Abstract:
The ‘Hervormde’ blend of Barthian view of Scripture leads to a specifically nuanced concept of
biblical truth. Biblical truth is neither knowledge, dogma or faith propositions, nor historical,
scientific or geographical truth. Biblical truth is a Person, sharing in dialogue with humanity
regarding a relationship of God for humanity. Biblical truth is relational and metaphorical. Its
imperatives are demythologisation, and ideological and cultural critique. This concept of truth
is in contrast to the truth concept of most church members, because of their literal and often
fundamentalist views of Scripture. In order to convey understanding of the truth concept, the
‘Hervormde’ view of Scripture should be discussed with them. A confession should be
formulated for post-modern believers.
Description:
Dr Malan is participating in
the research project
‘Socio-cultural Readings’,
directed by Prof. Dr Ernest
van Eck, Department of New
Testament Studies, Faculty of
Theology, University of
Pretoria
