bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecclesia reformata semper reformanda – die ongemaklike eis
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

Ecclesia reformata semper reformanda – a hard to do command

This article is a reworked version of the Moderator’s opening address at the 68th General Assembly of the Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa in October 2007. Against the fourth-century background of Emperor Constantine’s “church politics”, the paper reflects on the first-century rhetoric of the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 10:3ff and 17ff about non-worldly, divine weapons of warfare, and about boasting and self-commendation. It shows how Paul understood oral rhetorical words as theatrically performed by employing the genre of the so-called “Fool’s speech” by means of which Paul argues that masks disguise the authentic identity of Christ- followers. Paul’s rhetoric is applied in the article as an appeal to the modern-day church to be ecumenically open and anthropologically inclusive. The article demonstrates the uneasiness of some members in the institutional church to proceed along a path of ongoing reformation (ecclesia reformata semper reformanda).
Die kerk, die huwelik en seks – ’n morele krisis?
Authors: Dreyer T.F.J.
Published: August 2012

The church, marriage and sex – a moral crisis?

Within Western societies the church is challenged by a new sexual “morality”. Seemingly, the traditional theological answers do not address the challenge sufficiently. The incompetence of the church to change people’s minds leads to a moral crisis. This article is an attempt to create awareness that the church has no choice but to review her traditional stance. This awareness will only surface once we are prepared to acknowledge that our traditional views were influenced by different contexts through the ages. Therefore it is necessary, in a postmodern context, to theologically reflect afresh within this context.
“De-centre-ing” sexual difference in public and ecclesial discourses on marriage
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

Public and ecclesial discourses influence opinions on the institution of heteronormative marriage. The term “discourse” indicates that private knowledge and experiences are made known in the public sphere. Against this background the article focuses on three postmodern approaches to a theology of marriage with regard to the significance or insignificance of the biological difference between femaleness and maleness. The first approach is that of marriage as a linguistic expression of intimacy in a relationship. According to this view, heterosexual marriage is not seen as the only possibility for expressing the intimate relationship between God and human beings. The second approach assumes that love and caring, supposedly inherent to heterosexual marriage, can also exist in other relationships. This implies that marriage as institution should also be available to people in relationships other than heterosexual. The third approach emphasizes marriage and sexuality as being embedded in community. Such a view makes sexual difference and procreation peripheral to sexual ethics. The aim of this article is to suggest a further option for consideration, namely the “de-centreing” of sexual difference in the theology of marriage. This postmodern option pleads for a respect for privacy with regard to sexual intimacy, also in ecclesial and public discourse.
Inhoud
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

HTS

Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies

Jaargang / Volume 64
Vreugde en verdriet in die huis van Jakob
Authors: Krueger Paul
Published: August 2012

Happiness and lament in the house of Jacob

The birth narrative in Genesis 29:31-30:24 is a coherent mini drama in its own right, although it is embedded in the patriarchal narratives and as such furnishes important background to the unfolding drama in Jacob's house. In this narrative, the reader is invited right into the intricate family relations of a dysfunctional polygamous marriage, where two rivals communicate with each other and their mutual husband by means of the names given at birth to their children and the children of their slave girls. This article focuses on the quest for happiness, which is evident in the births and name-giving in the house of Jacob. Although true happiness remains elusive, at the end both women receive their dues. God keeps a balance between the two contenders, but the birth of Rachel’s son calls for a resolution still to come. The text is thus left open ended.
Die hermeneutiek van kerkgeskiedenis en “teologiegeskiedenis”: ’n “Nuwe paradigma” vir kerkgeskiedenis
Authors: Labuschagne JP
Published: August 2012

The hermeneutics of church history and the “history of theology”: A “new paradigm” for church history

This study reflects on a new paradigm for church history. The traditional definition of church history, as a study of the growth and development of the church in all its facets, constricts church history to disclose too little about too much. This paper argues in favor of all that can be gained by a new paradigm for church history as a history of theology. A history of theology focuses more on the different theologies and the theological debates of the different periods in the history of the church.
Pastors as gewonde genesers: Die emosionele uitwerking van kognitiewe dissonansie
Authors: Nolte S. Philip , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

Pastors as wounded healers: Emotional experience and cognitive dissonance

The relevance of reflecting on pastors’ identity and ministry is precipitated by the paradigm shift from modernity to postmodernity. Pastors often suffer from cognitive dissonance because of the paradigm shift. This dissonance comes to the fore in that pastors and the people they are supposed to serve, frequently find themselves in different, opposing worlds. In their attempt to adapt to this situation, pastors often experience emotional woundedness and do not always have the psychological disposition and skills to process their emotions in intelligent and creative ways. The paradigm shift in the Christian faith community can be described as a movement from a traditional to an emerging paradigm. This article aims to reflect on the meaning of this movement for pastors and their functioning in a new world.
Vergifnis ter wille van JHWH se Naam (Ps 25:11)
Authors: O’Kennedy D.F.
Published: August 2012

Forgiveness for the sake of YHWH’s Name (Ps 25:11)

This article investigates the concept of divine forgiveness as illustrated in Psalm 25, especially verse 11. Psalm 25:11 is one of only four references in the Psalms where the Hebrew stem (forgive is found). Scholars agree that the petition for forgiveness in verse 11 forms the core or centre of the entire Psalm. This article will offer a possible answer to the following question: what motivates the supplicant to ask for forgiveness? In contrast to other forgiveness passages the Psalmist does not regard repentance or obedience as motivation for the petition. He rather emphasizes the fact that his sin is great (v 11b). The true motivation for this prayer for forgiveness lies in the Name and honor of YHWH (v 11a). He experienced YHWH as ’n faithful God in the past; therefore he has the courage and honesty to plea for forgiveness.
On history and salvation in Emmanuel Levinas and Ernst Bloch
Authors: Terreblanche Salomon J.
Published: August 2012

This article explores the tension between history and salvation as theme in contemporary social and humanist philosophy. Special reference is made to Emmanuel Levinas’ work in order to delineate the scope of the questions involved, and to critically elucidate the position on history, death and hope in new-Marxist philosopher Ernst Bloch. The article then illuminates Levinas’ phenomenological account of fecundity, parenthood, patience and institutional justice as hopeful moments that are contained in his philosophy on history
Syncretism in the church of Philippi
Authors: Verhoef Eduard
Published: August 2012

It has been known for a long time that the history of Christianity has seen the incorporation of syncretistic elements. This is not at all exceptional. On the contrary, in order to grow, any religion necessarily fits in with the existing frame of reference. It is hardly surprising then, that elements of Hellenistic hero worship were adopted in the veneration of the Christian martyrs. Over a century ago, E Lucius presented several examples of such phenomena in his book, Die Anfänge des Heiligenkults in der christlichen Kirche (1904), arguing that Christian churches adopted several rituals and ideas from older pagan cults. Indeed, excavations in Philippi have revealed a connection in the first decades of the fourth century between the Christian cult and the cult of a certain Euephenes, son of Exekestos. He was probably an initiate into the mystery cult of the Kabeiroi. This can only mean that in Philippi as elsewhere syncretistic elements must have crept in. In the beginning of the fourth century the Basilica of Paul was added onto the Hellenistic shrine, so that the buildings shared one wall. In the first half of the fifth century this Basilica was replaced by the bigger Octagon. A baptistery was constructed, and the Hellenistic heroon was incorporated into these buildings. Around this time the cult of the Hellenistic hero Euephenes was supplanted by the veneration of the Christian hero par excellence, the apostle Paul.
2 Corinthians 11:22: Historical context, rhetoric, and ethnicity
Authors: Duling Dennis
Published: August 2012

In this article historical criticism, rhetorical criticism and ethnicity theory are combined to interpret Paul’s boasting about his ethnicity in 2 Corinthians 11:22. Partition theory helps to establish the historical/social context that 2 Corinthians 10-13 is a fragment of the “tearful letter,” which represented the low point (high conflict) of Paul’s relations with the Corinthians. Rhetoric – the theatrical “Fool’s Speech,” which contains irony, self-praise, and comparison – helps to understand Paul’s boastful argumentation in his selfdefence; and ethnicity theory helps to interpret Paul’s construction of his ethnic identity. Paul boasted of his ethnicity by taking up rhetorical comparison and self-praise. But he did so in the so-called “Fool’s Speech”, which is full of irony: his ethnic heritage was part of his argument that he was equal to that of his opponents, but – here is the chief irony – his ethnicity “in the flesh” ultimately meant nothing to him.
“Anthropological rabbits” and “positivistic ducks”: An experiential reflection on Pieter Craffert’s “shamanic Jesus”
Authors: Van Aarde Andries
Published: August 2012

This article aims at conversing with aspects of the contribution Pieter Craffert (New Testament scholar from the University of South Africa) has made in his book on the historical Jesus, The life of a Galilean shaman: Jesus of Nazareth in anthropological-historical perspective (2008). In the book traits of the “shamanic complex” are heuristically used to explain the layering of traditions as reconfigurations of each other within the same cultural area and to argue for continuity from the cultural constitution of a social personage to the communication and enscripturation of that social personage within the same cultural system. Jesus’ healings and his encountering of spirits are understood in terms of the notion of alternate states of consciousness as polyphased consciousness. The book’s point of departure is the conviction that an anthropological- sensitive reading scenario represents an epistemological alternative to that of scholars who emphasize the historical-critical analysis of strata in the development of the Jesus tradition. The article consists of an appraisal and a critique. It argues for a different judgment rather than posing a thesis of a paradigm shift. The approach of some scholars who consider the investigation into the stratification of overlays in the Jesus tradition as central to historical Jesus studies is evaluated as complementary to a cultural-sensitive reading scenario.
Boekbesprekings/Book Reviews
Authors: Venter P. M.
Published: August 2012

Enoch and Qumran origins: New light on a forgotten connection The life of a Galilean Shaman: Jesus of Nazareth in anthropological perspectiveDarwin’s nemesis: Phillip Johnson and the intelligent design movementThe new perspective on Paul: Collected essaysSlavery in Early ChristianityBiblische Gestalten bei den Kirchenvätern: Adam (Biblische Gestalten bei den Kirchenvätern)Lutheran questions, Lutheran answers: Exploring Christian faithBethlehem besieged: Stories of hope in times of troubleNaar een nieuwe kerkenraad (Apeldoornse Studies, no 48)“Stärker als Männer und tapferer als Ritter”: Pilgerinnen in Spätantike und MittelalterThe end of wisdom: A reappraisal of the historical and canonical function of EcclesiastesVerzameld Werk, deel I: De aard van de theologie (Besorgd door Dr D van Keulen)Augustinus – Belydenisse: Getuienis oor ’n lewe in GodLiefde is die grootste: Oor erotiek en seksualiteit
Were the Galileans "religious Jews" or "ethnic Judeans"?
Authors: Cromhout Markus
Published: August 2012

This article focuses on an investigation into the ethnic identity of first-century Galileans. Its aim is to argue that the Galileans were not descendents of northern Israelites but were mostly descendents of “Jews” who came to live in the region during the Hasmonean expansion. The article demonstrates that this thesis is supported by Josephus and also by archaeological evidence. From the perspective of this thesis, the article contends that the term “Jew” does not apply to Galileans. First-century Galileans should rather be understood as “ethnic Judeans”.
The portrait of a prophet - why is Wright not right about Jesus?
Authors: Dannhauser Estelle
Published: August 2012

N T Wright’s extensive research on the subject of the historical Jesus has led him to the conclusion that the office of eschatological prophet passionately bent on delivering an urgent eschatological message is best suited to describe the portrait of Jesus as it emanates from the sources at hand. Wright furthermore abstracts from the sources the program of this prophet which involves extending a message of welcome and warning. Many a scholar would agree with these conclusions. When revealing how he arrived at the conclusions he refers to the “notorious” complexity of the problem of the literary relationship between the gospels. Can any scholar disagree? What does, however, seem to invite contention, are his statements that the gospels tell us far more about Jesus than scholarship has ever done, and that the two-source hypothesis which has been misleading scholars over the past two hundred years is not of any great importance in the study of Jesus. Wright believes that we are not in a position to answer the synoptic question and then bases a reconstruction of Jesus on this answer. What, then, are his sources and how does he apply them to arrive at these conclusions? This article presents the portrait Wright painted of the historical Jesus and investigates how it was arrived at.
Die dodekapropheton: Twaalf klein profete of een geheel?
Authors: De Villiers Gerda
Published: August 2012

The dodekapropheton: Twelve minor prophets or a larger unit?

The Book of the Twelve or the twelve minor prophets received scholarly attention through the ages. Historical criticism pointed out that these prophets lived in different times, in different historical situations and articulated the “word of the Lord” for different circumstances. However, recent scholarship tends to read the corpus of the minor prophets as a structured whole. Such a reading raises a number of problems: the Twelve do not follow one another chronologically and the order of the Masoretic Text does not agree with that of the Septuagint, whilst Qumran follows yet another order. This article probes – albeit cursory – some of these questions from different perspectives. Eventually it appears that a continuous process of “Fortschreibug” shaped and reshaped prophetic messages to keep them alive for following generations. A unity is created by maintaining the tensions and differences amongst the Twelve, thereby reflecting the creative articulation and rearticulation of prophecy in the different times of the history of Judah and Israel.
HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies Jaargang/Volume 64
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies Jaargang/Volume 64
Hell revisited: A socio-critical enquiry into the roots and relevance of hell for the church today
Authors: Janse van Rensburg Hanre , Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

Hell is being written out of theology and banned from serious conversation; for most scholars and modern- minded people it has more or less become a theoretical issue. Yet it remains alive and burning in the Western mind – there has been a surge in the amount of popular literature written on the subject from the 1990’s onwards. Why the sudden interest? Is there a pattern or social trend that could begin to explain the phenomenon? Part of the responsible way of dealing with the history of a concept such as hell is to point towards the social and political reasons for the emergence and need for certain concepts in particular contexts and circumstances, as they are all utilitarian concepts which are employed and abandoned as needs change and sentiments shift. This article will investigate the rise of the concept of hell by investigating the ancient sources in which it first appeared, in order to establish what factors made the concept popular then and now. In doing so, a continuum will be identified between the first origin of these ideas and their present popularity.
The temptation of Realpolitik and vox populi in the ecclesiology of the Emerging Apostolic Churches with special reference to the fivefold ministry
Authors: Resane K. Thomas , Buitendag J.
Published: August 2012

The Emerging Apostolic Churches do not have a uniform church polity since the power of governance is claimed to be with the fivefold ministers, while at the same time embracing either the Episcopal, Presbyterial, or Congregational church governments. The fivefold ministry is a generally accepted term that refers to the five ministries given by Christ to the Church to stand in unique spiritual offices, as found in Ephesians 4:11. This article tries to answer the question: “Are the Emerging Apostolic Churches ecclesiologically correct by centring the authority of governance in the fivefold ministers and the popular voices of the followers?” At the same time it is endeavored to argue that due to Biblical and theological grounds the fivefold ministry is untenable to church polity hence Realpolitik and vox populi dominating the ecclesiastical life and polity of the Emerging Apostolic Churches. The aim is to demonstrate that these two concepts (Realpolitik and vox populi) play a significant part in shaping the church polity and structures of this ecclesiastical phenomenon.
"As jou broer verkeerd opgetree het teen jou...": Enkele aspekte van kerklike dissipline uit die Kerkorde van die Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika
Authors: Van Wyk Barry
Published: August 2012

“If a brother sins against you ...”: Certain aspects of church discipline from the Church Ordinance of the Netherdutch Reformed Church of AfricaChurch discipline has been a substantial part of Church Ordinances since the Geneva Church Ordinance of 1541, and was pursued and developed in the Netherlands and consequently also in South Africa. For obvious reasons church discipline forms part of the Church Ordinance of the Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa. An effort is made to partly rewrite the church discipline and also to alter and to make the existing appeal possibilities more accessible, particularly with regard to the verdicts of the Synodical Commission.
Bloedoffers en morele vorming: Gewelddadigheid as faset van Christelike tradisies
Authors: Botha Pieter J.J.
Published: August 2012

Blood sacrifice and moral formation: Violence as a

facet of Christian traditions

Is it possible that the discourse (and the corresponding assumptions) of blood sacrifice contribute to violent behavior? After a brief review of the pervasive presence of blood sacrifice language in formative Christianity, some theoretical perspectives on the concept of sacrifice are discussed. Attention is given to traditional views emphasizing sacrifice as transaction and communication, as well as to the theories of René Girard and Walter Burkert. These theoretical reflections remind us of how interwoven sacrifice and our cultural histories; sacrifice is rooted in coping strategies for powerful and dangerous emotions and events. Some connections between blood sacrifice imagery and sacrificial talk and the possible substantiation and naturalization of violent actions and values are indicated. Sacrifice language is not the only cause of violent behavior, but it does contribute to the cultural scripts of communities, promotes egocentric values, maintains magical components in worldview and facilitates the perception of violence as a commodity.
Beeldspraak over oorlog en schepping, geweld en geweldloosheid in de Openbaring van Johannes
Authors: Decock Paul
Published: August 2012

Images of war and creation, violence and non-violence in the Revelation of John

Much of the violent imagery of Revelation can be seen as inspired by the image of God as the Divine Warrior who will overcome the chaotic forces threatening creation and who will bring creation to its fulfillment. This violence is reserved for God and the exalted Jesus although the prophetic ministry of churches shares to some extent in this divine power and even in its violence (11:5-6). However, human victory is won through worship of God instead of worship of Satan and the Beast, and through prophetic witness unto death in order to bring the inhabitants of the world to repentance and so to overcome sin that destroys creation. This human victory is made possible by the “blood of Jesus” and requires that his followers persevere in the works of Jesus to the end (2:26) in order to share in the new creation of which Jesus is God’s agent from the beginning (3:14).
Geweld in die Nuwe Testament en die Romeinse Ryk: Ambivalensie, andersheid, agentskap
Authors: Punt Jeremy
Published: August 2012

Violence in the New Testament and the Roman Empire: Ambivalence, othering, agency

The various ways in and degrees to which the New Testament is associated with peace, or the end or absence of violence, have often been argued or at least assumed. In contrast more recently, some studies have also argued that the New Testament documents endured and tolerated, but at times also incited and sanctioned violence – positions accompanied by various theories that have been offered to explain the prevalence of Biblical violence. The ambivalence of the New Testament texts regarding violence, particularly their virtually concurrent rejection and condoning of violence, mirrors the ambivalence of the New Testament’s imperial setting. And, the agency regarding violence is situated variously by and through the documents addressing various socio-historical contexts in the agonistic first century CE, with the one common factor being the ubiquitous presence of the Roman Empire. It is argued that greater consideration for the impact of the imperial setting on the New Testament positions regarding violence provides an important starting point for and valuable insight in understanding the mixed messages (and accompanying tensions) of the New Testament concerning violence.
Geweld in Galasiers?
Authors: Tolmie D. F.
Published: August 2012

Violence in Galatians?

Although the Letter to the Galatians attracts much scholarly attention, the role that violence plays in it, is seldom investigated. This article attempts to address this issue. The question is posed: “To what extent does violence play a role in this letter, and, if so, why?” In order to provide an answer to this question, three aspects are considered: The occurrence of explicit references to violence in the letter; the violent rhetoric used by Paul; whether the theology of Galatians can be described as a violent theology.
Paulus se versie van "draai die ander wang" - gedagtes oor geweld en toleransie
Authors: Van Aarde Andries
Published: August 2012

Paul’s version of “turning the other cheek” – rethinking violence and tolerance

The aim of this article is to argue that Paul’s denunciation of vengeance should be seen as the outcome of a personal transformation from an apocalyptic destructive thinking with regard to those who irate him to a state of mind of tolerance and eventually to the “internalization of eschatological hope”. Instead of rebuking Paul prayed for those who heap burning coals upon his head. This disposition is seen as another version of the Jesus- tradition regarding the turning of the left cheek when an evildoer strikes one on the right one. The article explains Paul’s version and his change in attitude with regard to violence in terms of René Girard’s scapegoat theory and Paul’s rhetoric of mimesis which he consistently conveyed from his first letter to the Thessalonians through his last letter, written to the Romans. For Paul, Jesus Christ forms the model. It is Paul’s gospel about the participation of Jesus’ exemplary conduct, vis à vis iolence that was executed against him, which constitutes the transformative framework of overcoming evil with good.
Jesus en sy dissipels se reaksie op geweld in die Johannesevangelie
Authors: Van der Watt Jan , Kok Kobus
Published: August 2012

The reaction of Jesus and his disciples to violence in the Gospel of John

This article is the second of two articles in which violence in the Gospel of John is discussed. It is argued that Jesus' disciples used techniques of vilification in the Gospel, inter alia as way of dealing with the violence they experience at the hands of their opponents. Closer investigation reveals that they use vilification against their opponents as a pragmatic device for missionary purposes.
Geweld in 'n evangelie van liefde: Die Evangelie van Johannes se perspektief op geweld teen Jesus en sy dissipels
Authors: Van der Watt Jan
Published: August 2012

Violence in a gospel of love: The perspective of the Gospel of John on violence against Jesus and his disciples

This article is the first of two articles in which violence in the Gospel of John is discussed. In these articles strong techniques of vilification in the Gospel are pointed out, according to which the status of the opposing group is radically discredited by the Jews on the one hand, and the followers of Jesus on the other hand. In the first article violence and vilification by the Jews, or disciples of Moses against the followers and disciples of Jesus are investigated. It is argued that the central issue of the conflict revolves around the question: Where is God's presence to be found? Among the Jews or among the followers of Jesus? The conflict and violence in John could be understood against the backdrop of this important question.
Die Heilige Gees en die Skriflesing in die samekoms van die gemeente
Authors: De Klerk B.J.
Published: August 2012

The Holy Spirit and Scripture-reading in the gathering of the congregation The realisation of the presence of God in the gathering of the congregation is often hampered by the lack of emphasis on the communicative action, the Scripture-reading by which God directly talks to his congregation. In this article the basic theoretical exploration indicates that Scripture-reading is the way in which God addresses us as: “Here I am!” God discloses his power to bestow grace upon and judge the congregation. Scripture-reading as signifying communicative action in the service can be regarded as a continuation of the idea of God’s presence implied by the tabernacle, temple, and synagogue – an idea also emphasised in New-Testament times and in the twentieth century. Scripture-reading is thus the binding and decisive factor in the meeting of God with his people. Some possibilities for the practical application of the independent Scripture-reading are indicated in this article.
Die spiritualiteit van die bedienaar met verwysing na sy toerustingstaak
Authors: Venter C.J.H.
Published: August 2012

The spirituality of the minister with reference to his task to equip Although considerable practical-theological research has already been undertaken in the field of spirituality, certain issues still need further investigation. One of the main issues in this regard is the interrelationship between the spirituality of the minister and that of the congregation and thus the task of equipping the congregation to an intensified spiritual life. Key issues dealt with in this article are the concept of spirituality in the Pastoral Epistles, a pneumatological point of departure in investigating the spirituality of the minister, the actual source of his spirituality, spirituality and charisma, the interrelationship between the spirituality of the minister and the spirituality of the congregation. In this regard attention is also paid to the act of exercising spirituality by way of prayer, reading and applying Scripture in the minister’s personal life. In conclusion the minister’s act of self-investigation is also highlighted. In this regard the need for continuous growth in personal spirituality as a prerequisite for equipping the congregation for their spiritual life is justified and emphasized by relevant Scriptural passages.
In the eyes of the beholder… theopolitics and theopolitical leadership in 1 and 2 Chronicles
Authors: Nel H.
Published: August 2012

Theopolitics, a comprehensive subject that embraces all aspects of life, should not be confused with the antiquated conflict between church and church or between church and state. Theopolitics is about power and about who takes the lead in the struggle for supremacy. The hypothesis of this article is that theopolitics consist of four major elements: i.e. a deity, the reporting of actual events, the mute, faceless masses and leadership. According to this premise leadership should be divided into visible leadership and an invisible leadership corps. As far as the visible leaders are concerned, their acts are “in the eye of the beholder”, but they have no power, only the potential to manipulate the masses and the media. All power lies safely and securely in the hands of the invisible leadership. Without realising it themselves, the masses are mute and faceless. Invisible leadership, too, is mute and faceless, but that is due to personal preference, because its anonymity is the nucleus, the essence of its powerbase. It is impossible to provide an immutable interpretation of the concept theopolitics within one article. The only objective of this article therefore is to contribute to the debate by highlighting a few of the problems relating to the role of theopolitical leadership. Unfortunately the quandary of theopolitical leadership is the uncertainty whether it is an unattainable dream about the past, a reality of today or a viable option for a successful tomorrow.
Totius en die boek Openbaring
Authors: Louw H.A.
Published: August 2012

Totius and the Book of Revelation In his sermons on the book Revelation, published in 1921, the Afrikaans theologian and poet, Prof. J.D. du Toit, better known under the pseudonym Totius, took the “futurist” view as the principal way to explain this Bible book. Elements of other views like the “historicist view” were also followed, especially in the sermon on the seven churches in Asia Minor, which regarded each church as concerned with later periods in the history of Western Europe. According to Du Toit the scene of the sealing of the servants of God (7:1-8) and of the great multitude mentioned later in the chapter (7:9-17) is set at the end of time. It should, however, be better to interpret chapter 7:1-8 as the church in John's time and the vast crowd of people from every nation as an image of the redeemed in the bliss of heaven. The multitude who comes (present tense) out of the great tribulation are those who died for their faith when Revelation was written. But the article describing the multitude in the original Greek text also seems to indicate the great trouble accompanying the end of things. For Du Toit the prostitute in chapter 17 symbolizes a city, namely Babylon. The harlot, however, had slain a great number of saints who believed in Jesus (17:6). Thus the harlot cannot be identified with Babylon. The city must be Rome, the contemporary representative of the cruel empires which, through the ages have enslaved people by brute force. Rome also killed saints who served Christ. Du Toit’s greatest shortcoming in his explanation of the Book of Revelation was that he did not see that the book Revelation is rooted in a given historical situation.
Equipping the congregation by means of preaching: Paul’s sermon at Miletus (Acts 20:17-38) – perspectives for the South African context
Authors: Kim H.K. , Venter C.J.H.
Published: August 2012

In an attempt to supply guidelines to equip contemporary South African congregations by means of preaching, basis-theoretical material from Acts 20:17-38 is investigated. In this process the term preaching, as well as the goal, primacy and effect of preaching is also illuminated. Furthermore the fact that the Word of God has power to build up the congregation thoroughly because the Word is inspired (God-breathed) is highlighted. Acts of teaching, rebuking, correcting and training are regarded as main features of preaching in equipping the congregation. In conclusion, practice-theoretical guidelines for equipping the congregation by means of preaching in the present situation are presented.
Wat sê die boek Amos en Handelinge 15:15-17 oor die/’n beloofde land?
Authors: Helberg J.L.
Published: August 2012

What do the book of Amos and Acts 15:15-17 say about the concept of the/a promised land? This article explores the importance of the concept of land in the book of Amos and in Acts 15:15-17. In the discussion of this concept the epilogue of Amos is referred to. The conclusion arrived at implies that the concept of land – in an universal context – maintains an important place, even in the promise of a future existence. Even other nations will share in this new kingdom. The idea of a universal kingdom is so important in Acts that the concept the/a land is not the primary focus. This article indicates that this is also the case in the Heidelberg Catechism’s interpretation of the fifth and tenth commandments. Some theological implications for the land issue in South Africa are pointed out and some conclusions drawn about the “Day of the Vow”.
Editorial
Authors: Van Wyk A.
Published: August 2012

Terwyl in Europa aan die begin van die twintigste eeu ’n stemming van kultuuroptimisme geheers het, het aan die suidpunt van Afrika ’n verwoestende oorlog plaasgevind wat algemeen as die Tweede Anglo- Boereoolog (1899-1902) bekend staan. Binne die volgende halfeeu sou Europa egter self twee maal tot op sy fondamente geskud word deur die twee wêreldoorloë van 1914-1918 en 1939-1945.
Nooit weer nie? ’n Teologies-etiese beoordeling van die idees oor politieke vryheid in Suid-Afrika sedert 1899
Authors: Vorster J.M.
Published: August 2012

Never again? A theological-ethical evaluation of ideas about political freedom in South Africa since 1899 Various conflicting concepts of political freedom and the process of liberation have played a major part in South African society over the past century. These concepts have inherently been influenced by theological-ethical guidelines given by prominent Christian leaders and churches. This article focuses on the conflicting concepts of freedom as they were defined from a theological-ethical perspective in the old republics of Transvaal and the Orange Free State during the Anglo-Boer war which started in 1899, the apartheid society since 1948 and in the Black Liberation struggle which culminated in the democracy of 1994. In every instance the theological-ethical presuppositions used in the formulation of each particular concept of freedom are defined and analysed. In conclusion attention is paid to the state of freedom in South Africa in 2000 and the church’s responsibility to contribute to the development of an ethos of human rights from an ecumenical theological-ethical foundation.
Prediker, preekgesindheid en die toerusting van die gemeente
Authors: Kruger F.P. , Venter C.J.H.
Published: August 2012

Preacher, preaching attitude and the equipment of the congregation Having defined the concepts preacher and preaching attitude, the authors deal with basis-theoretical material, especially material taken from the Pastoral Epistles. In-depth investigation is undertaken of especially expressions in which preaching and the attitude of the minister are stated explicitly. A special section is also devoted to the interrelationship of attitude and the spirituality of the preacher. Finally this article focuses on the attitude of the preacher and his role in the spiritual equipment of the congregation. This exposition is followed by final concretizing perspectives for the praxis of equipment in ministering the Word to the congregation.
'Is die duiwel los?' Nuwe-Testamentiese perspektiewe op die stryd tussen Christus en die Bose
Authors: Joubert S.
Published: August 2012

'Is the devil on the loose?' New Testament perspectives on the struggle between Christ and Satan A brief summary of the views of Jesus, Paul and John regarding the struggle between Christ and Satan is first presented. This is followed by a discussion of the position of the followers of Jesus in this “eschatological” battle. Apart from modern theological epistemologies that interpret early Christian views regarding the struggle between Christ and Satan in terms of a primitive, mythical worldview, the metaphysical worldview of the New Testament is taken seriously in this article. It is argued that both God’s metaphysical involvement in history, as well as the reality of evil, must be taken into consideration if modern believing communities still want to lay claim to legitimately being part of the apostolic tradition. This, however, does not call for any fixation on evil in its various manifestations, but for a constant awareness of Christ’s eschatological victory over all opposing forces.
Rhetorical criticism and the hermeneutics of the New Testament
Authors: Cornelius E.M.
Published: August 2012

It is argued that rhetorical criticism is increasingly recognized as a method of interpretation of biblical literature. From the discussion in this article it becomes clear that there are different perspectives of rhetorical criticism just as there are different theories of rhetoric. It is argued that contemporary critics need to develop an interdisciplinary method of rhetorical criticism in order to answer questions about the potential effectiveness of a rhetorical act. It is concluded that the rhetorical critic needs a combination of "old" methods in order to answer new questions.
Geloofsverryking te midde van moreel-etiese verwarring in die lig van die kenmotief in 2 Petrus 1:5-7
Authors: Breed D.G. , Jordaan G.J.C.
Published: August 2012

Spiritual enrichment of Christians in the midst of moral-ethical confusion in the present South Africa: the significance of the motif of knowing in 2 Peter 1:5-7 In this article, which deals with the significance of the motif of knowing in 2 Peter 1:5-7 for the present South African context, attention is paid to verses 5-7. This article attempts to indicate that Peter’s encouragement of his readers to enrich their belief has special significance for believers in South Africa. Believers should understand that accepted religious beliefs are only a basic virtue. To this virtue they have to add, together with other virtues, the faculty of comprehension. In South Africa, opposing statements are currently often made about what Scripture teaches concerning moral issues. Believers having this ability of comprehension will be able to judge these statements and arrive at a Biblically-oriented conclusion.
Liturgiese identiteitsvorming as antwoord op die invloed van die verbruikerskultuur
Authors: De Klerk B.J.
Published: August 2012

The formation of liturgical identity in response to the influence of a consumer culture Liturgy in South Africa is continually interacting with the Western cultural heritage on the one hand, and increasingly with African culture on the other hand. However, another powerful influence on the local liturgy springs from the so-called global consumer culture. A few characteristics of the latter are inter alia the following: The emphasis on what the “buyer”, the worshipper and “potential” worshipper prefer; a show business attitude resulting in transforming members of the congregation into spectators rather than participants. Furthermore the emphasis is on the pursuit of effectiveness and the utilisation of technology to attain it and the focus is specifically on the needs of the individual and not on those of the community. The continual formation of liturgical identity is the answer to the mainly detrimental cultural processes currently manifesting themselves. The point of departure in forming a cultural identity implies an in-depth study of the liturgical guidelines indicated in the Old and the New Testament and the historical development of liturgy, especially in the second, sixteenth and twentieth centuries. The following aspects should, however, also be taken into consideration: the contemporary characteristics of the local indigenous culture, beauty of God, relationship between liturgy and culture, multi-cultural enrichment of liturgy, missionary aim and eschatological focus of liturgy.
Kloning as selektiewe voortplanting: ’n Voorlopige teologies-etiese beoordeling
Authors: Rheeder A.L. , De Bruyn P.J. , Van Wyk J.H. , Malan N.T.
Published: August 2012

Cloning as selective reproduction: A preliminary theological-ethical assessment Although a significant degree of doubt about cloning initially existed, it is a well-known fact that cloning has successfully been applied in mammals. It is, therefore, not strange that some couples are indeed interested in this procreation option – especially since a human embryo has already been created in this way. This article thus attempts to evaluate cloning as a reproductive choice for Christian couples in the light of the view of marriage and reproduction expressed in the Bible. However, from a theological-ethical point of view, the answer given in this article should be seen as merely provisional as cloning is an extremely recent phenomenon. As such, academics should be careful not to be too hasty in giving a final answer to this very complex problem.
Die GKSA en sy gereformeerde identiteit: Kan dit behou word in ’n postmoderne gemeenskap?
Authors: Smit C.J. , Vorster J.M.
Published: August 2012

The RCSA and its reformed identity: Can it be maintained in a postmodern community? This article focuses on the nature of reformed identity within the Reformed Churches in South Africa (RCSA). The central theoretical argument which is to be answered in this article, is how the reformed identity of the RCSA can be preserved in a time when there is little appreciation for absolute values; a time, as a matter of fact, where relativism sets the fashion? How should the RCSA accommodate the paradigm shift from modernism to postmodernism in the process of preserving their reformed identity? Answers to these questions depend on the RCSA’s experience of the paradigm shift in a changed society and their reaction towards this paradigm shift.
Effektiwiteit en produktiwiteit in die Christen se lewe, werk en besigheid in die lig van Matteus 25:14-30
Authors: Van der Walt J.L. , Van Rensburg F.J.
Published: August 2012

Effectiveness and productivity in the Christian’s life, work and business in the light of Matthew 25:14-30 In the life of a modern Western Christian, effectiveness and productivity are frequently approached in terms of performativity, operativity and managerialism, which are the characteristic norms of high modernity. Notably New Agers and Postmodernists have questioned such norms in various circles. Should Christians align themselves with the norms of high modernity or with the norms of, for example, Postmodernists in their approach to effectiveness and productivity in their lives, their occupations and their business? This article offers an interpretation in looking for guidelines regarding a sound approach to this issue. For this purpose the parable of the rich man who entrusted his slaves with his possessions (Matthew 25 (and the parallel Luke 19) is utilised in order to indicate a sound approach to effectiveness and productivity.
Christusprediking uit die Ou Testament. ’n Nuwe benadering tot ’n ou probleem?
Authors: Van Rooy H.F.
Published: August 2012

Preaching Christ from the Old Testament. A new approach to an old problem? This review article deals with Sidney Greidanus’ book on the problem of preaching Christ from the Old Testament (cf. footnote 1). It discusses his previous contributions on preaching, looking at preaching especially from the Old Testament. An extensive discussion and evaluation of this book then follow. In conclusion, a number of observations are made about the present relevance of this work. Greidanus’ work contains an extensive survey of the history of the problem, followed by guidelines from the New Testament. The New Testament’s treatment of the Old Testament is then taken as norm for developing different approaches to preaching Christ from the Old Testament. This publication of Greidanus does not really break new ground, but provides a comprehensive survey of the problem and different approaches to solving the problem.
Kerklike inspraak in teologiese opleiding en in die beoefening van teologie?
Authors: Smit J.
Published: August 2012

Should the teaching and practice of theology be dictated by the church? In this article it is argued that the practice of theology as a science, based on the presupposition that the Bible is the word of God, is inherently part of the calling and responsibility of the church. Therefore, practising theology as a science rooted in faith should also be ecclesiastically subservient to theology in general, and should indicate the way for the training of ministers of the Word. In this article it is argued that practising theology as a science rooted in faith is not to be regarded as an old-fashioned approach as this way of practising theology can be related to one of the positive trends in post-modernism: the increasing need for expressed presuppositions. This view stands in opposition to the rationalistic approach of theology in which the Bible is seen as a collection of texts of historical origin. According to the rationalistic view point, the Bible represents a collection of texts which reflect narratives of people’s experiences and should be studied historically-critically. Thus the Bible becomes an object of rational analysis. Should the focus of theology (in contemporary postmodern times) move to the phenomenon of religions emphasizing rational analysis, churches will have to take the sole responsibility for the training of future ministers – even if the consequence implies that the involvement of universities in theological training be excluded.
John Calvin on the kingdom of God and eschatology
Authors: Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

In this article the author investigates Calvin’s view on the kingdom of God and eschatology. The first question to be answered is: how does one know (anything about eschatology)? Calvin’s answer is clear: only through the Word of God. The author continues to illustrate that for Calvin the expectation of the kingdom and the eschaton does not frustrate or annihilate the present, but stimulates and directs human activities. Attention is also paid to the realisation and fulfilment of the kingdom and the esch