Theses
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Item Faith Perspective Of Migrant Workers(South African Theological Seminary Johannesburg) Vallejo, Rafael; Van Engen, Charles E.The dissertation explores faith perspectives and practices of Mexican migrant farmworkers inOntario using a social-science approach called “Lived Religion”. It uses qualitative data fromethnographic field research done by the author with Mexican migrant farm workers inSouthwestern Ontario, Canada from 2012-2017.The objective of the research was to interrogate faith perspectives of Mexican MigrantFarmworkers who come to Canada eight months a year from April to November under theSeasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP). They are among approximately 20,000 migrantworkers who work in fields, orchards and greenhouses in Canada every year. Most of them self-identify ascatolicos(Catholics). They are generally between the ages of 25-40, male and married.The argument for the dissertation flows in three stages. Part 1 begins with a survey of the historyof mission and migration by looking at the historiography of six migrant groups: Nestorians,Huguenots, Puritans, Acadians, Mennonites and West Africans in the transatlantic slave trade. Theauthor argues that the plurality of christian faith expressions in the world today can be tracedback to migration and the many different inculturations of the gospel that was brought aboutbecause of it.A critical analysis of this historiography was done using social science concepts of “structure”and “agency”. The author critiques Euro-American and ethnocentric readings of migration,Christian history, culture and biblical narratives and the normalized practice of defining religionwithin Western frameworks and then applying them to non-Western cultures.Part 2 interprets four narratives from the Hebrew Bible: Joseph, Esther, Ruth and Daniel todetermine what the narratives say about the agency of God in the stories. Central to postcolonialreadings of the Bible is a critique of whose voices are included and/or excluded from thesewritings and who benefits from telling and reading these sacred stories in a certain way and notanother. The author uses insights from Ricoeur and Gadamer’s hermeneutics to affirm that nosingle hermeneutical lens is able to exhaust the manifold layers of meaning that can be found in these texts.This is followed in Part 3 by excerpts from interviews where Mexican Migrant workers describe faith in their own words. Participant responses were coded and clustered into five themes:1. lasalud(Health)2. la familia(Family)3. la fe(Faith)4. las remesas(Remittances)and 5. la lucha(Struggle). The author analyses the findings and suggests that religion is a dominant register inmigrant ways of believing and belongingItem A Comparative Study of the Practices of the Mystics sadhu Sundar Singh and the Desert Fathers and the Implications of Appropriating Christian Mystic Practices in the Church Today(South African Theological Seminary) Parks, Clayton Aaron; Arles, SigaThis research seeks to answer the question: How do the spiritual practices of Sadhu Sundar Singh and the Desert Fathers compare with each other and what are the implications of appropriating Christian mystic practices in the Church today? This study utilizes the method of phenomenology to solve the research problem by identifying and analyzing relevant literary data in order to explore God’s interactions with man through Sadhu Sundar Singh and the Desert Fathers.First, a literature review explores the current status of scholarly research into the personalities and histories of the legendary Christian figures of Sadhu Sundar Singh and the Desert Fathers. A literature review reveals that within several areas of current scholarship, gaps appear and no substantial inquiry regarding the similarities and differences of spiritual practices between Sadhu Sundar Singh and the Desert Fathers is found. Therefore, the need for researchinto this specific area finds validation.Second, a survey of the lives and theology of Sadhu Sundar Singh and the Desert Fathers is provided in order to introduce readers to the personalities and histories of the legendary Christian figures. Third, a detailed analysis is conducted of the textual examples of documented prayer and meditation, visions and miracles, and self-deprivation undertaken by Sadhu Sundar Singh and the Desert Fathers.Fourth, a comparative analysis of the spiritual practices of Sadhu Sundar Singh and the Desert Fathers is provided, followed by a critical assessment of Christian mystic practices appropriated in the Church today.Finally, a summary is provided of the research findings, including the theological and practical value of studying the spiritual practices of these Christian legends,as well as the pros and cons of appropriating Christian mystic practices in the Church today. Recommendations are then made regarding the benefits of utilizing said practices for deepening one’s personal spiritual life and the dangers of appropriating unbiblical mystic practices in the Church today.Item Applying Integrated Theology to Persuasive Preaching(South African Theological Seminary) Hauf, Philipp; Light, Vernon E.This research report explores the application of integrated theology to persuasive preaching, examining the legitimacy and effectiveness of using rhetorical techniques in preaching within a biblical framework. The study integrates biblical, historical, systematic, and practical theological perspectives to provide a comprehensive analysis of persuasive preaching, with a focus on the Apostle Paul's ministry and writings. The research begins by defining the integrated theological approach, which synthesizes various theological disciplines to achieve a holistic understanding of God's will. This method is applied to the topic of persuasive preaching to investigate its biblical legitimacy, particularly in light of 1 Corinthians 2:4, where Paul seemingly denounces persuasive words. Through a detailed exegetical study of this verse and related passages, the report reconciles Paul's apparent contradiction by distinguishing between the content of the gospel and the rhetorical methods used to deliver it. The historical perspective examines the use of rhetoric in the Greco-Roman world and its impact on Paul's audience, highlighting the prevalence of sophistic rhetoric that Paul opposed. The systematic perspective integrates Paul's theology, emphasizing the harmony between his message and methods of preaching. The practical perspective involves empirical research on eight evangelical pastors' understanding of persuasion in preaching, leading to the formulation of an operative theology for contemporary church practice. The findings suggest that Paul did not oppose the use of rhetorical techniques per se but rather the reliance on human wisdom and flattery devoid of the gospel's power. The study concludes that biblically faithful preaching can employ persuasion, provided it centers on Christ and the Holy Spirit's transformative power, avoiding manipulation and sensationalism.Item Applying Integrated Theology to Child Protection in the Church of Pentecost in Winneba Municipality In Ghana(South African Seminary Press Johannesburg, South Africa) Kpalam, Ebenezer Tetteh; Light, Vernon E.Child abuse is not uncommon in Africa, and Ghana is not an exception. Where child abuse exists, the appropriate response is child protection. Child protection involves policies, structures and practical steps to ensure children are safeguarded. This research report presents an account of a theological discourse and small-scale empirical research that presents a biblically faithful theory and practice regarding child protection in the ministry of the Church of Pentecost in Winneba Municipality, Ghana. Using an integrated approach to doing theology, insights from biblical, historical, systematic and practical perspectives were gleaned.The systematic perspective correlates the findings of the biblical and historical perspectives with extra-biblical materials, mainly from the human sciences, to formulate the theological perspective. Children are precious in the sight of God, but are also vulnerable; and God, the chief shepherd, sets the standard for caring for children, and expects his people to protect children and raise them in a loving, caring and nurturing environment. The practical research examines the child protection ministry of the Church of Pentecost in the Winneba. Significant gaps were observed in its theology of children, and child protection when correlated with the conclusions of the systematic perspective. Consequently, certain recommendations are made to enable it achieve an operative theology regarding child protection that is faithful to God’s will and purposes. Finally, the integrative approach to theology is evaluated and found to be helpful when seeking a biblically sound praxis regarding any theological problem in a church’s current contextItem Towards a Strategy of Developing a Marriage Mentoring Ministry at Northwest Church, Hispanic Ministry(South African Theological Seminary Johannesburg) Nolasco, Ariel A.; Rugira, JanvierThe objective of this qualitative study is to develop a ministry intervention proposal, intended to help marriages in the Hispanic Ministry at Northwest Church in Federal Way, WA.Most marriages at one time or another need a vision and perspective that is beyond the scope of the normal experience of marriage. Staying committed in marriage does not have to be an unattainable goal. To understand the value of mentoring relationships and the role they play in strengthening marriages, a qualitative study was conducted through interviews and surveys. This study was useful in assessing to what extent a ministry of marriage mentoring in the Hispanic Ministry of the Northwest Church can help couples develop stronger marriages.Thoughtful consideration was given Paul’s mentoring model in 2 Timothy 2:2 and its applicating to marriages. Based on the research finding, and the interpretation of the data collected, practical recommendation for developing a mentoring ministry at Northwest Church, Hispanic Ministry are offered. The Hispanic Ministry can take a step forward in connecting married couples with mentors.Item Gender Based Violence Against Married Women in Zambia –a Biblical and Practical Response for the Pentecostal Church(South African Theological Seminary Johanessburg) Mugala, Lameck; Lockard, Anna-MarieThe problem of Gender-based violence (GBV) against married women in Zambia is high among the challenges the Pentecostal church is facing. Often the church is reluctant to address this serious violation of human rights. Rather, the church has concentrated more on preaching, emphasizing health, wealth and deliverance and forgetting the social justice of human life. The aim of this study is to develop an evangelical response model for the Pentecostal church in Zambia by demonstrating strategies on how the church can make a positive contribution to assist married women who are victims of GBV. This study will examine clear biblical and theological foundations to address the issue of GBV in Zambian churchesItem Towards a Strategy to Achieve a Biblical and Effective Operative Theology at Damascus Baptist Church With Reference to Jesus’ Use of the Son of Man Motif(South African Theological Seminary Johannesburg) McFather, David B.; Light, Vernon E.This thesis addresses the need for a biblically informed and practically relevant theology within Damascus Baptist Church (DBC). The study is anchored in the investigation of Jesus’ frequent self-designation as the "Son of Man" and its implications for the church's theological framework and ministry practices. Background and Objectives: The research is set within the context of Damascus Baptist Church, a small, agrarian congregation in Randolph County, Georgia, grappling with a lack of theological clarity and community engagement. The primary objective is to formulate a strategic plan that aligns DBC’s operative theology with the biblical understanding of Jesus as the Son of Man. This involves three secondary objectives: interpreting the current operative theology of DBC, determining what a biblically faithful theology should look like in this context, and developing a strategic plan to implement this theology effectively. Methodology: The thesis adopts Don Browning’s four-step approach to strategic practical theology. This method involves understanding the current situation, developing a vision for proper practice based on normative Christian texts, critically defending this vision, and formulating strategies for its implementation. The research employs qualitative methods, including open-ended questionnaires administered to DBC members and pastoral insights gained from the author's seven years of service at the church. Key Findings: The study reveals a significant gap in the congregation's understanding of the Son of Man motif and its theological implications. Responses to the questionnaire indicate that while members recognize Jesus' humanity through this title, there is a lack of depth in their comprehension of its full biblical and theological significance. The investigation uncovers an underdeveloped engagement with systematic and biblical theology, leading to a disconnection between belief and praxis. Theological and Practical Implications: The research explores various perspectives on the Son of Man, drawing from church history, modern scholarship, and biblical exegesis. It highlights the dual role of Jesus as both unique and exemplary, underscoring the need for DBC to integrate this understanding into its ministry practices. The thesis proposes a biblically faithful operative theology that emphasizes the redemptive work of Christ and its implications for racial reconciliation and community outreach. Strategic Plan: The proposed strategic plan includes developing educational programs to enhance biblical literacy and theological understanding among DBC members. It suggests integrating the Son of Man motif into discipleship training and preaching, fostering a holistic approach to ministry that bridges theology and action. The plan also recommends specific actions to address racial tensions and promote unity within the church and its surrounding community. Conclusion: This thesis offers a comprehensive strategy to realign DBC’s operative theology with the biblical portrayal of Jesus as the Son of Man. By doing so, it aims to empower the congregation to engage more effectively in its mission, reflecting a theologically robust and practically relevant faith. The study concludes that addressing the identified gaps and implementing the proposed plan will lead to a more faithful and impactful ministry at Damascus Baptist Church.Item A Biblical and Practical Response to Divorced Pastors in Ministry in the Churches in the Kawama Compound of Ndola in Zambia(South African Theological Seminary Johannesburg) Kamfwa, Damas; Lockard, Anna-MarieThis dissertation offers a biblical and practical response to the issue of divorced pastors in ministry in Kawama compound of Ndola in Zambia. The research focused on examining how the Zambian church should respond to divorced pastors in ministry. I have argued that, in as much as God hates divorce and His idea for marriage is permanence -due to the hardness of the human heart and the brokenness of this world, there are biblical parameters for divorce.Furthermore, I have also made strong proposals on how to mitigate the rampant rate of divorce among pastors. Additionally, I have made suggestions on how to respond biblically, to those who are already victims of divorce and remarriage.Item Towards a Strategy for Promoting and Multiplying Effective, Biblical Church Plants from Southlands Church, Orange County, California(South African Theological Seminary) Frow, Alan Peter; Light, Vernon E.This thesis is based upon the realization that Southlands Church was found lacking in its operative theology with regards to the multiplication of churches. The primary objective of this study is to determine how to promote and multiply effective, biblical church plants from the Southlands Church, Orange County, California.The focus is on the role of the doctrines of the penal substitutionary atonement and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in the planting and strengthening of these churches. The secondary objectives of this thesis are: 1) to interpret the operative theology of Southlands Church with respect to the multiplication of church plants from Southlands Church;2) to determine a biblically faithful operative theology with respect to the multiplication of church plants from Southlands Church; and 3) to develop a strategic plan to strengthen the operative theology with respect to the multiplication of church plants from Southlands Church.The research design and methodology employed in this study are based on Browning’s strategic practical theology (1991:54-73).This holistic approach has four stepscovered over three chapters withsteps 2 and 3 in the same chapter. The thesis begins with the analysis and interpretation of empirical data from qualitative empirical research conducted with ten respondents from various churches planted from Southlands over the past twenty years (chapter 2). It proceeds in chapter 3 to consider what constitutes a biblically faithful church planting operative theology with special focus on penal substitutionary atonement and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and then a theological analysis of theempirical data culminating with theformulation and defence of an operative theology to guide the multiplication of churches from Southlands towards greater effectiveness. Chapter 3 ends with the formulation of appropriate solutions to embody the operative theological. The final chapter develops a strategy for promoting and multiplying effective, biblical church plants from the Southlands Church, Orange County, California(chapter 4).The following are the findings of the thesis. First, Southlands Church has had ahistoric tendency to prepare church planters to communicatea church model more skillfully than they communicate message of Christ, which has had an adverse effect on the growth and health of church plants. Second, Southlands must respond by providing church planters with a more thorough grounding in the message of Christ, with special reference to the doctrines of the penal substitutionary atonementand vempowerment of the Spirit. Third, whilemore recent churches planted from Southlands have been better prepared in communicating the message of Christ, more attention needs to be given to equip church planters towards missional effectiveness through evangelistic boldness and Spirit-empowered prayerItem Towards a Model for Enhancing the Theology and Praxis of Divine Healing for the Paf.die.Gemeinde in Kirchberg, Switzerland(South Africa Theological Seminary) Aeberhard, David; Lessing, PelhamThe purpose of the mini-thesis was to develop a biblically informed framework for practicing divine healing in the Paf.die.Gemeinde(Praise and Faith Church)in Kirchberg, Switzerland. Health is highly valued in the West. Many influences of various religions (Christians, Buddhists, and Esoteric culturists) have, by now, completely settled in the healthcare system and provide a wide range of opportunities for healing including alternative forms of healing. In contrast to the above, the study found that in the church world with reference to there search locale,there appears to be the notion that the church is responsible for the salvation of the soul and that medicine is responsible to see to the health of the body. Nonetheless, in some sectors of the church new awakenings can be recognised and the subject of healing is becoming more prominentas the church seeks ways to respond to the secular views regarding alternative healing methods and traditional medical care, therapy and surgery. The proposed study falls within the field of practical theology and the LIM model had the greatest potential to answer the research question. In order to get representative insight into the various theological views and practices in our region, several pastors from different denominations were interviewed. Several leaders and individuals ofthePaf.die.Gemeindewere also evaluated through the use of a questionnaire. In order to understand the competing views in the church world regarding divine healing the three most dominant schools of thought were described and briefly analysed, namely,a) cessationism, b) continuanism and c) open but cautious view. The research concludes with a summary of a well-defined biblically informed framework and a statement of faith on healing which is consistent with the continuanist perspective that guides the proposed practice on healing for Paf.die.Gemeinde. The final step outlines a ministry action plan for PaF.die.Gemeinde responding the main problem of the research