bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Die Wirkungsgeschichte van Matteus 28:16–20 in die volkskerklike apostolaat
Authors: Van Aarde A. G.
Published: January 2014

The Wirkungsgeschichte of Matthew 28:16–20 in volkschristianisierende missiology This article enters into the matter of the paradox particularism - universalism as a Matthaean issue in a theology of mission which aims at the christianiazation of the own people internally, but is also directed externally towards the nations. The emphasis is laid on the history of interpretation of Matthew 28:16–20 in the missiology of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church, one of the three Afrikaans Churches in South Africa, and the missiology of the German pioneer, Gustav Warneck. Modern viewpoints of Matthaean scholars have also been considered. Matthew 28:16–20 does not have a gentile mission as such in mind and a volkskirchliche missiology can conditionally be validated. However, a national exclusive membership of a peoples' church is not the offset of these two suppositions.
Het ons kerkwees in strukture gestol?
Authors: Spoelstra B.
Published: January 2014

Does the church freeze in structures? Indications worldwide reveal that no clear and distinct concept of the church prevails today. It is maintained that a dynamic concept of the church and ministerial view on ecclesiastical institutions gave way during the Enlightenment to the concept of the church as a fixed formal institution or a legally defined structure. Even the Reformation wanted to reform papacy and not to establish church structures in opposition to Rome. The structural and denominational view of the church triggered off recurrent church schisms and on the other hand gave birth to an overwhelming urge to unify and form worldwide ecumenical structures, whereby local diversities are even called sin. The question is raised: By retaining the dynamic concept of the church as humans, people of God, wouldn't a new perspective be opened on the problem of diversities?
'n Verkenning van die moontlikhede van 'n resepsieteoretiese benadering tot die lees van Romeine 7:7–25
Authors: Botha J.
Published: January 2014

An exploration of the possibilities of a reception theoretical approach to the reading of Romans 7:7–25 The multiplicity of interpretations of Romans 7:7–25 is well-known in Biblical scholarship. In this article the possibilities of a reception theoretical approach to the different readings of this text is explored. A brief theoretical discussion of this approach is given, focusing on the work of the German literary theorists, Hans Robert Jauss and Wolfgang Iser. When applied to the history of reception of Romans 7:7–25 it seems that Jauss's idea of the reader's 'horizon of expectations' and its influence on the interpretation of a text, is confirmed. It is pointed out how extra-textual influences throughout the history had changed the interpretation of this text, starting right back in the fourth century with the controversy between Augustine and Pelagius, leading up to the differences between exegetes and sistematic theologians in our day. Some preliminary remarks on 'the reader' in Romans 7:7–25 as well as the gaps and textual strategies of this text are also made. The conclusion reached is that, although not necessarily revolutionary new, a reading of this text from the perspective of the role of the reader, definitely offers some fruitful possibilities for the understanding of New Testament epistolary literature.
Wat is wetenskap vandag?
Authors: Antonites A. J.
Published: January 2014

What is science today? In this essay an attempt is made to answer the question as to what contemporary science is, by looking at science's main task, namely the sistematic methodical search for the truth. In this respect a cognitive model, which issued from radical change in recent science, is explicated; Attention is paid to a plural truth constitution of different sciences as well as to the problem of the existence and validity of different scientific paradigms in one and the same science. The importance as such, as well as the implications of radical reflection on science, is indicated.
Politieke en sosiale vraagstukke in die prediking
Authors: Dreyer T. F. J.
Published: January 2014

Political and social issues in preaching This paper is an attempt to provide guidelines for preaching with regard to the socio-political aspects of society. The dangers of political preaching as an enigma of contemporary preaching are analysed. Preaching is a complicated process relating to hermeneutics and communication. Obstacles in disturbing this process are pinpointed in the study. The paper's aim is to find ways to overcome the disturbance of the normal hermeneutical process, especially where political aspects are concerned.
Calvyn en die kerklike orde: Enkele opmerkings
Authors: Pont A. D.
Published: January 2014

Calvin and Church Order: Some remarks In commemoration of the publishing of Calvin's Institutes in 1536 and in a tribute to Prof Dr PS Dreyer, some of the main principles of Calvin’s church order are discussed. It is pointed out that the christological centre of the church occupied Calvin's attention more than the peripheral question of discipline.
Demonologie in die Nuwe-Testamentiese tydvak
Authors: Van Aarde A. G.
Published: January 2014

Demonology in New Testament times Modem demonology has become a cult just as it had been in mediaeval times. But there is a difference. Then people opposed the Devil; now people believe in the Devil. This paper argues that modem demonology is an escapism of reality and in direct contrast to the New Testament's message. The thesis is debated against the background of a discussion of demonology in New Testament times. In this discussion it is indicated how the face of evil has changed from Old Testament times up to the New Testament period. Evil has become an extraterrestrial figure, symbol and power. As the personification of the prince of evil, the Devil is inter alia identified with the mythological serpent in a lost paradise and is defeated at the realization of God's messianic kingdom in Jesus Christ, the prince of light. The New Testament proclaims that salvation means that man determines to exist as man of God before evil made man his slave.
Die Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk se sendingwerk 1928–1967: Van besinning tot daad
Authors: Van Wyk D. J. C.
Published: January 2014

The missionary work of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika: 1928–1967 In this article a short review is given of the missionary work of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika during the years 1928 to 1967. Simultaneously it focuses on the exceptional work and contribution of Professor PS Dreyer as member and chairman of the Missionary Board of this Church during the years 1954–1967.
Welthafte Wirklichkeit in ihrer Begrundung in Gott: Versuch einer offenbarungstheologischen Neuinterpretation der Transzendentalienmetaphysik
Authors: Mildenberger F.
Published: January 2014

Earthly reality and its substance in God: An attempt of reinterpreting the transcendental metaphysics in the theology of revelation. The revelation of God in Christ as means of trust in a human world In an article written in the German language, the author strives to conceive a coherence of being of reality. He focuses his attempts on the revelation in Christ, thereby making the crisis of ecology and stress tolerable, following a critical assessment of the scholastic metaphysics of being, Mildenberger seeks the solution in the time of Christ. This leads him to interpret the present distress as being ontologically integrated with the future salvation. Man becomes part hereof by means of God's Word and Sacrament and finds the essence of reality rather in the good experienced by him.
Patristiek en die studie van die Nuwe Testament
Authors: Stander H. F.
Published: January 2014

Patristics and the study of the New Testament This article consists of two main parts. In the first part the importance of the study of Patristics is discussed. The author underscores Outler's logion that 'by itself, the New Testament is not a field of inquiry'. The heading of the second part is Instrumenta Studiorum. In this section the author gives a survey of primary and secondary works on Patristics in order to make this field more accessible to scholars.
Gedagtes oor die begin van die kerk - 'n geskiedenis van versoenende verskeidenheid
Authors: Van Aarde A. G.
Published: January 2014

Thoughts on the beginnings of the church as a history of reconciliating diversity Against the backdrop of the beginnings of the church, the article makes a plea for modem believers to take the humanity of the church more seriously in their forming of ecclesiastical structures. The development of the concept 'church unity' in the New Testament was part of the attempt to establish firstly continuation in the Jesus-movement and secondly mutual fellowship among the conflicting Jewish and Hellenistic Christians during the very beginnings of the church in the first century. Thoughts on the beginnings of the church, therefore, should not be from the perspective of institutional unity but from reconciliating diversities. Modem ideas regarding the unity of the church originated from the late-twentieth century philosophy of holism and shouldn't be anachronistically seen as the concretisation of a Biblical idea.
John's gospel and the Johannine church: A mirror of events wifhin a text or/and a window on events within a church
Authors: Lombard H. A.
Published: January 2014

This paper investigates the problem of an alleged Johannine church/ school. The hermeneutical paradigms and results of two mainline exegetical methods are assessed, namely the historico-critical method and literary criticism (a textimmanent procedure). Their respective approaches of using the text of John's Gospel (JG) as a window and as a mirror are correlated. An analysis of the narrator's commentary (footnotes, asides) furnished important conclusions. They are that a referential correlation exists between the worlds within and outside the text. The direction of reference runs from the textexternal to the textexternal worlds, furthermore, the pragmatics of JG as a religio-historical text justifies the assumption that the readers/church within and outside the text are to be identified as ambivalent entities consisting of both Jewish and Hellenistic elements.
'n Prakties-teologiese evaluering van moontlike bedieningstrukture in die Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk toegespits op die rol van die predikant
Authors: Dreyer T. F. J.
Published: January 2014

A practical theological evaluation of potential structures of ministry within the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk, focused on the role of the minister Die modern society in which the church has to fulfill its ministry, differs in many aspects from the traditional society. The question arises whether the old pattern of ministry is still sufficient to accommodate new trends. This paper is an attempt to identify and establish alternative structures. This is done by means of investigating and exploring scriptural perspectives on church ministry. Certain alternative models are weighed against biblical findings and modem concepts. Finally, a revised pattern of ministry is proposed.
Die redaksionele geskiedenis van die boek Hosea
Authors: Breytenbach A. P. B.
Published: January 2014

The editorial history of the book Hosea It is the suggestion of this essay that the book of Hosea, was supplied with an introduction and ending by an editor from the wisdom circles. This thesis is based on the fact that Hosea 1: 2a and 14: 10 correspond remarkably with the introductions and endings of Egyptian wisdom instructions (for instance that of Amenemopet). The absence of this kind of introductions and endings in other books of the Old Testament leads to the conclusion that the prophecies of Hosea found their way to Judah in the form of a complete book.
Die kanonbegrip as Bybels-teologiese probleem
Authors: Venter P. M.
Published: January 2014

The canon concept as problem in Biblical theology Reading the Bible in the context of its canonicity has become the general trend in the Theology of the Old Testament. This article shows what such contextual reading implies. The conclusion is drawn that it will eventually also bring about a new kind of canon history.
Teologie en ekologie
Authors: Engelbrecht B. J.
Published: January 2014

Theology and ecology Ecology is a term traditionally used in the biological sciences. The word 'ecology' used in this sense means the science which studies the relation of living organisms (usually plants and animals) with their environment and the resultant life patterns. Changes in the environment result in changes of the life patterns of the living organism in that ecosystem. Since the industrial revolution and especially in the past decades man has so drastically changed the ecosystems on a global scale that he is no longer an outsider and consumer in this process; man is intimately involved not only as change-agent, but also as one whose life, standard of living, future and very existence is at stake. And where man and his future is so intimately involved, ethical and theological questions arise and call to be addressed. This paper deals with the main components and extent of the present ecological crisis and with the theological response to the ethical and religious issues involved.
Gesetzesgerechtigkeit und Glaubensgerechtigkeit in Rom 4:13—25: In Gesprach mit E P Sanders
Authors: Du Toit A. B.
Published: January 2014

Righteousness through the law and rightousness through faith in Rm 4:13—25: A reaction to EP Sanders In his book Paul and Palestinian Judaism EP Sanders has presented us with a most stimulating approach. His main thesis that traditional New Testament research has misunderstood Paul as well as first century Palestinian Judaism, received positive comment from many quarters. According to Sanders first century Judaism should be understood within a context of gratuity rather than as a religion of works. A survey of Rm 4:13-25 shows, however, that at least Paul viewed righteousness through the law as an entrance requirement in Judaism. As far as the Jewish sources are concerned a preliminary investigation indicates that Sanders' usage and interpretation of these sources are questionable. It seems highly probable that Sanders has misinterpreted Palestinian Judaism and for that reason also Paul's criticism of it.
Galilea en Jerusalem as narratologiese ruimtes in die Markusevangelie: 'n Kontinuering van die Lohmeyer- Lightfoot-Marxsen ketting
Authors: Van Eck E.
Published: January 2014

Galilee and Jerusalem as narratological toponyms in the Gospel of Mark: A continuation of the Lohmeyer-Lightfoot-Marxsen chain By means of a narratological examination of the Gospel of Mark the role of the toponyms Galilee and Jerusalem as localities of interest is pointed out. It is argued that as such they are important conveyers of the ideological perspective of the narrator. The article furthermore enters into the debate surrounding the redaktiomgeschichtliche contribution of Willi Marxsen on this topic. A narratological examination of the Gospel of Mark reveals further links in the Lohmeyer-Lightfoot-Marxsen chain of thought, although at times correctives are suggested.
Navorsingsverslag
Authors: Pelser G. M.M. , Van Aarde A. G.
Published: January 2014

Verslag van die 42ste jaarlikse kongres van die Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas gehou by die Georg-August- Universiteit, Göttingen, 24-28 Augustus 1987
Die sinvolle aanddiens
Authors: Barnard A. C.
Published: January 2014

A more meaningful evening service We inherited the practice of the evening service (evening prayer), and with it the problem of its diminishing importance. Various factors contributed to this state of affairs. Guidelines for a more meaningful evening service, are: » It must be a genuine church service » It must have a different character from the morning service, and as such a freer character. » The form should be varied and can have alternatively different accents: an ordinary morning service, a service with holy communion, a service with the accent on teaching, prayer, song, the main lines of the church work, confession and witness, discussion or fellowship/koinonia. The watch word is proper preparation, good control, variation and responsibility.
Die sekerheid van die geloof by Calvyn en sommige van sy navolgers
Authors: Pont A. D.
Published: January 2014

The thoughts of Calvin and some of his followers on the certainty of faith In this paper Calvin's thoughts on the certainty of faith are traced as he expresses this in the Institutes. It is also shown that the Heidelberg Catechism faithfully follows Calvin's line of thought as the priority of faith over repentance and rebirth, which are seen as fruits of faith, is stressed. It is shown from the Institutes that for Calvin the certainty of faith lies in adhering in faith to the objectively given surety of the Word of God and His promises. In the second part of the article it is shown how in Beza's work, in Calvinistic scholastic orthodoxy and in the Nadere Reformatie of the 17th and 18th century in the Netherlands there is a gradual shift of emphasis in this matter. The implications of this shift in accent is briefly discussed.
Die verhouding tussen kerk en staat: Enkele modelle met verwysing na die reg van opstand teen die staat
Authors: Smith D. J.
Published: January 2014

The interrelationship between church and state: Some theological models with reference to the right to revolt against the state In this paper consideration is given to the theological models concerning the relation church and state, as accepted by the Roman Catholic Church, Luther, Calvin, Karl Barth and the theologies with a revolutionary inclination like the Political Theology, Theology of Liberation, Revolutionary Theology and the Kairos Document. The right to revolt against the state, as perceived within each model, is also dealt with.
Die skeppingsordeninge en homoseksualiteit
Authors: Naudé R. M.
Published: January 2014

The ordination of creation and homosexuality The idea of creation ordinances is treated according to the theologies of Emil Brunner, Karl Barth and Helmut Thielicke in the light of the conjugation of the ordinance and homosexuality by Heinrich Ott on the one hand, and between the ordinance and the relation between dogmatics and ethics by Walter Kreck on the other hand. This results in the theory that the evaluation of homosexuality depends on the balanced relation between dogmatics and ethics to avoid ortodoxism and moralism.
Op weg na 'n komprehensiewe geskiedenis van Ou-Israel
Authors: Scheffler Eben
Published: January 2014

Towards a comprehensive history of ancient Israel This paper reflects on the aim of ancient Israelite historiography and argues for a comprehensive approach to the history of Israel. In such an approach various aspects of that history (political, socio-cultural, religious and literary) and their dynamic mutual interrelation should be accounted for. The classification of the history in various historical periods should also integrate with this comprehensive approach.
Die wonders in Johannes 6 verklaar aan die hand van 'n vertellersperspektiefanalise
Authors: Snyman G. F.
Published: January 2014

The miracles in Joltn 6: 1—21, explained in terms of an analysis of the narrator's perspective The author of the Gospel of John reconstructed creatively, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, certain events in the life of Jesus Christ. His description of these events does not amount to an accumulation of facts or to a literal description. Instead, the events are vividly described to the reader. What is told, seems to be enough to bring people to faith in Christ as the Messiah and to lead them to life (Jn 20: 30-31). This effect is obtained by the author's Interpretation, as can be seen by his use of a narrator who introduces the reader to the story using a peculiar device, namely the two-step progression. Hereby the reader is confronted v/ith two miracles on the same subject: Only with Christ there is life! This is illustrated from two perspectives: » the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand, as told from the perspective of Him who performed it, and » the miracle of the walking on the waters, as told from the perspective of those who saw it, the disciples.
Jesus en die sosiaal-veragtes
Authors: Van Aarde A. G.
Published: January 2014

Jesus and the social outcasts The article argues that Jesus, as a first century Jew, must be seen as part of the social outcasts of his days. The group, however, should not anachronistically be treated from modem economical and political perspectives. It is illustrated how the social outcasts are led by Jesus to an existence of trust in the presence of God in spite of depressive circumstances and the apparent elusiveness of God.
Beyond dogmatism: Rationality in theology and science
Authors: Van Huyssteen Wentzel
Published: January 2014

The justification of cognitive claims in theology can be dealt with adequately only if the epistemological issues of metaphorical reference, experiential adequacy and explanatory progress are seen as crucial problems for the more encompassing problem of rationality in theology. To claim some form of reality depiction the theologian will have to argue for a plausible theory of reference on the basis of interpreted religious experience. In this discussion important analogies between the rationality of theological theorizing and the rationality of science are revealed. Thus explanatory progress in theology shows itself to be a form of inference to the best explanation, and the rationahty of both theology and science is therefore determined by certain epistemic values.
Verbond en vergewing: Deuteronomium 29 en 30 en die deuteronomistiese geskiedwerk
Authors: Van Rooy H. F.
Published: January 2014

Covenant and forgiveness: Deuteronomy 29 and 30 and the deuteronomistic history The deuteronomistic history was written to illustrate to the Babylonian exiles that the judgement that had befallen them, was a just one. It does, however, also proclaim the possibility of forgiveness within the framework of the convenant. This is also the message of Deuteronomy 29 and 30. This paper investigates this message of covenant and forgiveness in Deuteronomy 29 and 30 and its relationship to the deuteronomistic history.
Prof dr FJ van Zyl se Skrifbeskouing
Authors: Geyser P. A.
Published: January 2014

Prof Dr FJ van Zyl’s view on Scripture In this article an endeavour is made to depict a representive picture of Professor Van Zyl’s many articles about his view on Scripture. As a theologian of the Reformed tradition he was one of a very selected few who articulated a theological reflection about Scripture. Moving from Karl Barth’s viewpoint, he developed his own ideas while also paving the way for historical criticism and other modern methods of research into the understanding of the Bible as such.
Die begrafnisdiens
Authors: Du P Beukes M. J.
Published: January 2014

The burial service The goal of this study is to indicate that the burialservice is not only the concern of the family, but also that of the church - it is a church-family concern. Biblical and historical data for the greater part confirm this statement. The Church Reformers considered the burial service in principal as a church matter. From the point of view that the burial service is a church-family matter, the church has the responsibility to define the burial service in respect of practical-theological guidelines whilst also taking the needs of the family into consideration.
Ontstaan en eerste periode van die Hervormde teologiese opleiding aan die Universiteit van Pretoria
Authors: Loader J. A.
Published: January 2014

Establishment and first period of the Hervormde theological training at the University of Pretoria In this study the establishment of the Hervormde theological training at the University of Pretoria is researched with the purpose of identifying the ecclesiastical, religious and theological factors that influenced the emergence and development of a typical Hervormde type of theology in South Africa. It is argued that the resistance of the Transvaal Afrikaners to religious encroachment of th e ir independence in the Boer Republic of the nineteenth century caused distrust of the church and theology associated with Stellenbosch in the British Cape Colony, and that opposition to trends from there determined the association of the Transvaal Hervormers with certain Dutch circles. From the joining of these two forces - what the Transvaal Hervormers required and what the contemporary Dutch theologies could offer - sprang the roots of what Hervormde theology came to be.
Universalisme en partikularisme vandag
Authors: Van der Westhiuzen H. G.
Published: January 2014

Universalism and particularism today Today we are heirs to a great variety of conceptions in particularism and universalism. It usually represents a view on world and life that is reflected mutually on domains of church and state. Universalism especially increases in seriousness and extent as is to be noticed in the ecumenical theology and the foundation in the United Nations and the so-called human rights. The proper conception of particularism however, serves a proper conception of universalism.
Johannes die Doper in Betanië oorkant die Jordaan
Authors: Nortjé S. J.
Published: January 2014

John the Baptist in Bethany across the Jordan There a re two places in the Fourth Gospel called ‘Bethany’. One is the well-known site near Jerusalem. The other is the lesser-known locality where John the Baptist started his career as the ‘Baptist’. This paper traces John’s use of ‘Bethany across the Jordan’. It is contended th a t the site has more than geographical significance. In analysis the theological purpose of the site is demonstrated. It is the spot where the two Johannine worlds meet: The world above and the world below. This Johannine dualism is resolved a t one spesific time and place, viz at this Bethany. The locality therefore has the theological significance as point of departure for the narration of the coming of Gods only begotten son, who is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.
A narratological analysis of Mark 12:1-12: The plot of the Gospel of Mark in a nutshell
Authors: Van Eck E. , Van Aarde A. G.
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this article is an attempt to read Mark 12: 1-12 in terms of the plot of the Gospel. Firstly a brief survey is given of the development of the term plot from Aristotle to the present, thereafter an own methodological point of departure concerning plot is formulated in order to study the plot of Mark. The conclusions made from this are used to indicate how Mark 12: 1-12 fits into the plot of the Gospel and what functional role it plays in the development of the plot. The conclusion reached is that Mark 12: 1-12 contains the plot of Mark in a nutshell.
Die Boek wat laaste uitgepak word: Oor die Bybel in die Afrikaanse digkuns
Authors: Cloete T. T.
Published: January 2014

The last book to be unpacked Afrikaans poetry has been extensively influenced by the Bible. The works of all the most important Afrikaans poets have connections with the Bible in one way or another. As a matter of fact, the development of Afrikaans, the instrument of the poet, has been significantly influenced the Afrikaans translation of the Bible. Believing Afrikaans poets are not the only ones that have been influenced by the Bible, as we can see in the work of Leipoldt, neither do only Protestant Afrikaans poets manifest Biblical involvement. Roman Catholic poets have made important contributions to Afrikaans poetry by means of biblical intertextuality.
John Wesley se Aldersgate-ervaring: ’n Herwaardering
Authors: Kitshoff M. C.
Published: January 2014

John Wesley’s Aldersgate experience: A reassessment The well-known experience of Wesley at Aldersgate Street on 24 May 1738 is widely considered to be his conversion. In this article an attempt is made to determine the following: » whether this experience can be styled a conversion » whether there is support for another localization for Wesley’s conversion; » what the nature of the Aldersgate experience was if not a conversion. In order to achieve these ends the evidence on the following aspects of Wesley’s life is considered: » the Aldersgate experience itself; » the events prior and subsequent to Aldersgate; » changes in Wesley’s theological understanding of salvation. The conclusion opposes the popular view on Aldersgate.
Polarity: The theology of anti-Judaism in Ephrem the Syrian’s hymns on Easter
Authors: Botha P. J.
Published: January 2014

In this paper, the polarity Jews :: Christians in the hymns on Easter of the fourth-century Syrian theologian Ephrem is investigated. This polarity is found to be polemical against the Jews. But since polarity is a constant feature in the work of Ephrem which serves to communicate his theological frame of mind, the question is asked whether anti-Judaism does not also serve to convey theological ideas. An attempt is made to demonstrate that anti-Judaism indeed had a theological function for Ephrem: Anti-Judaism seems to have been an aspect of Christian self-definition. It was also a way of expressing the concepts of theological balance and reciprocity.
Ansatzpunkte für eine Theologie des Neuen Testaments bei Oscar Cullmann und Leonhard Goppelt
Authors: Gräbe P. J.
Published: January 2014

Points of departure for a theology of the New Testament: Oscar Cullmann and Leonhard Goppelt Both Cullmann and Goppelt offer alternative positions to an existential approach to New Testament theology. After a consideration of Oscar Cullmann’s position in the history of New Testament theology, special attention is given to his concept of salvation history, as well as a critical evaluation of this concept. Goppelt associates himself with the hermeneutical point of departure of Cullmann and Von Rad. Salvation history is, however, filled with new content through reflection on the earthly Jesus. Goppelt’s starting point for a theology of the New Testament is not found in a general easier ‘kerygma’, but in the unfolding of Jesus’ words and deeds.
Religieuse ervaring: Aspoestertjie van teologiese besinning
Authors: Veldsman D. P.
Published: January 2014

Religious experience: Cinderella of theological Reflection How is the concept ‘experience’ to be understood, a concept frequently used but which defies clearcut definition? How is religious experience, which is not a terminus technicus, to be understood? These questions are addressed from a historic survey of developments in the interpretation of the nature and understanding of religious experience, spanning Aristotle to modern German theologians. Stressing the fundamental importance for theology of reflection on religious experience, this article describes religious experience as feeling plus a religious conceptual framework, constituted by recollection and embodied in hope.
Faith, language and experience: An analysis of the feeling of absolute dependence
Authors: Mouton E.
Published: January 2014

This article deals with the essence of religion proposed by Schleiermacher, namely ‘the feeling of absolute dependence upon the Infinite’. In his theory of religious experience, and the language he used to express it, he claimed his work to be independent of concepts and beliefs. Epistemologically this is incompatible. In our century, where Christianity needs to be reinterpreted in the light of modern science, Schleiermacher has left us with a hermeneutical challenge to communicate the dynamic experience of a relationship with God in an intelligible way. The author argues that systematic theology’s obligation to rationality must at least include a dialectic interplay of interpretative schemes, events and experience.
Sing to Jahweh!... Cursed be the day on which I was born! A paradoxical harmony in Jeremiah 20:7-18
Authors: Bezuidenhout L. C.
Published: January 2014

The paradoxical juxtaposition of the statements ‘Sing to Jahweh!... Cursed be the day on which I was born!’ in Jeremiah 20:13 and 20:14 creates a tension which can be avoided if these two verses are isolated from each other by way of redaction criticism. In this article, the possibility and even appropriateness of respecting the relationship between these verses is explored. The segment 7-12 is regarded as a double lament. The segments 13 and 14-18 constitute two contrasting conclusions. This segmentation coincides with time-honoured divisions of the text. Verses 7-18 can be defined as an integral unit where an ironic symphony is created by a central metaphor of procreation and counterpointed radial metaphors of sexual abuse and childbirth.
Verkondig Christus totdat hy kom! Die huidige denke binne die Evangeliese Beweging
Authors: Kritzinger J. J.
Published: January 2014

World evangelisation within the Lausanne movement This article considers a number of key themes regarding world evangelisation. The point of departure is the second general conference of the Lausanne movement, which was held in Manila during July 1989. The first section gives some background to the Lausanne movement and events leading to this large and representative gathering. Secondly, some personal impressions gained at the conference itself are related. This is followed by a section on the Philippine setting of the conference, which played an important role in creating an atmosphere of involvement with the real world. The last section deals with some of the important issues arising from the conference. What should the future agenda be for world missions?
Die ‘Proslogion C2-4’ van Anselmus van Kantelberg (1033/34-1109 nC)
Authors: Engelbrecht B. J.
Published: January 2014

The Proslogion, C2-4 of Anselm of Canterbury (1033/34-1109) In Protestant circles students and lecturers usually know the ‘ontological’ (a name given by Kant) proof for the existence of God of Anselm, mostly only from selected sentences and critical arguments about this ‘proof. In this article the full Latin text of Anselm’s proof is given and, presumably, its first Afrikaans translation. Subsequently, summaries of two widely divergent views on interpreting the four chapters of the Proslogion are given and, finally, the Proslogion is very briefly related to the reflections of Wentzel van Huyssteen on the methodology of theology.
Huisbesoek
Authors: Booysen D. J.
Published: January 2014

Pastoral visits Regardless the fact that opposition to pastoral visits is mounting in the church, it remains unreplaceable. There is but no alternative for these visits. Attention is given to certain biblical and theological arguments in an attempt to justify the continuation of this practice in the church. Although urbanization plays an important role it must not be regarded as a negative factor. Pastoral visits is to be considered as one of those structures in use to proclaim the Gospel. The ward-system needs to be utilized to a much greater extend as is the case now.
Ou-Testamentiese perspektiewe op die definisie van die prediking
Authors: Oberholzer J. P.
Published: January 2014

Old Testament perspectives on the definition of preaching The Old Testament antecedents to Christian preaching are considered briefly. It is found that the hymnic situation, that is the realisation of thanksgiving for salvation, in the Psalms comes closest to what is understood as preaching in the New Testament. The following amended definition of preaching is proposed for consideration: ‘A pneumatological word event in which a person who is a believer himself, leads people, via a communication experience with a text of Scripture, to an encounter with and a life before the living God.
Die paradigmas van ‘Kerk en wêreld 2000’
Authors: Buitendag J.
Published: January 2014

The paradigms of Kerk en wêreld 2000 This important publication of the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika deals with the relationship between the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk and its society within the next decade. It gives an expanded view of the address of the church’s kerygma. The author of this article tries to identify a specific paradigm of the relation between church and society within which this matter neither corresponds to that of Luther nor to that of Calvin, although traces of both are being recognised. The author sees the reason for this in the fact that the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk, according to this publication, is willing to take the situation in which he works and lives seriously into consideration. The following paradigm shift can thus be noted: the more the church gets worried about the present situation, the less he is Lutheran and the more he is Calvinis-tic.
Temple versus Household in Luke-Acts: A contrast in social institutions
Authors: Elliott J. H.
Published: January 2014

This social-scientific study of Luke-Acts advances the thesis that in the Lucan economy of salvation, the Temple and the Household represent opposed types of social institutions and economic relations, only one of which, the Household, is capable of embodying socially, symbohcally and ideologically the structures, values and goals of an inclusive gospel of universal salvation.
Uit genade alleen? Herbesinning oor die Romeinebrief deur Suid-Afrikaanse teoloë
Authors: Lombard H. A.
Published: January 2014

Through faith, from begimiing to end? Rethinking the Letter to the Romans by South African theologians As material for and reflection on religious issues by Christians, the letter to the Romans used to be a document of fundamental importance. It ought to be ap plauded that in 1989 a contribution to this letter was made by South Africans in their own context, with a view to meeting their situation and needs. The eleven contributions represent the authors’ religious sense of responsbility and social sensitivity. They also display the nature and content of their hermeneutical vanta"e points and their competence in exegetical procedures. Apart from the merit and indisputable value of these contributions, cognizance should also be taken of deficiencies with regard to methodological precision and competence in some of the articles. A salient deficiency is the lack of cognizance of the work of South African theologians and discussions with them. This is to be regretted.
A call for the restoration of orthodoxy in South African Christian theology
Authors: Engelbrecht B.
Published: January 2014

Liberation theology can only be understood as a pseudo-theology inspired by the spirit of Marx. It is not a bona fide or leg itimate theology, but the polar opposite thereof. Its destructive aims mirror those of Marxism, which can only be understood if the demonic spirit of Marx is seen as its real origin. The Kairos Document and the Road to Damascus replaced the biblical God with the anti-god of Marx, the deified proletariat and the deified revolution. The article calls for a reconversion to God who revealed himself in Jesus Christ of Scriptures. Orthodox theology is truly ‘thisworldly’ theology, since it offers real hope and salvation. The Marxist gospel can only offer a utopia, a ‘no-place’. It is self-alienating, world-aUenating and God-alienating.
God met ons! Die aanspraak op Goddelike steun in ’n konfliksituasie volgens die Ou Testament
Authors: Balzer H. R.
Published: January 2014

God with us! The claim of divine support in a situation of conflict, seen from an Old Testament perspective Political discussions referring to Old Testament texts in order to claim divine support for one’s views, and disqualify opposing opinions as being in conflict with the God of the Bible, are hermeneutically based on analogies between a revealed God, His representatives or laws, and ethical or political principles. A synchronic investigation of relevant Old Testament passages fully denies and opposes this hermeneutic approach, which is based on an isolation of principles or norms - with no reg ard to the only relevant actual relation to God himself. Any political identification with God or associated function must therefore be rejected as blasphemous from an Old Tes-tament perspective.
Wysheidskriteria vir die klassifikasie van psalms as wysheidspsalms
Authors: Burger J.
Published: January 2014

Criteria for identyfying wisdom psalms This article concerns itself with the identification of wisdom poems amongst the psalms in the Old Testament. Certain criteria for identifying wisdom psalms have already been determined through previous re search on the subject. The validity of these criteria is subsequently evaluated in the light of the generally accepted wisdom books namely Job, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. This attempt generated an independent set of criteria (formal and pertaining contents) proposed for isolating wisdom psalms.
Household and meals versus the Temple purity system: Patterns of replication in Luke-Acts
Authors: Elliott J. H.
Published: January 2014

In Luke-Acts the social codes and concepts associated with food and meals replicate and support the contrasting social codes, interests, and ideologies associated with the Jerusalem Temple, on the one hand, and the Christian household, on the other. In this study the thesis is advanced that in contrast to the Temple and the exclusivist purity and legal system it represents, Luke has used occasions of domestic dining and hospitality to depict an inclusive form of social relations which transcends previous Jewish purity regulations and which gives concrete social expression to the inclusive character of the gospel, the kingdom of God, and the Christian community.
Dekonstruksie en Bybelse hermeneutiek
Authors: Steenekamp N. J.S. , Van Aarde A. G.
Published: January 2014

Deconstruction and biblical hermeneutics The purpose of this article is to evaluate deconstruction as a postmodern philosophical viewpoint in relation to biblical hermeneutics as a theological interpretation method. A short exposition of postmodernity is given to emphasise deconstruction’s aim of deconstructing traditional views on texts and metaphysics. This leads to intertextual reading which is in opposition to the textual reading of biblical hermeneutics. The consequences of deconstruction are finally evaluated in relation to the methods of Redaktionsgeschichte and the historische Jesus Forschung.
A holistic view of the Holy Spirit as agent of ethical responsibility: This view experienced as exciting in Romans 8, but alarming in 1 Corinthians 12
Authors: Vledder E. J. , Van Aarde A. G.
Published: January 2014

Modern man experiences a crisis which manifests itself across a wide spectrum: ecologically, sociologically and politically. Seen from a holistic perspective, this crisis, caused by the so-called mechanical worldview, calls for a radical change to a new worldview, the so-called postmodern or holistic view. In ecumenical theology, emphasis is also laid on the world in crisis, which calls for renewal on the same levels as in holistic thought. This change and renewal is to be brought about by the Holy Spirit, who is the agent of change in thought, and of involvement in creating a ‘new creation’. It will be argued that the Holy Spirit is indeed involved as the agent of man’s ethical responsibility; in Romans 8:1-17 this is seen as exciting, but, in 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, the alarming danger in ecumenical pneumatology is indicated.
Eerste treë in die Praktiese Teologie - waarheen?
Authors: Dreyer T. F.J.
Published: January 2014

First steps in practical theology A new title, First steps in practical theology, has recently been released. This publication addresses the problem of the scientific base and methodology of this discipline. In accordance with the viewpoints of Zerfass, Firet, Van der Ven and others, the authors try to guide students to exercise practical theology from the perspective of empirical theology. This paper is an attempt to point out possible pitfalls in implementing this method of re search without theological reservations. It is an aim to modify students’ views in such a way as to overcome these dangers.
Theological paradigms and conservative Afrikaners
Authors: Robbertze H. C.G.
Published: January 2014

Papers published in the HSRC publication Paradigms and progress in theology (1988) reject foundationalistic theology and recommend a holistic theological ap proach. In this process contextual theology, which emphasises the distinctiveness of individual nations, is accused of being the ‘domination paradigm’ and is even called a heresy. This article aims to show that the holistic theological approach is also guilty of foundationalistic reasoning and intolerance. Furthermore, the need for a balanced theological paradigm for the conservative Afrikaner believer, who desires an own land for the Afrikaner nation is shown. Contextual theological reflection has not only a criticising function, but also a legitimising responsibility. The balanced contextual theological paradigm for conservative Afrikaner believers must be critical, legitimising and free of foundationalism.
Westerse teks, Alexandrynse teks en die oorspronklike teks van die Nuwe Testament: Is daar ’n oplossing vir die probleem?
Authors: Petzer J. H.
Published: January 2014

Western text, Alexandrian text and the original text of the New Testament - is there a solution to the problem? This article discusses the debate concerning the problems of the so-called Western text in New Testament textual criticism. Traditional views, such as those of Westcott & Hort, Ropes, Metzger, Blass, Clark, and Boismard & Lamouille, all work with the notion of early local text-types. Because of this none of these ap proaches seems able to solve the problem. In contrast, a fresh approach to the history of the text in general and this problem in particular is developing in Munster. This approach describes the earliest history of the text in terms of ‘qualitative’ text-types and might therefore have the potential to solve the riddle of the Western text.
Die ideologiese funksie van ruimte in die Markus-vertelling: ’n Verkenning
Authors: Van Eck E.
Published: January 2014

The ideological function of space in the narrative of Mark: A survey The aim of this article is to investigate the ideological perspective of the narrator on the topographical level in Mark’s narrative. Emphasis is placed on Galilee, Jerusalem, the way, house, town, synagogue and temple, as well as space that is put by the narrator into the mouth of Jesus as focal space in the Gospel. The conclusion is made that the ‘way’ (from Galilee to Jerusalem) must be seen as the most important focal space in the Gospel, which also gives expression to the ideological perspective of the narrator as following Jesus in suffering.
Holistiese verstaan teenoor analitiese verstaan in Bybelse hermeneutiek
Authors: Van Niekerk B.
Published: January 2014

Holistic interpretation compared to analytical interpretation in biblical hermeneutics In recent years there has been growing interest in a holistic approach to biblical hermeneutics. If this holistic approach leads us to a new, post-critical, macro-paradigmatic model, the concequences for hermeneutics - indeed for theology as a whole - should be examined. Mechanism and holism should be explained in terms of each other, to compare their possible advantages and disadvantages. Finally, the relevance of Christianity amid changing visions of reality is discussed.
‘Suster’-, of ‘broer’- en ‘eggenote’-verwysings in uitinge binne dialogiese konteks (Gen 12:11-13,18-19; 20:2,4-5,11-13; 26:7,9)
Authors: Van Rensburg J. F.J.
Published: January 2014

‘Sister’, ‘brother’, and Svife’ references in utterances within conversational context (Gn 12:11-13, 18-19; 20:2, 4-5, 11-13; 26:7, 9) Four different types of nominal clauses containing ‘sister’ or ‘brother’ references, and six containing ‘wife’ references are identified. They are found to be introduced by the verb ‘to say’ in either the indicative, imperative (only ‘sister’ utterances), or phrased as interrogatives. These complex sentences, in turn, function as part of seven greater conversational contexts. The study thus focuses on kernel clauses, noting the way in which they are embedded and combined. This leads to suggestions regarding linguistic variation, the use of narrative techniques and the redactional history of formulas.