bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application and adaptation of Symphonology Bioethical Theory (SBT) in pastoral care practice
Authors: Khechane M.M.
Published: August 2012

In an environment which is ethically and from a human

rights point of view overly sensitive and in which interculturism is becoming more and more a norm, pastoral care practitioners need to be committed to providing services that are ethical, intercultural and respecting of patients’ rights. This article demonstrates how application of the Symphonology Bioethical Theory (SBT) as the framework for practice in pastoral care and counselling can help Pastoral Care Practitioners (PCP) to be ethical while upholding patients’ human rights, and it can also help to bridge the intercultural chasm while simultaneously explaining the rationale for the practice. Symphonology is a context-driven, ethical decision- making model guiding holistic interaction between patients and PCPs. The Symphonological decision-making matrix is based on a practitioner-patient agreement for pastoral care that emphasizes patient preferences, pastoral psychological and theological knowledge, the pastoral care content and the context of the situation. The goal of the PCP is to ethically incarnate the divine presence and thus to bring about hope and emancipation to the patient using the bioethical standards of autonomy, freedom, objectivity, self-assertion, benevolence and fidelity.
Isaac multiplex: Genesis 22 in a new historical representation
Authors: Lombaard Christo
Published: August 2012

In this paper, a new interpretation of the Genesis 22:1-19 account is offered. Based on the new view of biblical historiography as anecdotal (Frykenberg), and drawing on the author’s own recent studies on the historical problems related to, and historicallysensitive narratological interpretative possibilities of, this Genesis text, a new meaning and a new dating for Genesis 22:1-19 are concluded to. This text, namely, reflects the end of a struggle for dominance between the different tradents of the patriarchal traditions, in which the Abraham tradents finally subjugate, with this Genesis 22*-text, the Isaac tradents. This occurs late in the compositional history of the Pentateuch, namely between 400 and 250 BCE.
The origin of the resurrection idea: A dialogue with George Nickelsburg
Authors: Schutte P.J.W.
Published: August 2012

This is a review article on George W E Nickelsburg’s book Resurrection, immortality, and eternal life in intertestamental Judaism and early Christianity. The aim of this article is to reflect on the results of Nickelsburg’s research with regard to the earliest Christians’ understanding of Jesus’ resurrection. Nickelsburg investigated the topic of the afterlife in intertestamental Judaism and early Christianity from three perspectives namely, resurrection, immortality, and eternal life. The book focuses on the origins of these perspectives and the dynamics involved in the development of theological understanding of Jesus’ resurrection in earliest Christianity. Part one of the article represents the content of Nickelsburg’s book, and part two consists of comments debating the results that Nickelsburg puts on the table.
The significance of dreams and the star in Matthew’s infancy narrative
Authors: Viljoen Francois
Published: August 2012

The phenomena of dreams and the star of Bethlehem in Matthew’s birth narrative have intrigued scholars through the ages. Scholarship in this regard went through the stages of identifying the origin of the material and of arguing the historicity of these events. Currently scholarship is moving into a new stage of investigating the meaning of these narratives. Without engaging the arguments developed by the first two stages mentioned, I investigate the significance of these unusual forms of revelation in this article.
’n Pastoraatsperspektief op dreigende werksverlies
Authors: Schoeman Roelf , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

A pastoral perspective on the threatening loss of employment

The changing employment situation in South Africa is currently characterized by the various challenges it poses to individuals in the workplace, such as affirmative action, voluntary severance packages and discharges. Discharges are often associated with employment insecurity and the threatening loss of employment. A psychological approach to the threatening loss of employment is on its own inadequate. The aim of this article is to investigate the possibilities of a holistic approach as part of pastoral support to persons experiencing the threat of losing their employment. It aims to argue that pastoral care can benefit from a multi- disciplinary approach to the threatening loss of employment. However, pastoral care needs guidelines to facilitate its relationship with psychology and to assist in dealing with faith in the counselling process. This article makes use of Gerkin’s model for pastoral care in order to provide some guidelines for pastoral care for individuals who are experiencing a protracted threat of loss of employment. Gerkin’s model will be brought into dialogue with a cognitive behavioural therapeutic model.
Die dimensies “eenheid” en “katolisiteit” in die ekklesiologie van die Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk sedert Ottawa 1982
Authors: Van Wyk Tanya , Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

The dimensions “unity” and “catholicity” in the ecclesiology of the Netherdutch Reformed Church since Ottawa 1982

This article examines the current ecclesiology of the Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa (NHKA) with reference to the extent to which the church understands unity and catholicity as biblical indicatives and imperatives. The article argues that the church’s understanding of unity and catholicity is prejudiced and influenced by the prominence the church awards to the tenet of an ethnic “peoples church” (“volkskerk”). This has lead to the NHKA’s ecumenical isolation. It is hence argued that the abolition of the church’s “ethnic church theology” will result in the abolition of its ecumenical isolation and will enable the NHKA to confess anew with the “church of all ages”, the “one, holy, apostolic and catholic Church”.
Die Reformasie en Skrifinterpretasie: Die nuwe wat die Reformasie gebring en ook moontlik gemaak het
Authors: Labuschagne Kobus
Published: August 2012

The Reformation and the interpretation of the Scriptures

The aim of this article is to emphasize new trends in the interpretation of the Scriptures that were brought about by the Reformation and that were consequently made possible for the future. Reformation thinking and modern and contemporary thinking are compared and analyzed in order to establish the consequences of the openness created by the Reformation, in response to Medieval objectified thinking in which the Church always had a final and an arrived definition and statement. What should therefore be avoided is the misconception that Reformation thinking represented an arrived and stagnated way of doing theology.
What is "theology" in "public theology" and what is "public" about "public theology"?
Authors: Van Aarde Andries
Published: August 2012

This article sets out to argue that institutional Christianity does not have the exclusive rights to “doing theology”. Since Plato theology has assumed systematization of ideas on the transcendent divine. The practice of theology is to be found in both the professional academy and in the public square. Spirituality is not to be reserved for people longing for God within the context of today’s mass consumerist populist culture. Spirituality and religion overlap and, therefore, today’s postmodern spirituality need not result in the end of religion. However, institutional religion is indeed dying and ”public theology” is not about theologians or pastors “doing theology” in the public square. Public theologicans are the film directors, artists, novelists, poets, and philosophers. The article argues that “public theology” could facilitate a dialogue between the theological discourse of academics and the public theological discourse. The article shows that “public theology” does to an extent overlap with ecclesial and contextual theology. In its core “public theology” is seen as the inarticulate longing of believers who do not want to belong.
Een teks - meerdere betekenisse: Hoe lees ons die Bybel?
Authors: Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

One text – multiple meanings: How do we read the Bible?

This article discusses three ways of reading the Bible that are evident in the current theological debate in South Africa: a fundamentalist, foundationalist and critical reading. A brief description and evaluation of the three reading strategies are given. It is indicated that a fundamentalist reading of the Bible essentially operates with a canon in the canon, and a foundationalist reading with a canon outside the canon. A critical reading, which roots can be traced back to the Reformation, is put forward as possibly a more responsible way of reading the Biblical text, especially since it takes cognizance of the historical and cultural distance between text and reader. It is argued that readers who take this “differentness” seriously, are enabled to read the Bible afresh and anew, especially in terms of some burning ethical questions of our day. Attention is also given to a critical reading of metaphorical language of the Bible.
Hoordersgesindheid as moontlike kommunikasiesteurnis in die prediking: Homileties-empiriese gesigspunte
Authors: Venter C. J.H. , Du Preez A. P.
Published: August 2012

Hearers’ attitude as possible communication barrier in transferring the message of a sermon: Homileticalempirical points of view

The role of hearers in a worship service, especially as far as their experience and reception of the message of a sermon are concerned, has received ample attention in homiletical research. In research on this topic mainly basis- theoretical, meta-theoretical and practice-theoretical aspects have been taken into account. The focus of this article, however, is a homiletical-empirical investigation of the above-mentioned topic. After conceptualizing aspects central to this article, the responses of twenty two interviewees are treated. These people are from different denominations and had been individually interviewed by utilizing a qualitative/quantitive research method. Data thus obtained were analyzed by way of categorization (establishing the aim of the research) and thematization (establishing subsidiary aims). Issues dealt with under different themes include the following: general experience of a worship service by an interviewee, competence to listen to and understand a sermon, physical noise in the church as a possible communication barrier, the socio-economic situation of the hearer, the nature of preaching in a certain congregation, the emotional situation of the hearer and his or her involvement in church activities. Throughout the analysis of the obtained data, certain deductions and conclusions that may be useful to preachers and hearers have been formulated.
Een godvechter wordt voorvechter
Authors: Van Houwelingen Rob
Published: August 2012

A godfighter becomes a fighter for God

The Pastoral Letters refer twice, in biographical notes, to the religious past of the apostle Paul. In 1 Timothy 1 he is qualified as “a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man” (NIV). These qualifications are the stereotypes of a “godfighter", as they are known in secular and early Jewish literature of antiquity. Nevertheless, Paul did not become a recipient of divine vengeance, but of the grace of the Lord. He thus became a fighter for God: the advocate of Christianity. Against this background, how can 2 Timothy 1 state of the same Paul that he, like his Jewish ancestors, has continued to serve God with a clear conscience? This could be seen as a strange discrepancy. Exegesis of both statements in context makes clear, however, that the Pastoral Letters draw a consistent picture of Paul. He had to redefine his faith, but in doing this he did not engage in the worship of any other God than the God of his forefathers.
Een irenische dialoog met Wim Weren over geweld in Johannes 7:53-8:11
Authors: Verheyden Joseph
Published: August 2012

An irenic dialogue with Wim Weren about violence in John 7:53-8:11

This essay engages in a dialogue with Wim Weren’s contribution in this volume. It first discusses some hermeneutical perspectives on violence in the pericope on the adulteress woman in John 7:53-8:11. It then discusses the use of Deuteronomy in this passage against the background of Jesus’ radical new perspective on violence.
Het gebruik van geweld bij het bestraffen van overspel in Bijbelse teksten (Deuteronomium 22:13-29 en Johannes 7:53-8:11)
Authors: Weren Wim J.C.
Published: August 2012

The use of violence in punishing adultery in Biblical texts (Deuteronomy 22:13-29 and John 7:53-8:11)

In this article, the focus is on the extent to which in biblical texts violence is deemed acceptable in punishing adultery. Jesus’ attitude to this severe punishment is discussed. Jesus concurs with the sanction imposed by Moses but the effect of his requirement that each individual in the group of executioners be without sin, is in fact that the punishment cannot be carried out. The way in which Jesus intervenes is in line of discussions in the Old Testament and in early Judaism that are aimed at imposing restraints of the use of violence in punishing sexual offences. The article concludes with an evaluation of the topical relevance or irrelevance of the two biblical pasages discussed here.
Hermeneutiese perspektiewe op geweld in die Nuwe Testament
Authors: De Villiers Pieter G.R.
Published: August 2012

Hermeneutical perspectives on violence in the New Testament

This article discusses hermeneutical perspectives on violence in the New Testament as they appear in articles in this publication and in New Testament Studies in general. It contrasts the traditional perspective on the New Testament as book of peace with the growing insight in its violent nature. It is followed by a discussion of the multi-faceted nature of both notions of peace and violence and the various forms in which they are expressed. After an analysis of the relationship between violence and its alternatives, the various forms of violence are outlined in terms of their relationship to their experiential realities. This is followed by remarks about an adequate methodology for the study of violence, the way in which violence is countered in the New Testament texts and, finally, three possible explanations for the nature of violence.
Die ontmaskering van die bose: Eksegetiese perspektiewe op geweld in Openbaring 18
Authors: De Villiers Pieter G.R.
Published: August 2012

Exposure of evil: Exegetical perspectives on violence in Revelation 18

This article investigates violence in Revelation 18 from an exegetical perspective because of its prominent role in contemporary debate on violence in the New Testament. It first discusses the complex meaning of violence in the light of the intricate composition of the book as a whole and this chapter in particular. It argues that, in contrast to what is often said in contemporary research about the incoherence of this passage, Revelation 18 is in fact a carefully composed ring composition in which the constitutive elements determine its meaning decisively and in which violence is a seminal motif. It also discusses how the rest of the text confirms the author’s literary skills and the neat composition of Revelation 18 as a text about a violent city. The article then shows how the different elements in the text ironically delineate the downfall of the violent city of Babylon and the reasons for it. It sketches how the consequences of Babylon’s fall are developed from an earthly and divine perspective. In all these different parts the prevalence of violence is spelled out.
'n Proloog tot hierdie bundel: 'n Unieke groep en perspektief op die Bybel en die Nuwe- Testamentiese Wetenskap
Authors: De Villiers Pieter G.R.
Published: August 2012

A prologue to this volume: A unique group and perspective on the Bible and New Testament Studies

This introduction explains the motivation for and background of a unique meeting between Dutch, Flemish and Afrikaans New Testament scholars that took place in January 2008 in Stellenbosch, South Africa. The conference focused on the theme of “Violence and the New Testament”. The introductory essay explains the nature, proceedings and outcomes of the meeting. It points out the historic nature of the meeting and that the members of the conference decided to promote a regular forum where Dutch-speaking scholars from different continents (where forms of Dutch are spoken by 60 million people) can meet.
Lyfstraf en martelaarskap in Augustinus se Confessiones 1.9.14-15
Authors: Kotze Annemare
Published: August 2012

Corporal punishment and martyrdom in Augustine’s Confessiones 1.9.14-15

The article examines a passage from the Confessions in which two instances of violence are introduced. In the course of his autobiographical narration Augustine describes how, as a school boy, he feared corporal punishment and compares it to martyrs’ fear of martyrdom. The first part of the article examines some issues concerning martyrdom and the rivalry that characterized religious life in the 4th century CE and how this may have influenced the world of Augustine and his audience. The second section analyzes the references to corporal punishment in order to illuminate the function of this passage within the context of the autobiographical narration and the overall communicative purpose of the work.
Liggaamstaal as kommunikasie: perspektiewe uit die Hebreeuse Bybel
Authors: Kruger P.A.
Published: August 2012

Body language as communication: perspectives from the Hebrew Bible This contribution treats aspects of the important source of nonverbal communication in the Hebrew Bible. It focuses especially on the following themes: - the problem of terminology, - legal acts, with special emphasis on the idea of dissociation, - the manner in which some emotions (shame, disgust) are displayed nonverbally, - the manifestation of nonverbal communication in narrative literature (especially in the nonverbal category “proxemics” in Ruth 2-3).
Skuldbelydenis in teologiese perspektief
Authors: Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

Confession of guilt in theological perspective For more than four decades (1948-1994) South African society was ravaged by a political dispensation of apartheid. This unjust system of legalised discrimination was widely typified as a sinful ideology and the Biblical justification of it as a heresy. It could be expected that the question would arise whether Christians, churches, politicians, government and other socio-economic institutions which supported and implemented apartheid should openly confess their sins of participation and/or negligence in this regard. The author argues that a confession of guilt in the South African context can be substantiated from a Biblical perspective, from church history and from the Reformed confessions. Confessions of guilt are an essential and indispensable part of Christian doctrine and Christian life.
Vaartversnelling vra verdieping van ons liturgie
Authors: De Klerk B.J.
Published: August 2012

Spurt requests a deepening of our liturgy The science of Liturgy is currently experiencing a considerable expansion of knowledge and contributions from Reformed scholars need to bear a unique imprint. This article argues for an approach aimed at intensifying the liturgy – an intensification implying that God’s mighty presence should be recognized, experienced, acknowledged and confessed in the gathering of the congregation and during each element of the worship service. Two examples, namely the Word service and the service of Humbling and Reconciliation, illustrate what this intensification means. In conclusion, guidelines are provided for addressing contentious liturgical issues, such as transcultural enrichment and the use of symbols and rituals in the liturgy of the congregation and in the liturgy of life.
Tyd in die slot van die boek Amos
Authors: Helberg J.L.
Published: August 2012

Time in the epilogue of the book of Amos This article examines the concept of time, as filled with action, and as used in the epilogue of Amos. The concept of time is scrutinized in the light of the surprising announcement of prosperity and peace over and against the announcement of ruin in the rest of the book. The issue is approached against the background of Amos’ integrative as well as transcending (and eschatological) perspective. Viewed cyclically and mythologically, Israel integrated all things in the cult by trying to manipulate time and even God. In reality time and history were frozen in the Israelite way of thinking. This mode of thinking caused the disintegration of the cult from everyday life and from God who reveals Himself as personal and thus requiring sound personal relations between himself and His people. Amos calls for genuine integration in all respects. The epilogue leads this integration to a climax making use of the idea that Yahweh is the all-powerfull and life-creating God, an idea which runs like a golden thread through the Old Testament.
Gereformeerde spiritualiteit as korporatiewe spiritualiteit
Authors: Oostenbrink J.W. , Lotter G.A.
Published: August 2012

Reformed spirituality as corporate spirituality This article focuses on corporate spirituality from a Reformed perspective and attempts to determine the place of Reformed spirituality in the context of the different traditions and definitions. A short historical overview of different definitions of spirituality is provided and a provisional personal definition is also formulated. In order to differentiate between Reformed spirituality and other manifestations of spirituality, the historical development, theological ratio and different manifestations of spirituality are outlined. From these data a general definition of Reformed spirituality is formulated. The issue of what exactly is meant by corporate spirituality from a Reformed perspective is addressed and the article finally arrives at a conclusion founded on the relevant data.
Calvijn en de biecht
Authors: Speelman H.A.
Published: August 2012

Calvin and the act of confession In 1540 Calvin declared that no member of the congregation would be allowed to take part in the ceremony of Holy Communion unless this ritual had been preceded by the act of confession. With this declaration Calvin, however, aimed to urge and encourage his fellow-believers to scrutinize their religious lifestyle on a disciplined and regular basis. Calvin regarded confession as a pastoral aid and an embodiment of compassion and admonition. Simultaneously it could also serve as a measure of social control. In this article the author consecutively outlines the practice of confession in medieval times and the way in which confession was implemented as a disciplinary device. In conclusion it is stated that, in line with the view point of the Reformation, Calvin allowed the members of the congregation the freedom to confess to fellow members. He, however, also stressed the importance and obligation to allow members of the consistory – and especially the minister – to investigate the condition of one’s religious lifestyle. Self-investigation should be coupled with regular house visitation in order to ascertain the quality of believers’ religious lives.
Wanted – a new approach to the life of Jesus
Authors: Seccombe D.
Published: August 2012

In 2 Corinthians 3-4 Paul is concerned that post-Easter generations be able to behold the “face” of Jesus. This indicates concern that the story of Jesus be heard. The importance of “giving Jesus a face” is considered from the viewpoint of a pastor. However, the synoptic gospels are not much used in churches today, because of loss of confidence in our ability to know much about the life of Jesus. This is understandable, given Life of Jesus research over the past two centuries. The last 25 years, however, have seen tentative attempts at critical Lives, employing a “Cartesian” approach, doubting everything, seeing what can be proven to be dominical, and constructing a Life on this basis. There is value in this for apologetics, but such Lives cannot compete with the gospels in giving us “the face of Jesus”. Nevertheless, Life writing must go on, if only to counter the new wave of Lives, which purport to be historical, but are based on such a selective reading of the gospels, that they are tendentious misrepresentations. A new “canonically-based” approach to the life of Jesus is proposed and described.
Die lied in die erediens: Die rol wat dit gespeel het in die Afskeiding in 1859 in Suid-Afrika
Authors: Louw H.A.
Published: August 2012

The role of hymns in public worship and the influence it had on the Schism in 1859 in South Africa During the Middle Ages congregational singing was replaced by choir singing. Both Luther and Calvin agreed that the members of the congregation should actively participate in the worship service by means of song. Calvin limited congregational songs to the Psalms of the Old Testament. The church in Netherlands followed his example, but added some hymns, excluding the Apostles Creed, that comprises also lyrical parts from Scripture. In 1807 a hymn book was implemented and used in the Netherlands. This was one of the reasons for the Schism which took place in 1834. During 1814 the hymn book was implemented in the Cape resulting in discontent in the border districts. Some discontented people took part in the Great Trek. A congregation mainly consisting of these people was established in Rustenburg in 1859. In this congregation only Psalms were sung during services. Soon Reformed congregations having the same objections regarding hymns came into being in the Free State and the north-eastern Cape Province. For the founder of these congregations, Rev. D. Postma, the singing of free hymns was a mediance matter. For the “Doppers” as the conservative people were called, the singing of Psalms only was a serious matter of principle. Times have changed and the Reformed Churches in South Africa will have to reflect whether it is really a matter of principle to sing Old Testament Psalms only. The suffering, death, resurrection and ascension of Christ should also be celebrated in song. The existing 48 scriptural lyrics do not satisfy these requirements. Free hymns of the other Afrikaans churches will definitely have to be taken into consideration.
Christen-Afrikanerperspektief op die Tweede Vryheidsoorlog
Authors: Spoelstra B.
Published: August 2012

A Christian Afrikaner perspective on the Second Liberation War Many historical sources testify to the strong religious view of life characteristic of Afrikaners in the previous century. During the mentioned period British colonialism (imperialism) was motivated by the belief in the absolute paramouncy of the British state. The British therefore had little if any sympathy with the rights of any set of people when the interests of the Empire were at stake. Even the epithet “Boer” testifies to the fact that Afrikaners were denied their ethnic identity and were typified as lower-class citizens within the colonial population. On the other hand, during the 19th century, Afrikaners viewed themselves as a separate group of people. Furthermore, to a large extent, they equated themselves politically with the Old Testament Israel. Afrikaners accepted their independence as a gift of God Almighty, an independence accomplished and recognised by the British treaties of 1852 (1881) and 1854. Afrikaners regarded the maintaining of this independence as their religious and moral obligation. The outcome of the War, however, secularised Afrikaner politics and during the 20th century the emphasis in the New South Africa shifted from the idea of people (“volk”) to that of racial identity in an artificially unified state.
Verandering van die moreel-etiese situasie in Suid-Afrika in die lig van die kenmotief in 2 Petrus 1:3-4
Authors: Breed D.G. , Jordaan G.J.C.
Published: August 2012

The change in the moral-ethical situation in South Africa, in the light of the motif of knowing in 2 Peter 1:3-4 In this article it is argued that in 2 Peter 1:3-4 a motif of knowing is present as a clearly repeated and meaningful semantic unit. An attempt is made to indicate that a profound knowledge of Jesus Christ was instrumental in giving the apostles accepted religious beliefs. These accepted beliefs enabled the apostles to act in such a manner that their behaviour reflected correct religious beliefs and attitudes. The profound knowledge of Jesus Christ also played an important role in the establishment of a covenantal relationship between God and the first readers of 2 Peter. This knowledge also enabled these readers to withstand the moral corruption in the world. In conclusion the possible significance of the motif of knowing in 2 Peter in changing the present South African moral-ethical situation is highlighted.
Editorial
Authors: Van Wyk A.
Published: August 2012

Hierdie is die laaste nommer van In die Skriflig wat deur ondergetekende hanteer sal word. “Daar is ’n tyd om te kom en daar is ’n tyd om te gaan” – só sou ’n mens op die Prediker wou uitbrei. Tans is dit tyd om te gaan – na veertien jaar.
Gewetebinding, Calvyn en die viering van die Nagmaal
Authors: De Klerk B.J.
Published: August 2012

Binding of the conscience, Calvin and the celebration of Holy Communion The context in which Scripture uses “conscience” determines the underlying relation of binding the conscience, freedom in Christ and essential and moderate matters. The Holy Spirit enables the conscience to discern which matters are essential and the believer receives the freedom (authority) in Christ not to be bound by moderate matters. Instances in which Scripture does not present a direct opinion and where it is doubtful whether a matter would indeed be essential or moderate, the conscience must not be bound, and the believer must be allowed to make a judgement of conscience by virtue of the gift of freedom in Christ, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. For Calvin essential things are the dual unity of the Word and Holy Communion, the presence of Christ in Holy Communion, the sursum corda, and eating and drinking Christ with the Spirit through faith (cf. Confessio Belgica, art. 35). Moderate matters are external procedures, traditions elevated to principles, but even many more important aspects, such as the frequency of partaking of Holy Communion. Although Calvin provides Scriptural evidence for these aspects, he does not bind the conscience of others, as other conclusions could also be made from Scripture. Moderate matters are not of less importance and therefore Calvin leaves it to believers themselves to make their decisions on this matter by virtue of the freedom in Christ before God.
Hoe kultes menseregte sien en vorm – ’n kritiese beoordeling
Authors: Stoker H.G.
Published: August 2012

How cults regard and form human rights – a critical evaluation Since a cult is regarded as a very closed group whose members seemingly voluntarily subject themselves to the authority and rules of the group, and since human rights usually include freedom of religion, the issue of the upholding of human rights within such religious groups has not really been given proper thought. This article argues that this aspect should be rectified, especially in the light of injustices suffered by people within cults. The reasons why cult members allow leaders to deprive them of their rights are also explored and evaluated. The conclusion arrived at is that rightful attention should be given to the disregard of the rights and responsibilities of people caught up in cults.
Towards constructing Paul’s economic vision on poverty: The Jerusalem collection
Authors: Punt J.
Published: August 2012

Set against a broader discussion of Paul’s economical perspectives, the emphasis of this article is on some of his directives concerning poverty. As much as the Pauline letters cannot be seen as a textbook for economic theory and practice, they offer no ready-made answers for addressing poverty, ancient or modern, either. It is in particular when addressing poverty – which he never did in abstract - that Paul’s considerable concern for the socio-economical situation of the communities he addressed becomes apparent. For Paul, evidently, poverty is not disconnected from other matters in the community such as righteousness and fellowship. These matters can easily be observed in Paul’s motivation of the collection for the churches in Jerusalem. Some implications of Paul’s treatment of poverty for theological thinking in this regard, are briefly explored.
Gebed in die Ou en Nuwe Testament: ’n Vergelykende studie
Authors: O’Kennedy D.F.
Published: August 2012

Prayer in the Old and New Testament: A comparative study There are many publications on prayer; though the Biblical basis of prayer is often neglected. This article presents a general overview of the similarities and unique features of prayer in the Old and New Testament. Some of the unique features of New Testament prayer are the Trinitarian character; the prayer of the exalted Jesus; the emphasis on prayer teaching and the attitude of the supplicant. The unique features of Old Testament prayer are inter alia the Psalms as “prayer book” and the greater emphasis on prayer and cult/public worship. One can conclude that there is no significant gap or contradiction in the prayer content of the Old and New Testament. Several similarities between the Old and New Testament’s views on prayer confirm this opinion. In many ways the forms and traditions of Israelite prayer that preceded the career of Jesus and the first Christian community were continued in the New Testament.
Sending vir kerk of koninkryk (1999): Enkele gedagtes oor die siening van Spoelstra
Authors: Van Rooy J.A.
Published: August 2012

Mission for Church or Kingdom: Thoughts on Spoelstra’s view This book about mission work by the Reformed Churches in South Africa was written by a well-known church historian, and one reads it with high expectations. Although valuable information is provided, especially about the period before 1928, much of the information about the period from 1828 to the present is inaccurate. Moreover, the author seems to have a strong bias, which is manifested in his efforts to interpret and even twist facts in his efforts to demonstrate what he regards as pietistic and paternalistic trends. Many important aspects of mission work, especially the work on the frontiers of the encounter between the gospel and the Venda people, are not mentioned. As a whole the book does not fulfil the expectations raised by the title.
’n Christelike teorie van menseregte
Authors: Vorster J.M.
Published: August 2012

A Christian theory of human rights The protection of human rights is a core issue in modern-day ethics. This issue can be regarded as one of the most important challenges to international politics and in the analysis of social phenomena. In this article a Christian theory of human rights is presented. With a terminological distinction between fundamental rights and human rights this Christian theory is built upon biblical themes such as the imago dei, the Ten Commandments, the lex naturalis and the relation between authority and subject. In conclusion, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is evaluated in accordance with this theory.
Die beeld van die kerk na buite – enkele Bybelse perspektiewe
Authors: De Klerk B.J.
Published: August 2012

The external image of the church – a few biblical perspectives What does the Bible teach about the image of the church and does it provide certain guidelines on how the church should promote itself? What does God do with perceptions about His church and what does He expect of the church in this regard? The church has a certain identity as the image/representative of God and has to emanate the image of the Trinity. This identity gives the church the responsibility to administer perceptions about God, the church itself and its environment. To transmit the character, values and convictions of the church, the church should be involved constructively in the world. The church should mainly project the image of the Bridegroom, but in the process should also reflect its own image as being the bride. God administers the perceptions about Himself and His people, but in this regard also gives responsibilities to the church. The church should administer perceptions about God and His people by performing good deeds and by reflecting the idea of hope. The church, as the bride, can only do this if she has a passion for God and her Bridegroom, Christ, but also a burning passion for the church itself.
Let your kingdom come
Authors: Schulze L.F.
Published: August 2012

As an introduction to the general theme “The kingdom of God”, this article presents an overview of the second petition of the Lord’s Prayer. This is done under the following headings: the setting, the aspects, and the guidelines of the petition. The setting shows the very close relation among the first three petitions as pertaining to God’s cause, and the priority which his kingship should have in our prayers. In turning to God in our prayers, we turn away from ourselves. Thus prayer is part of our sanctification. The aspects treated in this article are, firstly, that the second petition is a prayer, implying our helplessness and destitution; secondly, that it concerns God’s kingdom, not ours, thereby undercutting every form of modernism, Social Gospel, political theology, and progressive ethical ‘goodness’ of man; thirdly, it is a petition that the kingdom may come, which happens mysteriously, in God’s time, in our history, and according to Scriptures. In the guidelines it is argued that, in order to live responsibly as Christians, we must know our time, ourselves, and the immutable nature of prophecy.
Messianic expectations in the Old Testament
Authors: Rose W.
Published: August 2012

The New Testament is connected to the Old Testament in a number of different ways. It is not unusual to find the word “messianic” used to categorise all the different ways in which the writers of the New Testament find Christ (and, similarly, Jewish sources of the Second Temple Period later find the future Messiah) in the Old Testament, or to identify the specific passages in the Old Testament which are now seen to point to Christ/the Messiah. In this article I argue that, if one wants to be able to appreciate the diversity, one should abandon this indiscriminate use of the word “messianic”. After a brief discussion of the meaning and use of the Hebrew word xyvm in the Old Testament, I propose a definition of the phrase “messianic expectations” (expectations focusing on a future royal figure sent by God – someone who will bring salvation to God’s people and the world and establish a kingdom characterised by features such as peace and justice). Subsequently, the origin of these expectations is located as in the proclamation of the eighth-century prophets (Amos, Isaiah and Micah). Finally, one special category of messianic expectations, that is, messianic expectations in the Books of the Psalms, is dealt with.
The kingdom, Israel and the church. Paul's thoughts on the relevance of God’s promises to Israel (Romans 9-11)
Authors: Mulder M.C.
Published: August 2012

In Paul’s eschatology the kingdom of God is concentrated in Jesus Christ. In and through Him the kingdom has come and will come. Does this, however, imply that the old covenantal tradition has come to an end? If being in Christ is decisive for belonging to the eschatological kingdom of God, what then is the enduring relevance of the promises of God to his covenantal people, Israel? Romans 9-11 deals with these questions. Many scholars explain Romans 9-11 as an attempt to combine these two conflicting religious concepts, namely, on the one hand, the old covenantal tradition and on the other, the new eschatological soteriology, in which belonging to Christ is decisive. According to this viewpoint, different soteriologies clash in these chapters. Romans 11 represents the old covenantal tradition. Romans 9 cannot be compromised with this as a predestinational soteriology. In Romans 10 faith in Christ is decisive – faith which implies personal responsibility. Is it true that Romans 9-11 clearly demonstrates, as many scholars assert, that in Paul’s conception there cannot be a unanimous answer to these questions about belonging to the kingdom of God? In this article it is attempted to indicate that there is in fact more unity in Romans 9-11 than is frequently assumed. This unity can be demonstrated by especially paying attention to the background of the citations that Paul quotes from the Old Testament.
What does it mean to be Reformed? An answer from a worldview perspective
Authors: Van der Walt B.J.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this article is to determine – from a worldview perspective – the hallmark of being Reformed. As an introduction a few current, unsatisfactory efforts at revealing the genius of the Reformed faith are mentioned. The main section of the article provides, firstly, a typology of five basic, recurring worldviews during the past 2000 years of Christianity. Among them only the Reformational worldview is not plagued by an inherent dualism. Secondly, the differences among these worldviews are illustrated by way of their concrete, practical implications for real-life issues. In the third place, the dualistic Christian worldviews are critically evaluated in the light of the Biblical revelation of inter alia its message about the kingdom of God. In conclusion the distinctive character of being Reformed is described, both negatively (as the rejection of dualistic worldviews), and positively (as the rediscovery of an integral, holistic worldview, inspired by the Biblical idea of the kingdom of God). Such a worldview should always be practised in humility and never lead to triumphalism, because we often do not apply it consistently and especially because our fallible human efforts may not be identified with the coming of God’s kingdom.
The 'reformation' of counselling
Authors: Lotter G.A.
Published: August 2012

Although the Reformation took place some four hundred years ago, one area in which reformation is really needed today is the counselling of people. Since Wilhelm Wundt started the “study of the mind” in 1879, William James and Sigmund Freud followed and secular psychology gradually has developed to take the “front seat”; hence moving Biblical counselling, which has been practised since the times of the New Testament, to the “back burner”. This development had been going on for the greater part of the 20th century, up to the publication of Competent to Counsel by Jay E. Adams in 1970. In the model for counselling suggested by Adams, the principles of the Reformation of the sixteenth century, Soli Deo Gloria, Soli Scriptura, Soli Fidei, Sola Gratia, etc. were again implemented in assisting and counselling people with personal and interpersonal problems. The epistomological and anthropological approach of secular psychology differs radically from that of Biblical principles, thus necessitating a new “reformation” of counselling. Within this new form counselling, inter alia, implies the following: the Word of God has its rightful place, sin has to be taken seriously and the work of the Holy Spirit should be recognised. In this article it is proposed that the “reformation” of counselling was started by scholars with a Biblical Reformational approach and that this method of counselling followed the parameters of the Reformation of the sixteenth century. This “reformation” developed into a new direction in counselling and still continues today with fascinating new frontiers opening up for Biblical counselling.
Geloof, etnisiteit en kontekstualiteit: ’n Ondersoek na hulle relasie en relevansie vir kerk- en Christenwees
Authors: Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

Faith, ethnicity and contextuality. An investigation of their relation and relevance for the church and for being Christian In this article the author investigates the relationship between faith, ethnicity and contextuality. In the line of argumentation the viewpoints of Judaism, Donatism and Apartism are highlighted to illucidate the central issue. In conclusion the writer attempts to expose the role and meaning that ecclesiology fulfils in this regard.
Die verhouding tussen Psigologie en Praktiese Teologie – aspekte van die onderlinge waarde van dié verhouding
Authors: Kruger S.F. , Venter C.J.H.
Published: August 2012

The relation between Psychology and Practical Theology – aspects of the mutual value of this relation This article focuses on issues of the praxis in Practical Theology. As far as the extent of the praxis is concerned, attention is directed to praxis as the psychological disposition of people. The interaction between Scripture and praxis is investigated, incorporating the views of several exponents in this field of study. The conclusion arrived at is that in practical-theological research, the value and function of the praxis, in the sense of the psychological disposition of people, are to be sought on a level between the functions of clarifying and the setting of norms; between reality and truth and between sources on reality and the Source of truth.
Publikasiegereed? Oor die aanbiedingswyse, keuringsprosedure en teksversorging van navorsingsartikels
Authors: Venter M.
Published: August 2012

Ready to publish? On the presentation, refereeing process and text editing of scholarly articles This article is an attempt to present authors planning to write a scholarly article with practical guidelines before submitting the article to a specific journal. The following aspects are also focused on: typical points of criticism usually raised in referees’ reports, and the necessity for clarity of expression and lucid scholarly style. Specific examples of how to enhance the technical and language finish of an article are also included. This article is the outcome of many years of practical work within the Bureau for Scholarly Journals; hence the publication of it in In die Skriflig, one of the journals processed by the Bureau.
Die funksionaliteit van die laat twintigsteeeuse kerklied
Authors: Kruger D.
Published: August 2012

The functionality of the late twentieth-century church song In contemporary hymnbooks used by Protestant churches in South Africa, church songs display a variety in style and kind. This article is an attempt to investigate the general function and meaning of the church song. Regarding the nature of the worship service characteristic of the church of today, the following contradictory observation can be made: the contemporary church experiences an apparent liturgical decline yet at the same time a vigorous reform of the church song is taking place. The general modes of the New Testament church, i.e. kerygma, koinonia and leitourgia (see Acts 2:42) can also be applied to the communicative functions of the church song. These modes are also mentioned in the writings of the Reformers, Calvin and Luther, thus providing a Biblical foundation for the role and function of the church song. Several songs included in the new Liedboek van die kerk are used to demonstrate how the modes of kerygma, koinonia and leitourgia influence and determine the function and use of the church song. The conclusion arrived at in this article is that the variety of musical styles present in contemporary church music can only be understood and implemented meaningfully, if liturgicians and members of congregations are aware of the functionality of church music as revealed in the Scriptures.