Masters Degrees (Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology)

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Adriaan Moorrees : vorming, opleiding en gemeentelike bediening, 1855-1907
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 1984) Nel, Johann; Brown, E.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematical Theology and Ecclesiology.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar.
Am I my body? : a critical analysis of Elisabeth Moltmann-Wendel's theological anthropology
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-12) Van Zyl, Fralene; Marais, Nadia; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematical Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study’s goal of constructing a meaningful theological language that can speak to the experiences of people, especially women, who face reproductive health issues. The point of departure for this study is to situate the research within the broader field of Theological Anthropology with a specific focus on Body Theology. This departure point asks the question of how ‘body’ was portrayed in classic Theological Anthropology as well as in the work of more contemporary anthropological scholars. Necessary for this departure is also the interrelation between Theological Anthropology and Gender and very importantly how Theological Anthropology relates to Body Theology. Body Theology places the ‘body’ central and emphasises the importance of embodiment over disembodiment. This study moreover offers an in-depth discussion on the theological work of Elisabeth Moltmann-Wendel, how her work fits into the field of Theological Anthropology and how she portrays the body in the anthropological tension of ‘having’ and ‘being’ a body. For Moltmann-Wendel the body plays a crucial role in the life and ministry of Jesus. She therefore argues for a Theology of Embodiment in her book, ‘I am My Body’. This book forms an important part of this study. A critical analysis of ‘I am My Body’ will be integral in asking the question if the work of Moltmann-Wendel can contribute to life-giving, affirming and liberative theological language that can be utilised in discussions surrounding reproductive health.
Being in touch : embodying Christian hospitality in an urban context
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015-03-01) Swanepoel, Lyndsay Rudloph; Vosloo, Robert; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study argues that an adequate Christian theology of hospitality understands hospitality as an embodied practice that seeks in proximity and vulnerability, and often from the margins, to welcome the stranger in his or her strangeness. Hence reductive notions that domesticate or romanticize hospitality should be challenged as part of the search for a theological account that takes embodiment seriously. This theology is not undertaken from a position of aloof power but is cruciform, shaped by the cross. It is proposed that welcoming the stranger in oneself enables bodies to welcome other strangers. Notions of normality are challenged, arguing that all bodies who seek safety in Christian communities should be welcomed, albeit that hospitality is not to be separated from processes of discernment. The main argument is built around the hypothesis that an adequate understanding of Christian hospitality in an urban (congregational) context centres around the notions of marginality, proximity and vulnerability.
Beyers Naudé : advocate of hope? : a historical theological reading of his public addresses
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013-03) Van der Riet, Ryno Louis; Vosloo, Robert; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Beyers Naudé has long been revered as one of South Africa‘s most influential church and civil leaders. He has been acclaimed both nationally and internationally as a symbol of hope. Recent developments at Stellenbosch University, with regards to the HOPE Project and the Beyers Naudé Centre for Public Theology, have given rise to renewed academic interest into the life and witness of Beyers Naudé, and specifically the concept of hope. The focus of this study is the contribution of Beyers Naudé to Christians‘ advocacy of hope in public life. A theological historical reading of his public speeches from 1960 to 1990 is conducted in an analysis of his advocacy of hope. A heuristic framework is used in order to investigate the nature and method in which Beyers Naudé employed the concept of hope in his public addresses. This framework is constucted by drawing on the concepts of hope, public theology and historiography, resulting in what I have termed a 'historically hopeful citizenship‘. A chapter is dedicated to a biographical overview of Naudé‘s life and witness in order to understand the influences in his life and to work with hermeneutical sensibility in analysing his addresses. Furthermore, this study is concerned with exploring the possible contours of hope in Naudé‘s addresses and finally asking whether an understanding of the nature and use of these notions of hope could contribute historical and conceptual knowledge about the church‘s public witness and whether this can have implications for the field of public theology.
Beyond handouts : a gendered analysis of faith-based organization’s response to homelessness
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-03 ) Mbaya, Brandina; Bowers-Du Toit, Nadine; Claassens, L. Juliana M.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Practical Theology and Missiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Homelessness is a complex issue, caused by interlocking socio-economic factors and Faith Based Organisations (FBO’s) are one of the sectors at the forefront in addressing this issue at grassroots level. Causes of homelessness include poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, immigration, urbanisation, and abuse. Although, homelessness can be experienced by anyone if a crisis occurs in one’s life, homeless women face critical and gendered issues as they are vulnerable and become an easy target on the streets. Such issues include challenges of reproductive health issues, lack of antenatal care, sanitary essentials and often physical, sexual, emotional and substance abuse in addition to challenges faced by the homeless population in general. Women also are rejected by families when gender identities are revealed. It is also important to note that women are an increasing population within the homeless community. Women issues lack representation in literature, particularly homeless women. This study, therefore, seeks to highlight the plight of homeless women, and additionally seeks to engage this issue theologically from a Womanist lens. The story of Hagar found in Genesis is analysed using womanist theology to expose how intersecting issues such as class, gender and race perpetuate homelessness. Finally, the study employs a qualitative approach using critical discourse analysis to analyse three FBOs in Cape Town to ascertain whether they engage a gender sensitive lens in their work with the homeless population and whether they address the issues of homeless women within the work of their organisations. This analysed their websites, reports, programmes, partnerships, and testimonials. The findings of the study indicate that while, the organisations (FBOs) cater to the basic human needs of street homeless population, there is a lack of consistency and attention given to gender issues, specifically issues faced by women. Recommendations are also, therefore, made in this regard.
Christian faith and justice? : a theological investigation into Nicholas Wolterstorff's perspectives on justice
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013-03) Myburgh, Daniella; Koopman, Nico; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: As backdrop and context for this study, injustices present in South Africa are briefly discussed, as well as the impact of such injustices on the people of the country. The focus then turns to the work of Nicholas Wolterstorff in order to see what type of light Wolterstorff’s perspectives on justice can shed on the quest for justice in contemporary societies, and what type of role the Christian faith can play within such justice discourses. An attempt is made to address this question by describing Wolterstorff's central ideas and perspectives on justice as clearly as possible. This is not an exhaustive critique on his thought and therefore it focuses mainly on understanding Wolterstorff’s own literature regarding justice. His approach to justice can be seen as a theological challenge that incorporates both history and philosophy. Wolterstorff’s central notions will become the focus throughout the second and third chapters. This includes his thorough theological account for the conception of justice as inherent rights as oppose to a right order. It also includes Wolterstorff’s examination of Biblical and theological perspectives on justice to support and strengthen his own account. Human worth is found to be the crucial grounding for his account of justice as inherent rights, and thus human dignity is also brought into the picture. Furthermore, the interrelatedness of love and justice is central to his thinking and will be explored thoroughly, especially as he addresses other notions in which love and justice oppose one another. Finally, the focus will turn to how Wolterstorff brings a component of care into his understanding of love and justice and how every person is called to care for the other. In the last chapter, chapter 4, the focus will turn to how all this ultimately then contributes to the questions raised, in other words how the key elements of Wolterstorff’s work can be understood, as well as the role of Christian faith within Wolterstorff’s understanding of justice, which includes the importance of justice discourse, how discourse leads to action, and ultimately loving one’s neighbour with love as care.
A church for others? Queering the ecclesiology of Dietrich Bonhoeffer
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-04) Ashwin, Thyssen; Robert, Vosloo; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematical Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This thesis is a study of the ecclesiology of Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906‒1945). It employs the insights of queer theology and queer theory as a hermeneutical lens. Presently, Bonhoeffer’s theology is interpreted in light of contemporary issues; however, not much research has been produced linking his thought with queer theology. This thesis, then, contributes to this discourse focus; that is, it asserts to present queer theology as helpful hermeneutic within the theological mainstream in a transgressive manner. As such, this study queers the theology of Bonhoeffer; unearthing themes that may be dismissed by the present discourse. Queering the ecclesiology of Bonhoeffer, this thesis is divided into five chapters. Chapter one presents the logic of the study. It discusses the background; it articulates the problem statement; it presents the research questions and the hypothesis. The methodology the study employs is literary, interpretive and constructive. Therefore, it offers a close reading of primary texts by utilising queer theory and queer theology as a hermeneutical lens. The chapter does so by noting the importance of ‘reading from the underside.’ Chapter two provides an overview of both queer theory and queer theology as academic disciplines. Queer theory is argued to be discursive opposition to pervasive heteronormative epistemologies. By highlighting the critical contributions of Michel Foucault, Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick and Judith Butler, the chapter presents queer theory as discursively helpful. Following this, attention is afforded to queer theology; understood to be religious reflection on the experiences of those who are LGBTI+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and sexual minorities). Moreover, queer theology is conceptualised as radical love; which destabilises traditional forms of theologising. The insights of Marcella Althaus-Reid, Gerard Loughlin and Elizabeth Stuart are quite helpful by articulating the need for considering queer theology as a valuable hermeneutic. In chapter three Bonhoeffer’s Sanctorum Communio and Life Together are discussed as primary texts informed by a queer theological reading. Using a queer theological hermeneutic, the chapter explores questions that are present in these works that may be worth considering for our contemporary ecclesiological conceptions, as they concern those who are LGBTI+. Chapter four explores the reception of Bonhoeffer’s theology by South Africa’s theological community. The influence of Bonhoeffer is discussed in two sections: first, his ecumenically diverse and intergenerational reception from the 1960s until the present; second, the realisation of his othered ecclesiology in South African social and religious life, paying attention to the developments in the Dutch Reformed Church’s sexuality discussions. In chapter five a proposal for ecclesial queering is presented for the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa; by focusing on the discursive possibilities in its discussion of human sexuality. The chapter also reviews the research questions presented; it also offers recommendations for future research regarding Bonhoeffer studies and queer theology.
A church historical enquiry regarding growth of membership in the church of Central Africa, Presbyterian - Harare Synod (1912 – 2012)
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013-03) Gunde, Samuel; Vosloo, Robert; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This thesis has its title: ‘A Church Historical Enquiry Regarding Growth of Membership in the Church of Central Africa, Presbyterian-Harare Synod (1912-2012). As the denomination celebrated hundred years of existence in Zimbabwe in June 2012, this thesis focuses on the aspect of the growth of membership in the church in question. In order to study this growth of membership in the named denomination, one should take note of the fact that the Church of Central Africa, Presbyterian-Harare Synod is in many ways the resultant of migrant labour in Malawi, Mozambique and North- Eastern Zambia to the mining industries and farms in Zimbabwe. One should also put into consideration the fact that the C.C.A.P in Malawi originated from the Free Church of Scotland as well as the Established Church of Scotland through Dr David Livingstone in 1875. In order to understand this growth of membership, the thesis also attends to the leadership of the Church of Central Africa, Presbyterian-Harare Synod. This leadership includes the pioneer missionaries, ministers and evangelists. Also linked to the growth of membership in the C.C.A.P-Harare Synod is the development of congregations. This study therefore, explores on the establishment of congregations in chronological order. In this thesis the term “membership” is used mostly in its more official sense. It involves the full communicant members as clearly stipulated on Article 6 of the Constitution of C.C.A.P-Harare Synod as well as those receiving instructions in the catechumen class (the confirmed members).The Women’s Fellowship and the Men’s Fellowship as well as the Youth Groups are also involved in this membership. The research reveals various factors affecting the growth of membership in this denomination. The Synod identified the following as possible factors: -Retrenchments, -Deaths, -Unreliable Statistics, -Lack of Revival Meetings and -Lack of Vision by the Synod. In addition to these, the researcher included the Synod’s confinement to towns, mines and farms; the language barrier and inter-racial marriages and the socio-economic hardships as contributing factors affecting the growth of membership. In conclusion, the research reveals that the membership is neither growing drastically nor dwindling but is more or less stable, leading to the questions regarding the lack thereof. As a result, the following suggestions are put forward to help improve the growth of membership in --the Church of Central Africa, Presbyterian-Harare Synod: -The use of Shona and Ndebele alongside Chewa in the Church, -The Resumption of the much needed Evangelists Training Programmes, -Proper Statistics by Congregations and -Intensification of Evangelism Programmes.
A church historical judicial assessment of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe engagement with demon possession and exorcism
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2016-11-21) Juro, Charles; Plaatjies van Huffel, Mary-Anne; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) was constituted in a context where the converts to Christianity believed that the diviners are the only people who have the authority to control the powers that destabilize the normal order. The focal point of this thesis is A Church historical judicial assessment of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe’s engagement with demon possession and exorcism. Chapter two attends to the biblical perspectives regarding demon possession and exorcism. Amongst others the origin of the devil, demon possession and exorcism in the Old Testament, Intertestamental period as well as the New Testament is being addressed in this chapter. Chapter three highlights the African Traditional view on demon possession/spirit possession and exorcism. The chapter identifies causes for the sudden disappearances of the practice of exorcism rites amongst the Shona people belonging to the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe and. focuses therefor on an African view of demon possession, unexpected or involuntary possession, expected or voluntary possession, communal and Shamanism possession, as well as the practice of demon possession in Zimbabwe and the challenges it poses to the Christian believers in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe. Chapter 4 deals with the historical background of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe. The Dutch Reformed missionaries in Zimbabwe encountered numerous challenges regarding the Shona people’s view on the subject of demon possession/spirit possession and exorcism. The chapter analyses the perspective of the Dutch Reformed Missionaries who evangelized Masvingo province on demon possession/spirit possession and exorcism. The missionaries equated demon possession/spirit possession and exorcism with heathenism. In Chapter 5 attention is given to a church judicial assessment of the church order regulations in place in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe concerning demon possession or exorcism. The influence of the missionaries of the Dutch Reformed Church on the current provisions in the church order of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe should not be underestimated. These church judicial provisions, build in by the missionaries in the church order of the Shona Reformed Church and the later Reformed Church in Zimbabwe, curbs any influence of the Shona culture in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe. In Chapter 6 the researcher proposes that the Church Order of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe as well as theological training and ministry of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe should make provision, taking the rich Shona cultural background in to account, for a ministry of exorcism; a liturgy on exorcism as well as theological dialogue in order to address the problem of exorcism in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe.
A church judicial analysis of the office of the deacon in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2016-03-01) Baloyi, Ezekiel; Plaatjies van Huffel, M. A.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This research study analyses the office of the deacon in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ). This is done by taking the Scriptural and Reformed church polity understanding of the office of a deacon into account. Chapter 1 deals with the research background of the study. This chapter serves as the general introduction to the main thrust and objectives of the research. The main aim of this study is to analyze the function of the office of the deacon in the RCZ in the light of Scriptural and Reformed church polity understanding of the office of a deacon. Chapter 2 deals with the office of deacon in the RCZ. Firstly, this chapter describes the social, economic, cultural and political setting of Zimbabwe. Secondly, it attends to the historical background of the RCZ and lastly, attention is given to the development of the offices in the church, predominantly the office of the deacon. Chapter 3 deals with the Scriptural basis for the office of the deacon. Chapter 4 provides a church judicial reflection of the office of deacon. Different views of Church polity experts will be dealt with. Attention will be given to articles regarding the office of the deacon in the church orders of the Reformed Churches in America, Christian Reformed Church in Canada, Protestant Church in the Netherlands, the Presbyterian Church of the United States of America and the Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa. Chapter 5 deals with the recommendations proposed to the RCZ regarding the office of the deacon in order to ensure that the RCZ will adhere to a Scriptural and Reformed church polity understanding of the office of the deacon.
Church land reform through a combination of examples and Theology of Spatial justice : the Roman Catholic Church in the Diocese of Mariannhill 1999 - the present
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-04) Mlambo, Ntandoyenkosi Nomkhosi Nokuphiwa; Muller, Retief; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematical Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Land was one of the ways the colonialist venture as well as the Apartheid regime used to divide people as well as being a catalyst for superiority. Over hundreds of years, from the beginning of colonial rule until the end of Apartheid in 1994, the indigenous people of South Africa were dispossessed from the land. With the end of the Truth and Reconciliation proceedings, it was clear from suggested actions that there should be restitution in South Africa to begin to correct the spatial and resultant economic imbalances in SA. Churches in South Africa embarked on setting declarations on land reform within their own walls and ecumenically. However, little information is available on final reform measures churches have taken after several ecumenical meetings in the 1990s. Additionally, there is little development in South African theology circles on a theology of land justice and a praxis on land justice for churches has not been openly developed or discussed post-1994. This study aims to look at the history of the land issue in South Africa, particularly from 1948-1994, and will include the history of land ownership in the Roman Catholic tradition. In addition, it will look at examples of land reform in the Roman Catholic Church from 1999 until the present in the Diocese of Mariannhill. Furthermore, I will consider the emerging praxis of spatial justice (based on a hermeneutic view taken from black liberation and contextual theology). Finally, I will look at how these examples and new praxis can develop the ecumenical church's quest for a prophetic voice and actions in land reform in South Africa.
Corporate governance? : an ethical evaluation of the Second King report in the light of Peter Ulrich's integrative economic ethics
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2004-04) Höver, K. Hendrik W.; Smit, D. J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology & Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This assignment is an ethical evaluation of the Second King Report on Corporate Governance. I focus on the relationships between the shareowners, the management and all stakeholders other than shareowners. The instrument used to assess the report is the concept of Integrative Economic Ethics shaped by Peter Ulrich. The Second King Report argues that a company should meet besides its economic needs as well as social and environmental objectives. Therefore, the company has to take responsibility for creating 'sustainable' value in all these three areas. Stakeholders have to be approached inclusively and pro-actively. These are new primary business imperatives due to the increasing social power of companies. However, the report is based upon a one dimensional approach in which the economic bottom line is decisive, and social and environmental interests are only considered if they serve the sustainability of business success. Likewise the inclusive stakeholder approach is a shortcoming, because stakeholder interests are not regarded as legitimate claims within a moral discourse in which all those citizens partake that are affected or involved by the company's activities. Not legitimacy but the stakeholders' relevance for the 'shareowner value' is the determining argument. Conflicting moral claims are not solved by good reasons, but are decided on a priori in favour of the company's overriding goal, which is to make profit. Profit orientation of a company, however, is not an empirical 'fact' but a normative choice, which is for or against specific interest groups and as such has to be legitimised in a moral discourse. Since the report does not subordinate profit orientation under the primacy of ethics, its whole corporate ethical concept is shaped by 'functionalism' even to the extent, that 'ethics' itself is viewed as an economic 'factor'. Yet, this contradicts the controversial and un-objective nature of ethics. In conclusion the report's entire argument is based upon pure strategic economic grounds and, thus, cannot be considered as ethical at all. Shifting the social and environmental corporate responsibility to the market system is based upon unfounded belief in the 'metaphysics of the market'. This, however, does not lie in the enlightened self-interest of a corporate citizen, as the market is merely ruled by power and counter-power - which is only beneficial for those specific societal groups with the sufficient monetary power to stay competitive. On the contrary, the equality of all citizens in a deliberative democracy must be safeguarded. The liberal idea of a just and well-ordered society implies the understanding of the company as a corporate citizen. As such its corporate ethics has to entail not only securing a company's integrity through business principles, but also a socio-political co-responsibility which obliges the company to shape the framework of market competition to enable life-conducive value creation. The general public of free and mature citizens is the locus where all claims, including corporate ones, have to be morally justified.
Creation and salvation? : a critical analysis of South African ecotheology
(2018-11) Whitcomb, Michael Dean; Marais, Nadia; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The accelerated rate of global climate change has been investigated by many seeking to understand its origins. In 1967 Lynn White Jr. published a short article in Science journal entitled “The Historical Roots of Our Ecological Crisis” wherein he claimed that attitudes of domination towards nature perpetuated and legitimized by Medieval Christianity, in conjunction with the power to destroy the environment provided by the progress of Western science, were to blame for the 20th century ecological crisis. This profoundly affected theology, as a causal link had been drawn between Christianity and the environmental issues in the world. Having led to the development of ecotheology, it can be argued that all work within this field is, in a way, a response to White. Thus, this project orients itself as part of that response, as it investigates the relationship between two doctrinal loci that have been affected by White’s accusation, namely creation and salvation. This discussion is carried out by means of a critical rhetorical analysis of the interaction between these loci in the work of three theologians. As the scope for this discussion, these theologians, Ernst Conradie, Klaus Nürnberger, and Jaap Durand all write from within a South African context, and all work within the discipline of systematic theology. Each has a distinct approach to how they make sense of the complex relationship between salvation and creation, and this inner logic is explored by focusing on select publications that highlight each theologian’s theological methodology. Comparisons and contrasts are drawn between the three as the discussion asks what the implications of each is for ecotheology in developing a relevant and practical theological response to the pressures of the climate crisis and the underlying accusation by White. Furthermore, this project asks what these three perspectives on salvation and creation mean for ecotheology in a South African context.
Deliverance in Ghanaian neo-pentecostal ministries : a critical assessment from an evangelical perspective
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2004-12) Ampong, Ebenezer Adu; Smit, D. J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology & Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The worldwide phenomenal growth of Pentecostalism is a well-acknowledged fact, which no one can deny. Research shows that much of the growth is in the neo- Pentecostal or charismatic wing of the movement. Ghana is not left out of this. One phenomenon that has become so pronounced in the charismatic movement in Ghana is the practice of the so-called "deliverance". This phenomenon purports to let Christians attain to the abundance of life that Christ offers as part of God's salvation package to humankind. Most of the deliverance ministries, to a large extent, attribute situations such as sicknesses, poverty, late marriage, denial of visa to travel abroad and even some natural disasters among others to supernatural causes. These supernatural causes, which are said to hinder Christians from achieving the abundance of life, are mainly identified as demonic contamination, demonic influence, demon-possession, witchcraft or ancestral curses. The prescribed antidote to these is to be taken through deliverance by a special person of God. Due mainly to a very bad economic situation which has made many Ghanaians live below the poverty line; it makes it very difficult for many people to afford the cost of western medical care. Many Ghanaians are also daily looking for avenues to go and better their lot in other countries. The traditional Ghanaian like many Africans has a worldview, which believes in a supernatural dimension to every physical occurrence including difficulties in the acquisition of visa to travel abroad. The emergence of the deliverance ministries has therefore provided a legitimate haven to which people who would otherwise have gone to the traditional shrines to seek solutions to their problems can now go. The challenge that this phenomenon poses to evangelical Christianity is highlighted in this research. A critical assessment of the phenomenon as it pertains in Ghanaian Christianity has been done from the perspective of a specific definition of evangelicalism. Much as the fact cannot be denied that some of the deliverance ministries are meeting real felt needs of people in biblically unquestionable ways, there are obviously, some who are for various reasons employing anti-Christian and superstitious principles. The purpose of this research therefore, is to inform evangelical Christians on what the whole phenomenon is about in the light of Scripture so that practices that are not in line with the whole truth of the word of God can be avoided. On the other hand, evangelical Christian ministers can find ways of inculcating some of the useful practices of the phenomenon into their ministry for the benefit of their congregations and all people who might need such assistance. This is very necessary because the people from these congregations are patronizing the services of the deliverance ministries anyway.
Die Didache, of, Die onderwysing van die Twaalf Apostels : in Afrikaans vertaal uit die hersiene Griekse teks van J.B. Lightfoot met kantaantekeninge en 'n kerkhistoriese verkenning van die belang en problematiek
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 1976-06) Pretorius, Nicolaas Francois; Brown, E.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Department of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Geen opsomming beskikbaar.
The disabled God? : a citical analysis of disability theologies
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-04) Stanley, John M.; Marais, Nadia; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The subject of discourse and in question in this thesis is “the disabled God”: What does the image of the disabled God consist of and portray? Issues surrounding disability within the Christian church have been intensely debated of late. Hence, a critical study of the image of the disabled God is needed. Understanding the image of the disabled God may allow people to experience liberation, since the issue of disability seems to subject many disabled persons to a critical levels of marginalisation, segregation, and oppression. Chapter 1 contains the general introduction to the thesis and provides a brief introduction to the subject of discourse. It introduces certain concepts concerning the creation of human beings in the image and likeness of God, and a challenge to the church to ask herself what the image of God is like. It asks whether the church is influenced and follows the dictates of cultural myths and the societal norms within which human beings live. In addition, it asks why those with disabilities are considered not fit for society. Charismatic preachers and motivational teachers often preach messages that are demeaning to vulnerable persons with disabilities, claiming that persons with disability are hindered from experiencing healing because they could either not activate their faith or probably have sin in their lives. These messages are not too far from cultural myths and the societal norms which have crept into the church with messages that portray God as omnipotent, omniscience and omnipresent only, thereby contaminating a sound biblical hermeneutic which also portrays God as vulnerable, weak and disabled, a God who became vulnerable and disabled through Jesus Christ. To portray God as only powerful and perfect, is a subjection and undermining of who God is. God is the creator of all human beings in His own image and likeness, and therefore this is a call to preachers to return to a responsible biblical hermeneutic of Scripture and accurately teach and preach what the image of God consists of and portrays. Chapter 2 is a critical analysis of the image of the disabled God. Nancy Eiesland points to Jesus Christ bearing the wounds of the crucifixion even after His resurrection in His glorified body. She claims that Christ appearing with the pierced hands, feet and side, is the creation of a new humanity, which provides access for those who have been side-lined through marginaliszation and segregation. According to her Christ identified with the vulnerable and disabled when He revealed Himself to His disciples and asked them to touch His hands with wounds. This signifies solidarity with those who have disabilities and the abolition of the physical avoidance of persons with disabilities. This is a call and a challenge to the church and to society to create access for persons with disabilities so that they can be integrated into the church and society at large. Chapter 3 contains a critical analysis of the vulnerable God by Thomas Reynolds, who portrays the disabled God as vulnerable. He emphasises that for Jesus Christ to come into our world, He needed to be vulnerable, portraying Jesus as the icon of God’s vulnerable love. Reynolds does not stop at physical disability; he also considers mental disability. He asserts that all human beings are disabled, claiming that as people get older, and everyone’s disability is revealed. Therefore, he challenges medical and societal models that want to fix persons with disabilities before they can be considered “fit for use”. In this regard, he refers to the “cult of normalcy”. Reynolds claims that every human is a gift in their capacity to the other. Therefore, there is the need to open up and welcome the other. Reynolds emphasises that the image of God characterises creativity, availability, and relationality, and this image surpasses what our culture, society and even church focus on. Chapter 4 provides a critical analysis of the narrative of Shane Clifton’s life experience of profound disability due to an accident, which resulted in spinal cord injury (SCI) and left him with (mostly) no sensation from his neck downward. He was frustrated with his new life of disability even though he did not wish for death as a better option, so he embarked on a search for happiness with his condition of SCI. He had to devise a means by which he could experience happiness with SCI. Clifton declares that whether a person flourishes does not depend on a state of perfect health and on having an able body. Therefore, he turned to virtue ethics, knowing that he is created in the image of God, and knowing that God can help him to live his life with a profound disability and yet flourish. Chapter 5 draws some conclusions, provides summaries of the preceding chapters and proposes two models regarding disability and human flourishing, namely (i) reconciliation of disability with human flourishing and (ii) reconstruction of disability and human flourishing. The image of the disabled God remains a challenge to the church, charismatic preachers and motivational speakers. Overcoming this challenge requires a deliberate return to a responsible biblical hermeneutic teaching of the Word of God, through which the elusive category of the image of the disabled God is made known and through which will be discovered that the image of God is inclusive of all human beings whether abled or disabled. God came not in power to vanquish, but in weakness to help human beings in their profound state of weakness and need.
Eccentric existence? Engaging David H. Kelsey’s theological anthropology as a basis for ecological theology
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2011-12) Marais, Nadia; Smit, D. J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The earth and her ecology is in crisis, which impacts upon both human and nonhuman communities. Not only due to the blame for ecological destruction that is attributed to humanity (and specifically also to the Christian religion), but also because of the destruction of species, environments and the natural habitat of living beings theology is asked of to step into its public and prophetic role in order to address the challenges in whichever way it can. David Kelsey’s enormous theological anthropology, Eccentric Existence (2009), probably provides opportunities for this, through its theological inquiry and (re)formulation of Christian traditions’ central doctrines and faith formulations. Kelsey’s main thesis is that God relates to all that is not God to create, draw into eschatological consummation, and reconcile. God relates to create the earth and her ecology. God relates to the earth and her ecology creatively (‘living on borrowed breath’) which entails that God relates “to” the earth and her ecology through the medium of address. The ultimate context of the earth and her ecology is therefore that of being directly and indirectly addressed by the triune God, through which it responds to its being called into being. The call that Kelsey describes, and therefore God’s creation of the earth and her ecology, is public and communal, involving both the radical freedom of otherness and the intimate nearness of sameness. God relates to bless the earth and her ecology creatively in God’s life-giving address, by enabling it to be alive and to bring forth life. The earth and her ecology, as particular instances or forms of life, is dynamic, persistent and frail. Creaturely reality involves being and having living bodies, through being created as dying life. The earth and her ecology not only lives, but is enabled to flourish, on borrowed breath. In this way, the earth and her ecology exists eccentrically, finding its reality and worth and being and value outside of itself, in God’s relating to bless it creatively. God relates to draw the earth and her ecology into eschatological consummation. God relates by drawing the earth and her ecology into eschatological consummation (‘living on borrowed time’) which stipulates that God relates “between” the earth and her ecology through the medium of promise. The ultimate context of the earth and her ecology is therefore that of being drawn into God’s own triune life and being called to participate in the glory of God. The earth and her ecology is defined by the absolute promise of eschatological blessing and the implicit promise of transformation in the present and in the future, which is God’s reaching out to all that is not God (also described as the missio Dei). The earth and her ecology, as particular instances or forms of life, stands under both God’s election (or ‘yes’) and God’s judgment (or ‘no’). The earth and her ecology not only lives, but is enabled to flourish, on borrowed time. In this way, the earth and her ecology exists eccentrically, finding its reality and worth and being and value outside of itself, in God’s relating to bless it eschatologically. God reconciles the earth and her ecology to Godself. God relates by reconciling the earth and her ecology through their multiple estrangements (‘living by another’s death’) and entails that God relates “amongst” the earth and her ecology through the medium of exchange. The ultimate context of the earth and her ecology is therefore that of being reconciled to God through its multiple estrangements and being drawn into the divine life of God Godself. Incarnation and what Kelsey calls ‘exchange’ – God incarnated in Jesus exchanging Godself with the earth and her ecology amidst processes of violence and destruction to transform their living death into true life – defines the earth and her ecology in this mode of relating. The earth and her ecology is reconciled with herself and with living beings and all of life through their reconciliation by and in God. God’s reconciliation is liberation and transformation of the earth and her ecology within particular times and places, within its particular contexts. The life of the earth and her ecology is therefore no longer tied to the fulfillment of certain functions or duties (or even vocations) that it may be subjected to or expected of, but lies solely in the worth and value that it finds in living and existing by the life and death of another, of God incarnate, of Jesus the Son. The earth and her ecology not only lives, but is enabled to flourish, by another’s death. In this way, the earth and her ecology exists eccentrically, finding its reality and worth and being and value outside of itself, in God’s relating to reconcile it through its multiple estrangements. God stands in relationship to the earth and her ecology in three ways that sustains and blesses it to flourish as mysterious living being that reflects the glory of the triune God. The appropriate response to this, respectively, is eccentric faith, eccentric hope and eccentric love. The earth and her ecology, like all living beings and all of life, exists eccentrically, through God that relates to it.
An ecological theology in the Dutch Reformed Church of South Africa? : a critical theological review
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-11) Hoffmann, Dewald; Forster, Dion Angus; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematical Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The global Earth community finds itself in an unprecedented environmental crisis; a crisis that has been bought on by the actions of its human inhabitants. As humanity has evolved and grown, so has its societies and the way in which it views the world. This rapid growth and progress have however had a devastating impact on the whole Earth community. The power with which humanity enacts violence against the rest of creation has physically altered delicate balances that sustain life, effecting both human and non-human existence. Never has a single species had such an overwhelming effect on the Earth. These habits and practices are deeply embedded in beliefs and worldviews that have objectified the natural world as a recourse to be exploited for human gain. These issues demand theological reflection. Many contributions in Ecotheology have been shared, but one could ask how the environmental crisis has been engaged from within a South African context? The environmental crisis is something that affects all of the Earth community; it not only has an effect on the natural world, but also on the livelihoods of people. It is therefore a concern that is relevant (and essential!) to local congregations. This study will focus on the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) of South Africa and attempts to map the landscape of Ecotheology within the denomination. This is done by examining the theologies and worldviews that have had an impact in shaping the environmental crisis as we have it today. Then by engaging with the complexity of the South African context, the study situates the DRC by understanding environment in a holistic manner. Following this, the study focusses on the impact different metaphors and creative language can have on engaging with the environmental crisis. The environmental crisis is an unparalleled test facing humanity. The human race has to honestly reflect on the scope of its destructive impact and drastically change its ways. Examining a well-established and institutional church in the South African context has the potential to awaken conversation and fresh contributions. Surveying the ecotheological landscape of the DRC can become part of a wider movement in society. The call to adopt alternative practices helps frame the rest of creation as more than just a recourse, but as good and part of God’s great cosmic story.
Emma Murray : an investigation into her person as well as her contributions to mission and education in South Africa - a historical-biographical study
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-04) Pienaar, Pascal; Muller, Retief; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This thesis is written with the goal of providing an overview of Emma Murray’s life as well as the organizations and institutions with which she was involved. This study is being performed as a means to “uncover” the largely ignored figure of the woman who was partner to Andrew Murray, one of the most influential theologians in South African history. In the interest of accomplishing this, an initial chapter is presented which provides the reader with details regarding women’s mission work within South Africa during the mid-to-late-nineteenth century so as to provide a context in which Emma’s life and work may be placed. Following this, the examination of Emma’s influence is begun. This is accomplished by means of the construction of a narrative of Emma’s life, beginning with her youth in the Cape and then moving onwards to the early days of her marriage to Andrew Murray, as well as their time in Bloemfontein. The thesis then examines the couple’s time spent in Worcester, Cape Town and, finally, Wellington. It was during their time in, Wellington that the majority of Emma’s work took place and, thus, the investigation regarding this period goes into great detail. It is within this chapter that the Huguenot Seminary and College, the Vrouensendingbond, the Women’s Temperance Union, as well as the Kinderkrans are inspected and Emma’s influence within them is presented. Following this examination of Emma’s influence within organizations with which she had direct involvement, her other major area of influence is examined: her role as a mother and the impact which her parenting had on her children and the paths which they took in life. This chapter examines Emma’s daughters, and one of her sons, in an attempt to extract the influence which a figure such as Emma would have on other woman, and the work which they would go on to do as a result of this. The final chapter examines all preceding information in the thesis from a critical stand point and addresses some of the major issues which could perhaps be taken up with the research as well as the manner in which it is presented.
Engaging Paul Ricoeur’s work on memory, history, and forgetting : in search of an adequate methodology for church and theological historiography
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2010-12) Van Tonder, Helene; Vosloo, Robert; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Life in the present is never only about the present, but notably also about the past and the future. In this study the problematic of the representation of the past is addressed in search of a responsible historical hermeneutic. It is argued that historical hermeneutics is about the past, the present and the future, and, above all, the relation that exists between them. Historical hermeneutics facilitates our understanding of the past from our position in the present and creates meaningful ways in which we may anticipate the future. In this study I aim to contribute to the development of responsible historical hermeneutic for church and theology, especially in South Africa. To do so, I engage with the magisterial work of the French philosopher Paul Ricoeur, Mémoire, l’histoire, l’oubli who, I believe, proposes valuable signposts for us to reckon with on our way to a responsible historical hermeneutic. A general introduction is given to theological historiography and the development thereof in South Africa, pointing towards reasons why it is important for responsible historical hermeneutics to exist. The work of Paul Ricoeur is introduced as a valuable partner to dialogue with in this respect. A brief intellectual biography is given regarding Ricoeur’s work in order to indicate where and how his last work fits into and forms a part of his life’s work. The third chapter of the study is an outline and discussion of Ricoeur’s work, Memory, History, Forgetting. The discussion follows the order of Ricoeur’s work itself, and I try to indicate the main lines in Ricoeur’s argument, yet giving credit to him for the thorough way in which he deals with the respective themes by engaging the disciplines of philosophy, history, sociology, neurosciences etc. Subsequently I propose certain themes from Ricoeur’s work that is important for the church historian and historical theologian as signposts towards an adequate historiographical methodology.

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