Verbum et Ecclesia Volume 27 Issue 1 (2006)

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Family (oikos) Evangelism for reaching forward caste Hindus in India
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Fowlkes, D.W.; Verster, Pieter
This article acknowledges the need for Church Planting Movements among the unreached peoples of India. Of particular concern to this study is the application of Church Planting Movement strategy to forward caste Hindus of India. It is shown that evangelizing households (family or "oikos" evangelism) is a New Testament strategy and the most appropriate strategy for reaching forward caste Hindus.It is concluded that Christian disciples remaining within Hindu culture and familial systems hold the potential for the most indigenous approach to evangelizing forward caste Hindus.
Oor doodloopstrate en omwee : kanttekeninge by die boek "Doodloopstrate van die geloof - 'n Perspektief op die Nuwe Hervorming"
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Spangenberg, I.J.J. (Izak J.J.)
In 2002 a number of biblical scholars in South Africa published a book with the title Die Nuwe Hervorming (= The New Reformation). Since then reformed theologians and church councils in South Africa reacted vehemently and accused these scholars of heresy. The debate about a possible new reformation has not abated. Professor J J F Durand, theologian and former vice-principal of the University of Western Cape, recently published a book with the title Doodloopstrate van die geloof - 'n Perspektief op die Nuwe Hervorming (= Culs-de-sac of the Christian religion - a perspective on the New Reformation). He is of the opinion that the scholars who advocate a new reformation are merely followers of Rudolf Bultmann. The article argues that Durand and like minded reformed theologians in South Africa ignore the latest research in biblical studies and therefore adhere to fundamentalist opinions about the Bible and church doctrines.
Saamspeel van hand, oog en passie : gedagtes oor erotiek en estetika
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Veldsman, Daniel Petrus
In critical dismissal on the one hand of the viewpoint of Augustine on original sin, and on the other hand of a proposed viewpoint with regard to a theology of God's good creation, this article explores the intimate interwoveness of aesthetics, erotism and religious experience. The basic communication structure of sender-message-receiver is taken as vantage point and translated into questions regarding the artist, the medium and the enjoyer of art / art critic. Against a historical-terminological background of aesthetics and erotism from Plato and Aristotle to contemporary views, a theological viewpoint is developed in playful metaphoric utilization of the concepts hand, eye and passion. Passion is acquitted in this viewpoint in which hamartological short-sightedness is replaced by loving far-sightedness.
Lyf : fasette van die erotiese en seksuele in die Romeinse ryk
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Botha, Pieter J.J.
An introduction to aspects of the erotic and sexuality in Greco-Roman antiquity requires some understanding of how people saw their bodies. What is considered erotic is related to the "ideal" body: sexuality manifests itself as culturally and historically determined. In this article relevant parts of the Greco-Roman cosmology is briefly discussed and concepts of the body analysed before an overview of love relations between women and men is presented. In the final section the shift in views about the body among the early Christians, is specified.
Huwelik of nie - wat van Hooglied?
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Viviers, Hendrik
The traditional heterosexual, monogamous marriage can be questioned, not only on the grounds of modern deviating practices in regard to permanent love relationships but on discrepancies within the Bible itself. It is a myth that the "Bible says..." and then voicing only one viewpoint, when there are more than what fundamentalists have Bible readers to believe. The Song of Songs represents such an alternative voice, subverting the mainstream mores of its time. It not only subverts what was then deemed "proper", patriarchy, class and religion but markedly also the typical Mediterranean marriage. The two lovers dream of a traditional marriage some time in the future but at the moment they focus predominantly on the intimate enjoyment of each other. "Sex before marriage", however, is never promiscuous but adheres to a deapseated ethic of fidelity. The Song interestingly opens up morally defendable permanent relationships other than the traditional marriage. Utilizing Body Criticism the Song is appreciated in its own right in this article.
Hooglied : hedendaagse paradigma vir romantiese verhoudings
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Lotter, G.A.; Steyn, Rian S.
In this article it is argued that the Old Testament book Song of Songs can serve as a present-day paradigm for romantic relationships. Song of Songs is being viewed as a collection of love poems and songs where the romantic relationship between a man and a woman is in the focus. The authors discuss the so called "love triangle" which is to be found in Song of Songs. The challenge for correcting relationships with regards to reciprocity and equility in this relationship is also researched followed by the important (albeit absent in the text itself) acknowledgement of people's own limitation and dependence on God. This article therefore deals with the roles of men and women in connection with love, the complexities of love and suggests nine consequences of Song of Songs for romantic relationships. The article ends with a short discussion on the adventure of love.
2 Samuel 12 as retold by Josephus
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Begg, Christopher T.
In this essay the author intends to focus on Josephus' retelling of the events of 2 Samuel 12. At the opening of his Antiquities, Josephus assures readers that in what follows he will not "add to" or "omit anything from" the Scripture records on which he is basing himself. Ant. 7.147-161, where on the one hand the basic content of 2 Samuel 12 is reproduced even in its details, while on the other additions, deletions, re-arrangements and other modifications of biblical data abound, offers an instructive example of how seriously, but also how flexibly, the historian carried through on that opening promise.
The biology of human sexuality : evolution, ecology and physiology
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Bateman, Philip W.; Bennett, Nigel Charles; phillip.bateman@up.ac.za
Many evolutionary biologists argue that human sexual behaviour can be studied in exactly the same way as that of other species. Many sociologists argue that social influences effectively obscure, and are more important than, a reductionist biological approach to human sexual behaviour. Here, we authors attempt to provide a broad introduction to human sexual behaviour from a biological standpoint and to indicate where the ambiguous areas are. We outline the evolutionary selective pressures that are likely to have influenced human behaviour and mate choice in the past and in the present; ecological features that influence such things as degree of parental care and polygamy; and the associated physiology of human sexuality. Then they end with a discussion of 'abnormal' sexuality.
The structure of John 17
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Wong, Corinne Hong Sling
This article proposes a structure for John 17. In paragraph A (1-5), Jesus prays for the glorification/revelation of the Father and the Son, so that Jesus' followers may have eternal life. This objective is achieved in Paragraph B (6-10) through the giving of God's words, resulting in the manifestation of Jesus' glory in them. Paragraphs 3, 4, and 5 contain three petitions: "Keep them in your name" (11-13), "keep them from the evil one" (14-16), and "sanctify them in the truth" (17-19). The goal of these petitions is that they may be one with God, as the Father and the Son are one (11e, 21a). This request for oneness is repeated in Paragraph 6 (20-23), but here the petition is for all believers. Jesus' revelation of the Father's name has brought about oneness, since God's love and Jesus himself have come to dwell in believers (Paragraph 7 [24-26]).
Similarities in Pentecostal and traditional African culture : a positive potential in a context of urbanization and modernization
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Ingram, Riaan
This article reflects the findings of a study that was conducted by NOVA (a research organization for the alleviation of poverty) for CDE (the Centre of Development and Enterprise) in 2004 with regard to the potential contribution of Pentecostalism to the socio-economical well-being of people who are effected by the forces of modernization and urbanisation in South Africa. The case study was conducted among Pentecostal congregations in Witbank with special focus on congregations who serve people who have recently moved from the rural areas to Witbank. We made the interesting discovery that Pentecostal congregations do not serve as a new spiritual and social home for these new-comers by accident, but because their are underlying cultural similarities between Pentecostalism and Traditional African Culture. These similarities pertain to cosmology, social structure, personhood, morality and the value of esthetical experience. Because of these similarities Pentecostal communities create a context in which people who move from the rural areas to the city may feel at home and in which they are protected from the strange and confusing environment that is the city.
Towards a Theology of HIV / AIDS
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Van Wyngaard, Arnau
In a world which is slowly but surely being devastated by the HIV / AIDS pandemic, the church needs to get involved in the fight against this disease. In many places the church has conveniently denied that HIV / AIDS has anything to do with them. In this paper the author argues for the necessity of thinking theologically about the reality of HIV / AIDS , indicating that HIV / AIDS is not merely a matter of "sinners" becoming infected with a virus, but that certain circumstances are conducive towards the spreading of HIV / AIDS which need to be addressed if an impact is to be made on the spreading of the virus. Although many non-religious organisations are fighting this disease, the church is in an ideal situation to assist these bodies as it is already grounded within communities and already have integrity amongst a large part of the population. However, to achieve this goal the churches must be transformed in the face of the HIV / AIDS crisis, in order that they themselves may become a force for transformation - bringing healing, hope, and accompaniment to all infected with and affected by HIV / AIDS.
Prejudice, homophobia and the Christian faith community
(Reformed Theological College, Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Dreyer, Yolanda; yolanda.dreyer@up.ac.za
Aims to illustrate that prejudice differs from presuppositions when interpreting the Bible or reflecting theologically on contemporary issues such as homosexuality. Argues that prejudice leads to homophobia which is theologically untenable. Investigates the labels "homosexual", "gay" and "queer" while searching for authentic identity of sexual minorities. Reflects on the effect of underlying social identity theories on homophobia. Addresses nominalism focussing on "sameness", essentialism focussing on "difference", and primordialism emphasising social identity formation and constructionism..
Permanente homoseksuele verhoudings van liefde en trou
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Potgieter, Jorrie
In this article, the argument is made that homosexual relationships of love and commitment was known by the writers of the Bible. Though definitions like "gay" or "homosexuality" was not known, sexual identity was known. According to the anthropology of the Mediterranean people, somebody's identity was found in the way he or she lived: "If I have a homosexual relationship, then my identity was homosexual". This article shows that permanent homosexual relationships of love and commitment were known among the Greek philosophers. People like Plato, Aristotle and Pausanius had permanent homosexual partners. Even Paul knew about permanent homosexual relationships of love and commitment. Sufficient evidence has been found in cities like Rome, Corinth and Ephesus on the existence of such relationships.
Maar my voete wil nou sing
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Vos, C.J.A. (Casparus Johannes Adam), 1945-; cas.vos@up.ac.za
In this article the author takes a closer look at biblical erotica through the eyes of poetry on the one hand and contemporary Afrikaans poetry on the other. By way of conveying some thoughts on texts in Song of Songs (along with other assorted scriptural texts) the ideas regarding sexuality encountered therein are made to converse with a careful selection of a number of Afrikaans poems to express in homiletical fashion something about the wonder and mystery of this greatest of Heaven's gifts bestowed upon the human condition - the divine spark.
Perspektiewe op erotiek en seksualiteit in die ou Nabye Ooste
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Human, Dirk J.; dirk.human@up.ac.za
Sexuality and erotism form an integral part of life. Both these aspects mediate life fulfilling experiences of love. As part of the creation reality sexuality effects a positive power of life. Evidence from the ancient Near East, especially from Egypt, Canaan and Mesopotamia, confirms human's facinasion for and participation in sexual behaviour. In the sexual experience the 'I' transcends the borders of the 'self'. Whether the gods or humans are engaged in this act of heavenly ecstacy, it is evident that life's meaning is captured in this life enriching experience of power, vitality and joy.
Kruispunte in Christene se besluitneming oor homoseksualiteit
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) De Villiers, D.E. (Dawid Etienne); etienne.devilliers@up.ac.za
The article demonstrates that the present differences Christians have in morally evaluating homosexuality in general and steady homosexual relationships in particular, can be related to the decisions they take at four pivotal crossroads. Two one-sided and opposite approaches to this evaluation that follow from different decisions at these crossroads are discussed. They are contrasted with a reforming Christian approach that would enable Christians to take a more nuanced and substantiated stance to the moral issues with regard to homosexuality.
Identiteit en seksualiteit in die Nuwe Testament
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Steyn, Gert Jacobus; gert.steyn@up.ac.za
This contribution wants to provide a broad overview of sexuality in the New Testament. It provides broad thematic stripes, picturing the early Christians as sexual beings with a new identity in Christ. Sexuality is a given in the New Testament, but due to their new identity, Christians' sexuality displays particular features: it expresses its freedom responsibly; is driven by divine love; surrenders sacrificially to the other as Christ did; treats its partner as an equal and not as an object of self satisfaction; distinguishes itself from different cultural practices with an identity of its own; acknowledges the fact that it is part of an incomplete world; respects the identity of the other and despises all kinds of sexual malpractices; believes in forgiveness; and finds its climax ultimately and always in the presence of God.
Konsep, rituele en proses van Afrika-huwelike
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Masango, Maake J.S.
In many African tribes, sexual relations are legitimate only within the context of marriage. Moreover, all marriages are preceded by extensive preparations involving, inter alia, education (given by the elders of the community) and various religious rites de passage, e.g. circumcision. Boys and girls undergo separate initiations and several types of marriage (monogamy, polygamy, exogamy) prevail within traditional cultures. In this article, the author discusses elements of the variety of betrothal rites prevalent among African tribes as well as a number of global challenges affecting African marriage customs which have managed to hold their own despite the onslaught of westernisation and (post-) modernity.
Drink met vreugde uit die liefdesfontein! - 'n Ou-Testamentiese perspektief op menslike seksualiteit
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Groenewald, Alphonso, 1969-; alphonso.groenewald@up.ac.za
In this article the author discusses the fact that being sexual is part of being human. The Old Testament quite frankly acknowledges this important aspect of our humanity. It unapologetically depicts men and women as physical and sexual creatures - not only as spiritual, rational and moral beings. Surveying what the Old Testament says about human sexuality can remind us that the more things change (and they certainly have changed a lot!), the more things stay the same. The cultural world and the social structures within which we express our sexuality today are substantially different from those of Old Testament times, and they are continuing to evolve at a rapid pace in our day. Still, all things considered, it is not so much our fundamental differences with our biblical ancestors that strikes us, but rather our common flesh, our common capacity for love with a physical dimension, our common desire to know and be known by another. These sexual aspects of our humanity are as strong as death, as unquenchable as fire.
Lyf se troos
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2006) Le Roux, J.H. (Jurie Hendrik), 1944-; jh.leroux@up.ac.za
This article focuses on the body as an 'instrument' to console and comfort others. In the early church so much attention was given to the soul and its salvation that the body was neglected. According to the Manichaeans the soul was related to God and separated from the body. The body on the other hand was so despicable that sensual pleasures could not even defile it more. Augustine integrated soul and body and allowed for sexual enjoyment in marriage but viewed the desire negatively. The rest of the article stresses the point that in times of distress the body of the other can console and relieve one from much stress. Especially in misery and in the daily experience of life's meaningless the advice of Ecclesiastes to enjoy 'life with the wife whom you love' (9:9) is taken seriously.

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