HTS Volume 58, Number 3 (2002)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/11833

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Luke’s parables and the purpose of Luke’s Gospel
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Reinstorf, Dieter Heinrich
Do the parables of Luke hold the key to an understanding of the overall purpose of Luke’s Gospel? This question is pursued by Greg W Forbes (2000) in a book entitled The God of Old: The role of the Lukan parables in the purpose of Luke’s Gospel. Although the Lukan parables address a variety of subjects of a diverse nature, there is one unifying factor that runs like a golden thread through all the parables: a new vision of God. This vision seems new in-so-far as it presents a challenge to conventional Israelite perceptions regarding God at the time when the parables were written, but in fact, it is not new at all. It is a vision of the God of Old as witnessed in the Hebrew Scriptures. This article presents an overview of Forbes’ book.
Applied philosophy and psychotherapy : Heraclitus as case study
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Beukes, C.J. (Cornelius Johannes)
This article investigates a recent attempt to apply philosophy within the discipline of psychotherapy and to investigate the somewhat undefined realm of philosophical counselling. After introducing the claims of this interdisciplinary exercise and after addressing the problems involved in crossing the boundaries between philosophy and psychotherapy, the article elaborates on Alex Howard’s (2000) [Philosophy for counselling and psychotherapy: Pythagoras to post-modernism. London: Macmillan] attempt to make explicit use of philosophy in psychotherapy, using his interpretation and application of Heraclitus’ philosophy as case study.
The metaphysical mind in its physical environment : religious implications of neuroscience
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Du Toit, Cornel W. (Cornelius Willem), 1953-
This article introduces ideas originating from different sciences of mind and the challenge they present to religion. In spite of overcoming the mind-body dualism, it seems that the mind-brain dualism still prevails. The mind-brain relation is discussed in the light of some models. Special attention is given to supervenient theories of mind. In light of this information the article investigates how the impact of these theories on religious experience. D’Aquili and Newberg’s explanation of extraordinary religious experience is discussed. It is concluded that the phenomenon of religion and religious experience are more than mere brain functions. The place of religion and the continued importance of religion and religious experience are confirmed.
Dekonstruksie van tradisionele probleem-realiteite : ’n narratief-pastorale perspektief
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) De Jager, J.J. (Jakobus Johannes); Muller, Julian C.
This article serves as an introduction to qualitative narrative research from a postmodern epistemological perspective. The research is directed at four pastoral-therapeutic processes and the stories told as part of those processes. Special focus is placed on the construction and deconstruction of problems in the fields of action: authority; typification; institutionalization. Perspectives regarding narrative, social constructionism, deconstruction and post-modern theology, are explained. The article positions itself in the practical research-processes.
Vanaf laat-strukturalisme na post-strukturalisme : ’n kontekstualisering van Jean-François Lyotard se Discours, Figure
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Beukes, Johann; Beukes, C.J. (Cornelius Johannes)
In this article the post-structuralist legacy of French philosopher Jean-François Lyotard (1924-1998) is being surveyed with specific regard to his first major publication, Discours, Figure (1971). The initial impact of this text on the post-structuralist debate is being explored, as well as the way in which it brought Lyotard in direct confrontation with Jacques Derrida, the then mainstream representative of (late) structuralism, with specific regard to Lyotard’s battle against the “imperialism of the text” and his own critical departure from phenomenology.
Karl Barth and the future of dogmatic theology
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Heron, Alasdair I.C.
The article discusses Karl Barth’s contribution to dogmatic theology. It describes Karl Barth’s personality and shows how his theology was put to practice in writing, in teaching, in debate, in conflict, in friendship and in opposition. Some negative comments on Barth are for example levelled at his liturgical insensitivity, unbalanced and exclusive emphasis on preaching, and his individualistic dislike of the established church, its governing structures and baptismal practice. The article focuses on Barth’s impulses for the discipline of dogmatics and demonstrates developments and directions in his work. Critically reservations regarding instances where it might seem better for theologians not to follow Barth, are specified. The article also offers a glimpse into the future of dogmatic theology seen through the lens of Karl Barth.
Wat verbeeldt de christelijke gemeente zich als ze zegt dat God haar aanspreekt?
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Den Dulk, Maarten; Dulk, M. den (Maarten), 1941-
In the reading and preaching of Scriptures people speak to one another about God. These actions are surrounded by words, gestures and rituals directed to God. However, the congregation also claims that God is addressing her. Hence, this article poses the question: In what manner does the congregation imagine God to be addressing her? Which images and parables are used for this purpose? In dealing with this question the article focuses on the words in Numbers 7:89 relating how Moses heard a voice coming from the space between the two cherubim standing on the atonement cover on the ark of the Testimony. This verse offers an indication of how believers can presume God to be speaking in liturgical space.
Geloofskommunikasie in ’n pluriforme wêreld
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Dreyer, T.F.J. (Theunis Frederik Jacobus), 1946-; Venter, P.M. (Pieter Michiel), 1947-; Dreyer, Yolanda
The pluriformity of the postmodern world presents the church with challenges on different levels. The theological discourse can be based on the pluriformity inherent to biblical material, as well as on the dynamic dialectic of the great variety of theologies in the Bible. The principle of symmetrical communication serves as an example of how pastoral care to a postmodern society can be approached. By making use of narrative communication, pastors facilitate genuine intersubjectivity. Preachers adhere to the principle of symmetrical communication when their sermons are characterized by an authentic spirituality and spiritual growth.
Ondersoek na die aanwending van musiek as hulpmiddel in pastorale terapie binne ’n gespreksmodel
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Maritz, J.F.; Dreyer, T.F.J. (Theunis Frederik Jacobus), 1946-
This is part two of an article on the use of music in pastoral therapy. The first part of the article dealt with theoretical issues, while the second part explores the practical possibilities of the counterpoint between music and pastoral therapy. It is argued that the model of conversation could be a possible structure to accommodate this holistic approach. The aim of this exploration is to deal with and help a person in need as a whole, as an integrated being. Pastoral therapy is an opportunity for people to realise their creative possibilities and responsibilities to lead a life of hope and praise before God. The structured use of music could enhance and enrich this opportunity.
Godsdienstige perspektiewe op mens-dier interaksie
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Van Heerden, Magda
The relationship between humans and animals can be influenced by religious belief. Regardless of the diversity of religions, kindness to all of God’s creatures seems to be a central concept. Theologians concerned with animal ethics currently emphasize an ecosystem approach with the focus on reverence for life and restricting harm to and suffering of all forms of life. Today many Christians experience an enriching relationship with animals. Although church leaders played an important role in the history of animal welfare, the human-animal bond is not an issue which receives much attention in the Christian church today. The role of theology in a multidisciplinary approach towards the enhancement of positive human-animal interaction, by means of research, education and congregational ministry is advocated.
Homosexuality : a challenge to African churches
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Masango, Maake J.S.
Globalization has brought numerous challenges to churches. Homosexuality is one of those challenges facing African churches. There has been a growing evidence of rejection, isolation, discrimination and condemnation as sub-human of homosexuals. Some conservative churches have misused Scripture in order to strengthen their case of condemnation. This article seeks to correct the misinterpretation or misuse of Scriptural passages. For example, Sodom and Gomorrah is often referred to as a passage of Scripture to justify condemnation, while this passage actually deals with judgment. Finally, the article challenges churches to use a pastoral approach which should lead to a healing ministering, especially to all of those who are isolated and rejected.
Ondersoek na die siening van wyle professor H P Wolmarans oor kerk en kultuur
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Strauss, L.J. (Lodewyk Johannes); Botha, S.J. (Schalk Jacobus), 1936-
This article endeavors to sketch H P Wolmarans’ view of the interaction between Christian belief and Afrikaner culture in its fullest extent. He was lecturer since 1935 to 1959 and dean (1957-1959) of the Faculty Theology (Division A) at the University of Pretoria. His 1938 article “Die godsdiens in ons kultuurstryd” (“Religion in our cultural struggle”) as published in Die Almanak serves as the point of departure of this review. It is coloured with information about his life and ideas as was obtained from both interviews with family members and former colleagues and articles written by Wolmarans. This article shows that Wolmarans did not practice civil theology. He consistently argued on the basis of Emil Brunner’s dialectical theology that the political life of Afrikaners should be built on principles of Scriptures. He did not use the church or theology to serve secular ambitions.
Ou-Testamentiese perspektief op sinkretisme : die aanbidding van die “God van die voorvaders” as gevallestudie
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Beyers, Jaco
Although the term syncretism does not appear in the Old Testament, syncretism is widely seen as the process resulting from the contact of religions. All forms of cultural and religious contact can however not be identified as syncretism. Some forms of contact between religions are nothing more than the normal way in which religions were formed over the centuries. The way in which the belief in the “God of the forefathers” developed in the Old Testament serves as a case study to indicate how contact between religions can lead to the formation of a legitimate religion.
Dans van die Christen : die genealogie van tyd en ruimte in ’n postmoderne samelewing
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Buitendag, Johan
The point of departure of this article is the thesis that the understanding of reality is based on the concepts of time and space. In order to communicate the quintessence of postmodernism the concepts of time and space need to be deconstructed. After a brief intermezzo with physics, the article emphasises that the perspectival dimension is not fixed but in flux. Dancing, which expresses movement, is an apt metaphor for conveying the multifaceted character of postmodernism. The Genesis 1 account of creation is read from this perspective and inversely, society is looked at from this Biblical viewpoint in terms of the relationships between God, man and nature. The article concludes with an insight from Jean Baudrillard that simulations are not imitations of reality, but a widespread cultural condition and not an “event” restricted to particular technology.
Vrouwenpastoraat : een paradigma-verandering
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Dreyer, Yolanda
This article shows that church and society find themselves somewhere between the modern and postmodern eras. Postmodern thinking is becoming more and more prevalent. In the premodern era society was structured according to a strict hierarchy. In modern times people were placed in the hierarchical system on account of their instrumental value. Those considered to be of more worth dominated those of lesser value. In postmodern thinking hierarchy, dominance and value judgements of people are questioned. The article investigates the consequences of this shift for the disciplines of gender studies and pastoral counseling with women. It indicates how women are still caught up in various power systems and explores ways in which narratives of hope and transformation can assist women in finding healing and new possibilities in the church. The article consists of four sections in which the following are explored: scientific theories regarding pastoral counseling with women; the relationship between these theories and shifting paradigms; the effect of paradigms on pastoral counseling with women; an adequate model for pastoral counseling with women.
Koninkryk van God by Jesus : ’n apokalipties-eskatologiese of eties-eskatologiese begrip?
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Nel, G.C.J. (Gerhardus Cornelius Johannes); Van Aarde, A.G. (Andries G.)
Drawing on the insights of Q research, the purpose of this article is to question the traditionally accepted position that the term “Kingdom of God” in Jesus’ sayings is to be understood in terms of an apocalyptic-eschatological framework. It argues that Jesus used “Kingdom of God” rather in an ethical-eschatological sense. Jesus’ reference to the Kingdom of God is understood as referring to an alternative lifestyle in the here and now of the life of Jesus’ followers. This insight is applied to the present-day situation of the church by describing Jesus’ view of the Kingdom of God as subversive wisdom which challenges many conventional practices.
Historiese en sosiale oorsprong(e) van apokaliptiek
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Nel, Malan; Human, Dirk J.
How and where did apocalyptic literature originate? What is the relation between apocalyptic literature on the one hand, and prophesy and wisdom literature on the other? Should apocalyptic literature be regarded as a deviation from prophetic literature, or is it a linear development thereof? Wherein lies the difference between prophetic and apocalyptic eschatology? In this artcle a literary study is done to find answers to these questions and it is concluded that apocalypticism does not have a single dominant origin, but that its origins lie in a complexity of factors. The researcher can find a description of these factors only in each unique apocalyptic work. Many historical and cultural factors played a role in the origin of apocalyptic works. A single social background cannot be posited for apocalyptic literature either. The worldview expressed by apocalyptic works does not necessarily represent that of marginalized groups as apocalypticism is rather a way of thinking which permeated the entire Jewish community.
Vertaling van o!noma-uitdrukkings in die Nuwe Testament
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Tolmie, D.F. (D. Francois)
In most cases translators translate the o[noma phrases in the New Testament literally. In this article such an approach is questioned, in particular when a translator wishes to translate in such a way that the meaning of the original text is transmitted accurately to the reader. In order to help translators to translate the o[noma phrases in the New Testament in a meaningful way, the possible meaning these phrases may have is categorised as follows: o[noma phrases in which o[noma functions as the (direct) object of an event; o[noma phrases in which a movement towards o[noma can be detected; o[noma phrases that are used instrumentally; o[noma phrases indicating state/status; o[noma phrases that are used to indicate cause. In each case several examples are discussed.
The dietary regulations in Deuteronomy 14 within its literary context
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Venter, P.M. (Pieter Michiel), 1947-
A structural analysis of Deuteronomy 14:1-21 indicates a well planned composition. A comparison with the same set of dietary regulations in Leviticus 11:2-20 indicates a process of literary growth in the Deuteronomy composition. An original list of land animals was extended into a literary unit on dietary regulations. A technique of inclusion was used in different literary layers to form this unit and to include it in the Deuteronomic Code and eventually in the Pentateuch. Different theories on Pentateuchal growth are considered so as to understand the ethical meaning of these dietary regulations within this larger literary framework.
Kerk en teologie in die postmoderne tyd
(Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, 2002) Du Toit, P.W.; Spangenberg, I.J.J. (Izak J.J.)
The postmodern era has wide implications for church and theology. This study is an endeavour to participate in the discourse on these implications. It reflects on what is entailed by postmodernism and how the new era influences church and theology. It also reflects on the interpretation of the Bible, the status of the Reformed confessions and the dialogues in which pastors engage in their congregations.

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