Verbum et Ecclesia Volume 28 Issue 1 (2007)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/6291

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Geloofsverskille : waar kom hulle vandaan en wat maak ons met hulle?
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Jordaan, W.J.
In this article about the origin of differences in faith and how we can / should deal with them, the article explores the extent to which language may guide or misguide our reflections about God as mystery, and how differences in faith become embedded in the nature and dynamics of religious discourse; both external and internal. Such discourses are then linked to four phases of faith which emerge in various permutations and combinations; are recursively linked; and together attest to faith as a journey and not as a fixed destination. These phases are: blind gullibility and stultification; conflict and doubt; outsidership; and a sense of wonder / fundamental trust. Focussing on the latter faith "position" the author then explores how our talk about God can be guided by what the philosopher Paul van Buren calls the "edges of language" - where the word God serves as the final speech act when one wants deperately to say the most that is possible. Various examples from literature, the arts and Scripture are supplied to elucidate the edges of language and how these may retain connections with traditional / convential religious language utterances and the various phases of faith. Finally, the article explores the deeper meaning of tolerance as as a disposition that emerges from the integrity of commitment and which would allow the respectful accommodation of all such commitments.
Fulfilment in Matthew
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Viljoen, Francois P.
Matthew extensively explored the motif that Jesus was the fulfilment of the Old Testament hopes. In this article investigation is done on the way Matthew employs this motif. The expression of fulfilment of Scripture had an important function in early Christian circles. The Christian faith had to be legitimatized by reference to the Jewish Scriptures. What happened to Jesus and the rise of the Christian church were to be identified as the fulfilment of the promises of the Old Testament. For today's reader it seems as if Matthew sometimes draws awkward links between Old Testament citations and their fulfilment in Jesus. However, when his hermeneutical method is being mirrored against contemporary interpretative methods, it becomes clear that Matthew used the fulfilment motif in a then acceptable way to strategically and persuasively place Jesus' ministry within the unfolding plan of God.
Can a major religion change? Reading Genesis 1-3 in the twenty-first century
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Spangenberg, I.J.J. (Izak J.J.)
Ever since the fourth century Christian theologians read Genesis 1-3 as a historical account about creation and fall. Augustine (354-430), one of the Latin fathers of the Church, introduced the idea of "original sin" on account of his reading of these chapters. According to him God created a perfect world which collapsed because of the sin of Adam and Eve. This idea became a fixed doctrine in the Roman Catholic and Protestant Churches. The doctrine holds that every human being, by the very fact of birth, inherits a "tainted" nature in need of regeneration. Since the paradigm shift in Biblical Studies which occurred towards the end of the nineteenth century, the doctrine has come under severe criticism by Old Testament scholars. In recent years even systematic theologians are questioning the interpretation of Augustine and proclaim: "There is no fall in Scripture." This issue is discussed in detail and an answer is given to the question whether Christians can accept other readings and whether Christianity can change.
Ou Testament en / in die kerk van Jesus Christus?
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Snyman, S.D. (Stephanus Daniel), 1954-; Snyman, Fanie, 1954-
The question raised in this contribution is suggested in the title: Should the place of the Old Testament be regarded as outside of, over against and thus not really part of the church or should the Old Testament be regarded as in the church as part of the canon of scriptures together with the New Testament. A historical overview is given to illustrate a movement in the interpretation of the Old Testament that started initially as a christological interpretation but developed in a more theological appreciation of the Old Testament. It is further indicated that the emphasis in both the exegesis and theology of the Old Testament is on the Old Testament's own theological integrity. Therefore there is no pressing need for a christological interpretation of the Old Testament as if that would be the one and only valid way of reading the Old Testament.
Philippians 4 : 1-9 from a rhetorical perspective
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Snyman, A.H. (Andreas Hartman), 1943-
The aim of this article is to analyse Philippians 4:1-9 from a rhetorical perspective that differs from the typical approach of researchers, who tend to force ancient rhetorical categories on the letter. Using a text-centred approach, it is argued that the dominant rhetorical strategy in this section could be described as: "Urging the Philippians to live the gospel". The section is divided into three phases, namely 4:1 (commanding the Philippians to stand firm for the sake of the gospel); 4:2-3 (calling on certain individuals to be united in their work for the gospel); and 4:1-9 (commanding the Philippians to practise certain key characteristics of the Christian life). The section and its phases are demarcated by rhetorical considerations. In analysing the rhetorical strategies and techniques in 4:1-9 the focus is on the way Paul argues, on the type of arguments he uses and on the rhetorical techniques that could enhance the impact of his communication. All these strategies and techniques serve to persuade the Philippians to live the gospel, in response to a situation where they were experiencing serious problems and were tempted to abandon their struggle.
In defence of partisan justice - an ethical reflection on "the preferential option for the poor"
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Naude, P.J.
Can one defend a form of partisan justice? This question is answered in the affirmative in the light of two broad arguments: The theological argument arises from the preferential option for the poor from Latin America, and the philosophical argument is derived from John Rawls' notion of the least advantaged representative person and assistance due to burdened societies in a global context. In closing, a number of important implications of such a partisan notion of both distributive and cultural justice are explicated. This article is developed in three sections. The first section briefly sketches a profile of the different theological arguments underlying a preferential option for the poor as particularly developed by Latin American liberation theologians, and later accepted in wider ecumenical circles. In the second section, philosophical arguments for a position of "prioritarianism" which seems to support such "preferential option" are outlined. This is attempted via a discussion of two influential books by well-known American political philosopher, John Rawls, namely his A theory of justice (1973), and The law of peoples (1999). Section three concludes the article by demonstrating the synergy between these theological and philosophical views, and by pointing out - in a provisional manner - the important consequences of such a "preferential" or "partisan" view for guiding ethical reflection on local and global socio-economic relations.
Atmosfeer in die erediens deur die loop van die geskiedenis
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) De Klerk, Barend Jacobus, 1945-; Leuschner, F.W.
The worship service occupies a central position in the life of the believer and therefore the atmosphere in the worship service is vital. The variations through history are studied in this article. The viewpoints of the first four centuries, the Middle Ages, Reformation, post-Reformation and twentieth century came under discussion. Lessons from history are stated. The atmosphere in the worship service should be such that the worshipper meets God with the necessary awe and respect. The service must also create an atmosphere of love, warmth, friendliness, and joy. All present must be invited and made welcome by the service. The atmosphere must further encourage and create room for everybody to participate and use their specific gifts. It can therefore change from service to service and within a single service. Important instruments in the atmosphere are the liturgical space, symbols, rituals, physical movement, gestures, music, song and the senses.
Rol en taak van die kerk ten opsigte van begrafnisgebruike
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Oliver, Erna
The modern trend to keep death at a distance has a negative impact on Christians. It seems as if the Church is following this societal pattern and is incompetent to provide sufficient information and preparation to church members. This can be one of the reasons why people who are confronted by the trauma of death, are not able to coupe or find comfort and security in their faith. The historical development of funeral rites, as well as the viewpoint of the different South African sister churches regarding funerals, are responsible for the current gap in ministry to the bereaved. This gap can be filled by redirecting the theological focus of the church, also by providing information, training and guidance to both church members and support groups, and by reforming funeral rites.
Jesus, Judas en 'n stukkie brood. Die betekenis van 'n gebaar in Johannes 13:26
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Tolmie, D.F. (D. Francois)
In the Gospel according to John, Jesus identifies Judas as the traitor in a highly dramatic fashion by handing him a morsel. Although Johannine scholars do not often comment on this gesture, in cases where they do, one finds a surprisingly wide range of interpretations, for example, it is interpreted as a gesture denoting Judas as an outsider, a gesture of friendship, a gesture indicating baptism or the eucharist, even a gesture indicating that Judas shares eucharist with the Satan. In this article the interpretation of this gesture is considered. After a discussion of the characterisation of Judas in the Gospel according to John, the gesture itself is considered. Its possible background in antiquity is discussed, which is then followed by an interpretation of the gesture as a gesture of friendship. It is also suggested that the gesture could also be viewed as (another) example of Johannine irony.
Does the church deliver? Perceptions amongst South Africans about the role of the church in the HIV / AIDS field
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Van Dyk, P.J.; Van Dyk, Alet C.
The aim of this study was to investigate the perceptions of South Africans regarding the church and their attitudes towards HIV-positive people and condom usage. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to investigate participants' perceptions and attitudes towards the church, HIV-positive people and condom usage. The questionnaire was completed by 1352 participants from diverse religious and other backgrounds. Results showed that 67.2% of participants (mostly active church goers) were prepared to go to their minister for support (if they were HIV-positive). Views that HIV / AIDS is God's punishment, that HIV-infection is the result of a 'sinful lifestyle' and the condemnation of condom usage were more prevalent among certain categories of people (eg. those who had not been tested for HIV before, men, persons from rural areas, people of lower education level, the unemployed and in some cases the more active members of the church). A third (33.5%) of the participants believed that religious people would be less prone to HIV-infection than non-religious people. 59.1% participants (mostly women and active church goers) believed that the church is doing its best to support HIV-positive people.
Pentecostals' reading of the Old Testament
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Nel, Malan
The question of a valid and viable Pentecostal hermeneutic is discussed leading to the preliminary conclusion that such a hermeneutic would consist of the following elements: the experience of the immanence of God, within the charismatic community, through the work of the Spirit. The hermeneutic leads to a reading of Old (and New) Testament texts, especially narrative texts, as replicable for modern-day believers, because Pentecostals view the Bible as consisting primarily of testimonies of God's involvement and intervention in ancient believers' lives with the aim to duplicate those acts in modern believers' lives. The narratives of Pentecostals' preaching and testimony are based upon Biblical tales but they are also accompanied by the same signs and wonders the Bible testifies to. This causes Pentecostals' success in missions as non-literary societies are not interested in creeds but in oral narratives demonstrated in practice. Signs and wonders, healings and revelations, prophetic words and resurrections demonstrate the immanence of God as described in the Bible in a dramatic way to modern people.
Stollen, kristalliseren of verdampen? De collectieve identiteit van christelijke geloofsgemeenschappen in een tijd van individualisering en pluralisering
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Roest, Henk de, 1959-
This article addresses the complex issue of the collective identity of Christian communities in a time of individualisation and pluralisation. The emphasis in the 1980's was very much on organising, building and managing strategies; however, since then the religious 'market' has been offering a wide range of spiritual 'products' to serve every need. Yet the core question remains: what is it that unites members of a particular faith community and encourages commitment and involvement in church matters? Two opposite examples illustrate recent practices. The Saddleback congregation, in Mission Viejo California is an evangelistic orientated church that aims to involve members completely. The Church is a support-system, an answer to questions, a base for talents to flourish, a circle for friendship, sharing and caring. At the other extreme is the Remonstrante Broederskap in the Netherlands with a complete liberal approach, a very low degree of organisation, leaving members free to 'shop'. The mediating mechanism that holds everything and everyone together is a common creed. Within a highly secularised and individualised society a fear exisists that faith and religion might disintegrate. Yet that does not seem to be the case. Communication of a particular identity, the 'spiritual inside' of a faith community raises the possibility of renewed crystallisation of many varied forms of belief and worship, thus saving communities of faith from complete evaporation.
Riglyne vir 'n verantwoordelike Nuwe-Testamentiese verstaan in die homoseksualiteitsdebat. Deel 2 : Nuwe Testamentiese tekste
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Steyn, Gert Jacobus
This is the second of two contributions that are asking how the New Testament could be used in a responsible manner in the debate about homosexuality. After an introductory discussion about the possibility that the NT writings provide us with guidelines, the five passages used in the debate are briefly surveyed. It is suggested that 1 Cor 6:9-11 might be understood against the backdrop of the existing cults and religious practices that were found in 1st century Corinth. Some guidelines are then formulated in order to proceed to a more responsible handling of the NT in the debate. Apart from an acknowledgment of the diversity of terms that are used, it is clear that immorality is closely connected with the idolatry and in association with homosexual behaviour. Homosexuality was thus closely linked with idolatry, immorality and perversity in the ancient NT socio-religious world. It is clear that there are no references to homosexual orientation as a sexual identity, on the one hand, and that the NT unequivocally rejects homosexual behaviour in a range of different forms, on the other hand. It is not possible to talk unqualifiedly about homosexuality any more.
Veronderstelt de natuur een plan en intelligentie?
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Vroom, Hendrik M., 1945-
This contribution analyses the various domains of argumentation in the discussions on intelligent design and creation & evolution: scientific facts, philosophical interpretations on nature and on divinity, and theological reflections upon the relation between and integration of such philosophical interpretations and the biblical message about God. If arguments from those domains are related to quickly, the argumentation becomes sloppy and conclusions are reached to hasty. Therefore the different domains have been distinguished carefully. The intelligence of natural laws points to an intelligent source. The complexity of progress in the evolutionary process suggests that it is improbable that it just has developed by change - whatever the consequences for the understanding of developments that can be valuated as good or as evil. In the last sections the relation between a philosophical idea of intelligence and creation and the biblical ideas of God as Creator, of the goodness of God, and the reality of evil are discussed.
Sinkretisme as missiologiese uitdaging
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Kritzinger, J.J. (Johan Jakob); Niemand, S.J.J. (Samuel Jacobus Johannes)
Religious syncretism is usually seen as the intermingling of two religious systems to the extent that the uniqueness of a specific religion is compromised. It is thus understood as missiologically negative. This article attemps to view this from another - and more positive - angle. Here we show how the process of inculturation, the "incarnation" of the gospel within a culture is not much different from the process we term "positive syncretism". It is also possible that the process could veer off in a negative direction. This process therefore remains a formidable challenge to mission in the sense that while there are always new cultural worlds to be penetrated by the gospel, the process cannot be controlled by any "outsiders". This theory is applied and tested by looking at the phenomenon of African Independent Churches, and a simple two-dimensional model is developed as illustration of a typology.
Schoonheid als theologisch begrip : Urs von Balthasar's en Van der Leeuw's esthetiek kritisch beschouwd
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Stoker, W.
This article will demonstrate why beauty is an important value for the Christian faith. This is done by investigating how beauty has been developed as a theological concept by Hans Urs von Balthasar and Gerardus van der Leeuw. Beauty is an indispensable value because the holy encompasses the beautiful. Beauty belongs to the joy of shalom, to the joy of the coming Kingdom of God. The argument for beauty deals further with three questions: the relationship between the secular and the religious experience of beauty; the place of the ugly as a contrast to the beautiful and the question of whether art is only a matter of contemplating the beautiful or whether art is primarily an instrument and object of action.
Βροτὀς. A favorite word of Homer in the Septuagint version of Job
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Dafni, Evangelia G.
Βροτὀς, a favourite word used by Homer, appears exclusively in the Septuagint version of Job to express the beauty of the whole man, as an excellent creature of God, who is transient but strives to achieve eternity. He is vulnerable but wants to reach perfection, is mortal and longs for immortality. This equivalent enables us to decode translation processes in the LXX-Job and to uncover hermeneutical principles and characteristics of its theological and anthropological language and thought.
Pneumatologiese benadering tot die teologie
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Brand, S.J.P.
This article investigates the relationship between the subjective experiential side of faith and the objective rational side thereof. The two Theologians, Karl Rahner and John Calvin both propose, from different perspectives, a unity between rationality and experience. A Pneumatological approach emphasizes a theology of accountability and responsibility (teologie van verantwoording). This theology acknowledges the importance of man’s experience and man's search for purpose and meaning. Furthermore, from a Scriptural point of view, God places man in various relational contexts. God expects responsibility/accountability towards Him, towards one's fellow man and the whole of creation. Man's response is initiated in prayer guided by the Holy Spirit. In fulfilment of his/her personal responsibility/accountability a sense of meaning and purpose is achieved.
Psalms 69:33-34 in the light of the poor in the Psalter as a whole
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Groenewald, Alphonso, 1969-
The Psalter has very often been regarded as the prayer book of the poor. In the Psalms God is portrayed as the saviour of the poor, their hope, their stronghold and liberator - whether these are prayers of an individual or prayers of the community. The high concentration of the term(s) for the "poor" in the Psalter, in relation to the rest of the books of the Old Testament (OT), indeed indicates a profound affinity for the "poor" in the Psalter, which is an indication that the Psalter underwent a redaction of the "theology of the poor". In this article the focus will be on Psalm 69, as it seems to have undergone a "redaction of the poor". The main focus will be on the verses 33 and 34, as they, specifically, contain terminology of the "poor". Special attention will also be given to the different terms used for the poor in this text.
Natality. A theological approach to an anthropological basic concept in the context of bioethics
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2007) Kortner, Ulrich H.J.
In the controversy about the introduction of new biotechnological and medical technologies, their judicial regulation and political control, not only so-called moral values are discussed but ultimately also religious credos. By the example of natality it will be shown what theology can contribute to the clarification of basic categories of anthropology, which are crucial for medical ethics. The term "natality" ("Geburtlichkeit") derives from the philosopher Hannah Arendt. In terms of the human finiteness, attention is usually turned to the mortality of the human being. Yet what does it mean for human existence that we are born? What role does this factor play with regard to concrete problems in medical ethics, and which perspectives can theology contribute in terms of their solution?

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