Abstract:
The meditation Sinner and beggar of Noordmans is used as a heuristic instrument to conduct a critical theological inquiry into the relationship between standard of living and the forgiveness of sins in the Reformed tradition. According to Noordmans the beggar (Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31) unlike the sinner (the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14) repents not only in a brief moment, but testifies with the totality of his existence to his heavenly inheritance. The intimate relation between physical suffering and salvation that Noordmans deducts from the parables, is compared with the parable interpretations of a few selected commentators. The content of his meditation is analysed against the background of his theological thought in general. Noordmans’s critique on the views of Pierson and the Heidelberg Catechism, Sunday 10, on Providence is placed in perspective by Calvin’s general guidelines on the correct use of earthly comforts. The connection between Calvin and contemporary society is brought about by examining exponents of neo-Calvinism (Kuyper) and Liberation theology (Gutiérrez). The perspectives on the relation between standard of living and the forgiveness of sins of Heyns, Bosch and Mofokeng are investigated to verge upon the Southern African situation. The particular angles of interlocutors on creation, eternal life and responsibility with regard to the relationship between standard of living and forgiveness of sins are systematically scrutinized. From this analysis a B&S-SCHEME (beggar-and-sinner-scheme) evolves – an aid to a more nuanced reflection on theological propositions concerning the relationship between standard of living and the forgiveness of sins.
