bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Justice with mercy: About a contemporary Palestinian theology
Authors: Jeppesen Knud
Published: August 2012

Arab Christianity has a long history, longer than the history Christianity has in many European countries, a fact we seem to have forgotten in the west. According to Acts 2:11, some Arabs together with several other people of different nationalities were present when Peter gave his address to the crowd on the first Pentecost day after the ascension of Christ. Even if this piece of information is not historically true, there is no doubt that Christianity spread to the Arab world fairly early, probably in the beginning with some Judaeo-Christians, who moved to Arabia, and later on as a result of a mission to the gentiles. Already in antiquity the Bible was translated from the Greek Septuagint into Arabic.
HTS Theological Studies and Verbum et Ecclesia – the journals of the Faculty of Theology at the University of Pretoria: Historical overview and strategic planning
Authors: Human Dirk , Van Aarde Andries
Published: August 2012

This article celebrates the centenary of the University of Pretoria (UP) in 2008. The editors of Verbum et Ecclesia and HTS Theological Studies, the two theological journals associated with the Faculty of Theology at UP, reflect on the journals’ historical roots, editorial focuses, distinctive features, subscription and language statistics and on their’ contribution to support the academic study of theology and related disciplines. The Faculty of Theology was founded in 1917 and celebrated its ninetieth birthday in 2007. The origin of its journals dates back to 1943. This article discusses the challenges that academic journals face in South Africa and undertakes strategic planning for the future. A concluding addendum, consisting of statistical diagrams with regard to the journals’ profile during the last five years, illustrates the argument.
’n Filosofiese besinning oor die vroulike en vroulikheid van die godheid
Authors: Du Toit Louise
Published: August 2012

A philosophical discussion of the feminine and femininity of the divine

This article considers the importance of the feminine of the divine (or ‘the goddess’) from the perspective of a philosophy of sexual difference, as the latter is proposed mainly by French feminist philosopher, Luce Irigaray. The article considers why we have lost the feminine of the divine, why she is making a comeback, and the strongest reasons – philosophically speaking – for retrieving some of those elements for the sake of the world and humanity today.
Elders as leaders in 1 Peter and the early Church
Authors: Elliott John H.
Published: August 2012

Addressing a hostile situation that called for courageous and exemplary leaders, the letter of 1 Peter employed in 5:1-5 a cluster of vocabulary and images (elders, verseers/exercise oversight, shepherds, flock) representing a growing coalescence of terms for leaders and their functions in the early Jesus movement. As one of the earliest witnesses to this constellation and its symbolization of community leaders as elders-pastors-overseers, the text of 1 Peter 5:1-5a deserves more attention than it has hitherto been accorded in the study of early Christian ministry and church order.
Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

HTS

Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies

Jaargang / Volume 64
“Whatever gain I had ...”: Ethnicity and Paul’s self-identification in Philippians 3:5-6
Authors: Duling Dennis
Published: August 2012

This study is not an exercise in Vernon Robbin’s groundbreaking socio-rhetorical criticism as put forth in his impressive The Tapestry of Early Christian Discourse and Exploring the Texture of Texts. It does have much in common with his “social and cultural texture”. It also touches “inner texture” in relation to Paul’s implied argument, “intratexture” with respect to the implied importance of scripture for Paul, and “ideological texture” in relation to Paul’s statements about the righteousness of God, millennial hopes, and ethical norms in contrast with his ethnic identify. These suggestions only scratch the surface of possibilities for using socio-rhetorical criticism to interpret ethnicity in Philippians. Social-rhetorical critics, I trust, will see even more socio-rhetorical potential for this subject than I have mentioned. Indeed, I hope that it stimulates such analysis.
Ancestor worship - is it Biblical?
Authors: Bae Choon Sup , Van der Merwe P. J.
Published: August 2012

Ancestor worship is practiced in different forms around the world today, even in societies participating in the modern global economy. Ancestral beliefs are deeply dependent on the premise that the souls of the dead may return to the living and influence their lives; that it is possible and acceptable for the living to communicate with the dead and lastly that the living are able to exert an effect on the destiny of deceased ancestors. The following issues are most relevant to ancestor worship: 1) death and the afterlife, 2) possibility of communication between the living and the dead, and 3) the destiny of believers who die. The article looks at these issues from a Biblical perspective, offers Biblical guidelines in assessing ancestor worship and its cosmology and interprets ancestor worship theologically. The conclusion is that ancestor worship is incompatible with Christian faith.
Prediking aan die hand van die metafoor van fiksieskryf
Authors: Bosman Lourens , Muller Julian
Published: August 2012

Preaching according to the metaphor of fiction writing

In this article the writers propose an alternative to modernistic linear and propositional ways of preaching. They argue that the context asks for preaching that is more in line with the dominant metaphors of the post-modern culture in which the listeners live their everyday lives. The preacher should be seen less as the bearer of final truths (the one who carries the light or acts as witness to the truth), and more as someone who participates in the reflection of ideas. They propose a narrative paradigm for preaching that moves beyond the use of stories as illustrations, to one where the preacher, in the narrative style, becomes the co-author of new life stories in the preaching event. The ABDCE model for fiction writing, proposed by Anne Lamott, is then used as a model for the structuring of the sermon. Structured along these lines, the sermon moves from a specific Action and its cultural and historical Background, through a Development, where something new starts to unfold before the listeners, to a Climax of new insight and an Ending that invites the listeners to take part in the telling and retelling of their own stories in the light of the Great Story of God and his people.
"God met ons": Gelowig nagedink oor die Skrif
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

“God with us”: Faithfully reflected on Scripture

The theme of the article is a revisiting of the understanding of Holy Scripture from a dogmatic viewpoint. It is the author’s conviction that the point of departure for such an exposition is revelation, which, of course, has to be deconstructed. The epistemological dilemma is that although revelation has ontological priority, it is only noetically accessible. Therefore, it is evident that Scripture has to be regarded as testimony, which puts it on the same level as tradition, except for the accord of the faith community. The application of the thesis is dedicated to the reception of revelation. Scripture then, is the accorded sediment of the reciprocity of the speaking God and a responding people. The conclusion is that the Bible does not have an intrinsic principle, but that referential meaning is given to it by the faith community. This ectopic center can only be ascribed to the work of the Spirit. This creates space for a scientific theology where an extra-systemic understanding of reality corresponds with an intra- ystemic coherence.
Exodus, Psalms and Hebrews: A God abounding in steadfast love (Ex 34:6)
Authors: Groenewald Alphonso
Published: August 2012

The author of Hebrews heavily depends on the Pentateuch and the Psalms. The Pentateuch, for the most part, offers him material for reflection on redemptive history, and the Psalms provide his Christological material. The great debt the book of Hebrews owes to the Old Testament, however, is not simply a matter of general background and copious quotation, but also extends to fundamental Old Testament ways of thinking which are constantly presupposed and which underlie all passages in the book. The concept of hesed (“faithfulness, kindness, grace, steadfast love, solidarity” etc) is one of those. According to the Hebrew Scriptures, God revealed God self to God’s people at Sinai. This article will deal specifically with the reference to the Sinai revelation as it appears in three Psalms. This discussion will be followed by a short overview of this specific text in the Pentateuch. This article will be concludes by briefly indicating a possible influence these Old Testament texts on the book of Hebrews.
Jesus en geweld: Markus 12:1-12 (en par) en Thomas 65
Authors: Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

Jesus and violence: Mark 12:1-12 (and par) and Thomas 65

As an advanced agrarian (aristocratic) society, first- century Palestine’s social fabric was built on systemic tensions and conflicts between the elite (rulers) and the peasantry (the ruled). At the root of these conflicts were incompatible values (ideologies) and interests. Mediterraneans in general were agonistic (fight-prone) in nature – hence willing to engage in physical conflict at the slightest provocation. Violence in the first-century, however, was more than just physical conflict – it was establishment violence. What was Jesus’ stance on violence? An ideological-critical reading of Mark 12:1-12 (and par) indicates that the canonical versions of the Tenants – in which Jesus condones violence – cannot be seen as reflecting the historical Jesus’ attitude towards violence. Jesus’ stance on violence is rather reflected in GThom 65, in which Jesus is pictured as criticizing all kinds of violence. This study also reiterates the necessity of reading the Biblical text from an ideological-critical perspective to avoid the peril of “gospelizing” Jesus.
Vom Umgang mit biblischen Texten in antisemitischen Kontexten
Authors: Nicklas Tobias
Published: August 2012

The Bible in anti-Semitic contexts

The article focuses on the (ab-)use of New Testament texts in the time of National Socialism. After a definition of central terms, it describes how anti-Semitic authors interpreted biblical texts. It then presents an overview of authors who attempted to prove Jesus’ Aryan origins and anti-Jewish position (e g, the so-called “Pantherathesis”). After explaining how (and why) Paul is seen as “too Jewish” by Third Reich scholars, the article investigates the continuing influence of Nazi exegesis and concludes with an overview of recent developments regarding this issue.
Die oorsake van anti-Semitisme in die antieke heidenwêreld in en rondom die Nuwe-Testamentiese tydvak
Authors: Du Toit A.
Published: August 2012

The causes of anti-Semitism in ancient paganism in and around the New Testament period In this article the causes of ancient anti-Semitism are investigated. This is not a mere academic quest, since some of these factors may still be relevant today. After discussing some methodological pitfalls, various causes are identified, some of which were limited to specific areas. Where the balance of power was felt to be in jeopardy, groups reacted strongly. Ensuing clashes aggravated the resentment and caused anti-Semitism to become still more deeply engrained in the collective memory. In Alexandria economic rivalry probably was a factor. In Rome Jewish propagandistic zeal and Roman pride influenced attitudes. The Egyptian vilification implying that the Jewish nation originally was contaminated by a disease, further negativized attitudes. However, the main causes of anti-Semitism were of a sociological and religious nature. These two causes are related, but at its deepest level ancient anti-Semitism was the price the Jewish people paid for its refusal to compromise its religious convictions and unique identity. In how far the causes of modern anti-Semitism overlap with those of antiquity should be investigated on its own.
Zending: waarom? Verbond als antwoord
Authors: Wielenga B. , König A.
Published: August 2012

Mission: why? Covenant as answer In this article we probe the possibilities of a covenantal approach towards Reformed mission theology. Dogmatically the interrelationship between covenant and creation is focused upon from a structure-analytical perspective on covenant. Missiologically a covenantal approach towards mission is developed – an approach in which the missio dei and the missiones ecclesiae are interlinked regarding the forensic foundation of mission. In conclusion the relevance of covenantal cult and law for mission is emphasized.
Hermeneutiek, Schriftgezag en Triniteit
Authors: Wentsel B.
Published: August 2012

Hermeneutics, the authority of Scripture and the Trinity of God In order to evaluate a scholarly theological publication any student has to be conversant with the philosophical, confessional and social-contextual suppositions (prejudices, apriori’s, the so-called “glasses”) forming the background and frame of interpretation as applied by the author. The presence of suppositions is sometimes predominate and clear, sometimes subordinate and hidden. H. Berkhof for instance, applies at least six sets of apriori’s in his interpretation of the Bible (see Christelijk geloof – 1973). Underlying the use of these interpretative “glasses” a student has to locate the deepest religious source, the point of departure. Apriori’s can, however, be bad and good. The author of this article is convinced of the necessity of applying at least twelve suppositions in the interpretation of the Bible. In this article the following suppositions will thus be stressed: (1) The Bible is considered as the book of Gods revelation. (2) The fact that the Holy Spirit inspired prophets, apostles, evangelists and collectors (= theopneustia) is supported. (3) The term “Word of God” has a specific meaning as Logos of creation, prophecy, commandment, gospel and so on. (4) The supposition that the Bible is the book of God’s covenant implies that the berit is uniting all the different books and all loci of the Christian faith. (5) In order to interpret the Bible in a just way it is necessary to be reborn. (6) The right balance between the value of the Old and the New Testament should be upheld. It should also be confessed that Jahweh (= He is present for us) is the triune God. (7) The normativity of the whole Bible should be acknowledged in relation to the main contours of God’s revelation (and not only in isolated texts) and even in relation to changing cultural background of the Pésachfeast, the sacrifice-torah and the structure of the covenant. (9) In our interpretation of the Bible we should be on the alert for influences of the devil in opposition to the Holy Spirit. (10) For twenty centuries we have already been members of the Church, the body of Christ. Individualism within the body of Christ can thus imply an underestimation of the work of the Holy Spirit. (11) We remain one Ekklèsia and must listen to the interpretation of the Bible by all churches. (12) The Lord is king over all domains and spheres of life. He also reigns over (leaders of) political, educational and societal-structural affairs, as well as over heads of industry.
Retoriese kritiek en die interpretasie van die Ou Testament
Authors: Van Deventer H.J.M.
Published: August 2012

Rhetorical criticism and the interpretation of the Old Testament Modern history of Biblical interpretation presents us with two basic approaches to the text of the Bible, viz. historical and literary approaches. This article proposes rhetorical criticism as a process of interpretation that analyses both the historical and literary features of a text. After a short overview of the modern use of the term, especially within the field of Biblical interpretation, this article investigates various “forms” of rhetorical criticism as proposed by scholars working in the fields of general literary theory, a well as Biblical (Old and New Testament) interpretation. The article concludes by proposing a form of rhetorical criticism for interpreting texts from the Old Testament.
Die sosiale en praktiese implikasies van 2 Korintiërs 6:14 vir Christene in Suid-Afrika
Authors: Jordaan G.J.C.
Published: August 2012

The social and practical implications of 2 Corinthians 6:14 for Christians in South Africa The prohibition in 1 Corinthians not to be mismated with unbelievers is part of the metaphoric language by which Paul explains a principle for relations between believers and unbelievers. Evidence drawn from a grammatical and thought-structure analysis of the text as well as evidence drawn from its socio-historical context makes it clear that this prohibition is applicable to a variety of relations, especially marriage relations, labour and business relations, religious relations and even political relations. The prohibition should not lead Christians into an ascetic lifestyle, but should rather exhort them to establish such relationships with unbelievers that their own holiness as body of Christ will remain untouched. In all relations believers should refrain from taking any other yoke upon themselves than the yoke of our Lord Jesus. Finally, all relations with unbelievers should be upheld with the missionary purpose of bringing such unbelievers to the faith of the Lord.
Verzoening, dogmatische betekenis en ethische relevantie
Authors: Wentsel B.
Published: August 2012

Reconciliation, dogmatic meaning and ethical relevance In the first part of this article C.J. den Heyer’s underlying suppositions about reconciliation are outlined. According to Den Heyer reconciliation does not occupy a central place in the gospels. The author of this article opposes this view and consecutively discusses the apriori of the skandalon, the over-estimation of the historical-hypercritical school, the understatement of the intrinsic meaning of the Pèsachlamb and the offer-tora, and the negligence to stress the meaning of the covenant in the process of reconciliation. In the second part of the article it is argued that the intrinsic idea of the Pèsachlamb is fulfilled in Jesus (John 1:29) and that He has also fulfilled the offer-tora (Leviticus 1-7). The Trespass-offering (Lev. 5:1- 19) indicates that a sinner has the obligation to confess (Lev. 5:5). The Semika is significant in this respect because it expresses representation, solidarity, substitution and retribution – aspects which had been realised by and in Christ who sacrificed himself – thus acting as the sacrifice itself (sacrificium) and as (high)priest. Christians should fulfil their responsibility of reconciliation and atonement by means of confession, by experiencing the consequences of believing, by proclaiming the unity with Christ (His crucifiction and resurrection.) Christians should also demonstrate their urge to reconcile by means of their behaviour in the contemporary social and politic order and in their expectation of the coming of the Lord. It is proposed that in the reading of the four gospels the covenant should be taken as point of departure. In this respect the idea of the covenant highlights the following underlying truths: - Reconciliation is an act of the triune God. - Jezus is proclaimed the Messiah in his munus triplex before his Father and mankind (kippèr, hilasmos, atonement). - We partake of the covenant in our proclamation of the gospel, in our words and deeds (as His co-workers – 2 Kor. 6:1.). - In conclusion it is stressed that as Christians we should preach the gospel of reconciliation and atonement – also in South-Africa!
Vryheid en verbond: ’n Ou-Testamentiese perspektief
Authors: Du Plooy H.F.
Published: August 2012

Freedom and covenant: A perspective from the Old Testament A century after the end of the Anglo-Boer War freedom remains an important issue and some people nowadays constantly ask whether they have lost their freedom in the New South Africa. This article offers an Old Testament perspective on freedom and first of all discusses the importance of blessings and curses within the framework of the covenant. This is followed by a discussion of two passages from the Old Testament – Deuteronomy 28 and Jeremiah 34 – viewing the loss of freedom as a result of disobedience to God’s commandments. The discussion highlights the fact that political freedom could not be regarded as a basic right of a people in the time of the Old Testament. Freedom in their own land was regarded as a gift of God to Israel. To retain this freedom the people had to obey God’s commandments; otherwise this freedom could be lost. Deuteronomy 28 indicates that obedience will result in blessings, while disobedience will result in punishment. Freedom in their own land is mentioned together with the blessings and the curses. Jeremiah 34 proceeds from the same premise, but relates the loss of freedom to the people’s failure to release their slaves.
Vryheid as tema van die sosiale etiek (in Suid-Afrikaanse konteks)
Authors: Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

Freedom as a theme of social ethics (within the context of South Africa) “Freedom” is one of the most widely discussed notions in theology and politics, one of the most desirable expectations of mankind and one of the great ideals of humanity to achieve, but on the other hand also one of those concepts about which many different and even contradictory interpretations exist. In this article the many meanings which the concept “freedom” has acquired through the ages are outlined, followed by an investigation of the Biblical meaning of the word. A section on freedom as understood by Afrikaner theologians in South Africa as well as its interpretation within the Liberation Theology is also included in the argumentation. The article is concluded by a set of resolutions. The investigation of the concept “freedom” boils down to two main distinctions, namely “freedom from” and “freedom to”.
Kerk en owerheid binne ’n regstaat. Die profetiese roeping van die kerk met betrekking tot die Suid-Afrikaanse owerheid
Authors: Vorster N. , Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

Church and government within a constitutional state. The prophetic calling of the church towards the South-African government With the transition to a new political dispensation in South Africa, a constitutional state has been established. A typical characteristic of this new dispensation is that the government remains neutral while the executive powers are subject to the Bill of Human Rights. The question of how the church can realize its prophetic task towards the government within the context of a constitutional state is highlighted in this article. The central theoretical argument is that a constitutional state that acknowledges fundamental rights provides an excellent opportunity for the church to fulfil its prophetic calling within the South African context. The church can contribute to a just society by prophetic testimony within the perspective of the kingdom of God.
Amos oor die ampte en die kultus (erediens): die betekenis vir vandag
Authors: Helberg J.L.
Published: August 2012

Amos on the offices and the cult: the meaning for us today In this article Amos’ attitude towards the offices of king, priest and prophet is explored against the background of the rest of the Old Testament. The conclusion arrived at is that the institutions/offices/ services should be instrumental in enabling people to function according to their individuality and as beings created in the image of God: beings created to be free and responsible. Amos does not call for the abolishment of the offices, but these offices are, however, shaken to their very foundations by Amos’ prophecies. The intended result of Amos’ words is that office bearers should realise that God called them personally; they have not merely been called institutionally. Office bearers should thus radically reform and adjust their approach. Faith should be God-centred and should have a heart for the material and spiritual needs of people, including the needs of the members within the own circle of believers, as well as that of others. In conclusion, some relevant aspects within the Reformed Churches in South Africa are brought to the fore.
Die invloed van die Tweede Vryheidsoorlog (1899-1902) op die Teologiese Skool Burgersdorp
Authors: Krüger P.
Published: August 2012

The influence of the Second War of Independence (1899-1902) on the Theological Seminary of Burgersdorp In this article the reasons for the War are pinpointed as England’s imperialism and the underlying motif of getting hold of the riches and gold of the ZAR. At the outbreak of the War the students and lecturers of the Burgersdorp Theological Seminary, as most Boers in the Cape Colony, had to make a decisive choice: loyalty to the Government of the Cape Colony or to their fellow kinsmen in the North (and thus siding with the latter). Varying facets of the war-torn situation are touched upon in this article: the lecturers were for example accused of treason but acquitted. The outcome of the 30 students’ situation, however, differed. Those students origally from the northern Republics returned home to join their commandos. Some of these students were taken prisoners of war. Most of the Cape students showed their solidarity with their northern compatriots by joining the Ambulance Corps. Three students and two former students eventually died (one was the son of Prof. Lion Cachet). In honour of these students a monument was erected in 1906. Only one student and three former students were rebels, as far as is presently known. At a later stage three students were able to continue their studies in the Netherlands. Two of these, J.D. du Toit and F. Postma, later returned to South Africa and committed their lives to the Theological Seminary at Potchefstroom and the Potchefstroom University for CHE.
Androcentric language in 1 Thessalonians and its implications for South African women today
Authors: Cornelius E.M.
Published: August 2012

The focus of this article is the use of androcentric language in 1 Thessalonians. The questions asked in this regard are: does the author of 1 Thessalonians use sexist-exclusive language, thus gender-specific language or does he use gender-inclusive language as used within a patriarchal culture? And what are the implications of this situation for South African women today? In order to answer these questions, the background of ancient authors’ use of androcentric language is given as seen from a socio-historical point of view. Then the use of androcentric language by the author of 1 Thessalonians is evaluated. Against this background and in the light of this evaluation, the implications of this kind of language in 1 Thessalonians for contemporary South African women are discussed. It is found that Paul’s use of androcentric language in 1 Thessalonians is possibly a result of the prescriptions of the roles of a patriarchal culture and that the church needs to reconsider its prescriptions of the roles of women in the church. The question to be answered is whether the church prescribes the roles of women in church because of a Biblical view of women or because of its negligence to let God’s Word speak to women in societies. In the light of a changed attitude towards women in our modern society, translators of the New Testament need to consider a fresh interpretation and translation of 1 Thessalonians (and the rest of the New Testament) in which women are addressed and considered to be an active part of God’s church.
Apostolicum Symbolum
Authors: Van Rensburg F.J. , Cornelius E.M.
Published: August 2012

Apostolicum Symbolum
Geloofsvolharding en moreel-etiese agteruitgang in die lig van die kenmotief in 2 Petrus 1:8-11
Authors: Breed D.G. , Jordaan G.J.C.
Published: August 2012

Spiritual perseverance within the situation of moral-ethical degeneration as seen in the light of the motif of knowing in 2 Peter 1:8-11 The purpose of this article is to reflect on the significance of the motif of knowing in 2 Peter 1:8-11 for the current South African context. The motif of knowing in 2 Peter 1:8-11 gives special insight into the manner in which Christians in South Africa can be motivated to live according to God’s will. Believers must realize that a life style according to God’s will will have a positive effect on their knowledge of Jesus Christ, steadfastness in their belief and the certainty of their pretemporal election. On the other hand, somebody who lives according to his sinful desires disregards the meaning of his baptism. In this article an attempt is also made to show that Peter linked a life lived according to God’s will to enter into the eternal kingdom.
Selfstandige ontwikkeling van Gereformeerde Kerke binne agtergeblewe gemeenskappe sedert 1994
Authors: Dreyer S.
Published: August 2012

Self-reliant development of the Reformed Churches in disadvantaged communities since 1994 This article attempts to apply the development strategy of selfreliance to the Reformed Churches in disadvantaged communities within the greater Johannesburg area. The timeframe spans the 1994 transformation date to the middle of June 1999. The article looks at the marginalised and disadvantaged position – which appears to be in a peripheral state – of existence of the above churches. Attention is first focused on the extent of the problem from which the specific objective is derived: the setting of guidelines by which these churches can develop towards self-reliance. Since the subject is closely related to the discipline of theology and the subdivision, ecclesiology, this article also involves this discipline. The guidelines for self-reliant development vary between orthodox reformed principles and radical unorthodox guidelines, in line with the challenges facing these churches and their available resources. A change in the existing structures and relations is fundamental to the proposed guidelines for the self-reliant development of the Reformed Churches in disadvantaged communities.
Geloof en wete(-nskap) In gesprek met Ben du Toit
Authors: Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

Faith and science. Discussion with Ben du Toit The Dutch Reformed minister Ben du Toit published a very challenging book in which he wrestles with the old dilemma regarding the relation between faith and science/reason. The author investigates the question of how to integrate premodern theological thought into a postmodern world context. Accordingly he (re-)interprets many teachings of the Bible (a premodern book) from a postmodern perspective, although he refuses to do so with the substitutionary work of Christ and his resurrection – a fortunate exception. The review closes with a few critical remarks.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

During August 2001 the Faculty of Theology of the Potchefstroom University for CHE hosted an international conference on the theme “The kingdom of God”. Several theologians from abroad as well as colleagues from other South African universities delivered papers at this conference. It is thus the privilege of the Editorial Board of In die Skriflig to publish some of these papers as research articles.
The kingdom of God in the Old Testament
Authors: Peels H.G.L.
Published: August 2012

In recent times, the notion of the “kingdom of God” has received much interest by Old Testament scholars. Reformed theology has traditionally attached much theological value to this topic, whereas modern research is questioning the centrality of the theme. It seems as if text material on this topic is relatively limited. In this article contemporary research concerning antiquity, provenance and the development of the notion of God’s kingdom is briefly highlighted, with special emphasis on the study of the YHWH-malak Psalms. It is argued, however, that tradition-critical analysis runs the risk of insufficiently recognising the importance of the theme. The matrix of thoughts and ideas in which the theme is rooted has to be taken into account, both semantically and theologically. In this respect, the notions of creation and covenant are of special interest. Finally, both spatial and temporal characteristics of the kingdom of God in the Old Testament are delineated. The kingship/kingdom of God is still to be considered as a basic and even central notion in the Old Testament.
Kingdom of God or justification of the sinner? Paul between Jesus and Luther
Authors: Van Bruggen J.
Published: August 2012

This article discusses the much-debated tension between Jesus’ message and Paul’s message. The new Paul-paradigm changed the debate. Especially the work of J.D.G. Dunn raises the question as to whether the process of de-Lutherising Paul of necessity leads to the re-Judaising of Paul? The article concludes that there is not really a tension between the message of the kingdom of God and the gospel of the justification of the sinner.
Song and music in the Pauline epistles: Paul’s utilisation of Jewish, Roman and Greek musical traditions to encourage the early Christian communities to praise God
Authors: Viljoen F.P.
Published: August 2012

This article presents an exegetical investigation of several Pauline texts in which he encourages early Christian communities to praise God with song and music. Paul encourages the congregation in Rome to praise God in unity. The Colossians and Ephesians are exhorted to sing in order to instruct and to admonish one another to glorify God. Furthermore Paul remarks on hymn singing in the Corinthian congregation. In this article it is indicated that influences from Jewish, Roman and Greek cultures in these different communities are probable. Each of these three cultures had a long musical tradition and thus the content and typical features of their musical traditions are investigated. Furthermore, the issue whether Paul utilised features from these musical traditions to encourage the early Christians to praise God with song and music is also explored. The article concludes that insight in these features results in a better understanding of Paul’s teaching with regard to the use of song and music in Christian worship – also for today.
Verklarende (expository) prediking – ’n herevaluering
Authors: Venter C.J.H.
Published: August 2012

Expository preaching – a re-evaluation This article focuses on a re-evaluation of expository preaching, especially in view of the contributions of Craddock and Buttrick, who introduced a new era in homiletical research. A re-evaluation of the exegetical and homiletical methods utilised in expository preaching is also undertaken. Certain recommendations are made, for example to broaden the basis of the exegetical method for expository preaching and also to implement a model in which the processes of exegesis, hermeneusis and homilesis each play its full part in composing expository sermons.
Identity, remembrance and transformation as key concepts in biblical hermeneutics
Authors: Syreeni K.
Published: August 2012

The concepts identity, remembrance and transformation are discussed in this article to highlight the dialectic of historical change. Identity as a basic concept falls in the hermeneutical middle ground between theology (“truth”) and politics (“power”). Identity pertinently denotes the symbolic construction of a living person or a social group, but identity is also applicable to other entities. Identity involves difference and relatedness, “inside” and “outside” aspects of understanding, as well as processes of objectivation (subjectmaking) and attribution (conceptual enrichment). Historically, identity can be defined as the memory of its attributions. Historical identities only remain the same through continually renewed remembrance and transformation. In the course of the discussion, this basic theory is applied to biblical hermeneutics. The underlying practical issue concerns women’s role in church and society.
Saameet in Handelinge 2:42 ’n Sosio-historiese ondersoek
Authors: Vermaak S.P.J. , Van Rensburg F.J.
Published: August 2012

The communal meal in Acts 2:42. A socio-historical study The issue featuring in this article relates to the extra-textual context within which the communal meal in Acts 2:42 is to be understood. Does Luke use the “breaking of bread” within a Jewish or a Hellenistic context? First, the applicable facets of the Jewish- Hellenistic society in the first century A.D. is constructed. Next the influence of Hellenism on the first-century societies is highlighted. The communal meals in which Jesus, according to the Gospels, participated, is studied to establish whether He inaugurated a change in values. Finally the socio-historic context of the communal meal in Acts 2:42 is typified in the light of the conclusions.
Die Christus-himne in Filippense: soteriologies of eties?
Authors: Floor L. , Viljoen F.P.
Published: August 2012

The Christ hymn in Philippians: Soteriological or ethical? The Christ hymn (Philippians 2:6-11) presents Jesus as the supreme example of humble, self-sacrificing, self-denying, self-giving service. The apostle Paul urges the Philippians to practise such conduct in their relation to one another. Hence, although this hymn is un-questionably an ethical poem, it may also be considered as so-teriological in character. This hymn was composed for christological and soteriological reasons, but Paul’s motive is in the first place not to give an instruction in doctrine, but to reinforce instruction in Christian living. The hymn, therefore, presents Christ as the ultimate model for moral action. Paul uses Christ’s life and death as an example for Christians to follow.
Of light and limits: Philosophy matters
Authors: Botha M.E.
Published: August 2012

The deepest religious or faith commitments of a scholar enter into her theoretical work through the mediation of a (scientific) world view with its embedded philosophical assumptions about the subject matter. These philosophical assumptions are about the fundamental structure (order) of the world and imply assumptions about the nature of this order or structure. They are often embedded in theoretical notions that purport not to require any further grounding. As such they are thoroughly “religious”. Metaphorical language and models often mediate these religious convictions. Christian scholarship implies critically weighing and assessing such assumptions and exposing their ideological or mythical nature. The pivotal issue at the centre of the historical “turns” in philosophy of science appears to be diverse articulations of this locus of order. It is this perennial search for the elusive universal that surfaces in each of the “turns” in either philosophy or science which “turns” up with monotonous regularity in subject-related literature. All these “turns” seem to be bound in their point of departure to an epistemological position which could best still be described as that of modernity, i.e., anchored in the Enlightenment ideal of the subject-object divide and the belief that objective rational knowledge can be acquired, yet attempting to approach this rational objective knowledge via the medium of the knowing subject. This perennial search for the elusive universal reaches a dead-end in post-modernism. If Christian philosophy wants to shed light on this issue so central to the heart of theorizing, it needs to develop a dynamic understanding of the notion of law, order, limits and boundaries and the way such an understanding could inform the discussions concerning scientific realism and the end(s) of philosophy.
Women, monotheism and the gender of God
Authors: Klopper F.
Published: August 2012

God is experienced in heightened awareness that can only be represented in images and symbols. According to the Old Testament there was one male God, Yahweh, imaged as a father, king, judge, shepherd and more. Since God-images are cultural creations related to the time and place in which they were conceived, the male character of God is a natural reflection of the patriarchal culture of the ancient Near East. Twenty-first century women have difficulty relating to the male God-image and patriarchal church language, both of which justify the subordinate position of women in church and society. Investigation into Old Testament religion reveals that the way Israelite women dealt with the single male God opens the way for contemporary women to do likewise and create images of God with which they can identify.
Leë plekke in die literatuur en Bybelvertaling
Authors: Snyman A.H.
Published: August 2012

Empty spaces in literature and Bible translation Texts and sentences contain empty spaces which have to be filled by readers in the construction of meaning. The way in which these spaces are filled is not completely arbitrary. Readers fill them on the basis of the textual context and/or their own field of reference. There are thus limits and constraints of interpretation. The purpose of empty spaces is to involve the reader actively in the process of interpretation and the generation of meaning. Translators should therefore be careful to fill the empty spaces of the original text. Only in cases where it is absolutely unclear how they should be filled can the translator assist the reader in filling them. One such example is Galatians 2:4. By filling most of the empty spaces, the translators of the 1983 Afrikaans translation weakened the communication function of the text. Examples are Ephesians 1:3-14, Romans 5:12-17 and Galatians 2:6. On the other hand, the 1983 translation is much more intelligible and accessible to the everyday reader than its predecessors. The solution for a possible new Afrikaans translation lies somewhere between the 1933/1953 and the 1983 translations.
Mark, the Gospel of the suffering Son of Man: An encouragement directed to a despondent religious minority in the city of Rome
Authors: Viljoen F.P.
Published: August 2012

In his narrative the author of this Gospel starkly emphasizes the humiliation and suffering of Jesus as the Son of Man (i.a. 10:45). In doing so, Mark emphasizes that Jesus’ way to be the Christ is the way of suffering. In several instances Mark describes Jesus’ disciples’ ignorance of this fact. Special focus is placed on the ignorance of Peter when confessing Jesus as the Christ. The point of departure for this article is that the Gospel of Mark was written to a specific believing community. It is argued that Rome, rather than Syria or Galilee, most probably was the Sitz im Leben and reason for the second Gospel. Furthermore it is reasoned that the context of Rome provides a relevant hermeneutical key to the understanding of the text of this Gospel. Seen from this perspective, Mark purposefully emphasized the humiliation and suffering of Jesus on his way to glory in order to encourage his despondent readers during or directly after the persecution in the days of Nero 64 CE. Evidence from tradition has indicated that Peter, the great leader of the Christian community in Rome, died as a martyr. This left the Christians in Rome without a leader, fearful and discouraged. The Gospel displays evidence of a Petrine eyewitness account that implies a close link between this apostle and Mark. Although at first Peter did not realize the necessity for Jesus to suffer, the Gospel of Mark clearly explains it with its focus on the passion narrative. Jesus had to walk the way of suffering. In Mark the word “way” is used in a significant manner to indicate that Jesus’ via dolorosa had implications for Peter and still has implications for all those who follow Him by confessing Him as the Christ. Christians are called to follow in his footsteps with suffering and endurance. Accordingly, Mark adds a paradoxical connotation to the term “Gospel”. “Gospel” is the good news of the salvation in Jesus. This message, however, is also concomitant with suffering and even the loss of life.
Jesus sonder Christus of Christus sonder Jesus?
Authors: Viljoen F.P.
Published: August 2012

Jesus without Christ or Christ without Jesus? Material concerning the so-called “historical Jesus” is widely discussed today. Time and again this discussion has led to a diminishing emphasis on faith in the living Lord Jesus Christ in heaven. The investigation of the life of Jesus has often resulted in isolating the historical Jesus of Nazareth from that which is preached about Christ as God’s Messiah. This article positions the current Jesus research within the frame of its historical development. It becomes clear that the results of contemporary research can be traced back to historical-critical research of more than two centuries, as a result of which the diversity of images of Jesus has grown exceedingly. The consequences and inadequacies of such Jesus research are indicated. This article suggests that a valid hermeneutical key for historical research should be taken from the Bible itself. Furthermore, it is argued that the investigation of the earthly life of Jesus can never be isolated from his life and work as Messiah of God as described in the Gospels.
Die 'vroue-kwessie' in die GKSA
Authors: Pieterse R.
Published: August 2012

The issue about women in the Reformed Churches in South Africa (GKSA) This article provides a summary of the views of church members in the GKSA (Reformed Churches in South Africa) on women. According to traditional views a woman’s primary role and task are limited to the home where she has to be a wife to her husband and a mother to her children. The perception is that she does not have a role within society or politics. Furthermore her role in the church has been limited to activities regarded as in harmony with the view of women as housewives. Women have objected to this delimiting view of their role and task in society and church, especially because it is not in harmony with the restitution that Christ has effected for women. In the GKSA, especially the fact that women are not allowed to serve as deacon, elder or minister, is experienced as contradictory to women’s restitution. The article provides a synopsis of the way in which the GKSA has dealt with the issue of women in office. In several reports of Synod, many positive things have been written about women. The church, however, has been reluctant to translate words into actions and allow women to use their gifts fully in the church.
Teologie van die verbond of teologie van die koninkryk? Dogmatiese nadenke oor die verhouding tussen die verbond en die koninkryk as sentrale teologiese temas
Authors: Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

Theology of the covenant or theology of the kingdom? Dogmatic reflections on the relation between the covenant and the kingdom as pivotal theological themes In this article the author attempts, with reference to the historical development of the concepts covenant and kingdom, to investigate their importance for theology in general and for dogmatics in particular, as well as to answer the question whether priority should be given to one of them in theology. He demonstrates how some theologians have developed their theology around one of the concepts – which is of course possible – but recommends that in the end a correlative approach – in which the one concept complements the other – would produce the best results for theology.
Hijab and the construction of female religious identity
Authors: Jardim G.L. , Vorster J.M.
Published: August 2012

Thinking of Muslim women, the first image that usually comes to mind is a veiled woman or, especially after 11 September 2001, the burqa (Afghan name and form of veiling) in Afghanistan. This image of prescriptive veiling is immediately viewed as oppressive and as an indication of the inferior status of women in Islam. In this article an attempt is made to present the different ways in which hijab (Islamic practice of veiling) is interpreted and applied, followed by an analysis of Islamic identity as reflected in Islamic scripts. Personal identity is discussed according to Jensen’s distinction that sheds some light on the different spheres of human reality within Islam, that is: the social person, the legal person and the religious person. This article aims to present orthodox and feminist views on personal identity that should be informative of the orientation of Muslims within society at large.