bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vaderskap in die Pauliniese korpus volgens 1 Korintiërs
Authors: Malan F. S.
Published: August 2012

Fatherhood in the Pauline corpus according to 1 CorinthiansThe word pathvr appears five times in 1 Corinthians: three times referring to God (1:3; 8:6; 15:24), once to Paul (4:15), once to Israel in the desert (10:1), and once to a physical father (5:1). Paul’s idea of fatherhood are his Jewish background, his view of the Greek and Roman conception of fatherhood, and his interpretation of the Old Testament understanding thereof. These images and Paul’s subtle differences from them are explored. Paul’s idea of fatherhood arises from his faith in God’s relationship with Jesus, and, through the crucified and risen Christ, with the congregation and the whole creation. Paul’s own humble life portrays Christ’s humiliation and the Father’s grace.
Conversion, persecution, and malaise: Life in the community for which Hebrews was written
Authors: Koester Craig R.
Published: August 2012

Hebrews was written for Christians whose situation had developed as a result of several stages. Firstly the readers’ community was established when the message of salvation led to conversion and was confirmed by experiencing miracles and a sense of the Spirit’s presence. Secondly, during a time of persecution conditions became more difficult but the community remained steadfast in the wake of abuse, dispossession, and imprisonment and was not pressurised into relinquishing their commitments. During the third stage, conditions within the community seemed to deteriorate as ongoing friction with non-Christians and the demands of mutual support within the Christian community evidently moved some to exhibit a diminished commitment to the faith and to neglect the community’s gatherings. In response, the author develops the contrast between the seen and the unseen in order to address the apparent contradiction between the promises of glory that drew them to faith and the inglorious experience of life in the world. The author seeks to bolster the readers’ confidence by showing that Jesus’ suffering was followed by exaltation to heavenly glory and that Jesus’ followers can be confident that God will also bring others who suffer into the glory that has been promised to them.
Theology and psychology – the interdisciplinary work of Fraser Watts
Authors: Smith Willem J.
Published: August 2012

In the preface to his book, Theology and Psychology, Fraser Watts, a lecturer in Theology and Natural Science at the University of Cambridge, states that he approaches “… the interface between theology and psychology by looking at each discipline from the perspective of the other. This includes a religious perspective on several current hot topics in psychology, such as evolution, neuroscience, and computer intelligence. I also consider theological topics like divine action, salvation history and eschatology, in each case using the psychological perspective in a different way”. By taking an interdisciplinary approach, Watts aims at proposing a psychology of religious experience. He considers theology to be the rational reflection on the Christian tradition. When exponents of this tradition are in dialogue with exponents of psychology, the focus falls on human nature. Watts admits that a certain lack of competence in one of the two disciplines can be a problem when working in an interdisciplinary way. However, he is willing to take the risk. Watts worked in psychology for 25 years and was also involved with a medical research council, before taking up a position at the Faculty of Divinity, University of Cambridge.
The African concept of caring for life
Authors: Masango Maake
Published: August 2012

This article analyses the village concept of caring among African people. The old pattern of caring was based on the concept of ubuntu (humanity) which respects people, because they are created in the imago Dei. Then the article compares the western concept of caring, which is based on individualism and people's privacy. Finally, economy, globalisation and this western concept are analysed. The impact of the above concepts affects Africans in urban areas, who are caught up in the two worlds, namely the African and western worlds.
An Afro-Christian ministry to people living with HIV/Aids in South Africa
Authors: Manala Matsobane J.
Published: August 2012

The HIV/Aids pandemic is cause for great frustration to the developing countries in their attempts to improve the quality of life of their citizens. HIV/Aids in South Africa demands a specific approach to the Christian ministry in which the African world-view is acknowledged. In order for the church to play a relevant and meaningful role in combating the HIV/Aids pandemic, it is necessary that the church should be informed of the existential situation of persons living with HIV/Aids. This information is vital for raising awareness and engendering sensitivity among Christians. In the context of such awareness of and sensitivity to human pain and suffering, the community of the faithful should be moved to heed Christ’s call to show neighbourly love. The possible role of the church in caring for those who are already infected with HIV is defined.
Ex Africa semper aliquid novi?
Authors: Duncan G. A.
Published: August 2012

Elizabeth Isichei follows in a grand tradition of single-author one-volume histories of Christianity in Africa. It is written in the current ecumenical tradition from “an African perspective” and follows the canons of the “new historiography”. In terms of periodisation and regional divisions, she follows generally accepted categories with some local variations. What is distinctive and innovative is the selectivity of some of the themes she chooses to discuss. In the absence of similar works emanating from black historians, she expresses her concern about being a “white” interpreter and interlocutor. Nevertheless, she offers a history of considerable distinction.
Christelike gesindheid en politieke protes
Authors: Vorster J.M.
Published: August 2012

Christian attitude and political protestIn Christian ethics the issue of protest has always been a widely discussed theme. Notwithstanding, the development of constitutional democracies all over the world, the topic has become even more prominent especially as it relates to the following issues: the position of minority groups in majority governments and the freedom of individuals to maintain a certain value system in various spheres of authority. This article discusses the nature of a Christian perspective on political protest and the role such Christian attitude can play. In this regard special reference is made to the strategies of armed resistance, civil disobedience and external pressure. The implementation of the classic idea of “uis ad bellum” is questioned on grounds of the current existence of weapons of mass destruction. Norms are formulated for the responsible use of civil disobedience and external pressure to promote freedom of choice and expression in a peaceful and constructive way.
Grieks-Romeinse apokaliptiek en die Christelike kerugma
Authors: Boshoff H.J. , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

Greco-Roman apocalypticism and the Christian kerygmaThis study aims to show that the idea of the kingdom of God can be viewed as an apocalyptic alternative to the Pax Romana. The apocalyptic thinking of the Roman Empire had a profound influence on the kerygma of Jesus and his followers. Therefore, the kingdom of God came to replace the Pax Romana and this replacement took form in the kerygma of Jesus Christ. It is the view expressed in this study that the Christian view of the kingdom as a present-day reality derived from the apocalyptic idea of the Roman Empire as an existing utopia.
Die apologetiese taak van die kerk
Authors: Van Wyk I.W.C.
Published: August 2012

Apology as the church’s responsibilityIn 2001, the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church decided that apologetics should be part of its apostolate. The author introduces the subject of apologetics to the church. This he does by means of a historical overview of the development of the subject. Special attention is given to the early apologetic fathers and theologians of the 19th and 20th centuries. The emphasis falls on the problematic relationship between faith and science, questions concerning the truth of the gospel, the mission of the church and the problem of multi-religiosity.
Non-past referring Imperfects in the New Testament: A test case for an antianti- anti-Porter position
Authors: Swart G.J.
Published: August 2012

Since the publication more than a decade ago of two comprehensive studies on verbal aspect in New Testament Greek (Porter 1989; Fanning 1990), scholarly discussion has tended to focus more on the differences than on the agreements between these theorists. Ironically, the main point of dispute has become not their different views of the notion of ‘aspect’, but the question whether or not the tense forms of the indicative mood systematically convey temporal meaning. In this study an attempt is made to clear up some of the resulting confusion. The scope of the study is limited to New Testament passages containing imperfect tense forms which, according to Porter, do not refer to past time. Porter’s interpretation of these passages is discussed and compared with the opposing views of a number of scholars.
The sparrow’s fall (Mt 10:29)
Authors: Stander H.F.
Published: August 2012

According to Matthew 10:29, not one sparrow will fall to the ground “apart from the Father”. The latter phrase is elliptical, and it is not clear what type of involvement from the Father is meant. This article examines how this verse is interpreted in the various Bible translations and by modern commentaries. Thereafter patristic writings are consulted in search of a solution. It shows that the interpretation of this verse is often rooted in theological doctrine.
The key to the present fulfilment of the eschatological inclusion of the gentiles into the people of God
Authors: Pretorius Mark
Published: August 2012

The first part of this article the aim is to deal with the following question: How does the “new covenant” differ from the old? Who is included in this new covenant, and how are people brought into this new covenant? Although the subject is vast and encompasses some of the teaching found in the New Testament, the purpose of the article is to focus on the Spirit. According to Paul, the Spirit is the key to the present fulfilment of the eschatological inclusion of the Gentiles into the people of God. An understanding of the old covenant and its significance are interpreted in the second part of the article. The purpose is to provide solutions through a meaningful interpretation and exposition of the relevant passages. In so doing, the difficulties associated with the inclusion of Gentiles are addressed.
Lewenspeil, verlossing van sonde en MIV en VIGS in Suider-Afrika: Gedagtes uit die Gereformeerde tradisie
Authors: Murray Montagu
Published: August 2012

Standard of living, forgiveness of sins and HIV/aids in Southern Africa: Notions from the Reformed traditionThe article reflects on the relation between standard of living and forgiveness of sins by examining a few significant perspectives from the Reformed tradition. The contemplation results in the invention of a B&S-SCHEME (beggar-and-sinner scheme) recommended by the author as an aid to a more nuanced reflection on theological propositions concerning the relationship between standard of living and the forgiveness of sins. In conclusion, theological propositions on the relationship between a person or group’s HIV-status and guilt and/or innocence before God are examined as an illustration of the application possibility of the B&SSCHEME.
Cremation a problem to African people
Authors: Masango Maake J.S.
Published: August 2012

This article focuses on the issue of cremation the church is increasingly faced with and with which is has to deal. The issue has become very topical in South Africa as cemeteries are reaching capacity. Throughout its history the church, both Roman Catholic and Protestant, viewed cremation in a negative light. The author traces the reasons for this negativity back to the thirteenth century. Finally, the article focuses on relevant scriptural passages. South Africans can no longer avoid the issue because some cemeteries have already reached their full capacity and land for more cemeteries is limited.
Waar is God? Relevante insigte in die Westers-Christelike tradisie rakende hedendaagse bevraagtekening van God se teenwoordigheid
Authors: Vorster J. H.
Published: August 2012

Where is God? Insights in the Western Christian tradition relevant to current questioning of God’s presencepresence Departing from a contemporary question, this article sets out to explore the tradition behind a problem in the modern concept of God. Three historical cross-sections from the tradition, connecting the modern reader with the Old Testament, are presented as summary of the background and development of Christian views of God (focusing on transcendence and immanence as reciprocal concepts). Traditional reflections of this kind utilize a philosophical vocabulary. Accordingly, theology and philosophy exemplify a similar development. A unilinear presentation of insights from the fields of theology and philosophy supports the conviction that all theology is based on some set of what are often are philosophical presuppositions. The aim of this exploration is, firstly, to show that as far as the debate about awareness of God is concerned, the concepts of transcendence and immanence are still highly relevant, and, secondly, to elicit reaction and further debate.
A socio-cultural model of Judean ethnicity: A proposal
Authors: Cromhout Markus , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

This article focuses on the matter of Judean (“Jewish”) ethnic identity during the first century CE. New Testament scholarship lacks an overall interpretive framework by which Judean identity can be understood. Appreciation of what informed the entire process of Judean ethnic identity formation in the first century, or at any period for that matter, is lacking. This lack of interpretive framework is rather acute in scholarship on the historical Jesus, where the issue of Judeanness (“Jewishness”) is most strongly debated. A Socio-Cultural Model of Judean Ethnicity is developed, as being a synthesis of (1) Sanders’ notion of covenantal nomism, but reappropriated to serve as an ethnic descriptor, (2) Berger and Luckmann’s theories on the sociology of knowledge, (3) Dunn’s “four pillars of Second Temple ‘Judaism’” and his “new perspec-tive” on Paul, (4) cultural anthropology in the form of modern ethnicity theory, and lastly, (5) Duling’s Socio-Cultural Model of Ethnicity. The proposed model is termed covenantal nomism. It is a pictorial representation of the Judean “symbolic universe” which, as an ethnic identity, is proposed to be essentially primordialist.
Hans Küng en religieuse pluraliteit
Authors: Louw Dirk J.
Published: August 2012

Hans Küng and religious pluralityThe article traces Hans Küng’s view on religious plurality over four decades: from “theocentrism” (the earlier Küng) to critical ecumenical dialogue (the later Küng). Küng’s approach to religious plurality portrays a growing openness towards non-Christian religions. However, his approach is not quite as accommodative as it may appear on face value. On closer inspection, the “theocentrism” of the earlier Küng turns out to be (merely) christocentrism, and the “maximal” openness that supposedly informs the later Küng’s critical ecumenical dialogue (and concomitant ecumenical criteria) turns out to be a “committed” openness. Although Küng’s approach seemingly constitutes a shifting of the Christian criterion, it is therefore best understood as merely a movement in the Christian criterion. This prompts the question as to whether an unbiased assessment of religions is possible at all.
The role alternate states of consciousness played in the baptism and Eucharist of the earliest Jesus-followers
Authors: Groenewald Jonanda , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

In this article it is argued that the baptism and Eucharist of the earliest Jesus-followers can be better understood when contemporary knowledge with regard to alternate states of consciousness is taken into consideration. During Jesus’ baptism and all-inclusive meals, he experienced alternate states of consciousness, which can be understood as expressions of the direct influence the Spirit of God had in his life. In the rites of baptism and the Eucharist the early Jesus-followers re-enacted Jesus’ alternate states of consciousness. This re-enactment is illustrated by means of a model termed “anti-language”. The understanding of the earliest baptism and Eucharist, as described in this article, could aid contemporary Christians in experiencing these rites as being meaningful today.
Transformation in South Africa and the Kingdom of God
Authors: Vorster Nico
Published: August 2012

The concept of transformation is currently ill defined and often abused for political and ideological ends. This article attempts to provide a sound value base for the concept of transformation from the perspective of the Kingdom of God and to evaluate the current process from this perspective. The task of Christians is to obey the cosmic reign of Christ by disarming the oppressive powers of this world, and by serving the interests of the poor. In the South African context, this means that Christians must engage in the transformation process in order to establish a more just society. However, Christians can only fulfil their calling if they are spiritually transformed themselves. White Christians must realize that the Apartheid system was unjust and that transformation is necessary because the social and economic inequalities in South Africa are systemic in nature. Black Christians must refrain from abusing the transformation process for personal gain. Christians should participate in the transformation process in a critical manner, knowing that old ideologies can easily be replaced by new ideologies, and knowing that the only true Kingdom of Justice will be established by Godself in the coming dispensation.
The Word is life: African theology as biblical and contextual theology
Authors: Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

This article reflects on the development of African theology from its beginning up to the end of the twentieth century. A critical assessment of this development and the current state of African theology is given. The future and possible shortcomings of African theology are also discussed. It is argued that for African theology to make a difference in a multi-cultural and multi-contextual Africa, it should consider being contextual and Biblical. For Christians the Word means life, is life, and promises life in its fullness. If African theology purports to be Christian, this should also be one of its premises.
Leadership in Africa and in the Old Testament: A transcendental perspective
Authors: Usue E. O.
Published: August 2012

This article discusses the challenges of leadership as reflected in the Old Testament and in African contexts. The author notes certain strengths and weaknesses with regard to some of the approaches to leadership both in the Old Testament and Africa. As Alternative the article proposes a transcendental perspective on leadership in response to the African situation.
Hermeneutics as cross-cultural encounter: Obstacles to understanding
Authors: Rohrbaugh Richard L.
Published: August 2012

It is a curious fact that while most people intuitively understand the potential for misunderstanding in face-to-face cross-cultural conversations, no such difficulty is anticipated when reading cross-culturally. Thus Westerners automatically assume they can read the Bible without taking account of its origins in an ancient Mediterranean culture that was sharply different to anything in the modern West. This article will describe the problem and then explore six major obstacles to cross-cultural communication (written as well as oral) that play a role in Western attempts to read a Mediterranean Bible. While a number of other significant obstacles could be cited, those addressed will suffice to make the point that it is time for Western scholars to acknowledge that the peculiarities of our cognitive style, language and mode of communication create disconnects with biblical texts of which we have simply not been aware.
Reading Matthew 28:16-20 with Others: How it deconstructs our Western concept of mission
Authors: Patte Daniel
Published: August 2012

Matthew 28:16-20 is readily read as providing a key teaching about “mission.” Its teaching about mission – going, making disciples of all the nations, baptizing them, teaching them to obey Jesus’ commands – seems simple and clear enough. Yet, this article aims to deconstruct a Western reading of Mt 28:16-20. This is not in order to denounce the legitimacy of such an interpretation. Deconstructing the Western reading is important in order to help us to recognize that there are other equally legitimate and plausible interpretations, and therefore alternate understandings of its teaching about “mission.” In response to the cries of those who suffered from imperialist practices of mission, the article argues that we might want to choose one of the other practices of the mission, one characterized by a respect of the “others” and by a commitment to bringing them a news which will be really good for them.
Teologie van godsdienste: ’n Perspektief op die verhouding tussen Christendom en Tradisionele Afrika Godsdienste
Authors: Beyers Jaco
Published: August 2012

Theology of Religions: A perspective on the relationship between Christianity and the Traditional African ReligionIn this discussion the relationship between Christianity and the Traditional African Religion is critically evaluated. The relationship is viewed from the perspective of the understanding of revelation and from the understanding of divinity. The possibility of a true African Christology is investigated and the understanding of sin and redemption from an African perspective is highlighted. The goal of the article is to identify important elements in the dialogue when bringing the gospel to people belonging to the Traditional African Religion.
1 & 2 Kronieke as ’n magsteks
Authors: Geyser A. B.
Published: August 2012

1 & 2 Chronicles – a discourse of powerThis study compares Chronicles with its source documents. It is obvious that the authors of Chronicles omitted certain parts of the source documents on the other hand on the other emphasized certain aspects with a specific purpose. The result is that the Southern kingdom receives a positive evaluation, while the Northern kingdom is described in a negative light. David is presented as the ideal king and in contrast to Exodus is credited as the founder of the religious cult. The cult in Jerusalem is legitimized and proclaimed as the only true religion. In so doing the books of Chronicles without a doubt secured and legitimized the position and actions of the temple personnel. As long as the temple existed it functioned as a discourse of power within this community. As a discourse of power, it set boundaries and excluded different groups that were traditionally part of the people of YHWH. The destruction of the temple though, disempowered this text and opened up the way for it to become part of the Hebrew canon.
'Nuwe wyn in nuwe sakke en die behoud van altwee': ’n Herbedinking van die Hervormde Kerk se identiteit aan die begin van die 21e eeu in Suid-Afrika
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

'New wine in new skins and the conservation of both': Rethinking the identity of the Hervormde Church at the beginning of the 21st centuryThis contribution consists of three sections. The first represents a homiletic speech that served as the inauguration address of the “National Colloquium” of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church in April 2006. The second is a memorandum aimed at describing the church’s identity, ethos and relevance in the present-day South African context. This memorandum was initially compiled by the author, sanctioned by the church’s executive council and endorsed at the “National Colloquium”. The third section represents the Colloquium’s final declaration of intent based upon the memorandum.
A travel journal of pastoral involvement in a South African multi-faith community
Authors: Van den Berg Jan-Albert , Smit Arnold
Published: August 2012

In the article the process of navigating through multi-faith communities is described as often being complicated by well-travelled routes that offer no new prospects. Usually these routes merely lead to a further erosion of existing problem areas. The consequences of large transformations in South Africa have led to the discovery that those who were able to place themselves theologically with ease are now seekers with an unknown destination who experience their existence as pilgrimage. From a narrative hermeneutical practical stance the authors developed an experimental theology within which continuous dialogue between text and contexts is presupposed. Certain markers, amongst others “Listening to each other’s stories”; “Confirming each other in the conversation(s”); “A new structure for conversation(s)”; and “Questioning the own position” are indicated for the journey through multi-faith communities, leading to the finding and creating of new horizons of understanding.
The New Testament teaching on family matters
Authors: Osiek Carolyn
Published: August 2012

The article shows that first-century urban Christian communities, such as those founded by Paul, brought in both whole families and individual women, slaves, and others. An example of an early Christian family can be seen in the autobiographical details of the Shepherd of Hermas, whether factual or not. The article aims to demonstrate that the New Testament teaching on family gives two very different pictures: the structured harmony of the patriarchal family as presented in the household codes of Colossians 3 and Ephesians 5, over against the warnings and challenges of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels to leave family in favor of discipleship. The developing devotion to martyrdom strengthened the appeal to denial. Another version of the essay was published in Horsley, Richard A (ed), A people’s history of Christianity, Volume 1: Christian origins, 201-220. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress.1.
Celebrating the feasts of the Old Testament in Christian contexts
Authors: Le Roux Magdel
Published: August 2012

Many early Christian churches incorporated a number of non-biblical, even “pagan” symbols and rituals into their liturgy (e. g. the origin of Christmas). They were contextualized into the church by a brand new Christian content to them. From its first inception Christianity attempted to slander and suppress the pagan myths and rituals in the name of its own message. This, however, does not alter the fact that the church also sought some connections in the sphere of myth. Since the Reformation many Protestant churches have tended to “cleanse” the church from all forms of symbols and rituals that could be reminiscent of its earlier connection with the Roman Catholic Church. The article argues that this left an emptiness, a longing for symbols and rituals which usually form an essential part of a normal religious experience. The Old Testament has both a “deficit” and a “surplus” which might have an abiding significance for Christians. It has become clear from archaeological discoveries that Jewish societies formed an integral part of early Christian societies.
Ministerial dress for worship in Southern Africa Presbyterianism
Authors: Duncan Graham A.
Published: August 2012

In view of Scripture, theology of worship, symbolism, history, tradition and current practice it is difficult, if not impossible, to come to any definite conclusions about ministerial dress in Presbyterian worship. The dissonance between the theological approaches of those who wear robes and those who do not, both of which positions are justifiable in the author’s opinion appears to be the main problem. Another serious issue lies in the fact that this issue generates more emotion than insight when it is raised. Furthermore, robes are non-essentials with regard to how we express our faith. Thus an appropriate stance would be the exercise of “liberty of opinion …” since it would be difficult to reconcile the diversity that already exists. Resolving the matter by legislating it for all time, is contrary to our Reforming tradition. A more sensitive, open approach will lead to decency and order, peace and mutual acceptance as far as this non-essential aspect of the life and witness of the Church is concerned.
Kanon: Eenheid en diversiteit
Authors: Venter Pieter M.
Published: August 2012

Canon: Unity and diversityAn analysis of the present post modern situation indicates resistance to the idea of “canon” understood in terms of a normative final collection of literature. The disciplines of textual criticism and canon history show that canons function in a larger social context and cannot be understood only in terms of its literary aspect. At present two parallel viewpoints on canon are found in the Christian church. The “objective” viewpoint stresses the final literary form of the Biblical canon. It cannot, however successfully indicate the unity of the canon without acknowledging the social context of the users of the canon. The ”subjective” viewpoint clearly indicates the contingent aspect of the canon, but has problems with the way its authority operates. The probable way to go about the postmodern society is to acknowledge the paradigmatic character of the canon’s contents and the dynamical process of canonization and decanonization in which a canon is involved.
Monastic retreat and pastoral care in the Dutch Reformed tradition
Authors: Schutte C.H. , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

Of late, there has been a growing interest in retreat among clergy and members of congregations in the Dutch Reformed tradition in South Africa. The article investigates the relevance of the monastic traditions for this growing interest in Reformed circles. It focuses on aspects of retreat such as the role of holy places in the monastic traditions (e.g., monasteries, cathedrals, retreat centers) and the experience of silence, solitude, regeneration, divine presence and spiritual formation. Proceeding from an epistemological reflection on the subject as described in a previous article, the aim of this article is to explore the “action of retreat” as a narrative research journey and pilgrimage in order to investigate the relevance of the Benedictine, Franciscan and Taizé monastic-mystic traditions (seen as an associative/mystic spirituality) for retreat in the Dutch Reformed tradition (which is seen as a disassociative/rational/ dogmatic spirituality).
Preaching to effect change
Authors: McDaniel Judith M.
Published: August 2012

This article begins with a theological argument, then proceeds to practical application. Its thesis is that there is an inherent link between the character of the preacher, the character of the congregation, and the character of the gospel proclaimed. They mirror one another. Many congregations are not equipped to deal with change, growth, or evangelism because they have become entrenched in one style of leadership or structured life; thus, before congregations can change, before a congregation can take a new direction in gospel living, the character of the preacher must be converted. This contribution to the topic proposes that the character of the preacher and the preacher’s congregation can draw closer to the character of the gospel through the practice and teaching of homiletics.
’n Kerugmatiese perspektief op bedieninge in die Nuwe Testament
Authors: Jones Robert J. , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

A kerygmatic perspective on ministries in the New TestamentThe article argues that the term “office” and its meaning, as found in the New Testament, cannot be applied without reserve to the understanding of office in the present-day church. From a Biblical and Reformed perspective, the logical place to look for clarity on this matter would be the documentation of the New Testament and the early church of the second and third centuries CE. This article investigates the origin of “office”, as well as the intention of office in the New Testament and writings of the early church. A basic assumption is that the understanding of office and church cannot be separated from one another. The article illustrates that Paul’s view of the church, ministries, kerygma and charismata, is of central importance for the understanding of the New Testament’s intention of ministries.
Die akkommodering en bestuur van diversiteit in gemeenteverband
Authors: Dreyer T.F.J.
Published: August 2012

The accommodation and management of diversity at congregational levelDiversity is becomming a prominent phenomenon of our society within a postmodern context. Many clergy and church members believe it threatens the peace and stability of churches and local congregations. Seemingly, diversity contributes to the escalation of conflict and the stress levels church leaders are experiencing. This article attempts to analize and describe the phenomenon of diversity from the angles of postmodernity, personality preferences and systems thinking. The research is based upon the hypothesis that diversity does not necessarily threaten the unity of local congregations. The manifestation of unity within diversity is only possible if leaders are sensitized to manage the challenges of pluriformity.
The demise of Joshua according to Josephus
Authors: Begg Christopher T.
Published: August 2012

This article focuses on Josephus’ account of the end of Joshua in his Ant. 5.115-119. It offers a detailed comparison between that account and its biblical source (Jos 23-24) on the one hand, and two other postbiblical narrations of Joshua’s demise, that is those of Pseudo-Philo in Liber Antiquitatum Biblicarum 23-24 and the “Samaritan Chronicle No. II,” on the other. As compared with Joshua 23-24, Josephus’ version appears highly abbreviated, leaving aside, for example, the whole of Joshua 23 as well as 24:16-28, 31-32, even while also introducing various new elements. Josephus shares his non-reproduction of Joshua 23 and 24:31-32 with Pseudo-Philo and the Chronicle, for example, but deviates from these other witnesses in his downplaying of the role/activities of the dying Joshua.
Religion and covenantal praxis in first century Judeanism
Authors: Cromhout Markus
Published: August 2012

This article indicates how the two cultural features of religion and covenantal praxis helped foster or shape Judean ethnic identity in the first century CE. It focuses on socialization into the three social domains of the Temple, the synagogue and the home. In these domains, Judean ethnic identity was dominated by the requirements of the Torah. At the same time the presence of Romans, the Herodians and the Gentiles within the ancestral land helped shape Judean identity as well.
Inter-religious dialogue in schools: A pedagogical and civic unavoidability
Authors: Abdool A. , Van der Walt J. L. , Wolhuter C.
Published: August 2012

Social and civic conflict inspired by the fundamental convictions of different religious groups seems to be rife all over the world, also in schools. One way of addressing this problem is to promote inter-religious dialogue. To establish the viability of this solution, the authors take several steps. They analyze the phenomenon “religion” and discover that it is constituted of several layers or levels that have to be accounted for in the proposed inter-religious dialogue in schools. After discussing the term “dialogue” they consider several approaches to religious diversity or plurality to find a suitable basis for the proposed inter-religious dialogue in schools. Based on these analyses, the authors argue that schools (teacher-educators and learners) should be allowed to engage in inter-religious dialogue as part of their pedagogical and civic duty. This will ensure a better understanding of others and their religions, also at the deepest spiritual level. Such comprehension can contribute to the more peaceful co-existence of people in religiously pluralist societies.
Domestic abuse in the household of God
Authors: Visser Rosemaré Ann , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

The article compares the victimization that takes place in a dysfunctional abusive household and that which takes place in the household of God (Eph 2:9) where the bride of Christ (2 Cor 11:2) is abused at the hands of individuals that constitute what we know as the church system. This is often directed at the poor, individuals belonging to minority groups or those who for various reasons are unable to stand up against a system such as the Christian Church. The “analogical-familial theology” of Stephen Post is used as starting point. This “theology” involves four sequential, but nonlinear, stages: covenant, grace, empowering, and intimacy. The article broadens the spectrum of the theory beyond the family unit and to apply it to the broader family that belongs to God, the church. The aim of the article is to use these components from the analogical familial theology as framework and also as the criteria by which the experiences of those who see themselves as victims of abuse in the church are investigated.
Kerkreg? Die plek van Kerkreg en Kerkregering
Authors: Van Wyk Barry J.
Published: August 2012

Church polity? The position of church polity and church government

It is generally accepted that John Calvin can be referred to as the founder of the presbyterial-synodal form of church government which is found in the Reformed Churches. It would therefore be appropriate to focus on his views and to indicate to what extent he influenced the notion that Jesus Christ is Head of the Church and Lord of the world. If it can once again be concluded that there is a close relation between Church, Confession and Church Ordinance, then it is quite evident that Church polity occupies a fundamental place in the Reformed Churches which must be treated with greater concern.
Het evangelie van Judas: Inleidende notities over zijn inhoud en betekenis
Authors: Van Oort Johannes
Published: August 2012

The Gospel of Judas: Introductory notes on its contents and meaning

This article introduces the reader to the newly discovered Gospel of Judas (Codex Tchacos, pp 33-58): It discusses its sensational (and evidently sensationalized) discovery, its place in the context of a number of other writings in Codex Tchacos and the main lines of its contents. With reference to the Gospel of Thomas, among others, the author briefly discusses the question “What is a Gospel?”. It seems to be quite possible to discern some so-called agrapha or “new words of Jesus” in the Gospel of Judas. Though the Gospel of Judas is undoubtedly a Gnostic Gospel, presenting some sort of “pre-cabbalistic” message, its mentioning of Jesus as “the Name” and “the Prophet” seems to fit well with very ancient Jewish-Christian traditon.
Die huwelik in die eerste-eeuse Mediterreense wêreld (III): Jesus en die huwelik
Authors: Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

Marriage in the first-century Mediterranean world (III): Jesus and marriage

This article is the third in a three-part series that aims to stimulate the hermeneutical debate in the church regarding marriage as Biblical institution. In the first article attention was given to the relevant cultural scripts that are necessary to understand the institution of marriage in the time of Jesus. In the second article a description of what marriage, betrothal, adultery, divorce and remarriage in the first-century Mediterranean world entailed was given. In this article Jesus’ point of view on marriage is investigated. The conclusion reached is that Jesus’ stance towards marriage was negative. This, however, does not mean that Jesus had nothing to say as far as marriage as institution in a postmodern society is concerned.
Die sosiaal-wetenskaplike kritiese eksegese van Nuwe-Testamentiese tekste: ’n Kritiese oorsig van die eerste resultate
Authors: Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

The social-scientific critical exegesis of New Testament texts: A critical assessment of the first results

The article is the second of a series that aim to introduce social-scientific exegesis of New Testament texts. Social-scientific criticism represents an exegetical approach by means of which the rhetoric of texts is interpreted in light of their cultural environment and the social interaction that determines this context and semeiotic codes. The first article focuses on the initiators in the field of historical-critical exegesis who paved the way to social scientific criticism and it explains key facets of the “new” exegetical approach. This article explains some models and methods of social-scientific criticism and focuses on some advantages of social scientific criticism.
New Testament Textual Criticism is dead! Long live New Testament Textual Criticism!
Authors: Botha J. Eugene
Published: August 2012

This article explores the notion that some of the basic assumptions upon which textual criticism is built, like the quest for an “original text”, have serious flaws and that much of what has been attempted the last 300 years is actually an exercise in futility. In this sense New Testament textual criticism can be declared dead. However, textual criticism, if viewed from a different perspective, can indeed be re-imagined to make a fresh and important contribution to New Testament scholarship.
Die Nagmaal en broodgebrek
Authors: De Klerk B. J.
Published: August 2012

Holy Communion and want of bread

In Africa one out of three people suffers from undernourishment or malnutrition. In this respect the topical question whether Holy Communion and acts of charity to those who suffer from hunger can be linked. Jesus not only endows Holy Communion with a personal dimension of faith, but also foregrounds this aspect in the care for those who suffer from hunger. New Testament material reveals that in the congregation of Jerusalem partaking of Holy Communion developed into mutual diaconal care. It is thus for this reason inter alia that Paul warns against misusing Holy Communion. This kind of misuse was evident because the rich partook of Christ’s meal of love without realising that they could only be part of this act of love by bestowing love themselves. In this article some practical guidelines to link the celebration of Holy Communion and the crisis of want of bread are discussed.
Pre-natale sterfte en ritueel: Die behoefte aan ’n betekenisvolle ritueel in die hantering van ’n miskraam of aborsie
Authors: Nel Johan
Published: August 2012

Pre-natal death: The need for employing a meaningful ritual towards coping with a miscarriage or an abortion

Both religion and ritual amongst others are ways by which people can express feelings in their relationships with others, the world and the Almighty God. Religion and ritual are often used to come to a better understanding and to cope with loss. In the postmodern era, a holistic approach towards therapies has been developed. Pastoral therapy is a part of this process. This article examines the use of rituals as a possible therapeutical method for coming to terms with loss after the occurence of pre-natal death. The article argues that a meaningful ritual can be used to assist people who have experienced miscarriage or abortion.
Tussen secularisering en religiositeit: De dynamiek van protestantse theologiebeoefening
Authors: Immink F. Gerrit
Published: August 2012

Between secularization and religiosity: The dynamics of Protestant theology

In Protestantism the notion of faith is a core category. It expresses a specific and dynamic relationship between God and the human world. In the development of modern Protestant theology, processes of subjectivism and secularization, especially in the West-European context, have shaped the concept of faith. Since Protestant theology is increasingly influenced by globalization, the urgent task is to maintain a dialectical balance between: (1) the appreciation of personal involvement and human subjectivity in the life of faith, (2) the emphasis on the divine priority and initiative in the salvation process. The Protestant identity is at stake.
The growth of partnership in mission in global mission history during the twentieth century
Authors: Duncan Graham A.
Published: August 2012

Partnership in mission came to be a byword for developing missionary relationships during the twentieth century. During this time its meaning and practice changed, often imperceptibly. This is seen in the regular conferences of the International Missionary Conference and its successors which had their origin in the International Missionary Conference held in Edinburgh, 1910. A further problem was making the concept a reality in relationships despite great disparities in resources. This has given rise to the negative critique of the slogan as empty and meaningless.

Partnership – “… the ecumenical movement’s guiding principle of sharing of resources” (Wisniewski 2006:7). “We need one another to be effective instruments of God in multi-lateral mission today” (Nyomi 2006:14).
Karl Barth’s definition of church in politics and culture: Growth points for the church in South Africa
Authors: Bentley Wessel
Published: August 2012

The article describes briefly Karl Barth’s views on church, its role in politics and how it relates to culture. This is done by identifying the way in which the church participates in the social realm through its relationship with the State. The historic religious question asks whether there is a natural mutual-determining relationship between church and State. The church may ask whether faith and politics should mix, while a secular state may question the authority which the church claims to speak from. To a large extent culture determ-ines the bias in this relationship. History has shown that church-State dynamics is not an either/or relationship, whereby either the authority of the church or the authority of the State should function as the ruling norm. Karl Barth describes the dynamics of this relationship very well, within the context of culture, in the way his faith engages with the political status quo. Once the relationship is better understood, Barth’s definition of the church will prove to be more effective in its evangelical voice, speaking to those who guide its citizens through political power.

“Fürchtet Gott, ehret den König!” (1 Pt 2:17)
The historical-hermeneutical prelude to the legacy of Karl Barth
Authors: Pelser G.M.M. , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

The article aims to explain Karl Barth’s hermeneutical legacy against the background of the influence of the Enlightenment in philosophy and theology during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It consists of a discussion of a “hermeneutic chart”, mapped by Schleiermacher, Dilthey, Bultmann, Ebeling, and Ricoeur. This “map” is introduced in the foreword by outlining mileposts and concluded by pointing to the so-called postmodern “hermeneutic critique against hermeneutics”. The cord that keeps the fragments of individuals’ contributions together in the article is the function of the notion “hermeneutic circle” and, especially, how this notion had been adapted since the Enlightenment through Romanticism until Dialectic Theology, conducing to present-day Postmodernity.
HTS, Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies Jaargang / Volume 64
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

HTS, Teologiese Studies / Theological Studies

Jaargang / Volume 64