Browsing by Author "Du Plessis, Johann"
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- ItemHuman dignity according to the Gospel of Luke(Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Theology, 2010) Du Plessis, JohannHuman dignity can be studied from two perspectives: a fundamental approach and also that of existential experience of human dignity and indignity. This study addresses both aspects. Taking into account that the first audience of Luke was mixed, but probably included a significant number of ‘haves’, a social analysis is done to discern criteria of worthiness in the Early-Mediterranean world that is addressed by the Lucan narrative. Then follows a literary and semantic analysis of relevant passages from Luke, and finally some conclusions are drawn about Lucan perspectives on human dignity. These are: Jesus as the vantage point for bestowing dignity; dignity is assigned through association; one of the main Lucan viewpoints is that dignity involves powerlessness and vulnerability; and finally that dignity does not exclude suffering.
- ItemModels for missional churches in Acts(Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Theology, 2010) Du Plessis, JohannIn the first part of the article the issue of identity is briefly defined and discussed. Several facets of the church's identity in Luke-Acts are identified as elements of a comparative grid. These are: the relationship with Jesus, inclusiveness, vulnerability vs. power, and movements of the Spirit. In the second and third parts the proposed grid is applied to the missional actions and communities in Luke and Acts respectively. The fourth part deals with a possible shift of paradigms from Luke to Acts and also within Acts itself. The paper closes with a few conclusions and gives indications for further investigation.