Theses

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A Deconstructionist Critique of Christian Transformational Leadership
(South African Theological Seminary, 2009) Scarborough, Thomas Oliver; Atterbury, Vincent E.
Christian Transformational Leadership is a popular leadership model whereby the Christian leader, most simply, seeks to influence (or transform) followers on the basis of his or her character and vision. This mini-thesis uses the deconstructionist method to critique this model. That is, it seeks to highlight “absence” and “difference” in Christian Transformational Leadership texts, to determine whether the model reveals significant omissions, or is “at variance with itself”. First the exegesis in the texts is deconstructed, then the concepts which lie at the heart of the model are deconstructed. This reveals a diminished role for God, and exaggerated human responsibility, which together lead to the expe- rience of extraordinary strain by the Christian transformational leader. Finally, a synthesis is sought between the deconstructionist critique and the “conscious intentions” of the authors. This proposes a more rounded understanding of Christian Transformational Leadership.
Practical Proposals for raising the profile of Children’s Ministry in the Ethiopian Full Gospel Believer’s Church
(South African Theological Seminary, 2010) Abera, Abay; Jabini, Frank
This mini-thesis, titled "Practical Proposals for Raising the Profile of Children's Ministry in the Ethiopian Full Gospel Believer's Church," addresses the critical issue of children's ministry within the Ethiopian Full Gospel Believer’s Church (EFGBC). Submitted in partial fulfillment for the Master of Theology degree at the South African Theological Seminary, this work comprehensively explores identifying and rectifying the deficiencies in spiritual and social nurturing of children within the EFGBC. The research is structured into several key sections: an introduction providing background, significance, research questions, objectives, and methodology; an examination of biblical perspectives on children’s spiritual and social life; a survey assessing the current state of children’s ministry within EFGBC; identification of existing problems based on research findings; and proposed strategies for improvement. Key findings reveal that children in the EFGBC are significantly neglected both spiritually and socially. The study highlights the necessity for a biblically grounded approach to children’s ministry, emphasizing evangelism, teaching, caring, proper discipline, and equipping children for ministry. The proposed strategies include enhanced parental involvement, structured teaching programs, and church-led initiatives aimed at the holistic development of children. The research methodology involved data collection through written interviews with 90 church leaders and members across five zones of Ethiopia. Analysis of this data, supported by relevant graphs and comparisons with biblical teachings, led to practical recommendations aimed at transforming the current state of children's ministry in the EFGBC. The study concludes that for the EFGBC to cultivate a godly generation and future leaders, it must prioritize children’s ministry, adhering to scriptural principles. This transformation requires concerted efforts from both church leadership and the wider believing community to ensure children are adequately evangelized, nurtured, disciplined, and equipped for future ministry. The mini-thesis thus serves as a vital resource for pastors, parents, and church leaders dedicated to the spiritual and social development of children within the Ethiopian Full Gospel Believer’s Church.
De Bijbelse Rol van Oudsten en Diakenen in de Volle Evangelie Gemeente “The Open Door” in Suriname: Een Gevalstudie
(South African Theological Seminary, 2010) Gregor, Ewald F. F.; Jabini, Frank
Dit onderzoek zal de Bijbelse rol van de ambten van diakenen en oudsten binnen de Volle Evangelie Gemeenten, in het bijzonder de Volle Evangelie Gemeente The Open Door, behandelen. Na onderzoek is gebleken dat er binnen de kerken, maar vooral de Volle Evangelie Gemeenten in Suriname, geen duidelijke richtlijnen en ook geen publicaties zijn die handelen over de ambten. Vanwege het feit dat er geen publicaties zijn, zal er gebruik worden gemaakt van interviews, enquêtes en gesprekken. Vanwege de verschillende kerkdenominaties in Suriname, zal er een verscheidenheid van meningen zijn met betrekking tot de rol van deze ambten binnen deze kerken. Elk van de geïnterviewde kerkleiders deelt naast de stand van zaken binnen zijn kerkdenominatie ook zijn eigen ervaring en de verwachte rol van deze ambten binnen de huidige levenssituatie mee. Er zullen ook boeken en andere publicaties die handelen over de ambten besproken worden om zodoende een goede Bijbelse Theologische basis te leggen voor de Bijbelse rol van de ambten binnen de Volle Evangelie Gemeente The Open Door. De nadruk zal ook gelegd worden op de eventuele verschillen in het functioneren van deze ambten. Er zal onderzoek gedaan worden van twee van de pastorale brieven van de apostel Paulus, namelijk 1 Timotheüs 3:1-13 en Titus 1:5-9, om de verantwoordelijkheden van deze ambten duidelijk te zien. Ook zal er gekeken worden naar de kwaliteiten die deze ambtsdragers volgens deze brieven behoren te hebben. Dit onderzoek zal in de opbouw de gangbare indeling van een verslag van Soudijn opvolgen: Soudijn 1991:60. Ook zal er een soort “trechter” methode worden gevolgd naar het voorbeeld van Soudijn (Soudijn 1991:63-65). Deze “trechter” methode zal als volgt worden toegepast. Ik wil eerst de internationale ontwikkelingen bestuderen, daarna die van de Surinaamse kerken in het algemeen, vervolgens die van de Pinkster Gemeenten, en tenslotte zal ik voor de Volle Evangelie Gemeente The Open Door een strategie ontwikkelen.
THE FORMATION OF THE DISCIPLES AS AGENTS OF DIVINE POWER AND REVELATION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE GOSPELS ACCORDING TO MARK AND JOHN
(South African Theological Seminary, 2010-04) Asumang, Annang
With the overall task of explaining Christian origins in mind, this dissertation describes, analyzes and compares how the formation of the disciples of Jesus is depicted by the Gospels of Mark and John. It assumes the Gospel genre to be biographical and defines ―formation as the dialectical processes of interactions between Jesus and the disciples as His agents. A model that is based on the depictions of the divine-human interactions in the OT and literature of Second Temple Judaism is first developed for the analyses. This model is then piloted and fine-tuned in the first chapters of Mark and John in order to set the parameters for the study. With the aid of a narrative-theological method, the discipleship characters in both Gospels are identified, and the purposes of their formation, as well as the processes and events involved in their interactions with Jesus are separately analyzed and then compared to establish a number of hypotheses. These hypotheses are then validated by examining how both Evangelists narrate the feeding of the five thousand and the anointing of Jesus. The dissertation identifies that both Gospels characterize the foundational group of disciples as much wider than those explicitly labelled as ―disciple. This foundational group was multiform, and made up of people of different socio-cultural and religious backgrounds, ethnicities, gender and social classes. In both Gospels, the purpose of their formation was to make them into agents of divine power and revelation. Mark emphasizes their formation as agents of divine power, whereas John complements this by emphasizing their formation as agents of divine revelation. Though the key formational activities, events and processes highlighted by either Evangelist differ; they nevertheless complement each other, and thus a global portrait of the formation of the disciples is attained. In both Gospels, hospitality features as a central formational phenomenon, both literally and metaphorically. While Mark emphasizes hospitality as a discipleship ethic, John underlines it as a Christological phenomenon. Several peculiar emphases in John also complement the Markan feature of the frequent failures of the disciples. The Passion and resurrection of Jesus is established as key to the formation of the disciples, but in a proleptic fashion.
The Existence of a Jewish Remnant as Evidence of God’s Redemption Plan for Israe
(South African Theological Seminary, 2011) Onen Ongeya, Louise Kearsney; Lioy, Dan T.
The purpose of the mini thesis was to present enough biblical evidence to show that God’s plan of redemption for Israel is fulfilled through the elect Jewish remnant. The research followed a thematic approach, making full use of literary scholarship and exegesis. The theme of the remnant was initiated in the Abrahamic Covenant with the promise given to Abraham of both physical and spiritual descendants. It was the concept of spiritual heirs that was the focus of the study. The link was then made between the Abrahamic Covenant and Paul’s teaching in Romans Chapters 1 to 10. Here Paul uses Abraham to emphasize that salvation is a personal matter based on God’s prerogative to elect those who shall come to faith in Christ and has nothing to do with national heredity. An exegesis of Romans 11:26 followed. It was important to try and reconcile Paul’s doctrine of salvation in the previous chapters with the seemingly contradictory statement made here that the whole nation of Israel (literally) shall be saved. The scholarly debate of those who fiercely defend a literal interpretation and not a spiritual one was noted. The context of Romans 11:26 however makes Paul’s message clear. All those who shall be saved constituted the total number of the remnant; individual Jewish believers, saved according to God’s predetermined plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. The thesis statement was substantially proven that the salvation of Israel is fulfilled in the remnant; the connotation of spiritual heirs of Abraham being synonymous with the remnant.
A Biblical Exegesis of Colossians 3:1-3 and Its Significance for Christians in a Postmodern-post Christian Era
(South African Theological Seminary, 2012) Weaver, Paul Andrew; Lessing, Pelham
This thesis is a Biblical Exegesis of Colossians 3:1-3 investigating its significance for Christians today. It explored: the historical, cultural and literary context of Colossians and the church in Colossae; in depth exegetical analysis to determine authorship and its original meaning, including preliminary analysis, contextual analysis, verbal analysis, literary analysis, an exegetical synthesis; and its significance for Christians today, including the practical implications of setting your hearts and minds on “...things above...” rather than on “...earthly things...” (Col3:1-3). Key ideas explored are: the believer’s position in Christ, the Colossians heresy, and the Christology of Colossians. In order to explore these topics and questions, the writer employed inductive Bible study principles primarily implementing the Theological Biblical Research Model of Smith and Woodbridge (2008). Multiple scholarly works in the form of commentaries, articles, dictionaries, Biblical encyclopaedias and lexica’s were consulted throughout in establishing the socio-political context from which the Colossian text emerged. Finally, the paper explored: What difference does this passage make for Christians today? Specifically, concerning the doctrinal significance of the Col 3:1-3 pericope for teaching us about God, ourselves and our relationship with God; and its practical significance for Christians today in applying the passage and the impact or change it should have on their lives. This paper is specifically concerned with the context of ‘Generation z’ and particular implications the pericope has for ministry to this generation.
Debating Scientific Origins: Can Intelligent Design Be Supportively Involved in Natural Science Debates on the Origin of Life?
(South African Theological Seminary, 2013) Farr Williams, Michael Scott; Pretorius, Mark
This study endeavors to understand the writings of Ken Miller and Eugenie Scott in terms of their objections to Intelligent Design being involved in the Natural Science Debates on the Origin of Life. These writings include Ken Miller’s books *Finding Darwin's God: A Scientist's Search for Common Ground Between God and Evolution* and *Only a Theory: Evolution and the Battle for America's Soul*. These writings also include Eugenie Scott’s books *Not in Our Classrooms: Why Intelligent Design is Wrong for Our Classrooms* and *Evolution vs. Creationism: An Introduction*. Further, this study identifies the objections these two authors have with Intelligent Design and looks for possible solutions from the Intelligent Design Movement. The idea is that advocates of both sides are quick to judge and slow to listen. This study is not to convince one side or the other, but to simply listen to the objections and possible answers from both sides. In this way, a bridge can be made between the two sides and these divergent groups can begin to understand one another. The objections that were raised by Miller and Scott include Miller’s objections to the age of the earth, limitations on evolution’s mechanism of natural selection, family trees in animals, Aristotle’s idea of four distinct kinds of causes, and finally design imperfections. This study also brought out ID’s connection with creationism and its contention with mainstream science. ID advocates answer these objections by saying that Intelligent Design (hereafter designated as ID) is not necessarily connected with a literal Genesis or a young-earth position. They do contend that the scientific community and its reliance on naturalism is a stumbling block for the Intelligent Design Movement. The study also explores the nature of a designer and how this affects the acceptance of Intelligent Design. The study then moves to the proper use of science as expressed in the scientific method and how the concept of a designer could hinder the acceptance of Intelligent Design. The study continues with how the Christian and Hebrew scriptures relate to the issue of ID and its objections. Finally, the study moves on to give some practical implications and suggestions on how ID can answer these objections.
"For it is God's will that you should be holy." 1 Thessalonians 4:3 Analysis and Systematization of Fundamental Aspects of a Holy Lifestyle in the Pauline Epistles
(South African Theological Seminary, 2014) Rhode, Ria Elisbeth; Arhelger, Thomas; Friedrich, Carsten
Trotz des langen Bestehens des Christentums haben Christen damals wie heute Schwierigkeiten, ihr Leben nach dem Willen Gottes zu führen. Der christliche Lebensstil soll heilig sein. Während Christen durch das Kreuz Christi geheiligt sind, bleiben sie dennoch unvollkommene Menschen. Diese Forschung zielt darauf ab, grundlegende Aspekte eines heiligen Lebensstils zu entwickeln. Anhand der Untersuchung von achtzehn Passagen aus den Briefen des Apostels Paulus durch Exegese und unter Bezugnahme auf Wayne Grudems „Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine“ wird dargelegt, dass die Heiligung ein dreiphasiger Prozess ist. Die erste Phase ist Gottes freies Geschenk der Heiligung durch den stellvertretenden Tod Jesu Christi. Die zweite Phase umfasst die menschliche Verantwortung, gemäß dieser Heiligung zu leben, da ein heiliger Lebensstil die angemessene Antwort auf Gottes Gnade ist. Diese beiden Phasen liegen in der Vergangenheit und Gegenwart. Die dritte Phase versichert die vollständige Heiligung, wobei der Fokus auf dem Jenseits oder dem zweiten Kommen Christi liegt. Dieser Prozess systematisiert die Heiligung und hebt universelle Aspekte eines heiligen Lebensstils hervor, während persönliche Freiheit im Leben nach Gottes Willen erlaubt wird. Schlüsselwörter: Heiligung, Heiliger Lebenswandel, Apostel Paulus, Exegese, Systematische Theologie
Widowhood Practice in Ezeagu, Nigeria: The Role of the Anglican Church
(South African Theological Seminary, 2014) Mgboo, Agubuzu-Oyi Celestina; Lessing, Pelham
The mini-thesis explores the socio-cultural practice of widowhood in Ezeagu, Nigeria. The study found through both the literature study and the empirical component, that harmful cultural practices are associated with the cultural rituals of widowhood. These rituals are deeply rooted in hegemonic theory, a type of moral and philosophical leadership, which promotes dominance and control at the expense of the oppressed and marginalized. Hegemonic practice in Nigeria, as it relates to widowhood practices, rests with major social, political, and religious groups who provide consent to cultural practices. Furthermore, the study found hegemonic theory undermines the human dignity and rights of widows and their children in the research locale and has added to the stress (life crisis units) and hardships of widowhood. The study proceeds to reflect on the role of Scripture and consequently the church in addressing these harmful widowhood practices as well as charting a path to assist widows in ordering their personal worlds. The people of God in the Old Testament (the Kehal Yahweh) and the Church in the New Testament (the Ecclesia), the study argues, have always been at the forefront of addressing issues related to social justice. Drawing on the Biblical narrative and secondary sources, the researcher highlights the social responsibility of the [Anglican] Church. The Anglican Church, the study also found, has been very active in alleviating the plight of widows in Ezeagu. Through its pastoral and caring activities, the church assisted several of its members as well as citizens attached to other religions to find accommodation; assisted in supplying food; through its advocacy programs addressed issues relating to legislation, education, and creative strategies in their attempt to eradicate the harmful practices relating to the nature, rituals, and damaging practices of widowhood. The study concludes by making recommendations on how widows, the church, and society at large can continue to upgrade and intensify their efforts to empower especially Anglican widows, who are members of the church, to order their private world and become mentors and/or coaches of those who enter the status of widowhood and serve as advocates for the plight of widows in Ezeagu. The study appeals to the spiritual senses of the Anglican Church deeply rooted in the biblical narrative to continue to seek the welfare of widows as an expression of biblical advocacy and action in relation to human hardships. Solitary religion is not an option for the church. In keeping with one of the central biblical passages for the church at large, Matthew 22:34-40, [social] holiness is deep intentional love for neighbor. Stressing religion, evangelical spirituality, or social action, one without the other, the study argues, leads to problems in both directions (Evangelical Gnosticism), and keeping the balance is the task of the church; this is theology in action.
Christsein im ersten Johannesbrief Ausführungen zur christlichen Existenz vor dem Hintergrund der wichtigsten johanneischen Alternativbegriffe
(South African Theological Seminary, 2014) Grader, Daniel; Heller, Margarita
Das Konzept des Christseins ist vielfältig und kann auf verschiedene Weisen interpretiert werden. Der erste Johannesbrief bietet eine einzigartige Perspektive, indem er sich auf die grundlegenden Elemente des christlichen Glaubens konzentriert. Der Verfasser des Briefes beginnt mit dem Bekenntnis des Glaubens an Christus als den Sohn Gottes, was die Grundlage seiner Weltanschauung bildet. Diese Arbeit untersucht die wesentlichen Themen, die im ersten Johannesbrief behandelt werden, und betont dabei die dualistischen Ausdrücke wie "Licht und Finsternis", "Wahrheit und Lüge" sowie "Leben und Tod". Diese Dualismen werden nicht verwendet, um einen wahren ontologischen Dualismus vorzuschlagen, sondern um die moralischen und ethischen Unterscheidungen hervorzuheben, die für ein christliches Leben wesentlich sind. Die Arbeit ist in vier Hauptabschnitte unterteilt: 1) Die Existenz des Gläubigen im Licht, 2) Das Handeln des Gläubigen, 3) Das Vertrauen des Gläubigen und 4) Die Kämpfe des Gläubigen. Die Studie kommt zu dem Schluss, dass ein echtes christliches Leben durch das Leben im Licht gekennzeichnet ist, das durch die Kenntnis von Jesus Christus ermöglicht wird. Diese Perspektive bietet einen soliden Rahmen für die Auseinandersetzung mit aktuellen Fragen zur christlichen Existenz.
Evaluating an Evangelical Universalist Interpretation of Romans 5:12–21
(South African Theological Seminary, 2014) Wheeler, Stephen; Smith, Kevin G.
The objective of this study is to evaluate the claims of Trinitarian Universalism to the effect that Romans 5:12–21 teaches that all human beings were included in Christ’s atoning death and, therefore, that all people are already reconciled to God. In order to achieve this objective, the study will seek to answer three major questions: 1. How does a Trinitarian Universalist reading of Romans 5:12–21 compare with other theological readings? 2. How does a Trinitarian Universalist reading of Romans 5:12–21 account for the discourse structure of the pericope? 3. How does a Trinitarian Universalist reading of Romans 5:12–21 correlate with the macro-context of the pericope? The proposed research requires a literary methodology; specifically, in-depth exegesis of the Greek text of Romans 5:12–21. This pericope will be read in its immediate, book, and theological contexts in an attempt to assess whether Paul intended it to convey the central implications advanced by Trinitarian Universalists, namely, whether it teaches that all people are already saved by their inclusion in the death of Christ. The study is envisaged to require three content chapters, in addition to its introduction and conclusion. This yields the following outline: 1. Introduction 2. Literature Review 3. The Meaning of Romans 5:12–21 4. The Message of Romans 5. Conclusion The first chapter, the Literature Review, serves to contextualise the TU reading of Romans 5:12-21 in the light of the history of research and interpretation. The next three chapters analyse the coherence of the TU interpretation of the pericope, moving progressively outward from the immediate to the canonical context. The concluding chapter will offer a brief review of the objectives of the research, the arguments advanced, and the conclusions reached.
An Exegesis of Luke 5:12-16 and its Relevance for Shaping Christian Attitude towards People Stigmatized by HIV and AIDS in Southern Africa
(South African Theological Seminary, 2015) Hoy, Barbara-Anne; Asumang, Annang
All three synoptic evangelists narrate a miracle performed by Jesus in the earliest phase of His public ministry in which He was accosted by a leper requesting cleansing, to which He duly responded (cf. Mk 1:40-45; Mt 8:1-4; Lk 5:12-16). A key feature of the socio-cultural and religious experiences of the biblical leper is stigmatization, ostracism, and marginalization from full participation in the life of the community. Several scholars have examined the Synoptic Gospels’ account of the healing of the leper, seeking to identify their relevance and application in contemporary scenarios. Although these discussions have shed significant light on the modern relevance of the miracle, as far as I am aware, none have focused on the specific presentation of the miracle in Luke’s Gospel in relation to people living with HIV and AIDS, who, like the biblical leper, are also often stigmatized and marginalized from full participation in their communities, including church life. This is a significant scholarly omission, given Luke’s heightened interest in the poor, stigmatized, and marginalized. This mini-thesis exegetes the text of Luke 5:12-16 to determine its theological relevance for Luke’s first readers and, by reflective comparison, maps out some of its implications for shaping contemporary Christian attitudes towards people stigmatized by HIV and AIDS. To this end, a historical-grammatical method of exegesis, together with a literary-theological investigation, directed primarily towards historical and philological goals, is employed. In order to paint a broad social and cultural background for a closer study of the Lucan text, the purity laws of first-century Palestine and specifically how they resulted in the ostracism of those diagnosed with leprosy are examined. The study found that in this narrative Jesus gives concrete expression to the inclusive character of the gospel, the kingdom of God, and the Christian community as He deliberately reaches out and touches an ‘untouchable’. Instead of protecting Himself with the purity regulations, Jesus revealed a reformed idea of purity. Moreover, Jesus’ involvement of the priest in the restoration of the leper offers a challenge to the contemporary Church in Southern Africa. His attitude towards this social outcast has much to contribute to a greater understanding of the Christian attitude necessary in facilitating the eradication of HIV-related stigmatization.
New Testament Church Building Principles ... and What Can/Should Be Learned from Them for Local, Western European Small Church Work in General
(South African Theological Seminary, 2015) Sieber, David; Sondheimer, Florian
This thesis examines the principles of New Testament church building and explores their relevance to contemporary small church work in Western Europe. The study is motivated by the promise of Jesus in Matthew 16:18 to build His church and the subsequent insights provided by the New Testament on how God, through the apostles, established diverse Christian communities despite severe persecution. The central question addressed is whether the New Testament contains explicit principles for church building and, if so, what lessons can be learned for local small church work in Western Europe. The hypothesis of this thesis is that although the New Testament does not contain a systematic doctrine of church building, it does include various principles that are fundamental to the construction of the New Testament church. These principles are essential, timeless, and applicable across different cultures and situations. In addition to these principles, there are also exemplary practices that, while not obligatory, are worth emulating. The thesis is structured to first establish a working definition of New Testament church building principles (nGp) and then to examine key biblical passages to identify these principles. The study includes a detailed analysis of passages such as Matthew 16:18, Acts 2:42-47, Acts 4:32-37, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 14:21-27, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, Ephesians 4:11-15, Romans 12:6-8, 2 Timothy 3:14-17, and Acts 6:1-7. These passages are analyzed to extract and categorize the principles and exemplary practices they contain. In the final chapters, the thesis discusses the implications of these principles for small church work in Western Europe, offering practical insights and recommendations. The aim is to bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing a foundation for local churches to build upon these New Testament principles in a way that is relevant and effective in the contemporary Western European context.
Begleitwirkungen und mögliche Risiken des Internet-Pornografie-Konsums Ein Beitrag aus der Perspektive christlicher Ethik
(South African Theological Seminary, 2015) Fürstenberg, Merlin; Schirrmacher, Thomas
Begleitwirkungen und mögliche Risiken des Internet-Pornografie-Konsums: Ein Beitrag aus der Perspektive christlicher Ethik Diese Arbeit untersucht die begleitenden Wirkungen und potenziellen Risiken des Konsums von Internet-Pornografie, analysiert aus der Perspektive der christlichen Ethik. Angesichts der allgegenwärtigen Verfügbarkeit von Internet-Pornografie zielt diese Studie darauf ab, ihre ethischen Implikationen sowohl auf individueller als auch auf gesellschaftlicher Ebene zu bewerten. Die Forschungsfragen konzentrieren sich auf drei Hauptbereiche: die individuellen und gesellschaftlichen Folgen der Produktion und des Konsums digitaler Pornografie aus der Sicht der interdisziplinären Sexologie; die Integration dieser Erkenntnisse in die christliche Sexualethik, um einen Dialog zu schaffen; und die Bereitstellung nachdenklicher Anstöße zur existenziellen Bewertung des ethischen Werts der Pornografie durch die Leser. Die Arbeit stellt die Hypothese auf, dass die soziologische Forschung wahrscheinlich eine pornografie-freundlichere Bewertung präsentieren wird, die eine erhöhte sexuelle Aufklärung und Befreiung hervorhebt, während die psychologische Forschung kritischer sein wird und vor einer möglichen Sucht und der Konditionierung abweichender sexueller Vorlieben warnt. Die christliche Ethik, die sich auf soziologische und psychologische Erkenntnisse stützt, wird einen normativen Rahmen auf der Grundlage biblischer Maßstäbe bieten, wobei insbesondere der einzigartige Wert der Ehe als exklusiver Kontext für sexuelle Intimität betont wird. Die Struktur der Arbeit ist in drei Hauptabschnitte unterteilt: Soziologie, Psychologie und Theologie. Jeder Abschnitt zielt darauf ab, wichtige Erkenntnisse und Perspektiven innerhalb seines Fachgebiets zu präsentieren, die letztlich in einer umfassenden ethischen Bewertung des Konsums von Internet-Pornografie münden, die den Lesern hilft, informierte und gottesfürchtige Entscheidungen zu treffen.
The Human Conscience: Divine Design or the Nature of Our Neurons?
(South African Theological Seminary, 2015) St. Onge, Charles; Pretorius, Mark
Christians through the centuries have long turned to Romans 2:14-16 to show that the human conscience is a sign of the restraints God has placed on sin within all fallen human beings. The universal presence of the human conscience is put forward by many apologists as evidence for the existence of a creator God. In recent decades, however, some scientists have proposed naturalistic causes for the existence of a common human morality. This has been put forward as evidence against the existence of a supreme deity or deities. There is no reason to suppose that the human inclination to do good and avoid evil is anything other than a survival mechanism, the result of millions of years of evolutionary processes. To suggest that the source of the 'law within our hearts' is a supreme law giver is repugnant to new atheists such as Sam Harris and Richard Dawkins. Are these neurological explanations sufficient to explain the existence of the human moral compass apart from a moral law-giver who exists outside of creation? Is this evidence open to other possible interpretations? Might the interpretation of the data or even the data itself be flawed? How might Christians, with their centuries-long Scriptural understanding of human conscience, respond apologetically to the claim that human conscience can be explained neurologically as a result of the brain's Neodarwinian evolutionary development? This is the main problem to be addressed in the following work. The main research problem can be subdivided into the following research questions which, taken together, should answer the main problem. Each of these sub-problems will be addressed using a chronological framework. Consideration will be given to how these sub-problems were answered in the past, the current state of thinking, and the paths which future research seems likely to take. The first set of sub-problems has to do with the Christian theological understanding of conscience and natural law. First, consideration will be given to the Romans 2:14-16 passage, a key portion of Scripture dealing with the question of the human conscience, where it comes from and how it functions. Second, how has Christian thought through the centuries regarded the origin and operation of the human conscience? The answer to this question will be limited in scope, but will touch on the major themes on the subject of natural law and conscience in historical Christian tradition and in the major confessional systems of thought present today. This would include, especially, natural law and conscience in the early church writers, as well as in the Thomistic, Lutheran and Calvinist traditions. The roots of Christian’s ideas of conscience in earlier Greek and Roman thought will also be considered. The second set of questions has to do with the current neurological explanations for the human conscience. First, what are the basic assumptions of the Darwinian and now Neo-Darwinian evolutionary hypothesis, especially as those assumptions relate to the development and function of the human mind? As in the examination of the development of Christian thought on the question of conscience, the scope of work on this question will be limited to the general themes necessary for this mini-thesis. Second, what specific explanations have been proposed, and are currently being proposed, for the human conscience based on these Neo-Darwinian assumptions? The last set of questions has to do with analysing and synthesizing the data gathered in answer to the previous questions in order to address the main thesis problem. First, what are the foremost apologetic concerns to be addressed when considering the Christian theological view on the origin of conscience in light of the Neo-Darwinian proposals for the emergence of the human moral compass? Each perspective will be evaluated and critiqued. Second, are there areas where both the Christian and Neo-Darwinian ideas show convergence and others where they show divergence? Third, considering the questions of foremost apologetic concern, and any convergence or divergence of ideas, what might be the most appropriate Christian apologetic response?
Die Schatten der himmlischen Dinge Typologie im Hebräerbrief
(South African Theological Seminary, 2015-10-01) Friedrich, Carsten; Kinker, Thomas
Ziel und Aufbau der Arbeit οἵτινες ὑποδείγματι καὶ σκιᾷ λατρεύουσιν τῶν ἐπουρανίων, καθὼς κεχρημάτισται Μωϋσῆς μέλλων ἐπιτελεῖν τὴν σκηνήν, Ὅρα γάρ φησίν, ποιήσεις πάντα κατὰ τὸν τύπον τὸν δειχθέντα σοι ἐν τῷ ὄρει· [Die Priester,] die dem Abbild und Schatten der himmlischen Dinge dienen, wie Mose eine göttliche Weisung empfing, als er im Begriff war, das Zelt aufzurichten; denn „Sieh zu“, spricht er, „dass du alles nach dem Muster (Typos) machst, das dir auf dem Berge gezeigt worden ist!“ Hebr 8,5 Diesem Vers ist der Titel der vorliegenden Arbeit entnommen: „Die Schatten der himmlischen Dinge“. Dieser einzelne Vers gibt schon viele Hinweise, die das Thema der Arbeit betreffen: Typologie im Hebräerbrief. Es kommt darin eine spezielle Ausformung des typologischen Denkens zum Ausdruck, die von einer Entsprechung zwischen himmlischen Urbildern und irdischen Abbildern ausgeht. Jedoch, und auch das macht der Vers schon deutlich, sieht der Hebräerbrief das irdische Abbild nicht durch sein himmlisches Vorbild aufgewertet wie im Judentum üblich; vielmehr sieht er in den Abbildern des Alten Bundes einen bloßen Schatten der himmlischen Dinge, zu denen die Gläubigen durch den Neuen Bund Zugang erhalten. Weiterhin spricht dieser Vers von den himmlischen Dingen als Typen (entsprechend Hebr 9,24 von den irdischen Abbildern als Antitypen). Damit ist die typologische Terminologie im Vergleich zu Paulus, Petrus und dem bis heute üblichen Gebrauch vertauscht: Ist der Antitypos sonst die gesteigerte Erfüllung des Typos, ist er im Hebräerbrief der schwache irdische Schatten der wahren himmlischen Realitäten. So macht schon allein dieser eine Vers die Relevanz des The- mas deutlich. Denn der Hebräerbrief bedient sich eines sehr charakteristischen typologischen Denkens, wie es sich sonst in dieser Form nirgends im NT findet. In dieser Arbeit soll nun dieses typologische Denken des Hebräerbriefes dargestellt werden. Dazu gliedert sie sich in drei Teile. Im Teil A wird eine allgemeine Einführung in das Thema Typologie gegeben, indem zuerst die wichtigsten Grundlinien der Typologie aufgezeichnet werden. Dazu zählen Punkte wie Begriffsbestimmung und die Bestimmung des Verhältnisses zwischen Typologie und jeweils Allegorie, Prophetie, Hermeneutik und Theologie. Im Anschluss soll ein Überblick über die Verwendung der Typologie im Alten und Neuen Testament sowie in der Auslegungsgeschichte gegeben werden. Der für den Hebräerbrief spezifische Gebrauch der Typologie wird auf zwei Weisen herausgearbeitet: Zum einen wird ein konkretes Beispiel für Typologie im Hebräerbrief detailliert dargestellt, zum anderen wird dann der typologische Schriftgebrauch des Hebräerbriefes im Allgemeinen erläutert. Im Teil B wird daher Melchisedek exemplarisch für die Typologie des Hebräerbriefes beleuchtet. Dazu werden zuerst die beiden alttestamentlichen Vorkommen von Melchisedek untersucht, indem jeweils eine kurze Auslegung des Textes sowie eine Bestimmung der Funktion vorgenommen wird, die Melchisedek im entsprechenden Text hat. Im Anschluss daran wird dann der typologische Gebrauch Melchisedeks im Hebräerbrief dargestellt. Mit dem typologischen Schriftgebrauch des Hebräerbriefes im Allgemeinen beschäftigt sich Teil C. Dabei werden das für den Hebräerbrief charakteristische Urbild-Abbild-Denken sowie dessen philosophischer Hintergrund untersucht. In einem zweiten Schritt steht die Hermeneutik des Hebräerbriefautors im Mittelpunkt, wie sie in seinem typologischen Schriftgebrauch zum Tragen kommt. Im ersten Teil der Arbeit wird das literaturwissenschaftliche Konzept vom Wirkungspotential eines Textes vorgestellt und auf die typologische Auslegung biblischer Texte bezogen. Im Laufe der Arbeit wird immer wieder an geeigneten Stellen auf dieses Konzept Bezug genommen, um so nachzuweisen, dass es einen geeigneten literaturwissen-schaftlichen Zugang zur biblischen Typologie ermöglicht. Um eine bessere Lesbarkeit zu erreichen, wurden in Zitaten Abkürzungen aus- geschrieben und die Verwendung von -ß- und -ss- der neuen deutschen Rechtschreibung angeglichen. Auch eine Umschrift und Übersetzung griechischer und hebräischer Ausdrücke wurde aus diesem Grunde beigefügt.
Towards a Strategy for improving the Practice of Missions in the Divine Grace Church of God in the Chawama Compound, Lusaka, Zambia
(South African Theological Seminary, 2016) Shamuteya, Laban Kabunda; Light, Vernon
This thesis is based on the realisation that the Divine Grace Church of God (DGCG) seems to be lacking in its operative theology in relation to missions in its ministry context. The main objective of the thesis is to formulate a theologically-informed strategic plan to ensure that the praxis of DGCG with regard to missions is faithful to God and optimally relevant to its ministry context. The secondary objectives are: (1) to interpret the operative theology of DGCG with respect to missions; (2) to determine what faithful praxis in relation to missions would look like for DGCG in its ministry context, and (3) to develop a communicative and strategic plan to strengthen the praxis of DGCG in relation to missions. The research design and methodology employed in this study are based on Browning’s strategic practical theology (1991:55-74). It is a holistic approach that has four steps and each step covers a chapter in this thesis, except that steps 2 and 3 are included in one chapter. Both qualitative empirical and literary methods are employed to gather the needed data. The thesis begins with an analysis and interpretation of empirical data to determine the operative missions theology of DGCG (chapter 2). It moves on to consider a theological analysis with a view to forming theological perspectives and imperatives to guide the practice of missions in DGCG (chapter 3). This leads to the formation of appropriate programmes to embody these theological imperatives. The final chapter (4) considers ways of communicating and implementing these strategic programmes. The following are the findings of the thesis. First, though DGCG is found to have good programmes that seem to cover almost all areas of church life and witness, its operative theology in relation to missions is found to be lacking in holistic kingdom mission. The result is failure to adequately impact society by life, word and deed. Second, chapter 3 deals with this inadequacy by providing theological imperatives to inform beliefs and practices of missions which are more faithful to Scripture. Third, ways by which DGCG would effectively communicate and implement the resulting new praxis of missions are finally outlined.
La Formación de Líderes en la Iglesia Local: El Caso de Cuatro Iglesias Pertenecientes a la Asociación De Iglesias Evangélicas de Oriente (ASIGEO) en Venezuela
(South African Theological Seminary, 2016) Marcano Carrizalez, Samuel Antonio; Hendrickson, Mark G.
La formación para el ministerio es una necesidad vital para todas las iglesias. El apóstol Pablo deja claro que los dones deben ser desarrollados para la edificación de la iglesia (1 Corintios 12:4-11; Efesios 4:11-16) y Pedro exhorta a cada creyente a servir a los demás a través del ejercicio de sus dones (1 Pedro 4:10). En ese proceso de crecimiento, la iglesia necesita de creyentes que sirvan de guías o líderes para ayudar a los demás en el servicio al Señor. La formación de estos líderes siempre ha sido un desafío para todas las iglesias. La mayoría de los pastores se sienten frustrados cuando buscan apoyo en otros creyentes para que les ayuden a liderar ministerios o áreas de servicio en la iglesia y no lo encuentran. Esta investigación muestra la forma cómo cuatro iglesias que pertenecen a la Asociación de Iglesias Evangélicas de Oriente (ASIGEO) en Venezuela están asumiendo la tarea de formar líderes locales. Se demuestra, en la investigación, que es importante en este proceso de formar líderes: 1) Tener una definición clara de lo que es un líder cristiano, 2) puntualizar la necesidad de que sean los pastores mismos quienes asuman la responsabilidad de la formación de líderes en la iglesia local y que busquen toda la ayuda necesaria para este fin, 3) ofrecer apoyo continuo a los líderes emergentes a través de mentorías y asistencias pastorales y 4) reconocer el papel importante que la organización, ASIGEO, puede cumplir en ayudar a los pastores e iglesias en el proceso de formación de líderes emergentes.
Towards a Biblically Faithful Operative Theology with Regards to Godly Wisdom at Worcester Christian Church
(South African Theological Seminary, 2017) Potgieter, Leon Anton; Light, Vernon
This study overviews Godly wisdom as outlined by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 1-2, and correlates it with the practices of Worcester Christian Church. The intention of the study is to show how greater Biblical faithfulness may be achieved in praxis in this congregation with regard to Godly wisdom. The objective of the research can be stated as the formulation of a theologically-informed strategic plan to show how the Worcester Christian Church may be helped in regards to improving their praxis of Godly wisdom. To this end the study employs a mixed-method empirical research method to adequately interpret the church's current operative theology and compare it with a study of Paul's ideas in 1 Corinthians 1-2 with brief attention to a few other verses and a systematic theology perspective. This culminates in practical suggestions for improving the church's current praxis that more faithfully reflects Godly wisdom. The study found that Worcester Christian Church to a large degree adhered to a practical outworking of Godly wisdom as taught and applied by the Apostle Paul. The primary deficiency that was identified was an implicit anti-intellectual tendency amongst congregants and a dichotomous dualism between natural and spiritual methods of knowledge acquisition. Based on the works of Christian Schwarz, and his model of 'radical Christian balance', various practical and liturgical suggestions are made to show how this imbalance may be corrected and to erase the dichotomy. The desired end is a practice of a more holistic Godly wisdom, similar to that presented and espoused by Paul himself.
The contribution of the theme of divine judgment to the argument of the book of Ecclesiastes
(South African Theological Seminary, 2017) Huovila, Kimmo; Lioy, Dan T.
There has been no general agreement among scholars about the argument of the book of Ecclesiastes. There are several interpretive paradigms for handling tension in the book. Many scholars think the book does not affirm afterlife or a divine judgment in it. This dissertation studies what the book teaches about divine judgment and how it contributes to the argument of the book. The argument of the book is evaluated by studying key lexemes and their usage. Key passages discussing divine judgment are exegeted to determine what the book teaches about divine judgment and how that relates to the argument of the book. The teaching on divine judgment is placed in the context of the canon. Finally, homiletic implications of the study are discussed.This study concludes that the book of Ecclesiastes argues that no permanent profit is possible in thislife. This makes all work futile with respect to the goal of securing permanent profit. This futility is discussed using the key word הבל'futility', which is used as an antonym of יתרון'profit' and with a singular meaning whenever used in reference to the summary “all is futile”. This futility is used to argue for valuing joy instead of living an achievement-centered life. The book of Ecclesiastes teaches a personal divine judgment of all deeds in the afterlife in the epilogue and probably in the body of the work. In the area of divine judgment, tensions in the book are to be solved by reading the book harmonistically. There is a possible allusion to the Egyptian view of afterlife in Ecclesiastes 3:21. The theme of divine judgment is used to address lack of justice in this life, as a basis for revering God, and to guide the pursuit of joy. The teaching on divine judgment is in agreement with the rest of the canon.The use of the key word הבל'futility' argues for a unified meaning, but such a meaning has been elusive. I present a novel solution to the lexical dilemma. While the idea that הבלmeans 'futility' is not novel, this study shows that the futility is specifically in relationship to an attempt to secure permanent profit. The minority view that Qohelet consistently affirmed a conscious afterlife and a divine judgment in it has significant ramifications for understanding the book and for Old testament biblical theology. The view that this is a plausible interpretation of the book is supported by new arguments.