bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The final judgment in African perspectives
Authors: Van Wyk Ignatius W.C.
Published: August 2012

African churches show little interest in the notion of the final judgment. Various reasons for the lack of interest in this important aspect of biblical faith are discussed. Special attention is given to the problems of time and history as they manifest in African thinking. The idea of punishment as it is perceived in Africa also receives attention. The article looks at the biblical texts on the final judgment from an African perspective. African philosophy and spirituality facilitate a rediscovery of the joyful dimensions of this notion. One of the main arguments is that Africa should not experience insurmountable problems in embracing this aspect of the gospel. On the contrary: Africa can assist the ecumenical world to discover aspects of this message not yet disclosed. The article concludes with a discussion on the fate of the African ancestors.
The principle of Reformed intertextual interpretation
Authors: Mog Song Young
Published: August 2012

There has been a growing interest in intertextuality as a hermeneutical category in contemporary current biblical studies. The texture of a particular text is thickened and its meaning extended by its interplay with other texts, especially when the reader recognizes that the repetition of similar phrases and subject matter form part of an integral whole. The concept of intertextuality in this article firstly challenges the traditional approach that assumes that there is one meaning in a text that can be deduced when the author's intention is determined. Secondly, it disagrees with the New Criticism in which only the autonomous text plays the dominant interpretive role. The reader is considered to be merely a passive consumer of the text. Thirdly, it differs from the post-structural/deconstructional way which declares “the death of the author”.
Heteronormatiwiteit, homofobie en homoseksualiteit – ’n roetekaart vir ’n inklusiewe kerk
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

Heteronormativity, homophobia and homosexuality – mapping for an inclusive churchThe aim of the article is to indicate that heteronormativity has prevailed from pre-modern times to the modern world. The article argues that heteronormativity, embedded in a patriarchal mind-set, is central to the dynamics of belief patterns which determine, among others, gender roles, heterosexual marriage and sexual ethics which manifest in insider-outsider love-hate relationships. Aversion to sexual minorities (those who are not heterosexual) is a conse-quence. The article explores the following: the interconnection of sexuality, marriage and religion; the connection between homo-phobia and heteronormativity, and how these influence the sexual ethics of the church. In light of the above, the article focuses on the hatred of gays as a consequence of heteronormativity. It explains how an approach to Scripture which uncritically accepts patriarchy, could lead to the justification of homophobia. The article proposes biblical theological perspectives for a postmodern church which is inclusive and loyal to the spirit of the Christian gospel.
Kategeet en spiritualiteit
Authors: Venter C.J.H.
Published: August 2012

Catechist and spiritualityThis article argues that catechetical instruction pertains to more issues than only transferring knowledge. The catechist’s spirituality can also contribute towards effective and convincing cathechetical instruction. The issue of the catechist’s spirituality is scrutinized, as well as the foundation and source of his/her spirituality. For the purpose of this article spirituality is defined as the way in which human beings, as made new in Christ, experience the gospel and apply it to the practice of life, also in teaching the Bible to children in catechetical work. On basis-theoretical level, attention is given to the occurence of the concept “spirituality” in the New Testament and the characteristics required of a catechist in his/her relationship with God. Special attention is given to the issue of modelling, and identification with the catechist. On a meta-theoretical level the focus is directed to the catechist’s personality including emotional intelligence and the way in which it functions within the framework of his/her spirituality. In conclusion certain practice-theoretical perspectives on catechist and spirituality are stated.
Postfoundationalism, deconstruction and the hope that motivates research in Practical TheologyPostfoundationalism, deconstruction and the hope that motivates research in Practical Theology
Authors: Meylahn Johann-Albrecht
Published: August 2012

This article is a critical dialogue between postfoundationalism and deconstruction seeking a way of doing theology, specifically Practical Theology, without universal foundations, in the context of a discussion with Wentzel van Huyssteen. Can postfoundationalism, complemented by the critical contribution of deconstruction, pave a way for doing theology that is open to the global multi-disciplinary dialogue? This would mean a way of doing theology that takes the social constructions of the local seriously, yet can move beyond the local into a global dialogue without recourse to universal foundations. In this article postfoundationalism does indeed pave a way for this global dialogue between the various local constructions while deconstruction critically guides this process so that it is not only a dialogue between the dominant constructions of the powerful, but that space is created for the marginalized voices to be heard in the global dialogue. This move beyond the confines of the local into the global multi-disciplinary dialogue is the hope that motivates research in Practical Theology that has relevance beyond its own context and discipline.
Pastoral Theology in an age of uncertainty
Authors: Graham Elaine
Published: August 2012

In this article the history of pastoral and practical theology is viewed through the lens of postmodern thought. The article argues that an “age of uncertainty” has been engendered by the dissolution of many of the scientific, political and philosophical nostrums of Western modernity. Such a characterization is, however, intended to present postmodernity more as a loss of innocence than the absolute annihilation of value. It is still possible to pursue the prospects for coherent theological reflection and faithful action amidst such a fracturing of certainties. That involves searching for ways of inhabiting consistently and authentically a tradition of binding values that recognize their own contingency but also seek to create some degree of coherence and transparency. The discipline of Practical Theology should be reconceived as the articulation and excavation of sources and norms of Christian practice, the discipline that enables the community of faith to practice what it preaches. This article is a reprinted version of chapter two of the author’s book Transforming practice: Pastoral Theology in an age of uncertainty, 1996, pp 38-55. Permission for republication is granted by Wipf and Stock Publishers, Eugene OR.What is
The resurrection of Jesus: What’s left to say?
Authors: Schutte P.J.W.
Published: August 2012

The resurrection of Jesus is one of the most discussed topics in the current theological debate. It divides the theologians involved into either liberal or orthodox. Those who enter the debate are labeled. The main issue centers around the arguments: historical or metaphorical? This article is a review of the 2004 publication by Stephen Patterson entitled “Beyond the passion: Rethinking the death and life of Jesus.” John Dominic Crossan’s and N T Wright’s point of view, as summarized by Robert B Stewart in his 2006 publication “The resurrection of Jesus”, is also part of the discussion.
Afrikaner spirituality: A complex mixture
Authors: Olivier Erna
Published: August 2012

The article argues that the perception that Afrikaner spirituality is and has always been founded mainly or only upon the Calvinistic tradition is a misconception. Nineteenth century Afrikaner spiritualism consisted of a mixture of theology, philosophy and a way of adapting to extreme living conditions. These factors, although with different contents, are also the determinant issues that made 21st century Afrikaner spirituality such a complex phenomenon. The article postulates that the Afrikaner nation’s current identity crisis can be resolved by closely looking at the different influences on the spirituality of the nation and by carefully guiding the people through the complex set of multiple choices to a fresh relation with Christ in a new found Christian identity to confirm our Christian foundation.
Early Christian movements: Jesus movements and the renewal of Israel
Authors: Horsley Richard A.
Published: August 2012

This article investigates the origins and development of the earliest Jesus movements within the context of persistent conflict between the Judean and Galilean peasantry and their Jerusalem and Roman rulers. It explores the prominence of popular prophetic and messianic movements and shows how the earliest movements that formed in response to Jesus’ mission exhibit similar features and patterns. Jesus is not treated as separate from social roles and political-economic relationships. Viewing Jesus against the background of village communities in which people lived, the Gospels are understood as genuine communication with other people in historical social contexts. The article argues that the net effect of these interrelated factors of theologically determined New Testament interpretation is a combination of assumptions and procedures that would be unacceptable in the regular investigation of history. Another version of the essay was published in Horsley, Richard A (ed), A people’s history of Christianity, Volume 1: Christian origins, 23-46. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress.
Die benutting van vraelyste met die oog op meer effektiewe toerusting tydens huweliksvoorbereiding
Authors: Botha P.J. , Dreyer T.F.J.
Published: August 2012

The utilization of questionnaires with the intent to make marriage preparation more effectiveThis study aims to promote the idea that questionnaires used as part of marriage preparation, could be a valuable tool. The article also attempts to identify some themes that should form part of the discussion between the pastor and a couple to prepare them for their marriage. Furthermore, the aim is to assist pastors, especially those in the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika, utilizing questionnaires during marriage preparation.
Paulus se liggaam-metafoor in 1 Korintiërs 12 in literêr-historiese konteks
Authors: Goede H. , Van Rensburg Fika J.
Published: August 2012

Paul’s body metaphor in 1 Corinthians 12 in literary contextThe purpose of this article is to place and describe Paul’s use of the body metaphor in 1 Corinthians 12 in its literary context. By way of introduction, the importance of a proper understanding of Paul’s use of the body metaphor is indicated. The first part of the article deals with the origin and use of the body metaphor in ancient times, thereby establishing the literary context within which Paul used the metaphor. Greek, Roman and Jewish usage is described. In the second part of the article the focus moves to Paul’s use of the metaphor within its literary context. It is concluded that the body metaphor was well-known to Greek, Roman and Jewish readers, and was thus ideally suited to Paul’s unique communication of the relationship between Christ and his church.
Postmoderne kerk-wees in die lig van publieke teologie – eenheid en verskeidenheid
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

Being postmodern church in light of public theology – unity and diversityFoundationalism criticizes the “relativism” of postmodernity which deconstructs absolute and objective totalitarian truth claims. Although most postmodern scholars deny advocating relativism, they do acknowledge that plurality features significantly in postmodern thinking. Plurality and diversity are important to the theological discourse tool, because the church claims to be catholic and ecumenical. In a postmodern context people who do not necessarily affiliate with the institutional church may nevertheless regard themselves as Christians. The article supports a public theological discourse and aims to provide a framework for reflection on unity and diversity in postmodern faith communities. Public practical theology includes the public as one of its audiences. After a brief overview of the phenomenon of postmodernity, the article explores the role of plurality in ecclesiology. It reflects on the challenge of facilitating a dialogue between members of churches and those who regard themselves as spiritual in the secularized context of a “churchless Christianity”. The purpose of the article is to contribute to the ecumenism and the catholicity of the church.
The Gospel of Matthew, John the elder and the Papias tradition: A response to R H Gundry
Authors: Sim David C.
Published: August 2012

As far as the origin of the Gospel of Matthew is concerned, most modern scholars tend to discount the testimony of Papias. The major exception in this regard is R H Gundry, who argues that the tradition transmitted by Papias was delivered to him by John the disciple of Jesus. For Gundry the apostolic source of this tradition thereby guarantees its reliability, in which case we can be confident that Matthew, the disciple of Jesus, was the author of the Gospel that bears his name. Gundry’s arguments are, however, not altogether convincing. It will be shown that not only is his reading of the Papian tradition questionable, but also that he overstates the reliability of Papias’ source.
Die huwelik in die eerste-eeuse Mediterreense wêreld (II): Huwelik, egbreuk, egskeiding en hertrou
Authors: Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

Marriage in the first-century Mediterranean world (II): Marriage, adultery, divorce and remarriage

This article is the second in a three-part series that aims to stimulate the hermeneutical debate in the church about marriage as Biblical institution. The first-century Mediterranean world had a very specific understanding of what marriage, betrothal, adultery, divorce and remarriage entailed. A description thereof is given. The question whether this understanding of these concepts can still be applicable in our understanding of marriage as a postmodern institution, is posed. Although the question is answered in the negative, it does not, however, mean that the Bible does not have anything to offer as far as marriage in a postmodern society is concerned.
Intertextuality in the Book of Jubilees
Authors: Venter Pieter M.
Published: August 2012

The second century BCE Book of Jubilees presents the contents of Genesis-Exodus in a new form. This article studies the techniques used in Jubilees 23. It indicates how Psalm 90:10 was used to link the death of Abraham to a declining-inclining scheme of longevity. This scheme was then combined with a heptadic jubilee scheme. To this the author added a Deuteronomistic retributive scheme of sin-punishment-repentance-salvation. On this combination an apocal-yptic framework was finally superimposed.
Die Q1 gemeenskap as een van die grondtipes van die kerk in die Nuwe Testament
Authors: Malan Gert J.
Published: August 2012

The community of Q1 as prototype of the church in the New Testament

The New Testament bears witness to a wide variety of communities, representing a spectrum of ideas and teachings about Jesus and the meaning of his life. In this article these communities are regarded as prototypes of churches which have a certain bearing on churches and their teachings today. The article aims to investigate communities behind Q as prototypes. It focuses on the community responsible for the first layer of Q material, with the intention of asking whether they might have constituted such a prototype of the church. To achieve this, the “kingdom of God” is studied as their symbolic universe. The result is that, while the Q1 community cannot be called “Christian” or “church” in the strict sense of the word, it challenges the church by representing the kingdom of God in a world of uncertainty, danger, and misuse of power.
Die plek van Empedokles in die metafisies-mistieke tradisie
Authors: Krüger J. S.
Published: August 2012

The place of Empedocles in metaphysical-mystical tradition

This article argues that Empedocles was more than a pre-Socratic philosopher. His thinking was also essentially mystical and should be situated on a large map of metaphysical-mystical continuities with the following dimensions: A historically discernable cultural and religious pool, encompassing not only South-Eastern Europe, Asia Minor and Mediterranean Africa, but also the north-eastern Eurasian shamanic tradition, and India; an historically largely inaccesible esoteric tradition; a set of structural elements of the human psyche, running under and across historical religions through time; and the development of a new convergence of previously historically unconnected mystical traditions in the social and cultural circumstances of today. In particular, the article investigates similarities and differences between Empedocles and Indian (specifically Buddhist) views on various issues, such as the four roots and the cyclical dialectic of love and strife. In that context the article notes the remarkable interpretation of Empedocles by Peter Kingsley which seems to draw Empedocles closer to Buddhism, but without explicating this implication of his reception.
The identity of the recipients of the Fourth Gospel in the light of the purpose of the Gospel
Authors: Hwang Won-Ha , Van der Watt J. G.
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this article is to explore the identity of the recipients at the time of the completion of the Gospel. An effort is made to determine to whom John wrote this Gospel and how he adapted his theological message to reach this aim. It will be argued that John did not only focus on a specific group of people, but had a wide variety of people (i.e., Jews, Hellenists, Samaritans) in mind, which leads to the conclusion that the Fourth Gospel was written with both evangelistic and didactic aims.
Marriage in the theology of Martin Luther – worldly yet sacred: An option between secularism and clericalism
Authors: Buitendag Johan
Published: August 2012

Marriage, according to Martin Luther, is an institution both secular and sacred. It is secular because it is an order of this earthly life. But its institution goes back to the beginning of the human race and that makes marriage sacred, a divine and holy order. It does not – like the sacraments – nourish and strengthen faith or prepare people for the life to come; but it is a secular order in which people can prove faith and love, even though they are apt to fail without the help of the Word and the sacrament. The author applies this view of Luther in terms of two unacceptable extremes: the creation ordinances of Brunner and the analogy of relation of Barth. The dialectic of Law and Gospel should never be dispensed.

Marriage is necessary as a remedy for lust, and through marriage God permits sexual intercourse. Similar is the allegory which Paul employs: that Adam and Eve, or marriage itself, is a type of Christ and the church.
Die huwelik as identiteitsmerker in die Ou Testament
Authors: Venter Pieter M.
Published: August 2012

Marriage as identity marker in the Old Testament

The formularies used for consecrating marriages in the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church reflect this church’s view on matrimony. As the biblical bases of the formularies are deficient, new ways of exploring biblical information on this subject should be followed. This article proposes that data on marriage in the Bible always be used in conjunction with other concepts to form theological constructs to outline who God is and who his people are. It is always intended to be an identity marker to the members of the church. In the three Genesis cycles of Genesis 11:10-25:11; 25:12-35:29 and 36:1-50:26 heirship, marriage and land are used in an integrated construct to indicate the identity of the post-exilic community in Yehud. In the penitential prayers of Ezra 9:6-15 and Nehemia 9:5b-37 the concepts law, land and marriage are jointly used to depict the identity of the “real” Israel. The conclusion drawn from this investigation is that the Bible does not present models for marriage, but rather theological constructs to understand the relationship with the Lord in metaphorical terms and to reflect on the meaning of everyday life of that relationship including matrimony under ever changing social circumstances.
The tenants in the vineyard (GThom 65/Mark 12:1-12): A realistic and social-scientific reading
Authors: Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

Kloppenborg’s reading of the parable of the tenants (Mk 12:1-12/GThom 65) can be regarded as the first thoroughgoing realistic interpretation of the Tenants. By using extensive literary evidence on viticulture from 300 BCE to 300 CE, Kloppenborg argues that GThom 65 most probably comes closest to the original form of the parable, calling into question important values of first-century Mediterranean culture. Following a summary of Kloppenborg’s reading of the parable of the tenants, the second part of the article focuses on a social-scientific reading of GThom 65 through the lens of patronage and clientism and that of honor and shame. Finally, the conclusions reached by the social-scientific reading are compared with Kloppenborg’s realistic reading thereof.
The formation of postcolonial theory
Authors: Rukundwa Lazare S. , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this article is to outline certain options and struggles, which gave rise to postcolonial theory. The author deals with various experiences of anti-slavery and anti-colonial movements in Western and tricontinental countries, comprising the development of postcolonial theory. It is argued that postcolonial theory provides a means of defiance by which any exploitative and discriminative practices, regardless of time and space, can be challenged. The article consists of a section in which terminology is clarified, secondly a discussion of the elements that functioned as justification of the formation of postcolonial theory, namely a humanitarian, economic, political, and religious justification. The role of feminism and anti-colonialism is discussed in the third instance, followed by a reflection on the concept “hybrid identities”.
Defining poverty as distinctively human
Authors: Lötter H.P.P.
Published: August 2012

While it is relatively easy for most people to identify human beings suffering from poverty, it is rather more difficult to come to a proper understanding of poverty. In this article the author wants to deepen our understanding of poverty by interpreting the conventional definitions of poverty in a new light. The article starts with a defence of a claim that poverty is a concept uniquely applicable to humans. It then present a critical discussion of the distinction between absolute and relative poverty and it is then argued that a revision of this distinction can provide general standards applicable to humans everywhere.
Historical understanding and rethinking the foundations
Authors: Le Roux Jurie
Published: August 2012

This article contributes to the fundamental rethinking of New Testament scholarship being undertaken by New Testament scholars attached to the University of South Africa (UNISA), Pretoria, South Africa. The thrust of the article holds that the historical Jesus research is of the utmost importance and it puts the emphasis on the individuality of an event and the contribution of nineteenth century reflection on history. As point of departure and further elaboration it accentuates the notion that history writing must be a form of homecoming.
Die gebruik van ’n handpop as mede-terapeut en ’n vyfjarige kankerpasiënt: ’n Narratief-terapeutiese benadering
Authors: Du Plessis Yolandi , Müller Julian
Published: August 2012

The use of a hand puppet in narrative therapeutic conversations

This article reflects on the use of a hand puppet (Billy Bear) in narrative therapeutic conversations with a five year old girl (pseudonym Lisa) who has been diagnosed with leukaemia (blood cancer). The first part of this article discusses the concept “garden” as a guiding metaphor in this study. It is followed by a section on the narrative therapeutic framework of this project. The next section deals with the young cancer patient’s “life garden”, including the physical, social and emotional development of Lisa as a preschooler in a therapeutic context, as well as leukaemia, which is depicted as a “change in season”. The last main section focuses on the hand puppet that speaks the young cancer patient’s language. The article concludes with a section on the question whether Lisa still has a dream in view of the uncertainty of her condition as a cancer patient.
A clash of symbolic universes: Judeanism vs Hellenism
Authors: Cromhout Markus
Published: August 2012

This article investigates how Judeans responded to Hellenism in order to maintain the integrity of their ethnic identity. Judeanism and Hellenism are regarded as alternative “symbolic universes”. It is shown that Judeans used various approaches to maintain their symbolic universe. This included Berger and Luckmann’s notions of theology, nihilation and therapy, but also accommodation, adapt-ation, appropriation of Hellenistic elements, collective opposition (or ethnicism) and a reinforcement of primordial sentiments.
Demistifikasie van die metafoor “die kerk as bruid”
Authors: Botha Annelie , Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

Demystification of the methaphor “the church as bride”

Because of the important role language, imagery and metaphors plays in the lives of human beings, it is necessary to explore the origins and implications of metaphors that could be potentially harmful to the quality of women’s lives. The metaphor that is the focus of this article, is that of “the church as bride”. This metaphor is an example of how metaphors and language have an impact on women’s self-understanding and subject quality of their lives. It is an example of how patriarchal structures, culture and language affect the lives of women. In a follow-up article the way in which this metaphor is used in the marriage formulary of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church of Africa is investigated. This formulary is specifically based on Ephesians 5:21-33 in which the metaphor of “the church as bride” is found.
Etiek en teologie – ŉ aktuele bespreking van Marinus Schoeman se “Generositeit en lewenskuns”: Grondtrekke van ŉ post-Nietzscheaanse etiek
Authors: Boshoff P. B.
Published: August 2012

Ethics and Theology – a discussion of the relevance of Marinus Schoeman’s book: “Generosity and the art of living”: The basics of a post-Nietzschean ethics

This article grew from a review on Schoeman’s book to a review article in which an actual presentation is given of some of the most important issues in comparison to a Christian viewpoint. The following topics are discussed: Resentment; Revaluation of all values; Purpose driven universe; Critique of moral values; The aristocrat; Hannah Arendt’s view on the public-political realm and private sphere; Plurality and conformity.
Karl Barth’s epistemology: A critical appraisal
Authors: Veldsman Daniël P.
Published: August 2012

Can the great 20th century systematic theologian Karl Barth justify the fundamental beliefs he holds regarding the priority of God’s revelation in Jesus Christ as put forward in his impressive and comprehensive Kirchliche Dogmatik? Is it enough and thus theologically justifiable to simply state in the words of Barth that the best theology would need no advocates: it would prove itself? In my appraisal of Barth’s epistemological stance, I would like to argue in this article that his stance in the first place, does not only lead to a total isolation of theological reflection, but secondly through his highly exclusive claim, takes on the character of a personal religious credo expanded into a comprehensive doctrine beyond any form of control, and ultimately thirdly, becomes methodologically in essence a specifically Barthian theology from below.

Wenn die Theologie sich eine Wissenschaft nennen lässt oder selber nennt, so kann sie damit keinerlei Verpflictung übernehmen, sich an den für andere Wissenschaften gültigen Massstäbem messen zu lassen.

(Karl Barth 1947:8)
“Was sollen wir tun?” Theological reflections on aspects of the ethics of Karl Barth
Authors: Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

The author investigates some aspects of the ethics of the wellknown Swiss theologian Karl Barth. The article focuses on to the coherence between dogmatics and ethics, aspects of theocentricity and christocentricty, followed by an exploration of Barth’s views on (homo-)sexuality and politics. Before concluding, a final question is discussed: did Barth practice what he preached? – that is the question regarding integrity. Although the author may not agree with some facets of Barth’s theology, he has and shows appreciation for many of Barth’s views on ethics.
Doing classical theology in context
Authors: Neven Gerrit
Published: August 2012

This article is about doing classical theology in context. The weight of my argument is that classical text of Karl Barth’s theology is great intellectual text means: being addressed by this text in the context in which one lives. The basic keywords that constitute a rule for reading those texts are “equality”, “event” and “re-contextualisation”. The article contains two sections: The first section elaborates statements about the challenge of the event and the project of rereading classics by way of recontextualisation. The word “event” refers to true and innovating moments in history which one can share, or which one can betray. Classical texts always share in those liberative moments. The question then is in what sense do they present a challenge to the contemporary reader. The second section elaborates the position of man as central and all decisive for doing theology in context now. In this section, the author appeals for a renewal of the classical anthropology as an anthropology of hope. This anthropology contradicts postmodern concepts of otherness.
On reading Karl Barth in South Africa today: Karl Barth as public theologian?
Authors: Laubscher Martin
Published: August 2012

This article investigates the specific nature by which Karl Barth could be considered as a public theologian in post-apartheid South Africa. The aim is to enrich the debate in the current field of public theology in post-apartheid South Africa, and to demonstrate especially how it is understood and practice at the Beyers Naudé Centre for Public Theology at Stellenbosch theological faculty.
Karl Barth as a homilist
Authors: Dreyer T.F.J.
Published: August 2012

Any tribute to Karl Barth as the most important theologian of the 20th century must show an awareness of the many facets of his work. He will long be remembered for his monumental contribution to church dogmatics. The inspiration for his dogmatics was his dilemma in preaching the Word of God. Preaching and proclaiming the Word of God were his main interests. This article attempts to analyse his homiletic stance, not only as an academic theory, but in relation to his own sermons. Finally, the importance of Barth’s theology for preaching in a postmodern society is outlined.
Karl Barth’s male-female order as asymmetrical theoethics
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

This article is to argues that Karl Barth’s revelation-based theology represents male bias entrapped within patriarchal Christian tradition. The rigid way of using the revelation-based model in exegesis and theology goes against the grain of Barth’s otherwise flexible epistemology. It is particularly evident in the connection between Barth’s theoetics and his view on the subordination of women. In two articles written from a gender critical perspective the focus of the first article is on Barth’s asymmetrical theoethics and that of the second on the disparity in his dogmatics. The aim of the first article is to trace the influence of the Christian tradition (including early Christianity) on his theology. The aim of the second article is to explain Barth’s dogmatic disparity as the product of his neoorthodox understanding of Reformed tradition.
Karl Barth’s male-female order: A kingpin of dogmatic disparity
Authors: Dreyer Yolanda
Published: August 2012

Karl Barth’s gender perspective is often analysed with reference to his so-called “theoethics” or “creational theology”. This perspective perpetuates an asymmetry in gender relations that was prevalent in Biblical times, throughout Christianity and to some extent still is visible today. He based his view on the subordination of women on an exegesis of Genesis 1:27 as “intertext” of Ephesians 5:22-23. Barth’s asymmetrical gender perspective is a product of his embedment in Western Christian tradition which in turn, is rooted in early Christian patriarchal theology. The aim of this article is to focus on Barth’s ontological reframing of the traditional understanding of the Biblical notion of human beings as created in the “image of God”. The article consists of four sections: (a) Luther’s and Calvin’s gender perspectives; (b) the Enlightenment failure to achieve emancipation; (c) gender disparity in Reformed theology; and (d) a feminist alternative.
Historical consciousness and existential awareness in Karl Barth’s hermeneutics
Authors: Pelser G.M.M. , Van Aarde Andries G.
Published: August 2012

Karl Barth’s hermeneutic legacy prolonged Western Christian tradition, especially influenced by Hegelian philosophy of history. This led to Barth’s “theological exegesis” instead of a historic-critical exegesis. In a preceding article Barth’s understanding of the notion “hermeneutic circle” is discussed against the background of the Enlightenment and its counter-movement in Romanticism. In this article Barth’s attitude to the place and role of historical criticism is explained in light of his dialectic distinction between “scientific” and “practical” interpretation. The article aims to show that Barth, with his dialectics, continues Schleiermacher’s realism. In conclusion, the positivistic traits in the Barth legacy are raised once again, in order to open the door to Jürgen Habermas and other deconstructionist thinkers of the postmodern era in hermeneutics.
Early Presbyterian influences at the University of Pretoria
Authors: Duncan Graham
Published: August 2012

Presbyterianism, through two significant personalities, provided an important impetus to the formation and development of the early University of Pretoria. Their contribution has to be understood in terms of the contexts of their Scottish Presbyterian heritage, South Africa in the early years of the twentieth century and the state of higher education prevalent at that time. Together these contexts may be described as political, religious and educational. Prof AC Paterson made significant contributions both in teaching and administration at the institutional level. Prof E Macmillan made his contribution in the field of teaching, but never divorced from the very context where ministry has to be exercised.
Preface to the jubilee number dedicated to Prof Dr C R de Beer, Vice-Rector, University of Pretoria, on the occasion of Universary of Pretoria’s centenary
Authors: Buitendag J.
Published: August 2012

It is a great honour for the Editorial Board of HTS Theological Studies to dedicate this celebratory edition of the journal to Professor C R de Beer, the Vice-Rector, who is, inter alia, responsible for the Faculty of Theology, in this jubilee year of the University of Pretoria.

Opsomming

Dit is vir die Redaksie van die HTS Teologiese Studies ’n besondere voorreg om in hierdie jubileumjaar van die Universiteit van Pretoria, ’n feesuitgawe aan Prof dr C R de Beer, viserektor en onder andere verantwoordelik vir die Fakulteit van Teologie, op te dra.
Die Problematik des Begriffes hebraica veritas
Authors: Loader James Alfred
Published: August 2012

The formal problematic of the concept hebraica veritas

Proceeding from the importance of the concept of hebraica veritas in terms of both its original intention and of the opposing positions on Holy Scripture entertained by the Roman Catholic tradition and the emerging Protestant views during the Reformation, a brief discussion of the meaning and early context of the concept is given. The formal problematic of the hebraica veritas as found in the Tanak is addressed vis-à-vis its latinised version in the Greek text tradition. Jerome’s use of the concept is analysed on the basis of his textual justification for it. Pneumatological and salvation-historical dimensions are identified, and the function of the concept as self-identification over against Judaism is discussed, as well as its implications for delimiting the canon. It is concluded that the concept needs to be foregrounded anew in light of its significant impact in the context of accounting for the concepts of Holy Scripture, canon and therefore canon-based endeavours to construe a “biblical theology” of the “whole Bible”.
History and theory of Scripture translations
Authors: Loba-Mkole Jean-Claude
Published: August 2012

This article argues for the importance of Bible translations through its historical achievements and theoretical frames of reference. The missionary expansion of Christianity owes its very being to translations. The early Christian communities knew the Bible through the LXX translations while churches today still continue to use various translations. Translations shape Scripture interpretations, especially when a given interpretation depends on a particular translation. A particular interpretation can also influence a given translation. The article shows how translation theories have been developed to clarify and how the transaction source-target is culturally handled. The articles discuss some of these “theoretical frames”, namely the functional equivalence, relevance, literary functional equivalence and intercultural mediation. By means of a historical overview and a reflection on Bible translation theories the article aims to focus on the role of Africa in translation history.
Christian Theology at the University: On the threshold or in the margin?
Authors: Mouton Elna
Published: August 2012

The essay discusses challenges regarding the position and role of Christian Theology in twenty-first century university contexts. Questions asked include the following: How will a theology that is oriented to (Reformed) Christian Theology develop itself at universities worldwide, within contexts of secularisation and globalisation? What important strategic choices will it have to make? It is argued that answers to such questions inter alia relate to how Christian Theology responds to three crucial choices: (1) Being truthful to its biblical orientation and calling; (2) Accounting critically for its position on the threshold of interdisciplinary and interreligious dialogue; and (3) Being connected to the life stories of people.
Women, honor, and context in Mediterranean antiquity
Authors: Osiek Carolyn
Published: August 2012

Much has been written about how the social structures of honor and shame affected women in Mediterranean antiquity. Sometimes "honor and shame" are taken out of context and used as absolute opposites, an oversimplification. Rather, honor and shame function as coordinates within a complex matrix of other societal factors. Chief among them are kinship, social hierarchy, economic control and effective social networking. Some contemporary studies from southern Europe help illuminate this pattern. The complexity and variation present in the social dynamics of these contemporary cultures indicate that the same kind of complexity and variation must have been present in ancient cultures too.
Matthew, Paul and the origin and nature of the gentile mission: The great commission in Matthew 28:16-20 as an anti-Pauline tradition
Authors: Sim David C.
Published: August 2012

The Great Commission at the conclusion of Matthew’s Gospel is one of its key texts. In this tradition the risen Christ overturns the previous restriction of the mission to Israel alone and demands that the disciples evangelise all the nations. The gospel they were to proclaim included observance of the Torah by Jew and Gentile like. Matthew’s account of the origin and nature of the Gentile mission differs from Paul’s view as it is found in the epistle to the Galatians. Paul maintains that he had been commissioned by the resurrected Lord to evangelise the Gentiles and that the gospel he was to preach did not involve obedience to the Torah. The later and alternative version of Matthew can be understood as an attempt by the evangelist to undermine these claims by Paul. Such an interpretation is consistent with Matthew’s anti-Pauline polemic that emerges elsewhere in the Gospel.
“Op die aarde net soos in die hemel”: Matteus se eskatologie as die koninkryk van die hemel wat reeds begin kom het
Authors: Van Aarde Andries
Published: August 2012

“On earth as it is in heaven”: Matthew’s eschatology as the kingdom of heaven that has come

In the article time as both “imagined” and “experienced” is explained against the background of the first-century Mediterranean conceptualisation of time. This reading scenario is seen as over against a modern Eurocentric ethnocentric interpretation of the concept "apocalyptic- eschatology”. The aim of the article is to argue that Matthew’s narration of the demolition of the temple in Jerusalem concurs with his belief that the first followers of Jesus experienced the vision of the coming of the Son of man and that both these experiences are presented in Matthew as though Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection are incidents of the past. Matthew’s eschatology centres on the view that the final consummation of time has already begun. The article explores the ethical appeal which is communicated through such an eschatological reading scenario. This appeal is summarised by Jesus’ words “On earth as it is in heaven”. The article consists of a conversation about core issues in mainstream interpretations of what Matthew’s eschatology could be within the narrative’s plot as it contextualised in formative Christianity and formative Judaism. The view assumed in this article is that the “time” and the experiences of Matthew’s church and those of Jesus and his disciples are considered to be integrated within the history of Israel.
Eskatologie en koninkryk in die Markusevangelie
Authors: Van Eck Ernest
Published: August 2012

Eschatology and kingdom in Mark

This article investigates the concepts of eschatology and kingdom in Mark from a narratological point of view. Special attention is given to the narrator’s use of story time and plotted time, the narrative function of Mark 13, and the Son of man sayings in the Gospel. The two most important conclusions reached are that Mark uses the Son of man sayings in a non titular way, and that the coming of the son of man (parousia) refers to Jesus’ vindication by God at his resurrection. In Mark the kingdom is equated with Jesus’ new household, a household that replaces the temple. The concepts of kingdom (new household), eschatology and son of man are thus so closely linked in Mark’s narrative that eschatology is the kingdom and the kingdom is eschatology. A possible sociohistorical setting for Mark’s community, in which the above understanding of the concepts of kingdom, eschatology and Son of man sayings would have made sense, is also postulated.
Afwesigheid van God en teenwoordigheid van “god(e)” in Hooglied
Authors: Viviers H.
Published: August 2012

The absence of and the presence of “god(s)” in the Song of Songs

The absence of the Israelite God in the Song of Songs is conspicuous. The poet of the Song is far too sophisticated to attribute this to a slip of the mind. Among many reasons offered for the absence of Israel’s societal stereotype of God, might the Song’s alternative views on gender relations, within a love setting, perhaps be a reason for prohibiting the “ultimate Patriarch” to interfere? Interestingly the Song contains quite a number of other notions of counter- intuitivity (= gods) confirming humans’ propensity, since early evolution, to create gods to fulfil certain needs. Although it is an ancient love-song the Song has much to offer on gender and god constructs and the implications thereof for the civilization of society today.
Christian ethical perspectives on marriage and family life in modern Western culture
Authors: Vorster J.M.
Published: August 2012

The past four decades witnessed a tremendous and wide-ranging change in family patterns in Western societies. Amongst these changes are phenomena such as growing number of divorces, births out-of-wedlock, and the absence of fathers because of globalisation, same-sex marriages and cohabitation of people without a marriage contract. Western societies are typified as “highdivorce societies”. Furthermore, in the United States the number of couples cohabiting has increased eightfold since 1970 and it is fair to conclude that the situation is similar in other Western societies. The purpose of the article is to deal with these patterns from a Reformed perspective. The central theoretical argument is that these developments can be perceived as a crisis in view of the Biblical perspectives on marriage and family life. However, the Biblical perspectives not only offer a clear indication of healthy marriage and family life entail, but also indicate that a Christian attitude in marriage and family life can serve as a remedy for the damage caused by the new trends.
Om die horison te verken: Op soek na ’n eietydse homiletiese hermeneutiek
Authors: Vos C.J.A.
Published: August 2012

The exploration of the horizons: Searching for a contemporary homiletic hermeneutics

The exploration of the horizons: Searching for a contemporary homiletic hermeneutics In this article, the author takes up the Ricoeurian idea of a dual hermeneutic. The article emphasizes the need for critical homiletics, not only to make the invaluable and necessary recourse to a “hermeneutics of suspicion” but also moves beyond it to a “hermeneutics of recollection” that is sympathetic to religion. The concept of a second naiveté is also considered in relation to the dialectic between the two hermeneutical extremes.
A place to share: Some thoughts about the meaning of territory and boundaries in our thinking about God and humanity
Authors: Bons-Storm Riet
Published: August 2012

This article proffers some thoughts in reply to the following question: how can we think about God in a theology that takes into account the concept of place in such a way that we are able to live together in a salvific way with others, sharing a place as equals? Concepts such as “territory” and “territoriality” are helpful, because they can be linked with “identity” and the need to feel safe. Boundaries and boundary markers such as walls play an important role in conflicts. The possibility of a “liminal space” at a boundary where eye-to-eye relationships may be possible helps to make “the other”, the stranger, a human being with her/his own needs and vulnerability. Using the Israeli/Palestinian conflict as an example, images of God and their impact on the possibility of sharing the land are explored. Hagar, herself a stranger, experiences God's lifesaving attention and names God “God of seeing”.
Space, time and group identity in Jubilees 8-9
Authors: Venter Pieter M.
Published: August 2012

Jubilees 8-9 is a rewriting of Genesis 10. It changed a depiction of Israel’s identity in genealogical terms into one using spatial terms. This ideological construct was based on a Noah tradition and on Biblical texts describing the ideal borders of the land allotted to Israel. Using a triad of space, time and identity the author of Jubilees advanced his conviction of who the true Israel was. He emphasized the holiness of their land and demarcated the borders of the territory that God allotted them.