Theology

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Local church members in service of the church
(1996) Ngcobo, Simon; Song, A.
This study examines the decline of the quality of Christian life and suggests religious education as the answer to the problem. Religious education will be an effective method for the improvement of Christian life. Key terms used in this study are defined. The previous work done in the field of religious education is reviewed. A religious education programme is proposed. The structure of a programme with the aim and the objective setting is treated and it looks at the training and resources of both human and spiritual. The implementation of the teaching and training religious education. The study concludes with the recommendations and the proposals for the changes and improvements of seminary training and suggestion about what could be done to improve the situation.
The Faculty of Theology of the University of Zululand: its contribution to vocational training, research and publication and spiritual support
(University of Zululand, 2000) Kitshoff, Michiel Casparus; Pitchers, A.L.M.
The thesis commences by describing the establishment of ethnic university colleges, including the University College of Zululand, during 1959. In more detail the establishment of a department of Theological Studies in 1964, followed by a faculty of Theology in 1970, is discussed. Chapter 2 discusses the professional training activities of the Faculty of Theology in co-operation with accredited theological institutions. The thesis relates how the Faculty moved from co-operation with Dutch Reformed Church institutions to practising an open door policy. Chapter 3 records and discusses the contribution of the Faculty of Theology to vocational training at the main campus, Durban-Umlazi campus and at the accredited colleges. It discusses the history and content of theological degrees, the position and impact of Biblical Studies and Method of Biblical Studies, extramural and extracurricular training as well as student unrest. The chapter also supplies details of the staff of the Faculty of Theology and finally gives a list of graduandi of the various years. Chapter 4 discusses in detail the research and publication activities of the Faculty. The discussion also covers the impressive work done by NERMIC, the University research unit for the study of New Religious Movements and Independent/Indigenous Churches. Chapter 5 highlights the spiritual support supplied by the Faculty through the Council of Supervision for the Ministry to Students, interdenominational services, the University chaplaincy, commemorative services, student societies, prayer meetings and individual Faculty members. Chapter 6 looks at the crucial question of the viability of the Faculty of Theology from a historical perspective, while weighing up its chances of survival in the light of the present situation. Chapter 7 rounds off the study with a resume and some concluding remarks.
Naomi on the crossroads of Umlazi.
(2001) Mahlangu, Salome N.; Loubser, J.A.
The title of this dissertation reads Naomi on the Crossroads of Umlazi: A critical historical study of the cultural situation of the childless widow in Ancient Israel visa- vis that of the childless widow in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal in the late 1990s.
Re-contextualisation of the Lukan Oikos : a social scientific approach
(2002) Chetty, Irvin; Loubser, J.A.
The thesis of this study is that the concept of the church as oikost as found in. Luke-Acts provides principles to inspire the church to meet some present challenges- The concepts of church and family in the Gospel of Luke and in the Acts of the Apostles were examined. It was found that the first church community was constituted on the pattern of the extended family in the Greco-Roman world of the first century. This allowed for the development of a rich culture of interpersonal relationships. It was within this environment that the love taught and exemplified by Jesus found its first concrete expression. In family churches, comprising of between 50-100 members, care was taken of individuals in a holistic sense. This was especially important in a society that existed long before the invention of social services, pensions, hospitals and care for the aged. This example set by the first church had far-reaching political consequences. In the fourth century it was this kind of church structure that was taken as a model for the whole of the Roman Empire. This study reflects a distinctive choice regarding methodology in the application of a unique combination of both the contextual and social-scientific methods. A danger of contextual methodology is to concentrate on the present context at the expense of the context of the text. A deliberate attempt is made to avoid this by an inclusive approach of both contexts. The second part of the combination in the methodology of this thesis is the application of the social-scientific approach to the Biblical text and to our present context. This method is used as an extension of the contextual method, in order to avoid possible distortions caused by the latter. This pursuit does not seek to operate at the exclusion of other accepted approaches to the Biblical text, namely those of the literary, linguistic and historical, but functions eclectically whilst highlighting the rewards of the social-scientific methodology. The term 'social-scientific' is used in this study to broadly embrace the sociological approaches to the study of the New Testament text and to our present context. In addition to uncovering the social context of the Biblical text, this study is equally eager to understand the 'now' of one's own Sitz im Leben. Therefore, current social-scientific insights together with those from family sociology are utilised to balance the methodological framework. In short, a social-scientific understanding of the concept of oikos will assist in analysing the context of the Biblical text. A social-scientific analysis of the present context will facilitate a re-contextualisation of the church as oikos in the new South Africa. Chapter one outlines the methodology. A social-scientific study of the concept of oikos in Luke-Acts is engaged in chapter two. Chapter three commences with a sociological perspective of the family. This includes a contextual analysis of families in South Africa. The next chapter (chapter four) explores ministry perspectives to ascertain how the local church can function as oikos. Chapter five proposes a model for the ministry of the church while chapter six contextualises the church as oikos. A final concluding chapter summarises and synthesises the research.
Tithes and offerings in the South African context: the bible and reality
(2002) van Rensburg, David Reuben; Song, A.
No in-depth study has ever been undertaken with respect to the practice adopted by urban, middle-class, South African Christians in response to the Biblical approach to giving to God's work. This study surveys and interrogates traditionally held views about the Biblical approach to tithes, offerings and giving to God's work, and then compares them to the findings of extensive research I conducted amongst South African Christians from a variety of denominations, backgrounds and settings. It examines the relevant Old Testament and New Testament references, and compares them to the current practice of the target group. The study reveals that much of what is being taught and practised in South African churches with regards to giving to God, is based on the prescriptive patterns of the Old Testament Law, particularly those pertaining to the tithe. As a result, Christians in these churches are being denied both the correct interpretation of the Biblical approach and the joy it brings. Were Christians to be taught the principles of grace giving, they would be freed from the legalism which is so clearly evident in many churches and their resulting giving, rather than being less than the tithe, as some church leaders fear, would actually increase. Pertinent recommendations are made to the churches in this regard.
An examination of the Biblical role of women in contemporary church life
(2003) Rees, Sharon; Song, A.
This dissertation focusses on the biblical role of women in the contemporary church, taking into account God's original plan and purpose for women in Genesis 1 and 2, the changes which occurred as a result of the Fall in Genesis 3, and the influence of the various cultures and traditions, especially in the Old Testament period, on the attitudes toward and treatment of women. Jesus' apparently revolutionary attitude towards women challenged the Jewish status quo, directing the people back to His Father's original plan and purpose for the relationship between men and women. His attitude is reflected in the teachings of the apostles in the New Testament, women being spiritually equal before God, yet having different and complementary roles and functions to fulfil. The clear hierarchical structure of authority which was laid down by God in the beginning, is therefore reinforced through Scripture. The strong influence of feminism over the past century is investigated, where women are demanding equal rights in all spheres. As a result, the call for full ordination of women within the Church is now widely acceptable even in evangelical circles. It appears that women are "abandoning" the biblical role which God ordained for them. The aim of this study is to explore the validity of women in leadership roles within the church and whether this practice deviates from God's original plan revealed in His Word or not. The research seeks to trace this tendency in some mainline churches and to prove the hypothesis that this is due to a misinterpretation of the Scriptures and a lack of biblical teaching on this subject. The central finding is that there certainly is confusion among today's Christians on this issue, and that feminist thinking has drawn both pastors and laity alike away from the biblical principles of authority. The study concludes that women do have a very crucial role to play in the contemporary church, a vast number of ministries being open to them, allowing them to exercise all their spiritual gifts. The only biblical restraint and prohibition, however, is that they are not permitted to preach, teach, lead or rule over men in any way within the church, such positions of authority being reserved for men only. Women should therefore be discouraged from assuming leadership over men, and should spend more time encouraging men to lead in a godly manner, both in the home and in the church, so that they might fulfil their God-ordained purpose. My submission is that if men and women live and serve Him within the authority structure which He has set in place, God will surely be glorified and His kingdom extended.
An investigation into applicability of second temple period Jewesh Hermeneutical Methodologies to the interpretation of popular eschatology
(University of Zululand, 2003) Haug, Nils Arne; Loubser, B.
This study endeavours to ascertain whether or not eschatological scenarios propounded by certain writers of highly influential and popular "end-time" texts are biblically sustainable, according to the hermeneutical methods employed by them. Firstly, the hermeneutical methods utilised by Christianity's exegetical predecessors, namely, the rabbinical Pharisees and the Qumran sectaries of the Second Temple period, are considered. Such methods, and the eschatological convictions ensuing therefrom, are apparent from canonical and non-canonical literature relevant to these two groups. Thereafter, the applicability of these methods to a Second Testament context is examined, the rationale being that if the use of such methods is significantly evident in the Second Testament, then they should, it is proposed, be germane to Christian scholars of both earlier and modem times since Christianity arose from the matrix of early Judaism. This is particularly so as regards the writers of popular eschatology whose end-time positions are then examined in the light of early Jewish hermeneutical methods, and their own interpretative stance. The conclusion is reached that the Second Testament does reflect extensive use of the hermeneutical methods of early Judaism and that, consequently, subsequent Christian scholars should endorse these methods. It appears, though, that Christians through the ages have ignored such methods. It is further concluded that the main eschatological issues promoted by the popuiarisers cannot easily be defended solely through the use of the exegetical methods employed by them. However, it is submitted that many such issues can be substantially justified through the use of traditional Jewish hermeneuticai methods, as employed by the Second Testament redactors and Jesus himself.
An examination of the cultural and ethnic implications of discipling african christians in the Evangelical Church in South Africa
(University of Zululand, 2003) Pillay, Vernon Nicholas; Song, A.
The purpose of Christ's death on the cross is to bring peace between God and man (Ephesians 2:14 paraphrased). The cross forms the basis of reconciliation between God and man. As a result, God desires his children live in harmony with each other irrespective of race, colour or gender. The difficulty in churches is that unity is often limited to local ethnic groups. In Scripture, the wider definition of unity is extended to include other ethnic peoples (Matthew 28:19). Cultural, political, sociological and theological barriers often hinder this move for extended unity. These help foster an environment for segregation, ethnocentrism and racism. By virtue of these elements presenting themselves in extended relationships there needs to be transparency on the part of those initiating a move for cultural tolerance. This requires dealing with negative views either individually or corporately and thereafter adopting biblical principles for establishing solid relationships. The integration of diverse ethnic groups in ecclesiological circles will entail certain adjustments being made. The purpose for such adjustments is to allow people the opportunity to feel welcome in a church that they would consider as home.
A quest for historical traditions of the Apostle Paul in Nonpauline sources
(2003) Comninos, Raoul; Pitchers, A.L.M.
Two assumptions shape modem Pauline studies. They are that the Apostle Paul -wrote letters, and that his theology can be reconstructed from these letters. The problem is that one cannot decide which of the letters is authentic unless one first knows something about Pauline theology. Much of the modern picture of Paul is biased by the same theology it claims to discover. One way of bypassing this problem is to turn to sources not written by Paul. In Christian literature of the first and second centuries, Paul features prominently as the champion of various Pauline Schools. Scholars have previously ignored this literature for reconstructing historical traditions about Paul. Yet it contains valuable historical information that provides an objective basis upon which one can evaluate the modem approach to Paul's letters and theology.
Conflict or co-operation : an examination of the South African Constitution and the church
(2003) Dlamini, Charles Robinson Mandlenkosi; Pitchers, A.L.
The purpose this thesis is an examination of the impact of the current South African Constitution on the church. The question is whether there is conflict or co-operation between certain provisions of the Constitution and the church as reflected in the word of scripture. The reason for this is that certain sectors of the church expected a Christian rather than a secular state to be established in the new political and constitutional dispensation. Some Christians were also not pleased with the protection in the Constitution of certain practices which are in conflict with Christian values and principles. Some of these are not provided for in the Constitution but in legislation. These include, inter alia, abortion, homeosexuality and pornography. This criticism is based on a misapprehension of the fact that both the secular authorities and the church or alternatively the political kingdom and the kingdom of God are ordained by God. They are mandated by God to perform certain f unctions. The state is representing God in matters of governance, good order justice and peace in the country. God holds it responsible for this. The church is supposed to be responsible for the spiritual and moral life of the people. It has to propagate the gospel of the salvation of humankind and of the coming of the kingdom of God. It is essential that there should be separation between church and state. Not only should there be separation between church and state but there should be structural pluralism. This is so because the state is not omnicompetent and has to allow other structures like the family, the school, the church and the university to play their own roles. Because of the separation between church and state the state should not decide for individuals what to believe or what not to believe. The reason for this is that the state is not competent to decide on what is true religion. It may also manipulate religion for political reasons. This is unacceptable in a democracy. Not only should the state allow freedom of religion, but it should also allow the church or members of the church to manifest their belief by adopting certain stances on issues. Religion has a pivotal role to play and seeks to influence society as a whole. Properly understood, there is no real conflict between the Constitution and the word of scripture. The Constitution provides scope for co-operation between church and state without each taking over the function of the other. The church has more than ample opportunity for propagating the good news of the kingdom of Cod. The Constitution provides for the creation of a democratic state based on the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, free and fair as well as regular elections, adult suffrage, a Bill of Rights policed by a fearless judiciary and a multi-party system. It also promotes openness and accountability on the part of the government These are not in conflict with Christianity. The Constitution also provides for a Bill of Rights which is regarded as a cornerstone for democracy and which protects the rights of the individuals including institutions such as the church. It also stipulates that there be equality before the law and that there should be no unfair discrimination based on the listed grounds. These are compatible with fairness and with Christianity. Christians can play an important role in clarifying the respective roles of the church and state. They can also seek to exercise a positive and constructive influence in the affairs of the country. In this way they can prove to be the real salt and light of the world.
A healing community for Catholic Clergy : an holistic model for community intervention
(2003) Dale, Anne; Edwards, S.D.
"To penetrate the mysteries, to bless with good conscience, to be great yet empty, to return to stillness and be forgiven, to do good deeds and help people reach the other shore — these are the great benefits of our path of cultivation. To calm people in stormy times, to help them understand the nature of things, to maintain purity, to nourish all things, to respect all life, and to answer the needs of those whose beliefs come from the heart — The sun rises, the darkness is banished; and we are witness to true wonder" (The Religion of Light, 1005). Research in the area of clerical paedophilia in the Catholic Church initially focused on managing the problem at the level of treatment intervention, with treatment centres run by religious orders in the UK and USA. Protocols have been developed worldwide to deal with reports or complaints against Catholic clergy who have allegedly interfered sexually with a child. Yet consideration and evaluation of this intervention clearly highlights the 'after the fact' nature of intervention. Leaders of the Catholic Church are certainly aware of the need for the prevention of mental ill-health, and the promotion of mental health in their ranks. However, it is the negative and vast publicity given to child molestation, and the immediate damage inflicted on the Catholic Church, that has resulted in a 'mop-up operation' rather than an exploration of causes and interventions aimed at prevention and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. Recently, however, psychologists and philosophers, who have been called on to evaluate the problem in the USA, the UK, Southern Africa, and Australia, have been asking questions such as: Why does this happen in the Catholic Church? Or, more to the point, what needs to be done about it? My guiding hypothesis for the research was: Do Catholic priests constitute a high-risk category for mental ill-health? As regards the second question — what is to be done? — I propose the establishment of a Community Health Centre for Catholic clergy. My research addresses both questions. As regards the first question, the evidence — gathered through interviews and workshops over a period of eight years — points to the conclusion that paedophilia is not purely a problem of intra-psychic factors but also a symptom of the closed and isolated nature of the Catholic institution, whose structures both attract and give life to, otherwise possibly latent pathology. In addition, many priests — young and old — feel unheard and misunderstood, and perceive themselves to have been inadequately trained and poorly supported and managed. It is possible that, combining both intra-psychic repression and institutional suppression, the potential for a disaster such as the crisis the Catholic Church faces today, is created. The community of Catholic priests is perhaps not conceptualized, nor cared for, as a community of male human beings. It is precisely a working model of this community care for Catholic priests, that is being explored in this thesis. This thesis presents a working model - or a work in progress — where any assessment is related to healing and therapeutic intervention, in intentionality and orientation.
The role of the Christian church in South African society : with scriptural focus on the care of widows and orphans
(2004) Campbell, Geoffrey; Song, A.
A literary critique is offered on the publication "Theology in a New Key: Responding to Liberation Themes", by Robert M. Brown. His view of Christian ministry differs fundamentally from the documented ministry of the early Church, described by Luke in the Acts of the Apostles. A comparative analysis is presented in this dissertation. A brief review is made of the Christian Church in South Africa, with reference to early Christian missionaries who helped establish the Christian faith in this country. The devastation caused to the Church and the nation by fifty years of Apartheid is discussed. Attitudes towards the role of the Christian Church in society differ according to religious or philosophical belief. A brief examination of Atheism, Agnosticism, Deism, and Theism is undertaken, and conclusions drawn concerning their attitudes towards the Christian Church. Situational Ethics is the practical outworking of many religious and philosophical views in the 21st century, and is here exposed as unbiblical. It is also illogical, in that it expects the Christian Church to provide 'social convenience', while offering no personal commitment Socio-medical aspects of South Africa's monstrous HIV/AIDS epidemic are presented, and a case study done of an orphanage in KwaZulu-Natal, to establish the precise nature, financial viability, and balance of spiritual ministry within this Christian Care Centre. Recommendations for effective and biblical Christian ministry in the 'new' South Africa are presented.
The relevance of Christ's teachings on peace to a society plagued by violence.
(2004) Reddy, Michele Desiree; Loubser, J.A.
In this dissertation I explore the relevance of Christ's teachings on peace, and its effectiveness over the years, namely, through the lives of three individuals, Leo Tolstoy, Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Special attention is paid to each one's philosophy of non-violence as well as their understanding and application of the concept resist not evil by force. Included also are current thoughts pertaining to non-violence. My conclusion is that the doctrine of non¬violence requires much more than just abstinence from violence to be effective. It involves a change in mindset, emotional responses, spiritual accountability, social transformation, self-worth, discipline and most importantly restraint. This study is based on qualitative research conducted by myself. It will show that the ultimate source of peace is God, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
The pastoral and practical principles on which the churches in the New Testament were based
(2005) Bosch, Anton; Song, A.
The New Testament does contain sufficient information in order that we may arrive at a reasonably clear understanding of the principles upon which the churches of the New Testament were based. The Scriptures do not give us a model of how churches must look and thus provides sufficient leeway to apply those principles within the context of different socio¬economic groups, cultures and ages. One of these principles is that of the "Priesthood of Every Believer". This principle, should effect every aspect of the structure of the church and the relationship between ministries and the flock. Thus ministries are intended to truly be servants of the churches and not masters or lords over assemblies. This does not leave leaders without authority, but it is an authority based on relationships, and of the flock recognising the gifts of the leader, rather than a delegated and imposed authority. Since leaders are not "staff or in the "employ" of the church, the question as to how they are to meet their temporal needs arises. The Scriptures draw no distinction between "full-time" and "part-time" ministries and both those who make tents and those who receive money from the church need to look to their Master - Jesus Christ for the supply of their needs. At the same time the labourer is worthy of his hire and local churches must take care of the needs of those who devote themselves to the work of the ministry. Ministries, as listed in Ephesians 4:11, do continue beyond the first century. Unfortunately tradition and modern trends have resulted in many of these ministries being grossly misunderstood and many modern forms of particularly the pastor, apostle and prophet are grotesque aberrations of the Lord's original intent. These aberrations have, to a large extent, resulted in the rejection of the notion that they do continue. While the Lord Jesus clearly intended for local churches be autonomous and not part of a larger organisation (except the Church Universal), they are by no means intended to be so independent that they do not interrelate with other assemblies. Thus local churches are self-sufficient, self governing and self-propagating while, at the same time, being in loving and supportive relationship with churches and men outside the local church.
An investigation into spiritual formation programmes at selected Theological Institutions in Kwa-Zulu Natal
(2005) Naidoo, Marilyn; Song, A.
This research is an investigation into spiritual formation programmes available at different theological institutions in Kwa-Zulu Natal with the aim of finding out how spiritual formation is being intentionally or specifically pursued and whether these programmes are meeting the spiritual needs of the students. The research is based on the hypothesis that spiritual formation should have a legitimate place in theological education in spite continuing disagreements about the nature and place of spiritual formation. If it is imperative that theological graduates be people of competence and character, then spiritual formation must be as much a part of the agenda of the institution as academic competence. Curricular standards for theological education involves concern about intellectual, professional and spiritual formation. Unfortunately the current dominant structure of theological curricula tends to favour academic instruction, tolerate the practical and compartmentalize the spiritual. The average Protestant theological institute suffers from the perception that spiritual formation is not necessary. A reason for this can be traced to a belief that the church is the proper environment for spiritual formation. Cognitive instruction is thought of as the province of the curriculum, with spiritual formation happening implicitly, informally and on a personal basis. The present study contributes empirical data to the growing literature on the relationship between spiritual formation and theological education. Research was conducted at five selected theological institutions to reveal an imbalance in the nature of theological education where the focus is on the academic aspects of learning. This study shows that attempts to take spiritual formation seriously were met with resistance. The field-work revealed that only one of the selected theological institutions has an intentional spiritual formation programme. In the main, the majority of theological institutions did not have an intentional spiritual formation programme despite the fact that they feel an obligation to develop students spiritually as seen by the varied spiritual activities in place. The spiritual maturity of future Christian leaders is an important problem and needs to be addressed throughout theological training. Spiritual formation cannot be left to chance, any more than the pastoral or strictly academic components of ministry formation. This study highlighted a critical task of theological education: the responsibility to develop students holistically. While spiritual formation can and should be intentionally pursued in specific courses, it is important to see it as a crucial dimension of theological education as a whole. This study concluded with general observations about the future of theological education, especially the need for an integrated education. An approach to spiritual formation was offered for an evangelical theological institution. The findings of this study underscore a much neglected area in the training and equipping of pastors that needs immediate remedial action. The weight of the research's contribution lies in its empirical research and it is of publishable quality
An examination of narrative approach in homiletics training in theological institutions in the Pietermaritzburg area (KwaZulu- Natal)
(2005) Queripel, Robert Stitson; Song, A.
A narrative approach in homiletics courses has been more or less neglected in five theological training institutions in the Pietermaritzburg area of KwaZulu-Natal. That this approach would be beneficial in the training of preachers in this province is supported by the research of scholars concerning inter alia the workings in general of the human brain, the general suitability of "inductive" preaching for church-goers and the acceptability of narrative preaching for religious and secular society. Attention is paid to different approaches to the interpretation of Scripture, seeing that this impinges upon narrative preaching. The literary criticism of the Bible is singled out as being distinct from historical criticism and is examined as the best basis for narrative homiletics. In investigating the contribution of interpretation to meaning, attention is paid to the rote of language and the various elements of narrative i.e. closure, order, plot, characters and setting. The narrative portions of the Bible, both OT and NT, are then considered. In the OT the primary story takes place from Genesis to 2Kings and is followed by the secondary story which culminates in Malachi. Various elements in OT narrative are examined which render it distinctive. The same is done with respect to the NT with special reference to the parables of our Lord. Various practical aspects of the preaching of sermons are then considered. An important aspect is the "fieldwork" i.e. the meeting and interviewing of a selection of the various role-players on the homiletical stage. These include past and present lecturers and past and present students of the five institutions. A purpose in the interviews was to ascertain the status of narrative in the homiletics instruction at the institutions. The study concludes with the provision of a proposed series of lectures in narrative sermon preparation which I commend for use in institutions such as those which I have named in this dissertation.
A new creation in Christ
(2005) Reddy, Randlee; Pitchers, A.L.M.
The title "A New Creation in Christ" served as the basis for the examination of the definitive theological and Biblical concepts of the doctrines of creation, humanity, sin and salvation. It integrated the foci of these doctrines, in constructing a paradigm for establishing what is meant by the dissertation title, 'a new creation in creation.' To understand a new creation theology requires a composite structuring of these interrelated doctrines, since no doctrine can be understood vacuously. Humanity was not created in an abstract or theoretical world, and neither were they placed in isolation from creation. Instead, they were very much a part of the created order, and were endowed with specific function or purpose. They interacted with a living world and were accorded the responsibility as its stewards. The consideration of the facets of the doctrine of creation enabled an understanding of humanity’s placement in creation, their purpose and how sin affected creation. This informs the doctrine of humanity in highlighting the biblical emphasis on humanity as the special creation of God. God created humanity in his image, and this image is an intrinsic and indispensable part of humanity's uniqueness and existence. The constitutional nature of humanity lies in its conditional unity of the whole person. Man is a unity of the physical, the psychological and the spiritual, all of which are purposed to enable him, in fulfilling the intentions of the Creator. The doctrine of sin clarified how sin affected the conditional unity of man i.e. the physical, the psychological and the spiritual dimensions. It further demonstrated the domino effect on creation. This precarious position which humanity found themselves in, required the intervention of God, through the incarnation of Christ Salvation is the free gift of God in Christ in dealing with the problem of sin, and the consequences thereof This free gift requires that a human being appropriate salvation in Jesus Christ, through the acceptance of him in faith and repentance. This background established a contextual understanding of a new creation in Christ. The definitive text for our discussion was Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians 5:17 "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come." Paul's statement incorporates two elements of salvation. "If anyone is in Christ" is suggestive of the first element, which is the subjective nature of salvation. This involves the believer's conversion through repentance and faith. The second element is the objective nature of salvation. This is suggested in the next part of the statement "he is a new creation", which is accomplished through the redemptive work of God in Christ. The resident implication of the reference 'a new creation in Christ', is the inauguration of a new humanity that has begun in Christ. A cyclic model for the practical outworking of a new creation theology has been advocated in a threefold consideration of person hood, community and discipleship.
Household livelihood: the church's coping strategies against the impact of HIV and AIDS on the female-headed households in the KwaDlangezwa Area
(2006) Maduka, C.J.; Pitchers, A.L.M.
The research concerns the role the Church can play in mitigating the impact of HiV and AIDS on the female-headed households in KwaDalngezwa. This is considered through the use of livelihood activities. The first chapter gives an overview of the whole research. The chapter shows the essence and importance of the research. In chapter two is the literature review on the impact of HIV and AIDS in general and KwaDlangezwa community in particular. In this chapter, the issues of a female-headed household, household livelihood activities and a household as a unit of the study were discussed. The chapter also considers the issues of livelihood systems and their components. In chapter three, the research addresses the research design and methodology. The chapter also deals with the framework for this research. Chapter four discusses the issues of a household profile and means of livelihood. Also included in this chapter are household structure, composition, division of labour, livelihood assets and resources. In chapter five, the focus is on the discussions and evaluation of the research. The chapter goes further to address the issues of death and funerals as they affect the female-headed household in KwaDlangezwa. The chapter then concludes with the constraints facing the female-headed household. In the final chapter, the research argues that a combination of agriculture [subsistence farming], empowerment, emancipation and education are alternatives to Black Economic Empowerment [BEE]. These will provide the most practical contribution the Church can make. Under agriculture, the issues of planting, processing and storage systems are discussed while micro-enterprises focus on beadwork and pottery. Under BEE the research pays attention to empowerment, emancipation and education as the alternative to Black Economic Empowerment only. These are the most practical ways of reaching the poor, especially women. The chapter goes further to address the issue of the Child Support Grant. This is because some people have adopted the Child Support Grant as their only means of livelihood, it concludes with a number of business opportunities the Church can use to mitigate the impact of HIV and AIDS on a female-headed household in KwaDlangezwa.
An investigation into the values necessary for the African Renaissance in South Africa with special reference to the learners in Empangeni District
(2006) Shwala, Bhekani Goodman; Loubser, J.A.
This study aims to explore various strategies that address the decline in moral values in South Africa and also find solutions that shall enhance African Renaissance. A number of solutions will be explored to promote a positive sense of Africanism in different aspects of life. These will include morality, discipline, economy, culture, religion, languages, education and other related aspects. Moral regeneration is crucial in ensuring stability in our country; this could be the main reason why it has been embraced with such enthusiasm. It includes taking responsibility for all South Africans, young and old, rural or urban, rich or poor, male or female, black or white, etc. Some South Africans believe that an African Renaissance may be achievable through reverting to old traditional ways of life. It is through these ways that moral values may be inculcated successfully. 1hese views may, however, be challenged. It is also true that other avenues relevant to present days' situations and circumstances may be applicable and used successfully. Whilst keeping in mind that times change, it is imperative to bear in mind that traditional moral values stand beyond space and time. There are common values that are fundamental to all. Those are the values that will be investigated with a view to achieve the vision of the African Renaissance.
A Christian perspective of the world of spirits : a trans-ethnic examination
(2006) Pillay, Vernon Nicholas; Song, A.
The existence of a ' spirit world' is acknowledged by many world religions such as Christianity, Hinduism and African Traditional Religion. Of particular interest to religionists is the personal and corporate response to such a world. A proper understanding and relationship to the spirit world helps religionists to better regulate their spiritual lives thereby allowing them to find purpose for their existence in this present world and the world beyond. To Christians, a sound knowledge of the spirit world greatly impacts on how they relate to God and others and the meeting of their holistic needs in this present world. As children of God, they already stand in opposition to the evil spiritual forces that make up part of the spirit world. Believers are cautioned by Scripture (Ephesians 6:11) not to live in ignorance of the spirit world. Man's obedience to God will mean blessing and hope while disobedience will spell sorrow and hopelessness in this life and the life to come. To this end, while examining the Christian perspective of the spirit world, the thesis also provides insightful information on the similarities and differences of the belief system pertaining to African Traditional Religion and Hinduism. Ample evidence exists of similarities rather than differences between these two religions. Some of the similarities include their view of God, the role of intermediaries, the importance of appeasing the spirits of the dead and the value of symbolism and rituals. One reason for such commonality is perhaps due to similar cultural patterns. Both these religions offer valuable principles and guidelines to practitioners in response to the spirit world. The Christian perspective concentrates more on Satan and evil spirits, their role in the universe and particularly in the lives of believers. For Christians any negligence towards the principles of God's Word leaves them vulnerable to the attacks of the evil forces. Although subjected to debate by some demon possession is one of the ways that Satan uses to disrupt the holistic wellbeing of a person. Research in the region of Isipingo in Kwazulu-Natal verified the existence of demon related problems and their hindrance to spiritual growth among churches. In the light of biblical teachings made in reference to the spirit world it is imperative that a believer's walk with God is always a walk of victory.

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