bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Editorial
Authors: Krüger P.
Published: August 2012

’n Studieprojek oor die vrou in kerk en samelewing onder leiding van Fika Janse van Rensburg het verlede jaar ten einde geloop. In hierdie uitgawe is nog twee artikels wat direk voortvloei uit hierdie navorsingsprojek van die Fakulteit Teologie aan die Potchefstroomse Universiteit vir Christelike Hoër Onderwys. Hoewel die uitgangspunte in albei artikels aansienlik verskil van die reformatoriese teologie wat met In die Skriflig geassosieer word, bied die twee artikels waardevolle agtergrond oor standpunte wat in akademiese kringe gehuldig word oor die posisie van die vrou en oor Skrifbeskouing.
Woordspel en magspel in Daniël 2
Authors: Van Deventer H.J.M.
Published: August 2012

Word-play and power-play in Daniel 2 This article investigates how word-play identified in the dialogue between the king and the wise counsellors in Daniel 2:2-12 contributes to the establishing of meaning in the narrative. After a broad description of issues related to the world “behind” the text, the article focuses on text-immanent aspects, as well as aspects related to an active reader of the text. It is indicated how wordplay creates polarisation among characters in the text as well as resolves the tension by introducing a Wholly Other and a different way of assessing such polarity.
Editorial
Authors: Jordaan G.
Published: August 2012

In die Skriflig fokus op die gereformeerde teologie. Gesonde debatvoering was nog altyd deel van die reformatoriese erfenis. Hierdie uitgawe van In die Skriflig weerspieël twee sulke debatte: • Die navorsingsartikels handel oor ’n spesifieke aspek van die gereformeerde belydenis, sodat hierdie uitgawe as ’n tema-uitgawe beskou kan word. Jorrie Jordaan, as leier van die navorsingspan wat op die aspek ingegaan het, gee hier onder verdere besonderhede. • ’n Diskussie-artikel word geplaas, waarin Adrio König reageer op ’n resensie van sy boek, God, waarom lyk die wêreld so? As wetenskaplike tydskrif plaas In die Skriflig nie korrespondensie nie, maar hierdie artikel lê op die vlak van voortgaande wetenskaplike diskussie.
The Kingdom of God and those who have not heard the contents of Scripture
Authors: Kruger M.A.
Published: August 2012

Article 2 of the Belgic Confession deals with the following issue: By what means does God make Himself known to us? The first part of Article 2 that echoes the teaching of Calvin via the Gallic Confession reads as follows: “We know Him [God] by two means: First by the creation, preservation and government of the universe, which is before our eyes as a most elegant book, wherein all creatures, great and small, are characters (read: letters – MAK) leading us to see clearly the invisible things of God, even his everlasting power and divinity, as the apostle Paul says (Rom. 1:20). All which things are sufficient to convince men and leave them without excuse.” This article of 1561 agrees with Calvin’s Institutes of 1559 (1, V, 1) and the early Reformed Confessions before the Canons of Dordt (1618-1619). It seems as though, after Calvin, a doctrine of insufficiency regarding this first means of revelation gradually developed. In the Westminster Confession of 1647 this means of understanding God’s revelation (i.e by receiving God’s communication through the creation, preservation and government of the universe) was explicitly interpreted as insufficient. Man’s inherent ability to know God by means of his own mental capacity, the so-called light of nature, that remained after the Fall, was also regarded as insufficient. The issue of whether the interpretation of Article 2A had not been changed in the first century after Calvin should therefore be seriously considered by Reformed churches. Furthermore, the church of today, situated in a world that experiences such phenomenal scientific and technological changes, should ask what relevance Article 2A of the the Belgic Confession has for the church and the world.
Die openbaring van God – ’n retories-kritiese interpretasie van Romeine 1:18-32
Authors: Cornelius E.
Published: August 2012

The revelation of God – a rhetorical-critical interpretation of Romans 1:18-32 M.A. Kruger’s 1983 doctoral thesis caused serious discussion in GKSA circles with regard to the differentiation between “general revelation” and “specific revelation”. Romans 1:18-32 seems to be a central pericope in the understanding of the revelation of God. A project of the Faculty of Theology, PU for CHE, focusing on this specific problem, gave birth to this article as a component of the interpretation of this pericope. The issue addressed in this article is how this pericope can be interpreted from a rhetorical-critical point of view. In my own interdisciplinary and interactional approach to rhetorical criticism, the purpose is to interpret the communicative function(s) of this pericope. It turns out that the letter to the Romans was addressed to those in Rome in order to convince them that the reason for their acceptance as God’s people lies in God’s work only and not in their imitation of the Jews. Romans 1:18-32 seems to be part of the opening of the letter body intended to be a warning for all people, including an example of what may happen if this warning is not taken seriously. The logic of the argument indicates that God’s wrath will come upon those who do not accept His revelation in creation.
Christianisation of ancestor veneration within African traditional religions: An evaluation
Authors: Afeke B. , Verster P.
Published: August 2012

Although Africans have welcomed the Gospel message, some African Christians have not yet abandoned the beliefs and practices of traditional religions. Ancestor veneration has been reinstated by some Africans and others try to christianise the concept. In this article an overview of different aspects of the debate on ancestor veneration is given and evaluated. The conclusion reached by the authors is that sound exegesis does not allow ancestor veneration to be tolerated in the Christian church, but that respect for ancestors should be accepted.
The theological significance of the state in the thought of Paul Tillich and Arnold van Ruler
Authors: Hodnett G.
Published: August 2012

This article looks at the importance of the state in the theologies of Paul Tillich and Arnold van Ruler. The state is the community in which both the individual and the community are actualised. It is also the institution that organises the life of the nation. The orientation of the state has a direct impact on the direction of human life. The state is the centre of power and justice in reality; it is the political core of history. The state also has the power to actualise itself according to the justice that it posits and in this process love is embedded as the ultimate criterion of justice. Love, power and justice are intimately related to the kingdom of God. The state, even the pagan state, thus performs the reuniting and saving work of God on earth.
Reformed missionary work at Richmond (KZN): A historical analysis of its Dutch roots
Authors: Wielenga B.
Published: August 2012

In this article the Dutch roots of Reformed missionary work, based at Richmond (KZN) since 1960 are analysed. The following three aspects were investigated: the church-historical background of Dutch missionary work in KwaZulu-Natal; the political context within which the work was undertaken, the relationship between the Gereformeerde Kerke in Suid-Afrika (GKSA) and the Dutch churches that sent missionaries to KwaZulu-Natal, the Netherlands Reformed Churches (Nederlands Gereformeerde Kerken). The investigation undertaken in this article attempts to contribute to a deeper understanding of the sometimes uneasy relationship between the GKSA and one of her missionary partners from abroad.
Editorial
Authors: Krüger P.
Published: August 2012

Hierdie uitgawe van In die Skriflig bevat agt uiteenlopende artikels in die sin dat die artikels nie uit ’n bepaalde navorsingsprojek voortspruit nie. Tog kan die artikels in drie groepe verdeel word.
Globalisering: die nuwe gees van die 21ste eeu?
Authors: Van der Walt B.J.
Published: August 2012

Globalisation: The new spirit of the 21st century? In a related article it was indicated that “development” was the buzz word during the past fifty years of the previous century. The ideal of development was not totally rejected at the beginning of this century, but it was regarded as the expected result of “globalisation”, the new magic word of our time. This article is an attempt to get a theoretical grip on globalisation by paying attention to the following: a brief, preliminary description of the phenomenon; a few of its characteristics; an indication of some of its consequences; a more in-depth analysis of the neocapitalist economy as a driving force behind globalisation and, in conclusion, some ideas as to how, from a Christian perspective, globalisation should be viewed.
Sosio-historiese konteks en temas in drie Joodse apokaliptiese geskrifte
Authors: Nel M.
Published: August 2012

The socio-historical context and themes in three Jewish apocalyptic writings Exile changed the Jewish world view. Before the exile this world view could be characterised as static and unchanging. However, the orderly world was threatened by powers of chaos, God guaranteed that order would be upheld. During the exile the view originated that history would end in a new future when salvation would come for some Jews. Salvation was regarded as consisting of health, high age and peace. On the basis of this changed world view apocalyptic writings of the third and second centuries BC developed. Apocalyptic literature pretended to reveal the true interpretation of the prophets’ message. The assumption was that what happened in heaven determined what would happen on earth. God revealed what was happening in heaven to the apocalypticist. The setting was domination by foreign powers and the wish to be free. Apocalyptic literature was pessimistic about the chances to be saved from the foreign powers of history, and foresaw an end to history and the known world. In the final confrontation God would defeat Satan and his powers and this would lead to the final transformation of the world.
Care for a terminally ill person: A guide for pastors
Authors: Powell H.
Published: August 2012

Everybody is faced with unique challenges and experiences during his/her life cycle. Some experiences are sudden and untimely, whereas others are expected. Terminal illness remains an unpleasant experience of an emotional, psychological, social and spiritual nature, whether it was sudden or expected. In order to deal with or care for the terminally ill in an effective way, it is important for professionals such as pastors to understand the terminally ill person’s fears, his/her needs and emotional experiences. In this article attention is given to the latter as well as to the specialised skills and techniques that could be implemented to ensure efficient humane and compassionate care for the terminally ill.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Hierdie uitgawe van In die Skriflig fokus veral op Praktiese Teologie en teologies-filosofiese grondvrae wat van groot belang is vir die Suid-Afrikaanse samelewing.
Aspekte van emosionele intelligensie in die lewe van die nuwe mens
Authors: Venter C. J.H.
Published: August 2012

Aspects of emotional intelligence in man – “made new” Since the late nineties of the previous century research on emotional intelligence has received new impetus, mainly due to the work of Goleman in this field. This article focuses on emotional intelligence, especially from two points of view. Firstly, perspectives from Ephesians 4:20-24 are taken as point of departure to ascertain what is implied by “making new”, i.e the way of life and conduct of someone made new in mind and spirit. The way in which a person’s way of thinking is directed receives special attention as perceptions and feelings originate from the way in which one thinks and reflects on matters and situations. The command to discard old and sinful habits and to attire oneself with a new way of life plays a central role in the process of being made new in mind and spirit. Special attention is given to intercommunicative behaviour and the management of anger. In the second instance, the practical application of certain core aspects of emotional intelligence in the life of someone “made new” in spirit and mind is considered. A selection of definitions and models of research is touched upon and the following aspects typical of emotional intelligence are highlighted: self-awareness, awareness of one’s own feelings and those of others, as well as the effective controlling of emotions. The way in which emotions originate and are embedded in one’s way of thinking is highlighted, and ways of thinking to change the direction of emotions are suggested. Lastly certain practice-theoretical recommendations from a pastoral angle are made for those renewed in mind and spirit: a life “made new” should also reflect the acquisition of a new way of conduct, especially in applying ways of communicative behaviour and the practical management of anger.
Watter sake hoort by meerdere vergaderings?
Authors: Strauss P. J.
Published: August 2012

Which issues should be dealt with by major assemblies? It seems as if the reformed churches, in their distinction between minor and major assemblies, will always have to keep a balance between maintaining the right of the congregation as a fully-fledged church and the necessity or right of the church as a denomination. In order to achieve this, Article 30 of the Church Order of Dordt 1619 was the temporary end of a development in that church order tradition which carries the name of Dordt. Freely translated, Article 30 states: Major assemblies shall deal only with those matters which concern its churches in common or which could not be finished in the minor assemblies. With minor changes made by some churches, this formulation has withstood the test of time up till today. It can, however, also stand up to a test based on a sound reformed ecclesiology. Such an ecclesiology accepts in principle that the congregation is a fully-fledged church, but, at the same time, also sees the need for a meaningful bond between congregations (the denomination) as a visible sign of the unity of the church. In this bond major assemblies – like consistories – could also only act under an authority entrusted to them by Christ.
Godsdiensgelykwaardigheid, -uniekheid en -verdraagsaamheid ’n Prinsipiële besinning (2)
Authors: Van der Walt B. J.
Published: August 2012

Religious equality, uniqueness and tolerance. A principial reflection (2) The previous article discussed three interrelated issues, viz. religious diversity, religious intolerance (and even violence) and the constitutional acknowledgement of religious freedom and its implications in practice. This article builds on insights gained in the previous article, but also tackles three other closely related new issues, viz. religious equality, religious uniqueness and religious tolerance. The main problems to be answered in this connection are the following: If religions are regarded as legally equal, does it also imply that every one of them can be regarded as of equal value or equally true? If Christians reject the principial equality of all religions, in what sense should Christianity be regarded as unique? What should be the ground(s) for and nature of religious tolerance in the light of the common phenomenon of religious intolerance, conflict and even violence?
Editorial Reviews
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

No abstract available.
Geloofsvolwassenheid en Christelike spiritualiteit binne die knyptang van prestasiedruk tydens vroegbejaardheid
Authors: Louw D.J.
Published: August 2012

Spiritual maturity and Christian spirituality within the crush between performance pressure and adjustment to early pre-elderliness In this article it is argued that a developmental understanding of the different stages of life is appropriate for a pastoral hermeneutical approach. In order to link spiritual maturity to life issues, both J. Fowler’s and E.H. Erikson’s developmental models are discussed. However, little attention has been given in existing subject-related research to the “in-between stage”: between performance and preparation for retirement. In order to focus a pastoral hermeneutics on the unique needs this phase has for Christian spirituality, it is argued that an understanding of the Biblical notion of parrhēsia can play a decisive role in helping people to discover continuity and courage “to be in order” and to cope with the eventual demands of old age. For this purpose a new aesthetics should be rediscovered: the existence of the sublime within the ridiculous. (The paradox of hope and beauty despite fraity and disfigurement.)
Die werk van die Heilige Gees volgens 2 Korintiërs en die moontlike pastorale implikasies daarvan
Authors: Lotter G. A. George
Published: August 2012

The work of the Holy Spirit according to 2 Corinthians and the possible pastoral implications thereof In this article it is indicated that the description of the work of the Holy Spirit according to 2 Corinthians has special relevance for the pastoral practice. The key concepts referring to the work of the Holy Spirit, have been researched exegetically and according to the revelation history and are discussed in a chronological order: confirming, anointing (1:21) and sealing (1:22); change (3:3, 6-7, 17-18); the giving of the Holy Spirit as down-payment (1:21; 5:5); Paul as example (6:6) and the fellowship between God and believers (13:14). After the discussion of each part, possible pastoral implications are suggested.
Om in die Gees te begin en in eie krag te eindig – die noodsaak van ’n Skrif- gefundeerde prakties-teologiese Pneumatologie
Authors: Fritz F. W.
Published: August 2012

Starting in the Spirit and ending in own power – the necessity of a Scripturally founded practical-theological Pneumatology In this article one of the main problem areas of Practical Theology is addressed: In the hermeneutical interchange between theological reflection on the normative elements flowing from the revelatory presence and acts of God on the one hand, and ministering these normative elements in the concrete praxis in which man finds himself on the other hand, Practical Theology as discipline may commit the error to start in the Spirit but end in own power. In its core this problem manifests as a lack of a Pneumatology that describes and enhances the true relationship between the Spirit of God and the spirit of man. The need for a practical-theological Pneumatology that operates in the context of the covenantal relationship in which Christ fulfils the role of Mediator is argued and illustrated. The Holy Spirit leads the believer in a relation to praxis that is based on faith in Jesus Christ – seeing reality through his eyes and acting according to his mindset and power. The implications of this kind of Pneumatology are indicated for two important practical-theological aspects: firstly the ministering of reconciliation as the heart of all practical- theological activity, and secondly the key concept of perception by faith in combining vision of God with vision of what is seen and done in the concrete dimension of the praxis.
Die betekenis van charisma en amp vir die kerkregering
Authors: Du Plooy A. Le R. Dries
Published: August 2012

The significance of charisma and office for church polity This article focuses on Biblical concepts such as “charisma” and “office” and their importance and significance for the pure government of the church. We look at the concepts of “charisma” (gift) and “office” and proceed to describe the relationship between the two. From Scripture it becomes evident that there should be no tension between the charismata and the offices. In fact, the offices in the church are part of the charismata God has given to the church together with the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is argued that everyone who has been called to serve in an office needs to be blessed with the necessary gifts or charismata, so as to contribute to the equipment and building up of the church. Effective church polity depends on a true and solid understanding of these concepts.
Die regte en verantwoordelikhede van die homoseksuele persoon
Authors: Vorster J. M. Koos
Published: August 2012

The rights and responsibilities of the homosexual person Homosexual conduct is at the moment a very contentious issue in Christian Ethics in South Africa. The arguments in favour of a Christian ethical approval of homosexual relations, that were entertained in the seventies and eigthies of the previous century in Europe and the United States, are now on the agenda of the Dutch Reformed Churches in South Africa. The issue of possible official marriages between homosexual partners is also under consideration due to a judgement of the Court of Appeal in South Africa that a prohibition on same-sex marriages should be regarded as unconstitutional. This article investigates the arguments of the proponents of homosexual marriages by evaluating the Scriptural testimonies regarding homosexual conduct, and by formulating ethical norms applicable to this theme. The conclusion is that Scripture forbids homosexual conduct because it is considered as “contra naturam”. Therefore, the government and the church cannot condone homosexual conduct as well as same-sex marriages, because these relations are against the Biblical and constitutional value of human dignity. However, in spite of this principle both government and the church have an obligation to treat homosexual people with justice and love and to reject any form of homophobia.
Die Areopagusrede (Hand. 17:22-31) – ’n verkenning van homiletiese elemente
Authors: Venter C. J.H.
Published: August 2012

The Areopagus speech (Acts 17:22-31) – an exploration of homiletical elements In this article certain guidelines are developed from a selection of definitions for preaching and also from relevant data about the process of compiling and evaluating sermons. The aim in developing these guidelines was to establish parameters for the exploration of the Areopagus speech. It was established that the way in which listeners is addressed, and also the link-up with the situation of the listeners to the speech, can be considered as important homiletical elements. Together with these elements the structure of the speech as well as the transitions in the speech can be regarded as major homiletical elements in the body of the sermon. The trinitarian revelation of God in this speech and also the balance between indicative, imperative and promise mark this speech as a sermon. The elements of cohesion and progression are perceptibly present in this speech with the result that the introduction (God creates and grants life) links up well with the climax (eternal life through the resurrection of Christ).
Acts 17:16-34 as paradigm in responding to postmodernity
Authors: Lotter G. A. , Thompson G. G.
Published: August 2012

This article shows, in the description of Acts 17:16-34, important guidelines that may be found from Biblical material and how to understand and respond to postmodernity today. The main argument of this article is discussed under the following headings: Paul and Hellenistic pluralism; idols and gods: pluralism par excellence; Paul in Athens: prolegomena (Acts 17: 16-21) and Paul’s address to the Areopagus (Acts 17:22-34). Similarities between the situation in Athens will subsequently be discussed, followed by guidelines from Acts 17 to address postmodernity: the primacy of Biblical revelation, the utilisation of apologetics and flexibility through contextualisation. Finally, it will be shown how Paul did not assume a combative posture, but how with admirable delicacy, he challenged and corrected the major positions of the Stoics and the Epicureans, whilst being sensitive towards the Athenians. He portrayed how the message of the gospel can be conveyed by speaking relevantly and pointedly in the same manner to postmodern society.
Ekumenisiteit as ’n Skrifgefundeerde raamwerk vir kerklike eenheid – ook op die gebied van sendingwerk
Authors: Smit C. J.
Published: August 2012

Ecumenicism as a Scripturally-founded framework for ecclesiastical unity – also in missionary work In this article the foundations of a Scripturally-based ecumenicism utilised as a framework within which the dilemma of church division, also in missionary work, can be approached are investigated. The article identifies these foundations as the attributa ecclesiae (the core characteristics of the church), namely unity, catholicity, apostolicity and holiness. The conclusion arrived at is that the purpose of ecumenicism is the unity of the church, because of the catholicity of the church, based on the apostolicity of the church and aimed at the holiness of the church. Within this framework, missionary work should rather focus on cooperation than on emphasising ecclesiastical differences. The concluding issue concerns the boundaries of ecclesiastical cooperation, also in missionary work. Is it possible that different churches within the Reformed tradition can cooperate in missionary fields? Is it furthermore possible that the boundaries can be extended to encompass more than the approach of the Reformed tradition? In which way can churches from the Reformed tradition also cooperate with, for instance, churches from the Lutheran tradition, or with churches from the charismatic or even Roman Catholic traditions? The conclusions arrived at point to the notae ecclesiae (the core marks of the church) as the widest boundary for ecclesiastical cooperation. This approach accommodates the diversity of culture and ethos within the boundaries of the core marks of the church which determine what the church should be like in order to be church of the Lord. In the currently rising ecumenical phase of the history of Christianity the emphasis will increasingly fall on unifying rather than on dividing aspects of the church. The conclusion indicates that the unity of the church, also in missionary work, can only be attained and maintained within the framework of the core characteristics of the church (the attributa ecclesiae) – and that ecumenicism is no longer possible if a church is not recognisable as church of Christ and does not function within the core marks set for the church (the notae ecclesiae).
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Ons bied hiermee ons tweede uitgawe vir 2006 aan. S. van Helden en A.E. Coetzee skryf oor die sosio-historiese en sosio-linguistiese aspekte van die leksikale veranderings van die 1936- en 2001- psalmomdigtings. Hiermee raak hulle ’n belangrike ander faset van die psalmomdigtings aan – iets wat nog nie in die vorige bydraes in die debat oor psalmomdigtings aan die orde gekom het nie. F. Viljoen lewer nog ’n bydrae uit sy navorsing oor die demonologie in die Nuwe Testament. D.G. Breed behandel die vraag of 1Timoteus 2:8-12 voorskrifte bied vir gedrag in die erediens, in die gewone lewe of in die huwelik. Hierdie artikel is waardevol vir die navorsing wat tans binne die geledere van die Gereformeerde Teologiese Vereniging oor die plek van die vrou in die kerk en die samelewing gedoen word.
1 Timoteus 2:8-12 – voorskrifte vir gedrag in die erediens, in die gewone lewe of in die huwelik? ’n Eksegetiese studie
Authors: Breed Douw G.
Published: August 2012

1 Timothy 2:8-12 – a code of conduct for public worship, ordinary life or marriage? An exegetic study Throughout the world, the relation between men and women are currently in the spotlight. In 1 Timothy 2:8-15, Paul gave instructions to men and women that may illuminate the relation between the sexes. This article attempts to clarify Paul’s instructions to men and women. The article investigates whether Paul gives any indications in 1 Timothy 2:1-12 of whether his instructions are intended to regulate the conduct of both sexes during public worship, in ordinary life or in marriage. First, the study examines whether, in this letter, Paul gives any explicit indications of the context in which these instructions should be read. Next, it investigates Paul’s indications in his instructions for prayer (v. 1-8), decoration (v. 8-9), learning, teaching and the wielding of authority (v. 11-12). Many scholars are convinced that this passage was aimed at people’s conduct during public worship, but this study argues that Paul’s instructions could also refer to people’s conduct in ordinary life or marriage.
Spreuke 9: struktuur en funksie
Authors: Van Deventer H.J.M.
Published: August 2012

Proverbs 9: structure and function This article focuses on Proverbs 9 – a chapter that concludes the introductory section of the book of Proverbs. It is indicated that the chiastic structure that can be discerned in this chapter fulfils an important function as regards the understanding and unity of the book. Proverbs 9 not only refers back to the first chapter of the book, but also relates to the last chapter of the book of Proverbs.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Die redaksie bied graag hierdie uitgawe aan. Hierdie uitgawe bevat artikels oor ’n wyse verskeidenheid onderwerpe. Een van ons ou bekende bydraers prof J.L. Helberg (emeritus) skryf oor die messiaanse aard van die psalms en hoe dit die Nuwe Testamentiese lees, vertaling en omdigting van die psalms raak. Hy kom tot die slotsom dat al die psalms in die lig van Psalm 1 en 2 messiaans benader moet word. Hoewel Psalm 2 en die ander psalms messiaans in die Nuwe-Testamentiese sin gelees kan word, kan vertaling en omdigting van die psalms dit egter nie uitdruk nie en daarom moet in hierdie gevalle by die oorspronklike teks gehou word. Hiermee lewer hy ‘n belangrike bydrae tot die diskussie oor die omdigtingsmetode van die Cloete-omdigting.
Die Dordtse tradisie en binding aan die belydenis
Authors: Strauss P. J.
Published: August 2012

The church tradition of Dordt and subscription to the confessions A thorough analysis of history shows that the National Synod of Dordrecht (1618-1619) declared that the confessions of the church, especially the three Formulas of Unity of the Dutch Reformed Churches, have confessional authority. That indicates authority on the doctrines the confessions formulate and confess because (quia) these are according to Scriptures. This insight helped some reformed churches up to now to deal with criticism levelled against non-doctrinal issues in, for instance, the Confessio Belgica.  A case can be argued that a literal approach to the question of the authority of these confessions takes us back beyond Dordt. It ignores the history of 1618-1619, fails to get a grip on the very nature of confessions of faith or creeds and does not help to solve the problem.
Respons op Die dood van die outeur en die inspirasie van die Bybel: in gesprek met P.J. Nel en S.D. Snyman
Authors: Snyman S.D.
Published: August 2012

Response to The death of the author and the inspiration of the Bible: in discussion with P.J. Nel and S.D. Snyman This contribution is a response to an article that enters into a debate with an earlier article by the present author published in 2003, where it was argued that current theories on the inspiration of the Bible can no longer be maintained due to our knowledge of the origin of especially the Old Testament. In this response it is argued that the arguments put forward as a critique of the earlier article are not convincing. Arguments against current theories of the inspiration of the Bible are taken note of, but they are not countered for. Furthermore, some of the arguments are simply ignored. The status quo seems to be the answer proposed.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Ons is weer eens bevoorreg om ’n besondere uitgawe van In die Skriflig aan te bied. Hierdie uitgawe bevat artikels oor ’n wye verskeidenheid onderwerpe in die teologiese ensiklopedie. Cassie Venter bespreek die struktuur van E.L. Dowry se homiletiese plot en raak daarmee ’n onontginde terrein in die homiletiese navorsing in die geledere van die Gereformeerde Teologiese Vereniging aan. Op prakties-teologiese vlak bespreek Jordaan en Janse van Rensburg die rol van die vader by veralgemeende angsversteuring. Hierdie artikel lewer ’n belangrike bydrae tot die pastorale hantering van angsversteuring. Jonck, Le Roux en Verster ondersoek lidmate in die Mangaung-area se houding teenoor kerkvereninging in die Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerkfamilie en kom tot belang- wekkende gevolgtrekkings.
Ordering ideas or ordering experience? E.L. Lowry’s homiletical plot structure – an exploration and evaluation
Authors: Venter C. J.H.
Published: August 2012

In this article E.L. Lowry’s homiletical theory is explored and investigated. The basis of his theory is that the view that a sermon is structured according to the ordering of ideas, arranged under an enforced extra-textual theme (idea), implies an outdated approach. He argues that instead of ideas experience should rather be ordered in a (new) homiletical theory in which the hearer of a sermon plays a prominent part. In this regard Lowry develops a profile of a sermon containing a narrative plot. In this suggested plot Lowry discerns five sequential stages: upsetting the equilibrium, analysing the discrepancy, disclosing the clue to a possible resolution, experiencing the gospel and anticipating the consequences. From this perspective he also suggests guidelines for preparing a sermon regarding the following: the form and focus of the sermon, the way in which an outline for the plot is produced and the goal of a sermon. Lastly he also directs attention to creativity in sermon-making. In the concluding section of the article Lowry’s homiletical theory is evaluated critically.
The reformed confessions and church membership ethically appraised
Authors: Zandman Herm J.G.
Published: August 2012

The reformed churches historically call themselves confessional churches, with the confessions adopted by church councils being the yardstick according to which membership is either permitted or refused. The reformed churches consequently consider it necessary for all members of the church to express agreement with the confessions. The reason why the confessions are held as the summary standard of belief is founded in the conviction that they are faithful expressions of the teachings handed down from the apostles.  These confessions have been attributed a twofold purpose regarding their function in the reformed churches. Firstly, they protect believers and congregations from error, and secondly, they help attain unity of faith among the believers in the reformed churches – both at the congregational and denominational level.   Currently this view is under siege from those who hold the conviction that the traditional approach of giving the confessions such prominence is too narrow and binding in terms of who may or may not be awarded membership of the reformed churches.   This article seeks to consider the place of the confessions and to evaluate the claim that de-emphasis on the confessions is desirable in order to celebrate the unity of all believers. Furthermore, the article seeks to demonstrate that ethical integrity is contingent on seeking to exercise church government within the demarcation of the confessional framework.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Met trots bied ons die tweede uitgawe van  In die Skriflig van 2007 aan. Ek wil dadelik van die geleentheid gebruik maak om ons administratiewe personeel, met Susan Lourens aan die spits geluk te wens met die puik tegniese afronding van die tydskrif.  In die Skriflig het sy plek ingeneem as een van die bekende en wyd-verspreide teologiese tydskrifte in Suid-Afrika. Die publikasie van navorsing in wetenskaplik geakkrediteerde tydskrifte neem toe en daarmee saam debatte, interaksie en nuwe standpuntvorming.  In die Skriflig  wil steeds poog om in hierdie milieu ’n reformatoriese perspektief te stel. Hierdie perspektief moet wortel in die hoofstroom gereformeerde teologie wat sedert die Reformasie ontwikkel het en nie versand in fundamentalisme of sekularisering nie.
Attempting a first translation of the Septuagint psalms into Afrikaans: problems and challenges
Authors: Steyn Gert J.
Published: August 2012

A translation project was started during October 2004 with a small number of senior students in order to translate the Sep- tuagint (LXX) psalms into Afrikaans for the first time. The importance of the LXX for Christianity cannot be overestimated and this is an attempt to make people aware of this important first translation of the Jewish Scriptures on the African con- tinent, to give people access to it in a translation in their mother tongue, and to contribute to the importance of the psalms as a collection of hymns and prayers that is of value for the liturgy and the ministry of the church. However, a number of significant problems were encountered, among them the fact that (a) no satisfactory Greek critical text edition of the LXX psalms exists currently; (b) the LXX is already a translation from the Hebrew; (c) words have different connotations and meanings in the receptor language (Afrikaans) for different members in the group; (d) being poetic language, to what extent would a literal or a dynamic translation be more appropriate?; (e) given the pace of translation and the extent of the project, it will take quite a number of years to complete; and (f) existing dictionaries and grammars are mainly focused on the New Testament – not on the LXX. These problems are discussed by means of practical examples encountered in Psalms 1-3.
A theological assessment and interpretation of the Johannine Paraclete- Spirit
Authors: Joubert Johann
Published: August 2012

The Johannine portrayal of the Paraclete-Spirit gives us a fuller understanding of the identity, role and function of the Holy Spi- rit. The Paraclete-Spirit in the Johannine Gospel works to glorify Jesus, and make the Father known. Because of the presence of the Paraclete-Spirit Jesus becomes omnipresent, is in his fol- lowers and is permanently with them. Through the Paraclete- Spirit believers are again united with Jesus as Jesus is united with the Father. Because of the presence of the Paraclete-Spirit Jesus’ followers become participants in his life and work through faith in Him.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Ons is weereens bevoorreg om nog ’n uitgawe van In die Skriflig aan ons lesers aan te bied. In hierdie uitgawe gee die bekende Potchefstroomse filosoof, B.J. van der Walt perspektiewe oor ’n Christelike samelewingsbeskouing. Hierdie tema is vir die gere- formeerde teologie van die uiterste belang, veral in die huidige tydsgewrig in Suid-Afrika waarin die godsdiens enersyds so maklik vergeestelik en andersyds so maklik veramptelik word. Dit is nodig dat ons weer wetenskaplik besin oor die aard en roeping van verskillende samelewingsverbande binne die koninkryk van God. Veral is die sosiale roeping van die geïnstitueerde kerk weer van belang soos blyk uit die teoenemende politieke rol wat kerke begin inneem as deel van die burgerlike samelewing se konfrontasie met die sterk sentrale regering. Is dit byvoorbeeld die taak van kerke om as moniteerders op te tree by verkiesings in buurlande en in hoe- verre moet die kerke hulle besig hou met voorgestelde wetgewing? Gaan dit nog om kerklike sake op ’n kerklike wyse soos art. 30 van die Dortse kerkorde bepleit? Hopelik stimuleer die besinning van Van der Walt diepsinnige nadenke oor die saak in gereformeerde kringe.
Interpretasie van die metafoor “saam met Christus gekruisig” (Gal. 2:15-21)
Authors: Malan J. P. , Janse van Rensburg J. J.
Published: August 2012

Eerstens word bepaal wat ’n metafoor is en riglyne word neergelê vir die interpretasie van ’n metafoor. Dié riglyne word dan toegepas op die metafoor, saam met Christus gekruisig, in Galasiërs 2:15-21. Die grammaties-historiese eksegetiese metode word gevolg, soos voor- gestel deur De Klerk en Van Rensburg (2005).
Die “kerklike gesag” van kerkvergaderings soos in die kerkorde van die Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk
Authors: Strauss P. J.
Published: August 2012

The ecclesiastical authority of the assemblies in church as in the church order of the Dutch Reformed Church The point in discussion in this article is Article 20.1 of the church order of the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC). In accept- ing the first version of this church order, the first general synod of the DRC in 1962 used the church order of 1959 of the Reformed Churches in the Netherlands (RCN) as an example. The exact wording of Article 20.1 happened to be part of the latter.   Article 20.1 gives an indication of the authority of assemblies because this is nowhere else attended to in the church order of the DRC. It explains that the authority of church governing bodies like assemblies comes from Christ. He as the actual Head of the church lends authority to these assemblies, without abdicating his position as the Head of his church. He remains the Source and Owner of ecclesiastical authority.  This means that ecclesiastical authority is founded and based on the Word of God by which it sumultaneously is limited. In exercising it’s authority, an assembly is also bound to do it in accordance with the character of the church. To speak of authority in the church is not in conflict with the character of the church as a community of believers connected by love.
Is ’n kerkorde nie kragtens sy aard strydig met die werking van die Heilige Gees nie?
Authors: Smit C. J.
Published: August 2012

Is a church order, according to it’s nature, not contrary to the work of the Holy Spirit? The question is whether a church order should be seen as anti- Spiritual. Does a church order, in contrary to the work of the Holy Spirit, lead to rigidity of the church? By this question the controversy of the spiritual life of the church versus the institutional ordination of it has been raised as a real actuality in modern church life. The rejection of the institutional character of the church has a long history. To understand the true nature and the true Scriptural functioning of a church order one needs to get perspective on the new order which was given by Christ by means of his Holy Spirit. The new order must be seen as the way of life that was created by Christ on the profound ground of the expiation. In this context a church order must be understood as existing in the movement from the believer to the Word which occurs in the leading of the Spirit through ordained means. Seen in this sense, a church order must be regarded as a modus quo by which the church is governed by Christ by means of his Spirit, in order to maintain the new order which He created for his children. Seen as such, a church order is not a man created dispensable burden for the church of Christ, furthermore it is not an anti-Spiritual instrument by which the church is plunged into a dreary existence of cold formalism. To the contrary, a true Scriptural church order must be appreciated as a valuable instrument through which the governing labour of Christ, by means of his Holy Spirit, in the church should become visible. A Scriptural church order is in essence a correction on the separation of the Holy Spirit from the Word of God. Therefore a Scriptural church order should be considered as indispensable in this world for church being, according to the new order of life in Christ.
Sleutels vir die toepassing van die kerkorde
Authors: Smit C. J.
Published: August 2012

Keys for the application of the church order This article deals with the application of a Scriptural church or- der, but more specifically with the approach of the church order rather than the method of application thereof. Already in the approach of the church order the difference between the appli- cation of the church order and the administration of the laws of the state becomes visible. In the application of the church order, the matter should not be about trespasses against the church order as such – as is the case in trespasses against the laws and statutes of the state. Transgression of the church order should only be considered as a transgression when it concerns a transgression of the Scriptures, while a transgression of a law of the state should be considered as a transgression in itself. In order to apply the church order in this fashion, the Hebrew “gokmah” (wisdom) and the Roman “aequitas” (fairness) should be considered in the “aedificatio” (edification) of the congre- gation.
Probleme rondom die Bybel in die gereformeerde teologie: besinning vanuit ’n Christelike filosofie
Authors: Van der Walt B. J.
Published: August 2012

Problems with the Bible in reformed theology: reflections from a Christian philosophical perspective The motivation for undertaking this investigation is the present tension in the reformed theology and in the reformed churches in South Africa. In spite of the fact that the reformed tradition confesses the authority of the Bible, theologians and church leaders are at the moment divided on how to view and interpret the Scriptures. They disagree about the message of God’s Word in the case of topical issues, for instance whether women should be allowed in ecclesiastical offices or on what the Bible has to say about homosexuality. The author is of the opinion that these tensions in the same church are caused, not only by different methods of interpreting the Bible but, at a much deeper level, also by the way in which one views the Bible according to different worldviews. In trying to resolve these problems and the resulting conflict of opinion, a Christian philosophical approach will be taken instead of the current theological efforts.
Probleme rondom die verklaring van die Bybel in die gereformeerde teologie: ’n Christelik-filosofiese besinning
Authors: Van der Walt B. J.
Published: August 2012

Problems in interpreting the Bible in reformed theology: a Christian-philosophical reflection It is becoming evident that previous convictions about the nature of the Bible as well as the ways in which it should be interpreted, are not convincing anymore. The resulting uncer- tainty is causing division and tension among reformed theolo- gies and churches in South Africa. This Christian-philosophical reflection intends to help clarify some of the issues. A previous article (cf. Van der Walt, 2008d) was focused mainly on a view of Scripture itself, while the present article concentrates on its interpretation. However, to be able to read the Bible correctly, one has to know exactly what kind of book it is – how it is qualified.  The first main section, therefore, discusses what it means to view the Bible as a book of faith. The following section provides an overview of the traditional hermeneutical methods, including the most popular among reformed scholars. In the third part attention is given to the “hermeneutical revolultion” since the last part of the previous century. Since not only the ancient Bible text, but also the present-day reader are regarded as important today, one’s worldview and philosophy have become vital determining elements in reading Scripture. The last sec- tion, therefore, discusses the relationship between worldview and exegesis. As one’s worldview influences one’s exegesis, one can not deny or try to hide one’s worldviewish presuppo- sitions. At the same time, however, one should be aware of the dangers associated with a Christian worldview. Thus, a few criteria for judging the correctness of a worldview will be mentioned in conclusion.
Die teologies-polemiese gerigtheid van Genesis 1-3: implikasies vir die gereformeerde leer oor die erfsonde
Authors: Vorster N.
Published: August 2012

The theological polemic purpose of Genesis 1-3: implications for the reformed doctrine on original sin This article focuses on the polemic nature of Genesis 1-3 and the implications thereof on the reformed doctrine regarding original sin. In the first place the views of the creation narratives as historical-literal and mythological material are discussed. Thereafter the article proposes that the creation narratives must be treated as theological material with a polemic and prophetic purpose. The implications of this for the reformed doctrine on original sin are subsequently discussed.