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- ItemThe 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.
- ItemAn 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.
- ItemAn 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.
- ItemLocal 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.
- ItemTithes 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.