaul did not advocate asceticism or forbid Christians to take part inworldly matters and institutions, he did not expect them to play anactive role in these things or to promote culture either. On thisbasis, it is concluded that Paul may not be used in support of anyargument in favour of a cultural involvement or responsibility on thepart of the church.
The Human Genome Project as a case study in the debate about the relationship between theology and natural science
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

The author presents a review article on the book, Brave new world? Theology, ethics and the human genome, edited by Celia Deane-Drummond and published in 2003 by T&T Clark International in London. After a rather elaborate exposition, he appraises the collection of essays in terms of the dialogue between theology and the natural sciences. As an acid test, he assesses the challenge Kant, however, dealt with, namely to combine and to separate the right things. Kant pushed this to extremes and ended up with both solipsism and dualism. This article tackles the challenge differently and concludes that theology is an a posteriori science and that by means of différance, knowledge of the noumenon is indeed possible. The author therefore appreciates the different contributions in the book in this light. Deane-Drummond’s proposal that a virtue ethic should be complemented by certain biblical values is therefore viewed rather sceptically. This remains a transcendental enterprise where epistemology precedes ontology.
Church and government in Reformed perspective
Authors: Dreyer W.A.
Published: August 2012

The new political dispensation since 1994 requires the Reformed churches in South Africa to redefine their role in society and their relationship with the government. This short journey through history helps us to understand the complexity of the relationship between the Church and the government. This article focuses on the concepts formulated by the Reformers in the 16th century, presenting the view that the revolutionary and radical way in which the Reformed concepts changed society and the government is still relevant to South Africa and opens up meaningful dialogue.
Terreur, roes en ordes: Die monnik as blywende simbool van erns in die filosofie
Authors: Beukes Johann
Published: August 2012

Terror, frenzy and orders: The monk as persistent symbol of ardour in philosophyIt is argued that postmodern epistemology, in its 21st century guise, is exhausted, with little to offer post-Baudrillard. In thematic conjunction with the critiques of Fredric Jameson, Christopher Norris and Jürgen Habermas, the author depicts 21st century postmodernism as a “frenzied party”, where philosophy’s historical and characteristic ardour for truth and analysis has been dissolved in favour of a mockery of some of the most profound ideas of Western civilization, such as truth, beauty and justice. The logical consequences of this frenzied epistemology are described as socially devastating, especially within the context of systematic terror, which is described as the predominant social marker of the first years of the 21st century. The author, in reaction both to terror and “epistemological frenzy”, attempts to rehabilitate philosophical ardour and a zeal for truth by linking up with the historical persona of “the monk”, arguing that our times demand a more studied, retracted and meditative approach to philosophy. Our dreadful times demand a new ardour and sobriety from philosophers.
For God did not so love the whole world – only Israel! John 3:16 revisited
Authors: Botha J.E. , Rousseau P.A.
Published: August 2012

John 3:16 is probably the most popular and widely proclaimed proof-text for God’s love for all of humankind – the “world”. This interpretation of the verse is based on a meaning for which the Greek word cosmos can be used, but the word is used to denote many other meanings as well. The one interpretation of cosmos as “world” is then read into all instances where cosmos appears, including John 3:16. This position is held and defended by some in an almost fanatical manner by some. However, if this verse is exegetically considered in its primary context, the Fourth Gospel, it becomes clear that John 3:16 does not speak of God’s universal love of all of human kind. Far from it. The verse indeed has a completely different meaning.
Psalm 136: ’n Liturgie as herinnering en herbelewenis van God se krag in die skepping en in die geskiedenis
Authors: Human Dirk J.
Published: August 2012

Psalm 136: A liturgy as remembrance and reenactment of God’s power in creation and historyPsalm 136 is a litany in which elements of the Israelite thanksgiving hymn give expression to the celebration of the character and deeds of Yahweh. In the cult of ancient Israel this poem has probably functioned as liturgy to express God’s power over and against all other powers in creation and in history. In a polemic manner it serves as a remembrance and re-enactment of the incomparable God’s power as the “God of gods” and the “Lord of lords”. The psalm has a unique composition and structure in the Psalter. It also reflects a variety of poetic features that serve as literary vehicles to enhance the psalm’s theological content. For the cultic Sitz im Leben a variety of possibilities exists where Psalm 136 could have functioned. Although it is difficult to exactly date the text, there are indications in the psalm that it could be dated back to the end of the fifth or to the beginning of the fourth century BCE.
Christus en die roos
Authors: Ingram Riaan
Published: August 2012

Christ and the rosePhilo of Alexandria once stated the following truth: “Do you not see that to the prophet who truly desires to know and who asks what answer he is to give to those who question him concerning His name He says, ‘I am what I am,’ which is equivalent to saying, ‘It is My nature to be, not to be described by name’” (Philo Mut Nom 11-12). How does the theologian who hears God’s answer in this regard speak when others ask him or her about God? Through a discussion with Heidegger, Bultmann and Meister Eckhart, the article explores a possible answer to this question.
4000 Jaar van soeke na God
Authors: Klopper Frances
Published: August 2012

The 4000-year quest for GodSouth Africans live in a time of growing unease amongst Afrikaansspeaking Christians about the traditional God-image of their childhood. As a con-sequence, churches are losing members – which is of concern to the church’s leaders. By referring to Karen Armstrong’s book, A History of God (1999), this article shows that rethinking the idea of God is not new and that healthy iconoclasm is part and parcel of religions as evolving and changing organisms. Over the past 4000 years, each generation created an image of God that worked for them. The article reflects on the God of Judaism, the Christian God, the God of Islam, the God of the philosophers, the mystics, the reformers and the thinkers of the Enlightenment to the eventual eclipse of God in twentieth-century Europe. The purpose of the exercise is to encourage Christians to engage with the process and create a sense of God for themselves by taking heed of the negative and positive moments in God’s long history.
Psalm 103: Lofprysing word gebore uit die swaarkry van die lewe
Authors: Maré Leonard P.
Published: August 2012

Psalm 103: Praise is born in the crucible of lifePsalm 103 testifies to the believer’s experience of the love and mercy of God. The psalm teaches that believers should worship God for who He is and for what He has done. It is, however, important to note that the praise offered to God in Psalm 103 is not “cheap” praise, but praise born in the crucible of life. Christians also experience times of hardship and times of trouble. However, new birth and new life go hand in hand with the experience of pain. Difficult times thus become a birthplace for praise.
The canon as text for a biblical theology
Authors: Loader James A.
Published: August 2012

The novelty of the canonical approach is questioned and its fascination at least partly traced to the Reformation, as well as to the post-Reformation’s need for a clear and authoritative canon to perform the function previously performed by the church. This does not minimise the elusiveness and deeply contradictory positions both within the canon and triggered by it. On the one hand, the canon itself is a centripetal phenomenon and does play an important role in exegesis and theology. Even so, on the other hand, it not only contains many difficulties, but also causes various additional problems of a formal as well as a theological nature. The question is mooted whether the canonical approach alleviates or aggravates the dilemma. Since this approach has become a major factor in Christian theology, aspects of the Christian canon are used to gauge whether “canon” is an appropriate category for eliminating difficulties that arise by virtue of its own existence. Problematic uses and appropriations of several Old Testament canons are advanced, as well as evidence in the New Testament of a consciousness that the “old” has been surpassed(“Überbietungsbewußtsein”). It is maintained that at least the Childs version of the canonical approach fails to smooth out these and similar difficulties. As a method it can cater for the New Testament’s (superior) role as the hermeneutical standard for evaluating the Old, but flounders on its inability to create the theological unity it claims can solve religious problems exposed by Old Testament historical criticism. It is concluded that canon as a category cannot be dispensed with, but is useful for the opposite of the purpose to which it is conventionally put: far from bringing about theological “unity” or producing a standard for “correct” exegesis, it requires different readings of different canons.
Doomsday movements in Africa: Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God
Authors: Venter Pieter M.
Published: August 2012

This article investigates Kibwetere’s Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God. A brief summary of the Movement’s short history is followed by an outline of the movement’s main beliefs. This Ugandan cult’s socio historic context is thereupon analyzed. The cult’s document, “A Timely Message”, is summarized and their relationship with a similar Marian movement in Australia is indicated. Finally, the phenomenon of their suicide is discussed in terms of doomsday apocalypticism and depicted as a result of Roman Catholic apocalyptic thinking.
Hoe om in te kom en hoe om binne te bly – die “groot sendingopdrag” aan die kerk vandag volgens Matteus 28:16-20
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

Getting in and staying in – the “great commission” to the present-day church according to Matthew 28:16-20 In this article the phrases “getting in” and “staying in” relate to the technical term “covenantal nomism”. The article’s aim is to argue that this concept is radically redefined in the so-called “great commission” in Matthew 28:16-20. Inclusivity replaces ethnic exclusivism. This redefinition is applied to the well-being of the church and its spirituality in the present-day postmodern context. The article is specifically addressed to the members of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church in South Africa. It challenges the traditional dichotomy between “insiders” and “outsiders” in missionary work. It advocates a way of thinking in terms of which “non-conformists” in so-called “churchless Christianity” are considered as being part of the “church on the other side”.
The emergence of God’s new people: The beginnings of Christianity reconsidered
Authors: Stegemann Wolfgang
Published: August 2012

The article deals with the problem of the Christian beginnings. Unlike many other scholars, the article does not defend the traditional metaphor which compares Judaism and Christianity to the relationship of mother and daughter. It also does not take for granted that ancient Judaism and Christianity can be viewed as religious. The category “religion” is a modern concept and therefore does not meet the ancient discourse. The article aims to argue that the emergence of Christianity could be better understood in terms of “ethnicity”. Another version of the article was published in Di storia dell' esegesi 21(2), 2004, 497-513.Jede Vorstellung von Anfängen verleitet dazu eine Fabel zu konstruieren (Jean Starobinski)
Religious research as kingpin in the fight against poverty and AIDS in the Western Cape, South Africa
Authors: Erasmus Johannes C. , Hendriks H. Jurgens , Mans Gerbrand G.
Published: August 2012

This article describes the researchers’ efforts to apply the principles of Participatory Action Research (PAR), specifically participation, through the direct involvement of church members in the research. It includes involving them in the design of questionnaires, training and utilizing them as fieldworkers, and finally disseminating the results of the research via workshops aimed at strategizing for change. The research is based on two hypotheses, the first being that, churches and their members are intensely involved in serving both the needs of their own members, as well as the needs of the larger community; and secondly, that churches do not work alone, but are part of networks with other agencies to accomplish their goals. At the outset the article outlines the challenges and points of departure, followed by a chronological account of how this approach was applied in Paarl, a South African community. Finally, an overview of the results of the project is provided.
Gemeentevergadering as eiesoortige verskynsel binne die Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika: ’n Kerkhistoriese en kerkregtelike ondersoek
Authors: Schoeman P. R.
Published: August 2012

Parish meeting as a distinctive manifestation within the NHKA: A church historical and a church polity investigationThe parish meeting as a distinctive manifestation within the Neder-duitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika also had a distinctive form of development, a development that spanned the period from the national gathering on 8 February 1837 until the acceptance of a new church ordinance in 1997. It first served as an emergency measure during which the future existence of the NHKA was discussed and ensured by the gathering of the faithful. Systematically, from the perspective of church polity, the parish meeting achieved a basis that was also accountable in terms of the church ordinance. The parish meeting forms part of the Hervormde Kerk’s religious practice, that is a normal manifestation of the Presbyterian-synodical Church concept that is respected in the NHKA.
The challenge of Jesus’ parables A scholarly handbook for ministers and preachers
Authors: Reinstorf Dieter H.
Published: August 2012

The parables of Jesus recorded in the Gospels are profoundly challenging, not only as far as their original audience is concerned, but equally so as far as present day readers, hoping to fully grasp their meaning, are concerned. Renewed efforts to interpret these parables were made by a number of first-rate scholars, who published their research results in a book entitled “The challenge of Jesus parables”, which forms part of the McMaster New Testament Studies Series. This review essay focuses on some of the book’s main characteristics, in particular the resurgence of allegory, the Gospel contextualization of the parables and their application to contemporary issues of life.
The concept “salvation” in the Church of Scientology
Authors: Pretorius S. P.
Published: August 2012

In one of its publications the Church of Scientology (COSI), a well-established religious movement in South Africa, claims to be not only the fastest growing religious movement, but also to be an active force for positive change in the world. The Church of Scientology’s utilization of familiar terms such as “church” and “religion” can be misleading. It can create the understanding with some that Scientology might be related to, or even be an extension of the Christian tradition. This understanding is further enhanced by their assurance to Christians that joining the church will not distance them from, but instead, strengthen their own faith. This article, however, concludes that closer investigation of the philosophy of Scientology indicates that there is a distinct difference between the salvations offered by Scientology and that of the Christian tradition.
Genre en plot georiënteerde narratief-kritiese eksegese van Evangeliemateriaal: Inleiding tot narratiewe kritiek
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

Genre and plot oriented exegesis of Gospel material: Introducing narrative criticismThis contribution to methodology and hermeneutics, consisting of two articles, aim to argue for combining historical criticism and narrative criticism. The first article shows how genre orientation can provide hermeneutical cues for determining an appropriate exegetical model and method. The article aims to apply Gérard Genette’s narratology as a narrative-critical model for the exegesis of Gospel material. The article focuses on the role plot analysis fulfills in narrative criticism. This discussion is illustrated with examples from the Gospels of Mark, Luke, Matthew and John. The article concludes with a preface to the second article in which aspects such as point of view and focalization, time and space, and characterization will be discussed, also applied to Gospel material.
Encountering Jesus in African Christianity: A Ghanaian evangelical/pentecostal thought on faith, experience, and hope in Christ
Authors: Asamoah-Gyadu J. Kwabena
Published: August 2012

This article constitutes a preliminary attempt at reflecting upon Ghana’s journey with a particular tradition within the Christian faith. The author discusses the relevance of Jesus in the contemporary Evangelical/Pentecostal Churches by taking a closer look at how the person of Christ and other elements of evangelical spirituality are appropriated within the indigenous cultural matrix of the country.
At the foot of Mount Olympus: A theory on myth
Authors: Schutte Flip
Published: August 2012

A cult normally develops around myths and rituals. In this article myth as phenomenon will be investigated. Different types and categories of myths will be listed, while research done in the past on myths will also be dealt with. Furthermore, the issue of ritual accompanying the myth will be briefly discussed. This article wants to promote the notion that one does not need any particular worldview, be it mythological, orthodox, fundamentalistic, or biblisistic, to use, understand, and appreciate myths. Even in a postmodern world the value of myths can be appreciated.
Pseudepigraphy and the Petrine school: Spirit and tradition in 1 and 2 Peter and Jude
Authors: Chatelion Counet Patrick
Published: August 2012

This article identifies four “patterns of religion” (E P Sanders) in the pseudepigraphic letters of Peter and Jude in order to support the hypothesis of a “Petrine school” (J H Elliott). The first pattern that connects the letters is a Geisttradition (K Aland), guaranteeing continuity of tradition. The second is the interrelationship between faith and ethics (fides quae and fides qua). The combination of sanctification and eschatology is a third pattern connecting the three documents. Finally, two florilegia can be identified (one from the Old Testament and apocrypha, and one from the chokmatic tradition), suggesting a fourth pattern: a warning against ungodliness and infidelity. The existence of a Petrine group could represent a preliminary stage of subsequent Early Catholicism.
Jesus – prophetic emissary of God
Authors: Dannhauser Estelle , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

The present study examines three models of research, all reaching the same conclusion, namely that Jesus was a prophet. The aim is to determine what their point of origin in research was, to determine on what basis they have grounded their research and conclusions, and to draw a comparison between both the routes they have chosen and their destinations at the end of these routes. This study likewise detects similarities between Jesus and the prophets of the Old Testament and considers the possibility that the cadre of classical prophecy may be one that describes the ministry of Jesus, if not fully, then at least to a large extent. Lastly the phenomenon of prophecy is examined to test their conclusions and to try to determine whether any research gaps that may have been left, need to be filled.
Kerkverband: ’n Poging tot reformasie in die negentiende eeu
Authors: Van Wyk Barry
Published: August 2012

Church-denomination: A nineteenth century attempt to reformationThe view exists that the term denomination is especially evident of the nineteenth century Netherlands at the time when an attempt was made to accomplish change in the Nederlandse Hervormde Kerk. The decay in the Church at the time can mainly be ascribed to the influence of the authorities on the church, material welfare, as well as the climate of thought which originated in the Aufklärung. During this period two theologians were prominent, namely P J Hoedemaker and A Kuyper. The latter protested against the synodic structure of the existing Church and proposed an alternative locally free church in its place, consisting of chosen, reborn members of the church who become part of the church by confession. At the time denomination had a prominent function in the integration of all local churches into a single denomination with the confession being the common source of fellowship.
An epistemological reflection on the relevance of monastic traditions for retreat in the Dutch Reformed tradition
Authors: Schutte C.H. , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

The article focuses on retreat as a relatively new phenomenon in the Dutch Reformed tradition. Retreat is viewed as “communicative action”. The aim of the article is firstly to explore epistemological theories in the postmodern paradigm. These theories provide a mental framework for the identification of a research model and a related methodology by means of which the relevance of monastic traditions for retreat in the Reformed tradition can be discovered. The identification of appropriate theories offers an adequate model and method for entering into a narrative inter-dialogue with retreatants. The article argues that Paul Ricoeur’s concept of the hermeneutical arc, Hans-Georg Gadamer’s notion of the fusion of horizons, and Jürgen Habermas’ emphasis on symmetrical communication supply the necessary epistemological theories for such a project. From the perspective of this epistemology, the “action of retreat” is described in terms of a social constructionist model which paves the way for the method of qualitative interviewing. The project can be described as a narrative research journey.
Semiotiese ontleding van Daniël 2
Authors: Nel Marius
Published: August 2012

A Semiotic analysis of Daniel 2In an accompanying article the method of semiotics is described and applied in relation to Daniel 1. In this article Daniel 2 is semiotically analysed. The narrative uses ring composition to emphasize that God is able to reveal secrets. Daniel 2 is characterized by more qualifications than functions, attributable to the length of the narrative but also to the long description of the dream and its interpretation. Transformations can be found in the conversation between the king and his wise men, the law of the king, the conversation between Daniel and Arioch, the prayer of the four Jews, the revelation of the dream to them, their song of praise, and Daniel’s conversation with the king. The dreams’ transformation lies in God’s destroying and absorption of the previous kingdoms. The plot lies in the engagement between the king and his wise men, and in the dream and its interpretation. As is the case in Daniel 1, the author emphasized the sovereignty of God and the responsibility of believers as main values.
Interment of ashes: Cremation service
Authors: Masango Maake
Published: August 2012

This article develops a liturgy of worship service which is to be conducted at the crematorium. This interment of ashes service can also take place at the church in the garden of remembrance. The aim of this service is to help members of the family achieve closure as far as the issue of the ashes of their loved one is concerned. The liturgy developed is focused on a continuation of the pastoral elements which aim to take care of the souls of those who are bereaved.
Coming in from outside: A crucial event in the history of ecumenism of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

The article argues from a “Barthian” perspective of “Revelation Theology” versus “Natural Theology”, that the current leadership of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church (NHKA) and the majority of its members consider the notion "church" primarily as a community of believers which is brought to completion by the Spirit of God and which therefore transcends all anthropological barriers such as race. In light of Karl Barth’s concept of Natural Theology, “racism as religion” is confessed to be idolatry and Apartheid a sin. Any attempt to justify racism theologically amounts to heresy. The article is a reworked version of the opening address by the Moderator of the NHKA at a meeting with an official delegation of the World Alliance of Churches (WARC) held in Pretoria from 5-8 June 2006. The article makes an appeal for the ecumenical re-admittance of the NHKA by WARC. It includes documentation from the NHKA’s National Colloquium and the responses to the NHKA’ re-application for WARC membership by WARC officers and the NHKA leadership.1. INTRODUCTION
“If Luther will accept us with our confession …”: The Eucharistic controversy in Calvin’s correspondence up to 1546
Authors: Heron Alasdair
Published: August 2012

The article explores Calvin's attitude to the Eucharistic controversy between Wittenberg and Zurich in the years up till Luther's death in 1546. The main source is Calvin’s letters from that period, which cast a differentiated light on his aims, hopes and disappointments on the question as well as on his relations to other leading Reformers. Account is also taken of several recent publications, which suggest revision of some long-standing views in Calvin scholarship.
Mythology, poetry and theology
Authors: Groenewald Alphonso
Published: August 2012

Human beings have always been mythmakers. However, in view of the heavy negative connotations attached to the word “myth”, the aim of this article may, inter alia, be seen as an attempt to “rehabilitate” the word “myth” as a positive term in order to describe one of the most common genres within the Old Testament tradition. The author will indicate that the presence of myth is a common phenomenon in the Bible, and specifically in the Psalter (as poetry). The authors of the Psalms used (re-used) myth, the “mythical” and/or mythical allusions in order to express some of their most profound theologising about Yahweh – the God of Israel – as well as their relationship to that God.
Die narratiewe blikhoek in die mikrovertelling oor die genesing van die koninklike se seun deur Jesus in Johannes 4:43-54
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

Narrative point of view in the healing story of the official’s son by Jesus in John 4:43-54The article forms the third part of an essay that aims to introduce narratological codes applicable to the exegesis of New Testament texts. In the first article generic elements that constitute a narrative discourse were discussed. The focus was on aspects of inter-communicative nature. The aim of the second article was to explain how interactive relationships in a narrative discourse reveal the perspective from which a narrator presents a narration. From the perspective technically referred to as “narrative point of view”, the present article applies the narrator’s situation with regard to the role time, space, and characterization play in the poetics of a narrative to an exegetical analysis of John 4:43-54, focusing on the “narrator’s ideological perspective” in John’s gospel.