bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise and depression: a treatment manual
Authors: Van der Merwe I , Naudé S
Published: August 2012

Increased frequencies in unipolar major depression and dysthymia evolve into chronic depression (Gotlib & Hammen, 1992:11).

Opsomming

‘n Toename in die voorkoms van unipolêre major depressie en distimie kan tot chroniese depressie ontwikkel (Gotlib & Hammen, 1992:11)

*Please note: This is a reduced version of the abstract. Please refer to PDF for full text.
Contraceptive practices of women in Northern Tshwane, Gauteng Province
Authors: Maja T M M , Ehlers V J
Published: August 2012

Despite the availability of free contraceptives in the Republic of South Africa (RSA), unwanted and unintended pregnancies continue to pose challenges to reproductive health services.

Opsomming

Alhoewel voorbehoedmiddels vrylik beskikbaar is in die Republiek van Suid-Afrika (RSA), bied ongewenste en onbeplande swangerskappe steeds uitdagings aan voortplantingsgesondheidsdienste.

*Please note: This is a reduced version of the abstract. Please refer to PDF for full text.
Prescribing of drugs for the treatment of migraine with specific emphasis on sumatriptan
Authors: Truter Ilse , Kotze Theunis J van W
Published: August 2012

Migraine affects between 5-15% of males and 13,5-31% of females in South Africa.

Opsomming

Migraine affekteer tussen 5-15% van mans en 13,5-31% van vroue in Suid-Afrika.

*Please note: This is a reduced version of the abstract. Please refer to PDF for full text.
Die historiese vraag na die land en grondbesit in Israel: Die tekortkomings van die historiese kritiek
Authors: Volschenk Gert , Van Aarde Andries
Published: August 2012

The historical quest for land and land tenancy in Israel: The limitations of historical criticismThe aim of this article is to discuss the presuppositions and shortcomings of the historical critical exegesis in connection with the study of the land and land tenancy in Israel. The following questions are asked: Why did theology ignore the significance of land and land tenancy? Is the nature of the historical critical study of land atomistic? Why is the study of land and land tenancy so important today? What causes the importance of land today?
Beleef die Christelike teologie soos met die vorige eeuwending weer ’n paradigmaverandering?
Authors: Spangenberg I.J.J.
Published: August 2012

Is Christian theology experiencing a paradigm shift as was the case at the end of the nineteenth century?Biblical scholarship experienced a major paradigm shift at the end of the nineteenth century. This shift had an enormous impact on the way in which the Bible was read and studied by scholars during the twentieth century. During the early stages, it affected primarily Protestant denominations and their doctrine of Scripture. The Roman Catholic Church, however, could not escape its influence. In 1943, biblical scholars in this tradition received permission from Pope Pius XII to use historical-critical methods in their study of the Bible. The results of this shift are only now impinging on theology in the broad sense and there are signs that Christian theology is heading for a new shift which is going to be just as radical as the previous one.
Om verbeeldingryk te lewe: Verbeelding in die pastorale narratiewe terapie en die teologie van Walter Brueggemann
Authors: Louw N.A.
Published: August 2012

Living imaginatively: Imagination in the pastoral narrative therapeutic approach and the theology of Walter BrueggemannThe article focuses on the relevance of Walter Brueggemann’s work for the pastoral narrative therapeutic approach. The concept of imagination and its use in both pastoral narrative therapy and Brueggemann’s work are described. Case studies are submitted as possible descriptions of how imagination in pastoral narrative therapy can be “funded” by Brueggemann’s insights. It is followed by cursory remarks on the possible relevance of Brueggemann’s use of the concept imagination for the pastoral narrative therapeutic approach.
Postliberale teologie as teologiese raamwerk vir die kerk se korporatiewe identiteit
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

Postliberal theology as theological reference for the church’s corporate identityThis article seeks to show the importance of culture and symbols, as in the business sector in terms of corporate culture and image, so too mutatis mutandis in the church. The post liberal theology would be a basis of such an argument. A short exposition of the theology of George Lindbeck is given in order to indicate that his categories should be interpreted dynamically which means that the one-way direction of influence in the cultural-linguistic model gets dialectical, once this relation has been established. In a time of identity crises for established churches, corporate symbols are of utmost importance. Therefore, this process should be managed and exploited. Recognition of the particular has its place in the post liberal theology without abolishing ecumenism or, in the words of Lindbeck, “reconciliation without capitulation”.
Who persecuted the Thessalonian Christians?
Authors: Taylor N.H.
Published: August 2012

This article argues that the recent scholarly consensus of an essentially gentile Thessalonian church being persecuted by its gentile neighbours is founded on unsound premises. The Jewish community in Thessalonica would have had good reason to oppose Paul and the congregation he formed. The exegesis of key texts in 1 Thessalonians does not support the reconstruction of the church as composed of gentiles unconnected with the synagogue, and the ethnic background of the persecutors cannot be ascertained on the basis of the letter. The dismissal of Acts as a source of historical information is unwarranted.
Paul’s ecstatic trance experience near Damascus in Acts of the Apostles
Authors: Pilch John J.
Published: August 2012

Luke reports more than twenty altered states of consciousness experiences in Acts of the Apostles. These  are common and normal human experiences in approximately ninety percent of contemporary cultures.    In the ancient Circum-Mediterranean world, it seems to have been common and normal in about eighty percent  of  those  cultures. Insights from psychological anthropology, cultural anthropology and cognitive neuroscience contribute to an improved understanding and interpretation of these experiences in the Bible, particularly the call of Paul as reported in Acts 9; 22; 26.
Matthew as marginal scribe in an advanced agrarian society
Authors: Duling D.C.
Published: August 2012

Analysis of 22 references to scribes in the Gospel of Matthew shows that a few of them are positive comments and that  the author himself was a scribe.   What type of scribe was he and how can we clarify his social context? By means of the models of Lenski and Kautsky, by recent research about scribes, literacy, and power, and by new marginality theory, this article extensively refines Saldarini’s hypothesis that the scribes were “retainers”. The thesis is that in “Matthew’s” Christ-believing group, his scribal profession and literacy meant power and socio-religious status. Yet, his voluntary association with Christ believers (“ideological marginality”), many of whom could not participate in social roles expected of them (“structural marginality”), led to his living between two historical traditions, languages, political  loyalties, moral codes, social rankings, and ideological-religious sympathies (“cultural marginality”). The Matthean author’s cultural marginality will help to clarify certain well-known literary tensions in the Gospel of Matthew.
To know what is before one’s face: Group-specific metaphors and the composition of the Gospel of Thomas
Authors: Liebenberg J
Published: August 2012

This article uses the insights of second-generation cognitive linguistics to interpret some of the metaphoric sayings in the Gospel of Thomas. It is an attempt to show how the identification and use of conventional metaphors  influence the understanding of poetic language. Group-specific metaphors, as a manifestation of basic conventional metaphors, are identified, providing a conceptual framework against which some Thomas sayings are interpreted. These basic metaphors then provide cohesion for the interpretation of some apparently disparate sayings in the Gospel of Thomas.
Spaced out: “Territoriality” in the Fourth Gospel
Authors: Neyrey Jerome H.
Published: August 2012

The Fourth Gospel is inordinately involved with places and spaces, valuing some, but dis-valuing others. The task of interpreting all such references is greatly aided by the use of the anthropological model of "territoriality” which shows how all peoples 1) classify space, 2) communicate this and 3) control access to or exit from this territory. The classifications might be: public-private, sacred/profane, honorable/shameful, clean/unclean, fixed/fluid, center/periphery and the like. Where appropriate, these classifications are used  to interpret the Johannine data on spaces and places, particularly 1) Galilee/Judean, 2) public/in secret, 3) not on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, 4)  whence/whither, 5) in my Father’s house there are many rooms, 6)  “in-dwelling” and “being-in” another;  and 7) two different worlds.
Die ontwikkeling vanaf ’n horti-kulturele na ’n simplistiese agrariese ekonomie in die leefwêreld van die Bybel
Authors: Volschenk G.J.
Published: August 2012

Development of Biblical society from a horti-cultural economy to a simplistic agrarian economyThe aim of this article is to study the evolution of the ancient economy from a horti-cultural one to a simplistic agrarian economy. The evolution is imbedded in the socio-historical, political and economic context of the ancient era. The historical overview came to the conclusion that the antecedents of the Biblical jubilee were present in the ancient society. These are namely the conflict between landtenancy and landlessness, the kinship institution being under pressure, greater social stratification through exploitation by the elite and the escalation of conflict between city and country.
Die vertaling van [vreemde taal weggelaat]-uitdrukkings in die Nuwe Testament
Authors: Tolmie D.F.
Published: August 2012

The translation of [foreign font omitted]-phrases in the New Testament In most cases translators translate the [foreign font omitted] phrases in the New Testament literally. In this article such an approach is questioned, in particular when a translator wishes to translate in such a way that the meaning of the original text is transmitted accurately to the reader. In order to help translators to translate the [foreign font omitted] phrases in the New Testament in a meaningful way, the possible meaning these phrases may have is categorised as follows: [foreign font omitted] phrases in which [foreign font omitted] functions as the (direct) object of an event; [foreign font omitted] phrases in which a movement towards [foreign font omitted] can be detected; [foreign font omitted] phrases that are used instrumentally; [foreign font omitted] phrases indicating state/status; phrases that are used to indicate cause. In each case several examples are discussed.
’n Ondersoek na die siening van wyle professor H P Wolmarans oor kerk en kultuur
Authors: Strauss L.J. , Botha S.J.
Published: August 2012

An examination of the views of the late Professor H P Wolmarans on church and cultureThis article endeavors to sketch H P Wolmarans’ view of the interaction between Christian belief and Afrikaner culture in it’s fullest extent. He was lecturer since 1935 to 1959 and dean (1957-1959) of the Faculty Theology (Division A) at the University of Pretoria. His 1938 article “Die godsdiens in ons kultuurstryd” (“Religion in our cultural struggle”) as published in Die Almanak is serves as the point of departure of this review. It is coloured with information about his life and ideas as was obtained from both interviews with family members and former colleagues and articles written by Wolmarans. This article shows that Wolmarans did not practice civil theology. He consistently argued on the basis of Emil Brunner’s dialectical theology that the poltical life of Afrikaners should be built on principles of Scriptures. He did not used the church or theology to serve secular ambitions.
Beelde vir die kruis van Christus in die vierde en vyfde eeu
Authors: Stander H.F.
Published: August 2012

Images of Christ’s cross in the 4th and 5th centuriesThe Church Fathers did not have a common theory or system of atonement. Therefore, if one wants to appreciate what they had to say about atonement, one needs to study the rich images that pervade their literature. Their beliefs concerning atonement were not expressed in words, but in symbols, especially of the cross. This article discusses the various symbols of the cross of Christ which are to be found in the writings of theologians of the 4th and 5th centuries. Reijners (1965) has undertaken an exhaustive study of the images of the cross in the first three centuries, but the writings of the fourth and fifth centuries have never been scrutinized for these images.
Applied philosophy and psychotherapy: Heraclitus as case study
Authors: Beukes Johann
Published: August 2012

This article investigates a recent attempt to apply philosophy within the discipline of psychotherapy and to investigate the somewhat undefined realm of philosophical counselling. After introducing the claims of this interdisciplinary exercise and after addressing the problems involved in crossing the boundaries between philosophy and psychotherapy, the article elaborates on  Alex Howard’s (2000) [Philosophy for counselling and psychotherapy: Pythagoras to post-modernism. London: Macmillan] attempt to make explicit use of philosophy in psychotherapy, using his interpretation and application of Heraclitus’ philosophy as case study.
Die dans van die Christen: Die genealogie van tyd en ruimte in ’n postmoderne samelewing
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

The Christian dance: The genealogy of time and space in a postmodern societyThe point of departure of this article is the thesis that the understanding of reality is based on the concepts of time and space. In order to communicate the quintessence of postmodernism the concepts of time and space need to be deconstructed. After a brief intermezzo with physics, the article emphasises that the perspectival dimension is not fixed but in flux. Dancing, which expresses movement, is an apt metaphor for conveying the multifaceted character of postmodernism. The Genesis 1 account of creation is read from this perspective and inversely, society is looked at from this Biblical viewpoint in terms of the relationships between God, man and nature. The article concludes with an insight from Jean Baudrillard that simulations are not imitations of reality, but a widespread cultural condition and not an “event” restricted to particular technology.
The metaphysical mind in its physical environment: Religious implications of neuroscience
Authors: Du Toit C.W.
Published: August 2012

This article introduces ideas originating from different sciences of mind and the challenge they present to religion. In spite of overcoming the mind-body dualism, it seems that the mind-brain dualism still prevails. The mind-brain relation is discussed in the light of some models. Special attention is given to supervenient theories of mind. In light of this information the article investigates how the impact of these theories on religious experience. D’Aquili and Newberg’s explanation of extraordinary religious experience is discussed. It is concluded that the phenomenon of religion and religious experience are more than mere brain functions. The place of religion and the continued importance of religion and religious experience are confirmed.
Historiese en sosiale oorsprong(e) van apokaliptiek
Authors: Nel M. , Human D.J.
Published: August 2012

Historical and social origin(s) of apocalyipticismHow and where did apocalyptic literature originate? What is the relation between apocalyptic literature on the one hand, and prophesy and wisdom literature on the other? Should apocalyptic literature be regarded as a deviation from prophetic literature, or is it a linear development thereof? Wherein lies the difference between prophetic and apocalyptic eschatology? In this artcle a literary study is done to find answers to these questions and it is concluded that apocalypticism does not have a single dominant origin, but that its origins lie in a complexity of factors. The researcher can find a description of these factors only in each unique apocalyptic work. Many historical and cultural factors played a role in the origin of apocalyptic works. A single social background cannot be posited for apocalyptic literature either. The worldview expressed by apocalyptic works does not necessarily represent that of marginalized groups as apocalypticism is rather a way of thinking which permeated the entire Jewish community.
Die ontwikkeling vanaf ’n simplistiese na ’n gevorderde agrariese ekonomie in die leefwêreld van die Bybel
Authors: Volschenk G.J.
Published: August 2012

The development of the agrarian society of the Bible from a simplistic to an advanced agrarian societyThe aim of this article is to study the development of the ancient economy from a simplistic agrarian society to an advanced agrarian society. The Hasmonian Empire formed the bridge from a simplistic to an advanced agrarian society. The Roman Empire was the end product of the evolution process and an example of the advanced agrarian society.
Die belangrikheid van Kerkgeskiedenis en Kerkreg in die teologiese opleiding en vorming van studente
Authors: Botha S.J.
Published: August 2012

The importance of Church History and Church Polity in the training and forming of theological studentsThe Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk always has always been adamant that its ministers should be trained and formed in a theological faculty at a recognized university, where all the disciplines of theology are lectured. At a recent Church synod, the importance of Church History was questioned. In this paper the argument that Church History is not just important in the curriculum of theology, but indeed indispensable, is put forward. As Church Polity forms part of the Department of Church History at the Faculty of Theology (University of Pretoria), it is also included in the argument.
Wat dateer ons? Enkele opmerkings rondom die datering van Bybelse tekste
Authors: Lombaard C. , Le Roux J.H.
Published: August 2012

What are we dating? Some remarks on the dating of biblical textsWhen a date is ascribed to a Biblical text, it is at times unclear precisely what is being dated. Does the date relate so some historical event which may have occurred, or alternatively, is it projected into another era? Does it refer to the possible formation date of an oral tradition, or is it perhaps some phase in its development through history which is being dated? Is it the a quo date for when a text is judged to have been written down, or the date ad quem, or some process of rewriting – either between these two dates, or possibly some minor editorial alteration after the ad quo date – which is to be given? Is it referring to a time when an interpretative frame was placed around existing text? This article provides an overview of what it is about a text that may be dated. It concludes with an appeal for greater accuracy of formulation in the already precarious matter of dating biblical texts.
Going places with bodies that can seek and find, eyes that can see, and ears that can hear: Some remarks on the body and understanding in the Gospel of Thomas
Authors: Liebenberg J.
Published: August 2012

This article discusses the role which “the body” plays in the Gospel of Thomas. Despite the fact that Thomas has often been regarded as “Gnostic, it is interesting to note that significant sayings within the Gospel (referring to “revelation”) involve the body, while there are also a number of sayings which are distinctly anti-material – most notably GTh 17. The article uses the insights of second generation Cognitive Linguistics and the role of primary metaphors to explain this anomaly.
Gerhard von Rad – ’n honderd jaar
Authors: Le Roux Jurie
Published: August 2012

Gerhard von Rad – one hundred yearsIn 2001 Old Testament scholars celebrated the birth of Gerhard von Rad’s birth one hundred years ago. As a contribution to these celebrations, this article focuses on Von Rad and his views on history. Von Rad emphasized the importance of historical criticism and he valued the views of Wellhausen and Gunkel. His own approach can be termed “tradition history”. Von Rad used these critical tools to determine the “theological maximum” of the Old Testament. He was interested in Israel’s own presentation of Yahweh’s history with them. In a particular way, Von Rad brought history and theology, critical scholarship en theological reflection together. This extremely important intellectual contribution is elaborated in the ensuing article..
Bybelse getuienis oor homoseksualiteit – met ander oë gesien
Authors: Geyser P.A.
Published: August 2012

Biblical testimony on homosexuality – seen from another per-spectiveThe aim of this article is to (re)open the discussion of biblical testimony on homosexuality. The discussion focuses on the results of existing exegetical re-search. The article places the exegesis of the relevant Bible passages within the framework of the types of literature within which the references to same sex behaviour are found. Four categories of texts are usually cited by those who argue against homosexuality, namely: legal texts; narrative passages; lists or catalogues; creation reports. The case for a more careful translation and reading of the relevant texts, is advocated. A hermeneutics of suspicion and an engaged hermeneutics are needed to approach biblical testimony on homosexuality from a perspective of Jesus’ caring for those who have been wounded.
Wanneer die beelde uit die oog geneem word – teks en beeld: 'n Teologiese probleem
Authors: Kloppers Wilhelm C.
Published: August 2012

When the images are taken out of sight – text and image: A theological issueThe over-emphasis of the Lutheran theology according to which the "ears alone" would be appropriate, as well as the Barthian theology of "the word alone", led to a negative evaluation of images and the visual aspects of communication. In this article it is argued that texts and images are sides of the same coin which both contribute to under-standing and which therefore communicate the faith in ways that are different, yet very similar. When text and image are separated, it leads to deficient imagination and communication. It is shown that theology cannot escape the forming of images and communication through images. Theologians therefore need profound training in the understanding of images and in creative communication through images and imagination – theologians need Bild-ung.
Die ou-Kersaandgesprek van Friedrich Schleiermacher in Afrikaans: Agtergrond, vertaling en hermeneutiek
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

The Christmas Eve Dialogue of Friedrich Schleierma-cher in Afrikaans: Background, translation and herme-neuticsIn his Christmas Eve Dialogue (Die Weinachtsfeier: Ein Gespräch), Schleiermacher reflected on the theological tension between the quest for the historical Jesus and the dogma of the incarnation of Christ as “true God” and “true human”. In the fashion of his Romantic contemporaries, Schleiermacher presented his theology in the form of a story about friends celebrating Christmas Eve and their thoughts on the meaning of Jesus’ birth in their lives. This story was written in 1805 and printed in Gothic German in 1843. The aim of this article (the first of a series) is to translate Schleiermacher’s Christmas Eve Dialogue in Afrikaans. This article gives a brief biographical overview of Schleier-macher’s life and discusses the theoretical premises of his hermeneutics. After the translation of the first part of the Christmas Eve Dialogue (pages 465-472 in the 1843 printed edition), the article concludes with an explanation of the reasons why he would write such a story.
The destruction of Jerusalem and the transmission of the Synoptic eschatological discourse
Authors: Taylor N.H.
Published: August 2012

This study examines the eschatological discourses in Matthew and Luke. Each is considered in its narrative context, and with detailed attention given to developments in the transmission from their common source, Mark. While both reflect awareness of historical events during the period between the composition of Mark and the time of writing, they relate to the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple very differently. While Matthew is clearly written after 70 CE, the eschatological discourse is not influenced by the events of that period. The eschatological discourse in Luke, on the other hand, has been fundamentally reshaped in the light of those events.
Female visibility through Korean literature: Feminist theological critique
Authors: Jeong Eun Ok , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

This article introduces Korean women’s experience as seen through the lense of social and cultural backgrounds, from the premodern through to the postmodern era. Korean literature is used as a source to investigate Korean women’s experiences and perspectives. By means of feminist critique this article explores men-centered influences in Korean literature. It aims to illustrate the importance of the issue of female visibility through Korean literature from a Korean woman’s perspective. Two texts are analyzed and critiqued: the first is the myth of Korean origin. The second is a story of Gasi Gogi (a thorny fish). The article is intended to stimulate debate on gender, voices, and authority from a feminist perspective, in order to transcend the more traditional interpretations.
Virgin mother or bastard child?
Authors: Crossan John D.
Published: August 2012

Virginal conception presumes divine intervention, but divine inter-vention does not necessarily presume virginal conception. In the case of Mary, two phenomena, both unusual in Jewish tradition, are found, namely divine and virginal conception. This article argues that the virginity claim by Christian Jews preceded and generated the adultery accusation by non-Christian Jews. It does so by stating three points. Firstly, that the earliest dated text containing the accusation of Jesus’ bastardy is dependent on the redactional text of Matthew. Secondly, that the general structure of Matthew 1-2 and especially its dyad of Divorce and Remarriage is dependent on the popular traditions about Moses’ conception and birth. Thirdly, that the pre-Matthean tradition of divine and virginal conception is rather a reaction against Roman tradition than coming from Jewish tradition. However, this argument does not take Jesus out of Jewish tradition but, places the Judaism of Jesus’ time firmly within the Roman Empire. It is a Judaism which opposed Rome’s ideological ascendancy and theological eschatology. This article will also be published in A Feminist Companion to (Mariology) or (the Jesus Movement), edited by Amy-Jill Levine, Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press.
History and religious experience in biblical research
Authors: De Villiers Pieter G.R.
Published: August 2012

This essay firstly investigates the role of history and religious expe-rience in the research of biblical texts generally and on the Book of Revelation in particular. It delineates limitations of some established historical interpretations and new developments in historical work on the Bible. The second part illustrates these trends by comparing earlier historical readings of Revelation with recent work in which the experiential plays a decisive role. The article argues that where historical scholarship distorts, neglects or excludes the religious dimensions of a text, it fails to understand the true nature of the biblical text and interpretation is skew.
Beyond psychology: Spirituality in Henri Nouwen’s pastoral care
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

This article aims to explain Henri Nouwen’s reflection on the relation-ship between psychology and practical theology and especially on the commensurability/incommensurability of psychological techniques and spirituality, both of which are relevant to pastoral care. It demonstrates Nouwen's understanding of pastoral care, what the underlying epistemology is and how spirituality is the focal point of his model. In this context he discusses aspects such as pain, anger, greed, grief and solitude. In the discussion his knowledge and use of psychological perspectives become apparent. He sees the suffering person as a spiritual being, someone who lives in the presence of God. Therefore he finds it imperative to move beyond psychology. Spirituality is about the way in which someone experiences God’s presence. To explain and enhance spirituality, Nouwen proposes a theory for pastoral care which aims at healing, sustaining and guiding the suffering person. To elucidate the underlying epistemology of Nouwen’s model and to understand his critical stance with regard to psychology, the article follows the pattern of the focal points “healing”, “sustaining” and “guiding”.
Die Bybel: Teks en ondermyning
Authors: Nel Philip J.
Published: August 2012

The Bible: Text and subversionThis article explores both the subversive dimension of the biblical text, in particular the Old Testament, as the ramifications thereof for the concept of a religious text. It argues that interpretation has been historically and fundamentally part and parcel of the genesis and reception history of the biblical text. The texts of Job and Jonah have been chosen for their explicit subversive strategies. The article shows that if the biblical text exploits strategies of subversion, it also contravenes the traditional opinion subscribing to a referential meaning of texts. A subversive text cannot simultaneously deny and confirm a constant (fixed) and an immutable reality. The article argues that biblical scholars should reconsider other perceptions of the religious text to avoid the destructive criticism of referential meaning in postmodern studies. One option to be considered is the view of a text as performative communication.
Conflict as context for defining identity: A study of apostleship in the Galatian and Corinthian letters
Authors: Taylor N.H.
Published: August 2012

This article examines ways in which Paul defined the notion of apostleship in the course of conflict with rival authority claimants in the early Church. In Galatians Paul defines and asserts his apostolic self-identity in order to regain the oversight of the Galatian churches which he had previously exercised as an apostle of the church of Antioch. In 2 Corinthians Paul asserts his authority as church founder against rivals who recognise no territorial jurisdiction. No common agenda, theological position, or conception of apostleship can be identified. Rather, rival authority claimants based their legitimacy on different criteria in different situations.
Addressing an angelomorphic christological myth in Hebrews?
Authors: Steyn Gert J.
Published: August 2012

In this article, the hypothesis of a possible angelomorphic christology, as addressed by the author of Hebrews, is investigated. It is argued that when Jesus was proclaimed as “Son of God”, he was probably identified by some of the early believers as an angel. Evidence of similar angelomorphic views held by certain groups in Jewish and early Christian apocalyptic circles at the time of the composition of Hebrews, is listed. The arguments in Hebrews 1 in particular are investigated against this background. It is concluded that, although no explicit polemic against a viewpoint of Jesus as an angel is found in the text, certain angelomorphic elements were applied to him.
Die Fariseërs
Authors: Botha Pieter J.J.
Published: August 2012

The PhariseesThe article shows that conventional depictions of the historical Pharisees are problematic. The difficulties of portraying the “other” are briefly noted, but in the main, this discussion deals with the proper use of the sources for the purpose of studying the historical Pharisees. After all, the question “what do we know about the Pharisees” presupposes an answer to “how do we know what we know”. As with so many other aspects of first-century Judaism, questions, rather than answers abound.
Die Kerkhervorming in Hongarye
Authors: Papp K.D.
Published: August 2012

The Reformation in HungaryThis article focuses on a description of the Reformation in Hungary. Research into the historical backgrounds of the South-African clerical family Papp (of which the progenitor, the Reverend Kálmán Papp, is the only Hungarian immigrant to date to have become a minister in the reformed churches of South Africa), provided the stimulus for the exploration of this topic. The article briefly describes the political and ecclesiastical circumstances in Hungary prior to the Reformation, the course thereof, with specific reference to the most prominent Hungarian reformers, the outcome of the Reformation, as well as the birth of the Reformed Church of Hungary. The influence of Heinrich Bullinger, whose Confessio Helvetica Posterior was accepted as an official article of faith of this church in 1567, is dealt with in more detail. The article concludes with a few cursory remarks on the effects of the ecclesiastical and political developments in Hungary on the church in the sixteenth century and also provides some statistical data with regard to the present situation.
Empowerment of Korean women from a postmodern Practical Theological perspective
Authors: Jeong Eun Ok , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

The aim of the article is to discuss the situation of Korean women from political, social, cultural and religious perspectives in a postmodern context. Postmodernity implies a denial of the “absolute”, including “absolute power” of men over women. Heideggerian thinking rejects the modernistic privileged status of the Cartesian subject. In this article postmodern anti-foundational, anti-totalizing, and demystifying cate-gories are used to critique patriarchy in Korean society and literature in order to analyze social movements and cultural-religious values in Korea. It discusses a representation of sexual difference and values by means of feminist literary criticism. The article consists of a reflection on the relationship between theory and praxis in feminist Practical Theology, Korean women’s experience, the epistemology of post-modernity, and the empowerment of Korean women.
Geregtigheid, huisorde en die jubilee in Matteus
Authors: Volschenk G.J.
Published: August 2012

Justification, house-order and jubilee in MatthewThe aim of this article is to describe the relationship between justification, house-order and jubilee in Matthew. There is both a horizontal and a vertical dimension to justification, as well as it having multiple nuanced meaning possibilities. By means of a triangular model the article describes the interdependent and interrelational nature of the relationship between justification, house-order and jubilee. The triangular model is an interpretation framework to avoid the one dimensional and simplistic understanding of justification and jubilee. The article concludes with a broad understanding of the jubilee which confirms its multi-dimensional nature and God’s new beginning with humanity in Jesus Christ.
’n Bestuurshulpmiddel vir doelmatige en doeltreffende kerkbestuur: ’n Generiese perspektief vir ’n makro-gemeente
Authors: Van den Berg A.A.
Published: August 2012

A management tool for efficient and effective church management: A generic perspective for a macro-congregationThis article examines the place and function of project management as a generic management tool in the church and the potential solution it has to offer in respect of congregation management and ministry. "Project" and "project management" are defined and contextualised within a church environment. The project management process is put in the context of a project management system and of the congregation and its relevant functions. Project management consists of five generic phases namely, project initiation, project planning, project execution, project control and project closure. The project manager is provided with an overall picture of the project management process, with specific reference to its compilation and workings. The discussion in the article includes the management of the human dimension of the project management process.
“Om nie te dink bó wat in die Skrif geskrywe staan nie” – konsistensie en ontwikkeling in die teologie van Piet Geyser
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G. , Geyser Piet A.
Published: August 2012

“Keeping theology within the parameters of Scripture” – consistency and development in the theology of Piet GeyserThis article reflects a conversation between Andries G van Aarde and Piet A Geyser. P A Geyser was professor of Biblical and Religious Studies at the University of Pretoria. He retired in January 2004. The following issues are discussed: critique against the Calvinist doctrine of predestination from the perspective of Karl Barth’s theology; the unity of the church; theology for lay people; the authority of Scripture; the relevance of historical Jesus studies; Biblical testimony on homosexuality and the pastoral care of gays. The article aims to demonstrate the growth and development in Geyser’s hermeneutics while he remains within the parameters of Scripture.
Reconsidering prepositions and Case assignment in the text of Revelation 4 and 5
Authors: Riekert S.J.P.K.
Published: August 2012

In order to describe the government by prepositions in the book of Revelation in terms of the Government and Binding Theory, it is imperative that the sub-theory of Case assignment be considered. With the latter as point of departure one may describe, i) the shifts from autothematic and structural Case to oblique Case, ii) the use of prepositions with oblique Case instead of the structural genitive Case, and( iii) the peculiarities of the Case and case assignment of the preposition [foreign font omitted], as found in Revelation 4 and 5.
Die eenheid van die Filippensebrief: Oorwegings vanuit die gedagtestruktuur van die brief
Authors: Jordaan G.J.C.
Published: August 2012

The unity of the Philippian letter: Considerations from the thought structure of the letterDuring the last two decades a new interest has emerged in the structure of the letter to the Philippians, leading to a variety of text oriented studies, which have more or less confirmed the unity of the letter. This article contributes to these studies by making a thought-structure analysis of the text of Philippians. This analysis, which takes the grammatical relations within the text as point of departure, but proceeds to a study of the more implicit markers of structure, such as repetition and figures of speech, reveals that the thoughts in the letter body of Philippians are arranged in a triangle pattern. In this pattern Philippians 1:27-30 serves as a “table of contents”, which is expanded upon in the rest of the letter body (2:1-3:21). In a subtle way the main elements of the “table of contents” are echoed in Philippians 4:1-9, resulting in an “inclusio”-pattern. These patterns of thought structure of Philippians provide further support for theories in favour of the unity of the letter.
Joodse narratiewe van die Persiese tydvak: Ideologie?
Authors: Spangenberg I.J.J.
Published: August 2012

Jewish narratives of the Persian period: Ideology?In recent years a number of scholars argued that the bulk of the Old Testament originated during the Persian and Hellenistic eras. The literature thus is the product of elite groups living in Yehud. They created a “history of Israel” in order to impose their ideology on the ordinary people. This being the case it would be impossible to write a history of the Jewish people prior to these periods. The article focuses on biblical books such as Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Jonah, Ruth, Esther, the Joseph novel, the Daniel stories, and the frame narrative of Job. These narratives leave one with the impression that the bulk of the material could be classified as fiction. However, the stories have most probably been created and written to assist the elite and the low classes in their acceptance of and adjustment to the new situation. It is not merely literature which elites wrote and which they tried to impose on others by way of ideology control.
The ongoing Canon debate
Authors: Schutte Flip
Published: August 2012

The aim of this review article is to participate in the current “canon debate” among biblical scholars. The collection of essays, The Canon Debate, edited by Lee Martin McDonald and James A Sanders and published in November 2002 serves as point of departure. The thirty-two essays in this volume provide a summary of the most recent research, and as such it provides the necessary background for meaningful participation in the current debate. “The Canon debate” by McDonald & Sanders is probably the most comprehensive collection of essays ever published on canon formation in Judaism and Christianity. This 662-page volume includes essays on both the First Testament and the Second Testament, as well as the apocrypha and pseudepigrapha. The essays provide translations of most of the ancient primary sources, as well as meaningful summaries of scholarly debates, in addition to providing a useful guide to the extensive scholarly literature on the subject. The article argues that once you have discovered the canon, you can experience it anywhere, not only in canonical texts.
Bevinding en geestelike verlating op die limiete: Die historiese en teologiese kontekstualisering van die pioniersvrou Hester Venter (c1750-c1830) se Ondervindelijke Bekeeringsweg
Authors: Raath A.W.G.
Published: August 2012

Experiential theology and spiritual desertion on the borders: The historical and theological contextualisation of the pioneer woman Hester Venter’s (c1750-c1830) Experiential Way to ConversionTheological experience is a multi-facetted reality. In experiential theology the emphasis is on the resurrection of and communion with Christ. It is the acceptance of Christ to salvation and has both internal and external dimensions. As such it has a unique position in Reformational theology. Hester Venter’s Experiential Way to Conversion has significant value by illuminating the “Dopper”-trekboers’ puritan theology. Furthermore, it casts light on the national implications of this Reformed strand of theology at a key-phase of the “Dopper”-trekboer movement into the interior of Africa. The article argues that a contemporary value of Reformed theology is that it provides an alternative to the current growth of Eastern mysticism. Reformed pietism can serve as a legitimate theological experiment for adherents to the Reformed faith who strive to live from the faith.
From the other side of doubt – overcoming anxiety and fear: Paul Tillich’s “courage to be” and Reinhold Niebuhr’s “Christian realism”
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

Paul Tillich’s view on reality is that anxiety is part of being human. According to Reinhold Niebuhr, Christian realism has a realistic and an idealistic side to it. Reality is always changing and filled with tension. On the other hand there is a vision of otherworldliness, a vision of transcendence in everydayness. The theological nomer “Christian” indicates an awareness of God’s presence as well as the human tendency to be self-directed. The objectives of this article are to “rephrase” Niebuhr’s knowledge of the reality of the secular world, conceptualise Tillich’s categories of “anxiety” and “fear” against the background of the reality of the secular world, and explain Niebuhr’s notion of “Christian realism”. Their insights are used to empower the church to overcome homophobia in the faith community’s pastoral care of gays.
Die skuldgebed in Esra 9:6-15
Authors: Venter Pieter M.
Published: August 2012

The penitential prayer in Ezra 9:6-15The penitential prayer is a traditional Gattung used in ancient Israel. The prayer of Ezra 9:6-15 bears all the characteristic marks of this genre. In this prayer a historical scheme and themes such as “the land” are used to depict the Judean community’s sin. In a study of its literary structure, macro narrative context and socio historic background, this article shows that the confession in the prayer in reality is a liturgical strategy to proclaim Yahweh’s righteousness in his relationship with his people. Rather than imploring God, the community of faith expresses its belief in God and their identity as God’s own people in this prayer.
Religion without ulterior motive
Authors: Van de Beek A.
Published: August 2012

This article deals with the relevance of Christian faith. It is expected of religion to be of relevance to society, to inform politics, to guide people in their personal development, and so forth. The article wants to explore the argument of whether religion should be relevant at all, and what the consequences of denying the relevance of religion would be.
Defining the situation in Revelation: John’s intention and action-lines
Authors: Theunissen H.
Published: August 2012

This article argues that the purpose of Revelation is to strengthen the group identity of the church and not to encourage a persecuted church. This view is proposed by a symbolic-interactionistic analysis of Revelation. Symbolic interaction focuses on the construction of situations through symbols, the interaction between symbols and the grouping of symbols. Through the analysis and the corresponding action lines certain conclusions pertaining to the problems in the church and the author's intention (the writing being a reflection of his mind process) are possible. The overall problem seems to be the fading boundaries of identity between the church and society. John’s intention is to bring about the necessary alterations. He thus exhorts the church through warnings, calls to repent and even threats. This is achiebed by defining the situation to the church through symbolic scenes.
When they, we, and the passive become I – Introducing autobiographical biblical criticism
Authors: Schutte P.J.W.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this article is to introduce the reader to autobiographical biblical criticism. Autobiographical biblical criticism entails an explicitly autobiographical performance within the act of criticism. Autobiographical biblical criticism is to implement personal criticism as a form of self-disclosure, wittingly, while reading a text as a critical exegete. It thus has to do with a willing, knowledgeable, outspoken involvement on the part of the critic with the subject matter. This phenomenon is a natural consequence of the postmodern shift towards a personal spirituality. These issues are investigated and the phenomenon of this exegetical method is evaluated in the article.
“Kenotiese” prediking – die katalisator vir liturgiese verdieping in die huidige konteks?
Authors: Dreyer T.F.J.
Published: August 2012

“Kenotic” preaching – a catalyst for liturgical revival within the present contextIn this article the urge towards a new liturgical approach is investigated from a systemic perspective. The interactive dynamics of the different liturgical elements cannot change if the dominant influence of preaching on liturgy as a whole is not taken into consideration. Within the framework of the theological tradition of the Reformation, preaching is considered as the liturgical core. In order to achieve maximum participation of the congregation, liturgical movements usually focus on the renewal of liturgical elements within worshipping, neglecting the decisive role of preaching. This research investigates the “kenotic” rhetorical approach of D J Lose (Confessing Jesus Christ: Preaching in a postmodern world) as a possible catalyst for liturgical revival.