bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jesus en demoonuitdrywing: ’n ondersoek na Jesus se hantering van demone volgens die Evangelies
Authors: Viljoen F. P.
Published: August 2012

Jesus and exorcism: an investigation of Jesus’ dealing with demons according to the Gospels In view of present-day reports of demon-possession and often disputable practices of exorcism, a study is made of these phenomena in the Gospels. According to the Gospels demon- possession was a stark reality. Through his exorcistic activities Jesus demonstrated his absolute authority over Satan and his demons. Despite critical views that the devil, demons and exorcism form part of an outdated worldview, it is asumed in this article that demon activity is still a reality. A survey is made of Jesus’ exorcism practices from two examples to identify the features of demonic cases apparent from these examples.
Hedendaagse populêre voorligting oor die verhouding tussen die manlike en vroulike geslag: besinning oor ’n evolusionistiese etiek
Authors: Van der Walt B. J.
Published: August 2012

Contemporary popular guidance on the relationship between male and female: reflections on an evolutionistic ethics This investigation is undertaken for the following reasons: The theoretical question about the nature and meaning of human sexuality is firstly important, because sexuality is an essential element of being human. Secondly, it is also a practical problem. How does a “normal” man or woman differ from each other? How can one know that you are behaving properly as man/woman? A third reason for this exploration is the fact that much of the scientific research done on this issue is nowadays popularised in all kinds of articles and books providing practical guidance for conduct as man/woman. Many of these publications are, however, inspired by Darwinism. The problem of sexuality is accordingly tackled in the following steps: As an introduction, a distinction is made between sex, sexuality and gender. Then the message of a popular book about this issue is discussed. This is followed by identifying the worldviewish and philosophical background of such kinds of books. The article is closed by a few preliminary conclusions. (In a follow-up article the socio-biological background of the evolutionistic view on sexuality will be investigated, which will conclude with a Christian philosophical alternative.)
A doxology to Christ (Rev. 1:5e-6)
Authors: De Smidt J. C.
Published: August 2012

Revelation 1:5e-6 is a doxology, an eulogy on the characteristics (attributes) of Christ. Christ’s churches celebrate the enduring love of Christ, who by a once-and-for-all historical act redeemed them from enslavement to sin. Through this redemptive achievement Christ obtained royal and priestly prerogatives for believers in the present. The meaning of this doxology is investigated from a “heilgeschichtlich” and covenantal context. The acts of Christ are framed by the acts of God; God thus is the “Principium Essendi”. The point of departure in this article is that an ontological relationship exists between the theologia naturalis and the theologia supra- naturalis in the final phase of God’s kingdom.
Fokus/Focus
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Fokus is ’n rubriek waarin artikels van ’n meer populêr- wetenskaplike aard gepubliseer word. Met hierdie rubriek word onder andere die geleentheid geskep om praktiese en bedieningsgerigte artikels te publiseer. Artikels wat vir hierdie rubriek aan die redaksie voorgelê word, moet voldoen aan dieselfde tegniese vereistes as navorsingsartikels (kyk asseblief die Voorskrifte vir skrywers). Bydraes vir Fokus word aan ’n interne keuringsproses onderwerp en kwalifiseer nie vir subsidie nie.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Ons derde uitgawe van 2006 bevat onderwerpe uit verskille dissiplines in die Teologie en aanverwante dissiplines. Hiermee hoop ons om ’n bydrae te lewer vir praktyk-gerigte bediening, berading en Christelike leierskap. Hartlik dank aan al ons skrywers! Die artikel van J.J. de Bruyn en D.J. Human, oor ’n kontekstuele uitleg van Psalm 110, bespreek ’n saak wat onder diskussie is onder akademici in die Bybelwetenskappe en menings hieroor verskil. Tog is die debat belangrik omdat dit hermeneutiese beginsels en metodiek raak. In hierdie tyd van modernistiese en post- modernistiese hermeneutiese vertrekpunte bly die uitbouing van ’n gefundeerde gereformeerde hermeneutiek een van die belangrikste studievelde in die teologie en In die Skriflig wil ook hierin ’n bydrae lewer. Daarom word studente in die veld aangemoedig om die argumente van hierdie artikel, en ander wat oor die saak gestel word, te evalueer en te bespreek in diskussieartikels. Sodoende kan die reformatoriese hermeneutiek uitgebou word en ons blad aan sy geformuleerde doel voldoen.
Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights – ethically evaluated
Authors: Zandman Herm J.G.
Published: August 2012

This article considers the ethical difficulties presented by the United Nations “Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights”. Initially, the Biblical principles regarding entering into covenant are elucidated. Next, the United Nations’ role in initiating global covenants is investigated in terms of what this body premises its mandate on. To follow is this particular covenant, presented as a case study. The weakness in the United Nations’ approach to treaties and covenants is that the bedrock on which such covenants is being established is notably and necessarily absent. This means that terminology, phrases and application ipso facto are determined on the basis of human presuppositions, rather than on the metaphysically implanted principles of God. Herein lies the basic flaw to what appears on the surface to be a noble approach. In a global setting, with many different worldviews elbowing for room, harmonised application of generically applauded concepts is difficult. The moment a generic concept such as “freedom” needs to be handled, it becomes value-laden. The question is then by whose values this concept is going to be handled. Usually, when consensus cannot be reached, majority will rule. This means that the very sovereignty of member states, supposedly safeguarded in the covenant, is being eroded. For Christians, majority rule is not an acceptable modus operandi. The Christian would support the principled approach to ethical issues. However, where the ethical basis is not articulated, the plethora of opinions (collective or individual) is left to act by. This creates a difficult political environment, for which a solution is hard to find. Yet, the Christian must continue to strive to honour his Lord by striving to be “light and salt” in this political scene.
Community healing and the role of pastoral care of the ill and suffering in Africa
Authors: Magezi V.
Published: August 2012

The extended family (community) in Africa plays a crucial role in the process of healing. However, while the role of the community is invaluable, many scholars overlook its other side. This article argues for a critical consideration of the healing role of the community in Africa and offers a critique of African community healing in the light of pastoral healing. Pastoral healing as a spiritual and faith perspective is juxtaposed with the healing process within African traditional communities. Since these two communities operate from different perspectives, in many cases they are competing forces in the process of healing – a difference that aggravates pain. This article thus carefully describes the process of healing both within a faith community (with its acts of “koinonia”) and the African traditional community, and concludes by proposing a healthy integration of these systems.
Reconciliation: The South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s contribution to dealing with the past, reconciling and building the nation
Authors: Barry S.
Published: August 2012

International experience has shown that addressing past human rights violations is a necessary step in the process of reconciliation and nation building. How was post-apartheid, democratic South Africa to deal with its past human rights violations? Would it go the way of retribution in order to settle the scores of the past? Would it go the way of blanket amnesty in the name of political expediency and ignore the fate of its victims?   The Promotion of National Unity and Reconciliation, Act 34 of 1995, which established the TRC envisaged that national unity and reconciliation could be promoted by determining the extent, and the fate and whereabouts of the victims, of such human rights violations; giving opportunity for story-telling; recommending reparations and measures to prevent future violations; and by providing a full report. In order to do so the Commission had the power to grant amnesty to those making such disclosures.  This article, while not uncritical of the Commission, is generally positive about its contribution both in attempting to deal with the past, and in building a democratic, human rights and restorative justice culture based on the rule of law. It examines the definitions of reconciliation that emerged during the Commission in the light of a Christian definition where reconciliation is seen to be between God, others and self, and involves integration with the human community. This integration involves taking responsibility for the past, confession and repentance, forgiving and being forgiven, making restitution where possible, ongoing transformation in the present and hope for the future.
’n Sosiaal-psigologiese perspektief op lidmate in die Mangaung-area se houding teenoor kerkvereniging in die Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerkfamilie: ’n kruiskulturele ondersoek
Authors: Jonck P. , Verster P.
Published: August 2012

A social-psychological perspective on the attitude of members in the Mangaung area towards church unification within the Dutch Reformed family of churches: a cross-cultural investigation Until recently, only one investigation had been conducted into church members’ attitudes towards church unification. This was done from a theological instead of a social-psychological point of view. The term “attitude” may be defined as the expression of inner feelings that reflect whether the person concerned has a favourable or unfavourable predisposition towards a certain object. Church unification entails the process of uniting separate church denominations within the Dutch Reformed Church family. The aims of this study were achieved by gathering data from respondents of six Dutch Reformed congregations (N=104; 46, 6%), as well as six Uniting Reformed congregations (N=47; 21, 1%). The remainder of the respondents came from five Dutch Reformed Church in Africa congregations (N=72; 32, 3%). A biographical questionnaire was used, as well as the Attitude towards Church Unification Scale. The influence of different variables such as language, gender, age, marital status and church activities on the attitudes of church members was investigated. It was concluded on the basis of statistical analysis that members of all the different denominations of the Dutch Reformed Churches had a positive attitude towards church unification. It was found that language was the variable that had the greatest influence on the attitude of church members.
Basisteoretiese beginsels vir atmosfeer in die erediens afgelei uit 1 Korintiërs 11:17- 14:40
Authors: Leuschner F. W.
Published: August 2012

Basis-theoretical principles for atmosphere in worship services deduced from 1 Corinthians 11:17-14:40 This article emphasises the central position that the worship service occupies in the life of the believer, but more to the point: the believer as a whole. The atmosphere is therefore vital. This is researched by an exegetical study of 1 Corinthians 1-14. The atmosphere in the worship service should be such that the worshipper meets God with the necessary awe and respect. The service must also create an atmosphere of love, warmth, friendliness and joy. All attenders must be invited and feel welcomed at the service. The atmosphere must further en- courage and create room for everybody to participate and use their specific gifts. If the atmosphere in the worship service is adjusted to what it should (and can!) be, the worship service will come closer to its purpose and will become even more of a meeting of the whole person of the believer with the omnipotent God and with every aspect of the fellow believers and the world.
John’s use of Scripture in Revelation 1:7
Authors: Menken M. J.J
Published: August 2012

Four questions are asked in this paper: (1) Which are the Old Testament passages from which John quotes in Revelation 1:7? (2) To what extent do the separate quotations and their combination belong to the early Christian tradition used by John? (3) How and where did this combination of quotations come into being? (4) What does John aim at with this com- bination of quotations in this context? John makes use of the combination of God’s eschatological agent as depicted in Daniel 7 and the “pierced one” from Zechariah 12 into one figure, to present the traditional early Christian eschatology, phrased in Old Testament terms, as the basis and the starting point of his book.
Inner change in the Corpus Paulinum: pointers for pastoral counselling
Authors: Campbell-Lane Y. , Lotter G. A.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this article is to establish what perspectives exist on inner change within the “Corpus Paulinum” and how it should be applied in pastoral counselling. The Scriptural guidelines of change that will be examined for the purposes of this article, are found in the following references: Ephesians 4:22-24, Colos- sians 3:8-10, and Romans 12:1-2. The work of the Holy Spirit as “Agent of change” will also be discussed and finally some pointers on inner change and the implications for pastoral counselling will be proposed.
Basisteoretiese grondslae van die seën in die erediens en voortvloeiende riglyne vir die liturgie
Authors: De Klerk Ben
Published: August 2012

Basic-theoretical foundations of the blessing in the worship service and ensuing guidelines for the liturgy The Biblical foundations of the blessing in the church service and the meaning and function of the salutatory and sending- away blessings are the focus of this article. A short extract from history follows, and based on findings from Scripture and his- tory, theoretical perspectives for practice and liturgical guide- lines are indicated. Some of the most important conclusions drawn are the following: The congregation of Jesus Christ should receive the blessing of the Lord as indispensable gift in its assemblage. Without this blessing communion with God and each other, trust in God and fulfilment of each believer’s voca- tion in the world are impossible. The salutatory blessing pours out onto the congregation all the blessings that enable mem- bers to participate to advantage in the church service. The congregation is blessed and sent back into the world by God himself. Without the sending-away blessing the congregation cannot fulfil its vocation in the world, especially to be witnesses for Christ. If an ordained minister of the gospel is present in the gathering of the congregation he should pronounce the bles- sing, which comes directly from God. It is vital that the congre- gation appropriate the blessing in faith by means of an overt act, namely by saying “amen” to that.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Hierdie laaste uitgawe van 2007 bevat weereens uitstekende navor-singsartikels in verskillende teologiese dissiplines en ons hartlike gelukwense aan al die skrywers! Daarmee saam betuig ons ook ons dank aan akademici wat as keurders opgetree het en ons adminis-tratiewe personeel vir hulle harde  werk. Sonder die kritiese kom-mentare van die keurders is die uitgee van ’n wetenskaplike tydskrif deesdae onmoontlik.
Occultism in an African context: a case for the Vhavenda-speaking people of the Limpopo Province
Authors: Mashau T. D.
Published: August 2012

Occultism in Africa is as old as the primal religion itself, or what came to be known as African Traditional Religion (ATR) in mo- dern times. It dates back to time immemorial. Occultism in Africa has taken various forms and has manifested in different ways over the ages, i.e. spiritism, divination, witchcraft and ma- gic. The underlying premise of African occultism is the belief in a spiritual world with spiritual forces that have power to inflict harm on the living. In the traditional African worldview suffering of every sort – illness, barrenness, drought and death – is nor- mally explained in personal terms: “there is always somebody”. This “somebody” often belongs to the world of the occult: a “spirit” has brought pain to human beings and must therefore be repelled or accommodated. This is very common among the Vhavenda-speaking people of the Limpopo Province. This ar- ticle seeks to investigate how occultism is practised among these people and to provide a reformed perspective as to how people who are suffering under demonic attacks can be helped. Contrary to other Christian traditions that see exorcism as the only way out, reformed theology suggests a missio-pastoral approach in dealing with the problem.
Pastoral counselling: towards a diagnostic and interpretational approach in Africa
Authors: Magezi Vhumani
Published: August 2012

Effective pastoral counselling is influenced by appropriate pas- toral diagnosis. A pastoral diagnosis or assessment in Africa should focus on socio-cultural systems thinking, which entails an understanding of the people’s worldview of distress embed- ded in stories. Thus, the process of assessment in Africa should concentrate, among other factors, on the constructive and de- structive role of the community and the strength of beliefs in supernatural causes of distress in order to focus the probing and interpretation of the conversation.
Onderweg na ’n Christelike samelewings- beskouing: Bybelse grondslae en historiese ontwikkeling
Authors: Van der Walt B. J.
Published: August 2012

Towards a Christian perspective on social life: Biblical foundations and historical development This article is structured in the following way: The introduction asks the practical question why Christianity has such a small impact on contemporary society. This topical question is partly answered by indicating that most Christians lack a worldviewish framework or social philosophy to inspire them to get involved outside their churches and do so correctly. In the second sec- tion a brief explanation of the possible solutions to this problem indicates that the reformational social philosophy may offer some help. Christian theology and Christian philosophy should mutually assist each other in this important endeavour to shape a Christian worldview, including a perspective on social life. The third section indicates how such a philosophy for social life can be firmly based on God’s Word. In light of the fact that this social philosphy is not well-known, the last part of the article provides a brief historical survey of how this kind of societal philosophy originated and developed over the course of more than a century.
’n Teologies-etiese beoordeling van werkloosheid
Authors: De Beer E. J.
Published: August 2012

A theological-ethical judgment of unemployment One of the biggest labour problems in South Africa is unem- ployment. In this article unemployment is studied in the light of Biblical utterances on labour. The aim of this study is to give guidance from the Bible to role players on how their disposition should be concerning unemployment. In the article the extent of unemployment is investigated. This is followed by probing into different factors influencing unemployment since 1994. After that Biblical principles relevant to the topic are outlined. Finally unemployment in South Africa is judged according to Biblical principles. In the assessment guidance is given as to what the disposition of different role players should be concerning unemployment.
Reëling van die Gereformeerde predikant se diens – ’n arbeidsregtelike of ’n interne kerklike aangeleentheid?
Authors: Smit J. , Le R. du Plooy A.
Published: August 2012

Regulation of a Reformed minister’s office – a labour law or internal church matter? In this article it is argued that Labour Law is not applicable on the relationship between a minister and a church council to the Reformed Churches in South Africa. The main focus of the argument is that Labour Law does not have the purpose to regulate a relationship based on an exegetic-dogmatically founded foundation. It is also argued that a minister in the Reformed Churches in South Africa cannot be considered an employee of the church council because of the calling he received from the Lord. The calling of a minister is the main indication that he is not an employee of the church council, but a servant of the Lord. Therefore it is also stated that the Church Order does not regulate the minister’s office on a contractual basis, but that the Church Order regulates the calling of a minister. Labour Law intents to regulate the labour aspect of a person’s life while the Church Order applies to a minister’s whole life.
Johannine style: some initial remarks on the functional use of repetition in the Gospel according to John
Authors: Van der Watt J.
Published: August 2012

Some of the ways in which John uses the stylistic feature of re- petition in his Gospel are investigated. His repetitive use of the concept “eternal life” is first focused on, pointing out the stylistic changes that occur as the gospel narrative progresses. Then the way in which the word “eternal” is repetitively linked to the word “life” is explored, showing a consistent pattern throughout the Gospel. The selective use and development of the frequent- ly used concept of “love” is then scrutinised in the first twelve chapters of the Gospel, followed by an investigation of the functional use of the concept “to follow” in this Gospel. Reasons for these repetitions are then explored.
Sketse van ’n pastoraat van narratiewe betrokkenheid in die Lukasevangelie met besondere klem op die Saggeusverhaal
Authors: Van den Berg J. A. , De Wet R.
Published: August 2012

Images of a pastorate of narrative engagement in the Gospel of Luke with special reference to the story of Zacchaeus Important new developments have occurred during the last few decades within practical theology and in particular within pastoral theology. The article illustrates that narrative passages in Scripture can depict the meaning of these newer develop- ments. Images portraying the spiritual life in the Gospel of Luke and in particular the story of Zacchaeus are explored under the headings: background to a pastoral engagement, an eco- hermeneutic approach in a pastorate of narrative engagement, a spiralling pastoral engagement, and stories that fit. The story of a narrative pastoral engagement unfolds in a circular model, integrating paradigmatic-, epistemological- and methodological matters. An eco-hermeneutical approach closely linked to a pastorate of narrative engagement is followed within the desig- nated epistemology. Social constructionism is augmented to become co-constructionism, thus providing for the recognition of truth as revealed in Scripture. Exemplary of this is that in a life-changing metamorphosis, Zacchaeus’ saturated dominant story is replaced by a liberating thickened alternative story.
Is die idee van ’n kerkorde nog kerklik byderwets?
Authors: Smit C. J.
Published: August 2012

Is the idea of a church order still relevant for the modern church? The question is whether church order could be of any sig- nificance for the church of our time. Should the church order be modernised to fit the church of a new millennium? Is the con- cept of a church order at all still feasible for the modern church?   Where does the idea of a church order come from? This article shows that the concept of a church order originated from the Scriptures, the Old and the New Testaments. Throughout church history there was always the danger that where the church order became insignificant, the existence of the church itself came under threat.  The real questions are what a church order ought not to be and what it ought to be. This article determined that the church or- der has no independent authority. The church order should not be rendered as a church law. In fact, the church order should be only the principle-bearing pointer to the Word of God. In itself the church order has no own authority. It is only a servant of the authority of the Word. As such a Scripture-bound church order is indispensable for the existence of the church, also the church of our time. The nature of such a church order is not to create the services of the church, nor the essence of church being, but to ensure the task of the church to proclaim the Word of God and to protect the solemn being of the church in its orderly existence as the people of God in this world.
Kleipotte wat maklik breek ? ’n Herverstaan van 2 Korintiërs 4:7
Authors: Vergeer W. C.
Published: August 2012

Clay pots that break easily ? A reinterpretation of 2 Corinthians 4:7 Translations of and commentaries on the Bible see the image of clay pots Paul uses in 2 Corinthians 4:7 as a derogatory self- characterisation which is used to depict the fragility, ordinari- ness, cheapness or expendability of those that serve in the mi- nistry. It is generally held that the brittleness of the clay pots in a paradoxical way underlines the “all-surpassing power of God”. In this article the thought structure, syntactical, grammatical and socio-historic basis for this understanding of 2 Corinthians 4:7 is researched and (re)interpreted. The results suggest that the metaphor of clay pots should be understood in a complemen- tary rather than a paradoxical way.
“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers”: New Testament perspectives on how Christians should live and act in a society of diverging convictions
Authors: Theron P. M. , Lotter G. A.
Published: August 2012

The exhortation found in 2 Corinthians 6:14 “not to be yoked together with unbelievers” has been interpreted and applied differently by Christians. Some Christians try to hide from the realities of everyday life in a kind of escapism and religious isolation, while others compromise by trying to accommodate the societies’ demands and current trends in all kinds of worldly religious practices. These extreme positions cause Christians to be without any influence in the world. The primary aim of the article is to show how believers in New Testament times handled the situation when they were yoked together with un- believers. In order to propose Scriptural guidelines for contem- porary believers, the focus will be on the example of the apostles while the teaching of Paul to the slaves and of Peter to the aliens in this world will also be discussed. Some other New Testament perspectives are touched upon, inter alia the kind of authority to be obeyed and teaching on the responsibilities and attitude of believers. After the discussion of each part, pointers will be suggested. In conclusion, guidelines towards a Christian lifestyle within a secular context will be proposed.
Die buitengewone geboorte van Jesus Christus en die regering van sy kerk, in die besonder rakende die vrou
Authors: Helberg J. L.
Published: August 2012

The extraordinary birth of Jesus Christ and the reign of his church, especially regarding women The issue whether there is room for women in the special ser- vices of the church, especially as elder, is currently corespons- ible for tension within the Reformed Churches in South Africa (RCSA). The ruling task of the church is closely linked with the way God rules his people and with what the relation between Him and his people is. The book of Matthew shows that there is an essential unity but also a drastic difference between the Old Testament and the New Testament dispensations in this regard. This article investigates at what dominates both dispen- sations and how they differ concerning this. Sin disrupted humanness and harmony fundamentally and in the most intimate relations. In the old dispensation power was inter alia exercised by force, for example in slavery and disregard of women’s full humanness. The birth of Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit from a woman without a man is the fulfilment of the Old Testament promises. All believers without difference in class or gender are recreated by Jesus Christ as the image of God and are reinstated in a personal relation with Him. Exercise of power over others, like in male domination of women and in earthly kingship and slavery makes room for being serviceable. Jesus Christ exercises his authority in a serving way. Especially his church must rule in a serving way by acknowledging Him as Head and testifying about his life, death and resurrection as contained in his Word. A believing woman is just as well equiped for this as a man.
The second coming of Christ as the golden key to unlock the Book of Daniel: an analysis of a Pentecostal interpretation of the dream in Daniel 2
Authors: Nel M.
Published: August 2012

Pentecostals regard the doctrine of the second coming of Christ as very important. All passages in the Bible deemed to be “prophetical” are interpreted in premillennialist terms. Bennie Kleynhans’ interpretation of the dream in Daniel 2 is used to demonstrate how an endeavour to find relevance through a contemporary interpretation of a Biblical passage, easily be- comes outdated. He was of the opinion that communism, the Council on Foreign Relations and the European Economic Community with its ten members would introduce the Antichrist as the leader of a one-world government, eventually leading to the second coming of Christ. Daniel 2 is read as “prophecy”, describing the global situation at the latter half of the twentieth century. This demonstrates that the differences in interpreting the dream in Daniel 2 reflect different ways of viewing and treating the Bible. A fundamentalist perspective sees the Bible as a blueprint of what God is going to do in future and how he is going to do this. The “future” – the “last days” just before the second coming of Christ – is inevitably linked to the present day.
’n Reformatoriese samelewingsfilosofie: ’n sistematiese uiteensetting, kritiese evaluering en praktiese toepassing
Authors: Van der Walt B. J.
Published: August 2012

A Reformational social philosophy: systematic exposition, critical evaluation and practical application The problem to be discussed in this contribution is that many Christians, churches and theologians are often guided by no or merely a very vague (worldviewish) perspective on social life. Sometimes they are even inspired by unbiblical methods (e.g. earlier Marxism and contemporary neocapitalism or postmo- dernism) in their social analysis. This may be an important con- tributing factor for the sad fact that Christians often have very little impact on the broader social domain (the “public square”) outside their personal and church life. Therefore this article looks at a possible solution in the following steps: It begins with a comparison between the three basic philosophies of society, viz. individualism, collectivism and pluralism. Then it provides a systematic exposition of a Christian-reformational, pluralistic social philosophy as a possible candidate. To indicate that a reformational social philosophy neither wants to pretend, nor wants to be regarded as a static dogma or ideology, the next section reviews some points of critique voiced by its sym- pathetic proponents. The fourth section investigates how this social view may inspire social change. Following the preceding, more theoretical exploration, it discusses possibilities for its practical application. In this way a complete answer (both theoretical and practical) is given to the urgent problem indicated at the beginning, viz. the little influence of Christians on the so-called public sphere.
Economic sanctions: an ethical primer
Authors: Zandman H. J.G.
Published: August 2012

The world has developed into a globe with increasingly inter- twined economic interests, with greater economic interdepen- dence than ever before. This has caused a new weapon to step onto the world scene in the 20th and 21st centuries, applied to bring nations to heel. It is aimed at those nations which do not conform to particular, usually ethically perceived standards. “Economic sanctions” is the name of this new weapon.  This article aims to evaluate the wielding of economic sanctions from the perspective of principles based on a Biblical worldview in order to assist Christians in making an informed decision as to what their stance ought to be regarding this phenomenon.   Data show that there is an incremental increase of the use of economic sanctions in world politics. At present, sanctions have uncertain grounding in ethics and little or no standing in inter- national law. Their effectiveness is seriously questioned, their economic cost, especially to the implementer(!), is considerable. The question as to whether economic sanctions should be deplored or embraced at times would be helped with further investigation beyond the scope of this article, notably with re- gard to what has been surmised in the context of the sanctions deployed regarding the apartheid regime in South Africa.   The results of economic sanctions appear to bear out the Biblical principles in that both, actual results plus Biblical prin- ciples, generally send a discouraging message regarding this approach to political conflict.
Response to Male and female in the church – gender in the ordained ministries by Douw G. Breed, Fika J. van Rensburg, and Gert J.C. Jordaan
Authors: Archbald P. N.
Published: August 2012

“Male and female in the church” (2008), by Breed, J. van Rens- burg and Jordaan, is reviewed as to its treatment of the regu- lative principle and its exegesis of 1 Timothy 2-3. The reformed and puritan version of the regulative principle, reflected in the writings of John Calvin and in the major reformed confessions, implies that proponents of women in the ecclesiastical office must do more than question the traditional exegesis of key passages used in the debate. They must provide Biblical war- rant for the practice. “Male and female in the church” outlines an option that defends the traditional exegesis of 1 Timothy 2-3. It also provides another option that seeks to explain 1 Timothy 2:8-15 in terms of the marriage-relationship rather than male and female in the church. The exegesis in the latter option is found to be tenuous. Similarly, the option that views 1 Timothy 3:11 as referring to ordained deaconesses is found to be unconvincing. No clear Biblical warrant is found in these pas- sages for the practice of ordaining women in the ecclesiastical office.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Die redaksie bied met dankbaarheid  teenoor die outeurs weer ’n uitgawe van  In die Skriflig aan. Getrou aan ons beleid om sover moontlik die hele teologiese ensiklopedie in die keuse van artikels aan die orde te stel, publiseer ons weer artikels vanuit verskillende dissiplines in die reformatoriese  teologie. C.J. Smit beweeg op die terrein van die hermeneutiek van die kerkreg met sy artikel oor die sleutels vir die toepassing van  die kerkorde. Hy hanteer ’n belangrike tema, veral omdat die toepassing van die kerkorde en die gesag van besluite van kerklike vergaderings steeds baie aandag in kerkregtelike besinning ontvang. Sy artikel is ’n welkome bydrae tot hierdie debat.
Kanker as lewensnood: voorlopige merkers vir die pastoraat
Authors: Brunsdon A. R. , Lotter G. A.
Published: August 2012

Cancer as a life crisis: preliminary markers for the pastorate The diagnosis of cancer is embedded in the negative social dis- course of a death sentence. It therefore creates an existential crisis in the lives of its victims. This article will explore the pas- toral implications of a cancer diagnosis. Whereas the medical path becomes clear upon the diagnosis of a particular type of cancer, the pastoral path may not immediately be evident. By viewing cancer phenomologically and in the light of the most common medical treatment, the article will try to establish what key issues (changes) would be brought upon persons affected by cancer. Eight key issues are taken into consideration: the change of short and long-term goals, the exposure to new re- lationships, feelings of rejection, an identity crisis, a radicalisa- tion of communication, a new perspective on time, death-anx- iety and faith issues. In the light of these anticipated key issues, six focus areas are identified as preliminary markers for the pastoral process. The problem of theodicy, suffering, the re- lationship between sin and illness, ethical issues of a medical nature, end of life counselling and eschatological perspectives are taken into consideration as areas that would be of great value in the pastorate to persons affected by cancer.
Oor die Bybel, Bybellees en etiek: in gesprek met Gerrie Snyman
Authors: Van Wyk J. H.
Published: August 2012

On the Bible, Bible reading and ethics: in debate with Gerrie Snyman Without doubt Gerrie Snyman produced a book which attests to an existential grappling with questions about Christian faith, the Bible and understanding of the Bible. The author refers to apart- heid, women in office and homosexual persons as examples of misunderstanding and misuse of the Bible. He advocates a re- interpretation of the Bible in which the authors (of the Bible), the context of the authors, the context of the first and the context of the modern readers be taken into account fully. The classic way of reading the Bible is outdated and should be exchanged for a more critical approach to the Bible. The author of this article investigates the question as to whether Snyman is not guilty of a naïve form of rationalism and relationism.
Stamselnavorsing en terapie: ’n voorlopige teologies-etiese beoordeling
Authors: Rheeder A. L.
Published: August 2012

Stem cell research and therapy: a preliminary theological- ethical evaluation Researchers have already created wonderful and fascinating therapeutic results with stem cells. Human beings and animals have been cured of a variety of ailments through the use of stem cells. For a large number of human beings the possibility of a cure through stem cell research and accompanying therapy has tremendous possibilities. The aim of this article is a theo- logical evaluation of this medico-technological phenomenon in general. What does the Bible teach us about the cure of sick people? Can Christ’s teaching and life aid us in this regard? In answering this question the meaning of the escatological ethics will be examined as well. Various arguments for and against this technology are examined. The most important ethical ques- tion concerning research and therapy in particular is the un- avoidable destruction of human embryos. Human embryos are donated and sometimes created with the aim of harvesting cells. Numerous arguments for and against the destruction of embryos are treated. The ethical argument that human embryos may be destroyed for the purpose of possible cure is evaluated philosophically in the light of the Scripture.
Hoe moet ’n Gereformeerde teoloog met die Bybel omgaan?
Authors: Van der Walt T.
Published: August 2012

Ek verbeel my geensins dat ek oor die onderwerp wat aan my op- gedra is: “Hoe moet ’n Gereformeerde teoloog met die Bybel om- gaan?”, nou juis soveel nuuts sou kon sê nie. Ek doen dit omdat ons wel opnuut indringend hieroor rekenskap moet gee, en vanoggend se insette van my kant sou daartoe ’n beskeie bydrae kon lewer. Al hoe meer word besef, en ook uitdruklik gesê, dat die manier(e) waarop ons met die Bybel omgaan, aan die wortel lê van die sake waaroor daar tans ook in ons eie geledere heftige verskille, soms selfs driftige verskille, bestaan.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Hierdie eerste uitgawe van 2009 bevat ’n verskeidenheid artikels oor die breë spektrum van die gereformeerde teologie. Hermeneutiek kom weer onder die soeklig in twee artikels. B.J. van der Walt be- spreek enkele probleme rondom die verklaring van die Bybel in gereformeerde teologie en hy doen dit vanuit ’n Christelike filoso- fiese perspektief. N. Vorster hanteer die genre van Genesis 1-3 en wys op die implikasies van die teologies-polemiese gerigtheid van hierdie stof vir die gereformeerde leer oor die erfsonde. Albei artikels stimuleer die diskussie oor gereformeerde hermeneutiek wat nou al vir ’n tyd onder gereformeerdes onder bespreking is. Verdere be- spreking van die saak op wetenskaplik-teologiese vlak sal deur die redaksie verwelkom word, omdat die hermeneutiek vandag essen- sieel is vir alle ander teologiese besinning.
Mysterium tremendum et fascinans liturgical perspectives on the approach to God
Authors: Cilliers J. H.
Published: August 2012

This article proposes that the component of the approach to God, being part of an ancient sequence of worship, is liturgically neglected and should therefore be revisited. The important contribution of Rudolf Otto with regard to the approach to God is acknowledged here, culminating in his well-known phrase “mysterium tremendum et fascinans”. In the light of this, some liturgical implications and perspectives are attended to, includ- ing liturgy as silence, awe, lament and affirmation.
The 1960s – long hair, flowers and morality mash: ethical appraisal of the clash that helped shape today’s Western society
Authors: Zandman H. J.G.
Published: August 2012

The 1960s will be remembered as a major clash that helped shape today’s Western society. Young people were breaking out of the moulds that had been cast by their parents’ post-war era. The conflict brought about significant social change all over Western society. Western man searched frantically for a new world, willing to risk the hardship of revolution.  In a world full of confusing and conflicting approaches in terms of how to view man, the Bible has the clear answer: man is created in the image of God, and is, in this capacity, God’s vice- regent and image-bearer. However, the Christian church is by- and-large remarkably indecisive as the social conscience of Western society.   The main thrust of the sixties was anti-status quo, anti-esta- blishment, anti-materialist. In the process of man’s self-deter- mination on either side of the conflict, great erosion of man’s greatest gift occurred: ethical distinction. The spiritual vacuum created by anti-establishment forces led to confusion and self- destruction.
Paul’s use of slavery imagery in the Hagar allegory
Authors: Balla P.
Published: August 2012

In this article it is examined how Paul used slavery imagery in Galatians 4 when dealing with the theme of God’s “children”. The use of words related to the semantic field of slavery in Galatians is briefly discussed. Paul uses these words both with their literal meaning and in a figurative sense. This is also true for the main passage to be discussed in this article – the Hagar allegory. In Galatians 4, Paul first speaks about a real slave wo- man, and then uses this imagery to describe those who do not accept God’s promises to have been fulfilled in Jesus. The way Paul uses the term “allegorise” is examined. It is argued that in Galatians 4 Paul uses the slavery imagery in order to speak about aspects of one’s relationship to God. The background of his use of the Hagar allegory is his “salvation historical” view concerning God’s covenantal relationship to his people. He uses allusions to Old Testament texts to express his view re- garding who belongs to God’s people in the era of the new covenant.
Pastorale sorg aan gemarginaliseerdes met spesifieke verwysing na kinderhuiskinders
Authors: Maree D. , Janse van Rensburg J.
Published: August 2012

Pastoral care to the marginalized with special reference to orphanaged children The plight of the marginalised was the point of departure for this research, with special emphasis on orphan boys. The specific circumstances under which the child was removed from his negative circumstances, his past, his adoption in the children’s home and the special needs and problems he has in the children’s home are explored. In this article, Biblical principles for the care of orphanaged children were generated and specific attention was given to God’s emphasis on and passion for the marginalised – with special reference to orphanaged children. Attention is given to the Biblical mandate, respon- sibility and command to the church to be involved in the lives of orphanaged children. Conclusions are derived from the lite- rature study as well as from a limited phenomenological study which was done through analyses of questionnaires designed to address the research hypotheses. It is hoped that reasons for the lack of interest in and involvement with orphanaged children will be revealed.
Die waarde van menswaardigheid in die bioetiek
Authors: Rheeder A. L.
Published: August 2012

The worth of human dignity in bioethics Bioethicists and jurists put forward that the notion of “human dignity” adds nothing to the field of bioethics and is essentially a meaningless term. Against this presupposition the view is put forward that the notion of “human dignity” belongs to the heart of the Bible and can therefore be used as a valuable notion in bioethics. Human dignity is founded in the fact that man is created in the image of God. The fact that man is created in God’s image, and therefore has human dignity, undoubtedly has implications for bioethics. Human dignity by and towards man in bioethics has the meaning that one must strive for the healing of disease; that man must act and be treated as a psychosomatic unit; that reproduction may occur exclusively within marriage; and that all human life has to be maximally protected. Where the aforementioned does not occur, God- given human dignity is impinged upon.
Teaching an old dog new tricks: Herodotus confirms Xerxes’ anger in The Persian wars, and the Book of Esther provides insights on anger management
Authors: Branch R. G.
Published: August 2012

The Book of Esther describes Xerxes, king of Persia and Media, as an angry man. It highlights the king’s ups (Esther, 1:12; 7:7) and downs (Esther, 2:1; 7:10). Surprisingly, Herodotus in “The Persian wars” likewise emphasises the king’s anger and wrath. This classic Greek tale possibly fills in a time gap between Esther 1 and 2: Xerxes travels west from his capital, Susa, and loses a war in Sparta. “The Persian wars” chronicles Xerxes’ international humiliation and the despot’s rages along the way. Xerxes bullies and blames subordinates; destroys property and cuts a swathe from Persia to Sparta; acts pompously; and exhibits angry outbursts when crossed or thwarted. Herodotus confirms that generals, enemies, and aides tiptoe around this international bully. One, however, does not. Artemisia, a woman ship commander, earns Xerxes’ respect. When the battlefield of his life switches from Sparta back to Susa, the Bible presents a second model of courage, Esther, Xerxes’ new queen. Walking confidently in the halls of power, this lovely “general” in regal robes comes gracefully yet forcefully before the king, time and time again. Modeling anger management techniques with a blend of wisdom and femininity, Esther faces Xerxes’ anger – and neutralises it.
Editorial
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Dit is vir die redaksie weereens ’n voorreg om hierdie uitgawe aan te bied. C. Nunes en H.J.M. van Deventer bied ’n standpunt ter oor- weging aan vir feministiese interpretasie in ’n reformatoriese kon- teks. In die artikel word gelet op die werk van bekende feministiese teoloë soos Schüssler-Fiorenza en Trible. Hierdie bydraes word in verband gebring met die Suid-Afrikaanse situasie oor die rol van die vrou in die kerk. Dan gee H.M. Zwemstra ’n beoordeling van die vernaamste kerklike en teologiese tradisies se bydrae tot die etiek van sosio-ekonomiese regte. Hierdie artikel is ook baie aktueel in die Suid-Afrikaanse konteks waar daar steeds gedebatteer word oor die wenslikheid en moontlikheid van die volle implementering van sosio-ekonomiese regte.