A theological consideration of the office, sacrifice, ministry and perfection of Christ as high priest in the Epistle to the Hebrews, and their significance for the believer and the community of faith
- Authors: Furness, Darryl Hilary
- Date: 1989
- Subjects: Jesus Christ -- Person and offices , Bible -- Hebrews -- Criticism, interpretation, etc. , Sacrifice -- Christianity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTh
- Identifier: vital:1219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001549
- Description: In these last days God has spoken his last and most complete word to man in a Son, Jesus Christ. In his person and ministry Christ is the agent of creation and heir of the spiritual and material estate of God. He is the locus of the fulfilment of the revelatory plan of God, and, as such, is superior to the angels, the ministers of salvation within the created order, and Moses, the faithful minister of God's people Israel. Christ not only fulfils the necessary qualification for priesthood under the old covenant, that of divine appointment, but is appointed by God a high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. This establishes and authenticates the high priestly office of Christ. Jesus Christ, Iike the high priests of the old covenant, must offer gifts and sacrifices to God. The sacrifice of Christ fulfils the sacrificial code of Leviticus 1-7, his sacrifice being a gift to God, communion with God, and an expiatory sacrifice. But more than this the sacrifice of Christ fulfils the Day of Atonement ritual of Leviticus 16 as well as the covenant sacrifice of Exodus 24. The sacrifice of Christ is essentially once for all, being that unique action which alone can ultimately deal with sin. The uniqueness of Christ's sacrifice depends on the uniqueness of the person of Christ and his superior high priestly office. In his sacrificial action Christ is also the sin-bearer. The high priestly sacrifice of Christ determines the form of the high priestly ministry of Christ, which is also gift to God, communion with God, has expiatory significance, and is a ministry of the new covenant . The high priestly ministry of Christ is a ministry which is continuous through time and is both contemporaneous with and subsequent to his sacrifice. In this continuity through time the ministry of Christ is the foundation of both the faith of believers and their perfection as sons. In the execution of his high priestly ministry Christ is perfected by God through the learning of obedience. The humiliation of Christ and his learning of obedience becomes the foundation of the perfecting of believers. It is as the One who is perfected through suffering that Christ becomes the pioneer of salvation and the pioneer and perfecter of the faith of the people of God. Through faith in Christ the people of God constitute a pilgrim people who, on the basis of Christ's perfection, are themselves perfected and brought to glory. The pilgrim people of God share in the priesthood of Christ and constitute a priesthood of all believers. In their pilgrimage of faith they are to demonstrate their confidence, endurance, obedience, and discipline, and in their running of the race of pilgrimage are to exercise their own ministry as they progress to glory and the sabbath rest of God. The high priesthood of Christ has implications for the common life of the people of God and is at the foundation of our understanding of the Christian life.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1989
- Authors: Furness, Darryl Hilary
- Date: 1989
- Subjects: Jesus Christ -- Person and offices , Bible -- Hebrews -- Criticism, interpretation, etc. , Sacrifice -- Christianity
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTh
- Identifier: vital:1219 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1001549
- Description: In these last days God has spoken his last and most complete word to man in a Son, Jesus Christ. In his person and ministry Christ is the agent of creation and heir of the spiritual and material estate of God. He is the locus of the fulfilment of the revelatory plan of God, and, as such, is superior to the angels, the ministers of salvation within the created order, and Moses, the faithful minister of God's people Israel. Christ not only fulfils the necessary qualification for priesthood under the old covenant, that of divine appointment, but is appointed by God a high priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. This establishes and authenticates the high priestly office of Christ. Jesus Christ, Iike the high priests of the old covenant, must offer gifts and sacrifices to God. The sacrifice of Christ fulfils the sacrificial code of Leviticus 1-7, his sacrifice being a gift to God, communion with God, and an expiatory sacrifice. But more than this the sacrifice of Christ fulfils the Day of Atonement ritual of Leviticus 16 as well as the covenant sacrifice of Exodus 24. The sacrifice of Christ is essentially once for all, being that unique action which alone can ultimately deal with sin. The uniqueness of Christ's sacrifice depends on the uniqueness of the person of Christ and his superior high priestly office. In his sacrificial action Christ is also the sin-bearer. The high priestly sacrifice of Christ determines the form of the high priestly ministry of Christ, which is also gift to God, communion with God, has expiatory significance, and is a ministry of the new covenant . The high priestly ministry of Christ is a ministry which is continuous through time and is both contemporaneous with and subsequent to his sacrifice. In this continuity through time the ministry of Christ is the foundation of both the faith of believers and their perfection as sons. In the execution of his high priestly ministry Christ is perfected by God through the learning of obedience. The humiliation of Christ and his learning of obedience becomes the foundation of the perfecting of believers. It is as the One who is perfected through suffering that Christ becomes the pioneer of salvation and the pioneer and perfecter of the faith of the people of God. Through faith in Christ the people of God constitute a pilgrim people who, on the basis of Christ's perfection, are themselves perfected and brought to glory. The pilgrim people of God share in the priesthood of Christ and constitute a priesthood of all believers. In their pilgrimage of faith they are to demonstrate their confidence, endurance, obedience, and discipline, and in their running of the race of pilgrimage are to exercise their own ministry as they progress to glory and the sabbath rest of God. The high priesthood of Christ has implications for the common life of the people of God and is at the foundation of our understanding of the Christian life.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1989
The fact and meaning of the resurrection : a study in emphases
- Authors: Bill, Jean-Francois
- Date: 1959
- Subjects: Jesus Christ -- Resurrection , Resurrection -- Biblical teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1289 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1014595
- Description: INTRODUCTION. The fact of the Risen Christ is the focal point which gives meaning to the Christian faith as a whole. Modern thought, while not denying the Resurrection, tends to confine it to its doctrinal or credal significance. In contrast, the early Christians were conscious of the presence of the Risen Lord and consequently the Resurrection was a fact of living experience. As mere history it loses its moral significance; as mere faith it becomes vague belief in deathlessness, and undermines the reality of the Atonement. The Resurrection is both fact and faith.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1959
- Authors: Bill, Jean-Francois
- Date: 1959
- Subjects: Jesus Christ -- Resurrection , Resurrection -- Biblical teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1289 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1014595
- Description: INTRODUCTION. The fact of the Risen Christ is the focal point which gives meaning to the Christian faith as a whole. Modern thought, while not denying the Resurrection, tends to confine it to its doctrinal or credal significance. In contrast, the early Christians were conscious of the presence of the Risen Lord and consequently the Resurrection was a fact of living experience. As mere history it loses its moral significance; as mere faith it becomes vague belief in deathlessness, and undermines the reality of the Atonement. The Resurrection is both fact and faith.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1959
Aspects of the cosmic Christ in the spirituality of Dom Bede Griffiths
- Authors: Forster, Dion Angus
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Griffiths, Bede, 1906-1993 , Catholic Church -- India -- Clergy -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTh
- Identifier: vital:1305 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018212
- Description: Alan Griffiths was born at Walton-on Thames, England in 1906. He was educated at Christ's Hospital and later at Oxford (under the tutelage of C.S. Lewis). At Oxford he read English literature and philosophy. After considerable inner turmoil he was converted to Christianity in 1931 and entered the Roman Catholic Church in 1933. As a novice Benedictine he was given the name Bede, and was finally ordained as a priest 1940. In 1955 Fr Bede went to India to start a Benedictine community with Dom Benedict Alapatt. He later moved to Kurisumala Ashram in Kerala, and finally, in 1968, to Shantivanam Ashram in Tamil Nadu. He died at Shantivanarn in 1993. Fr Bede was, and still is, regarded by many as a spiritual pioneer. This high regard stems from an appreciation of his spirituality which was rooted in a mystical experience of God. This thesis investigates aspects of Fr Bede's cosmic christology as they arise from his spirituality. The aim of this research is to show that Fr Bede’s cosmic christology that stems from an expression of a real mystical experience of Christ, as the source, sustainer and goal of the whole cosmos, offers both value and insight to Christian spiritual practice and the formulation of doctrine. What makes Fr Bede's spirituality so valuable is the manner in which he integrated East and West in his spirituality and person, coupled with his ability to draw upon that integration in reflecting and articulating his experience - which ultimately shaped his cosmic christology. In order to share his knowledge and experience of the cosmic Christ, Fr Bede draws upon linguistic and philosophical concepts from the East (and Hinduism in particular) as well as the language and theory arising from discoveries in the areas of quantum physics, microbiology and transpersonal psychology in the West. It is the primacy of spiritual experience, coupled with Fr Bede's ability to integrate the religions, cultures and world-views of the East and West within himself, which makes his cosmic christology so compelling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Forster, Dion Angus
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Griffiths, Bede, 1906-1993 , Catholic Church -- India -- Clergy -- Biography
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTh
- Identifier: vital:1305 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018212
- Description: Alan Griffiths was born at Walton-on Thames, England in 1906. He was educated at Christ's Hospital and later at Oxford (under the tutelage of C.S. Lewis). At Oxford he read English literature and philosophy. After considerable inner turmoil he was converted to Christianity in 1931 and entered the Roman Catholic Church in 1933. As a novice Benedictine he was given the name Bede, and was finally ordained as a priest 1940. In 1955 Fr Bede went to India to start a Benedictine community with Dom Benedict Alapatt. He later moved to Kurisumala Ashram in Kerala, and finally, in 1968, to Shantivanam Ashram in Tamil Nadu. He died at Shantivanarn in 1993. Fr Bede was, and still is, regarded by many as a spiritual pioneer. This high regard stems from an appreciation of his spirituality which was rooted in a mystical experience of God. This thesis investigates aspects of Fr Bede's cosmic christology as they arise from his spirituality. The aim of this research is to show that Fr Bede’s cosmic christology that stems from an expression of a real mystical experience of Christ, as the source, sustainer and goal of the whole cosmos, offers both value and insight to Christian spiritual practice and the formulation of doctrine. What makes Fr Bede's spirituality so valuable is the manner in which he integrated East and West in his spirituality and person, coupled with his ability to draw upon that integration in reflecting and articulating his experience - which ultimately shaped his cosmic christology. In order to share his knowledge and experience of the cosmic Christ, Fr Bede draws upon linguistic and philosophical concepts from the East (and Hinduism in particular) as well as the language and theory arising from discoveries in the areas of quantum physics, microbiology and transpersonal psychology in the West. It is the primacy of spiritual experience, coupled with Fr Bede's ability to integrate the religions, cultures and world-views of the East and West within himself, which makes his cosmic christology so compelling.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
The cost of discipleship and the reward of righteousness
- Authors: Samson, Robert McNeil
- Date: 1960
- Subjects: Jesus Christ -- Teachings , Christian life -- Biblical teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1272 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013158
- Description: CHAPTER ONE. In the Old Testament we meet with the problem of suffering and reward, and the attempts made to resolve it. It becomes the one great problem after the time of the Exile. Most commentators are agreed that it grew to hold that place in relation to the increase of importance of the individual in Hebrew thinking. While certain aspects of the problem are presented in Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Psalm 73, the most important contributions are made by the Deuteronomist and the poet who wrote the Book of Job. The Deuteronomist theory presents the belief that there is a rigid correspondence between the sins of the individual and his suffering. The reply in Job makes it clear that this is not so. Job himself passes through the desperate situation of feeling deserted by God to a certain faith that whatever happens to him, God is faithful. CHAPTER TWO. Jesus' teaching on "discipleship". Basically Jesus's teaching centres around Mark 8 : 34, "Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow me". The cost of discipleship from this point of view means, then, that even as Jesus Himself bears the cross for the salvation of the world, so the disciple is called upon to bear that cross in association with his Lord. Jesus offers the reward of both a present foretaste and a future consummation of eternal life, as the disciple shares in His resurrection. St. Paul's teaching of "Life in Christ". The central teaching of Paul is found in Romans 6 : 11, "Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord." The cost of discipleship is death, the death of self- will. It means being crucified with Christ. The reward of the righteous man is both a present and future participation in the risen life of Christ. CHAPTER THREE The need of man. Because man is a sinner, being estranged from God in whose image he was created, he stands in need of being reconciled to God. This he cannot do himself because, to his sin, he is not able to make the full sacrifice of his self-will. "Man requires to be put right with God because as a matter of fact he is not right." The Christ. Only in the person of the God-man is God able to effect man's resolution. Jesus, the Christ, who alone of all men did not participate in the sinfulness of man, is this God-man, realising in Himself the fact that salvation can only be wrought by one who is both God and man. The necessity of the Cross. The death of the Christ is seen to be necessary both from the side of man and from that of God. It was essential that the Christ should give His life for man; everything for His purpose of salvation turns on the will to die. He must give himself to reconcile man to God. The sacrifice of the Cross. Seen in the context of the Old Testament sacrificial system, what is important about the sacrifice of the Christ is that on the cross He offered up His life for man. The sacrifice of the Christ is both in the category of divine revelation and that of human response. It is the love of God in its utter self-offering making a way whereby the sinner might be reconciled to Him. The use of the Ransom Theory of the atonement is regarded as inadequate for expressing this cost. Basically it is a costly sacrifice because it is the self-offering of the Son of God upon the cross. CHAPTER FOUR The New Testament picture. A closer analysis is made of the New Testament teaching of discipleship, where it is seen that it is required of men that he should make, like the Christ, the costly sacrifice of himself. Soren Kierkegaard. This existential thinker felt the need of awakening men to a full recognition of the costliness of life. Despair. Man, due to his state of sinfulness is in despair, for "sin can be defined as despair at not willing to be oneself or not willing to be oneself before God." It is necessary to make the leap of faith to pass from this despair. The Three Stages. These are the aesthetical, ethical and religious stages. The individual must enter the last by making the leap of faith out of his despair; and this leap means the costly commitment of the self to the Christ. "Purify your hearts." In this book, Kierkegaard analyses man's double-mindedness. He comes to two conclusions. "If anybody would will the Good truly, then he must with knowledge of himself be ready to renounce all double-mindedness. If anybody would will the Good truly, then he must be ready to do all for the Good, and suffer for for the Good." His teaching on the cost of discipleship could be summed up thus : "The negating of one's finite self, or the negating of one's finitude means for him nothing less than the conscious sacrifice of all that is finite." Paul Tillich. Tillich deals with the ultimate problem of being and non-being, and in the "Courage to be" he develops the reactions of the individual when he is faced with the possibility of his non-being. The individual can either lose himself in his world by the courage to be as a part, or lose his world in himself by the courage to be as himself. These two forms of courage are transcended by the courage to accept acceptance, which is the ultimate courage to be, in which the individual accepts the fact that though he is sinful, yet God accepts him. This courage is the outcome of faith, which is found in an encounter with the New Being, in which the self is lost in the Christ, being found also in the Christ. The disciple surrenders himself that he may be made more truly himself. CHAPTER FIVE In this chapter an attempt is made to analyse the reward of righteousness. This reward is firstly seen to be the outcome of the life of discipleship and not its motive. Basically it is found in the new quality of life which is called eternal life. It is a reward both in the future and in the present. In the future it is the fullness of life in communion, peace and joy in the presence of God. In the present it is a foretaste of that life which is to come, a present possession in the midst of finitude of communion, peace and joy with God. Ultimately this means participation in the resurrection of the Christ. CHAPTER SIX We can conclude from this thesis, then, that Jesus the Christ is the prototype of the Christian. Discipleship is costly because it means participation in His utter self-offering of Himself; and the righteous man, who is the one who by faith commits himself to and in the Christ, is rewarded with the new quality of eternal life. The death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ are the criteria of the cost of discipleship and the reward of the righteous man.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1960
- Authors: Samson, Robert McNeil
- Date: 1960
- Subjects: Jesus Christ -- Teachings , Christian life -- Biblical teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1272 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013158
- Description: CHAPTER ONE. In the Old Testament we meet with the problem of suffering and reward, and the attempts made to resolve it. It becomes the one great problem after the time of the Exile. Most commentators are agreed that it grew to hold that place in relation to the increase of importance of the individual in Hebrew thinking. While certain aspects of the problem are presented in Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Psalm 73, the most important contributions are made by the Deuteronomist and the poet who wrote the Book of Job. The Deuteronomist theory presents the belief that there is a rigid correspondence between the sins of the individual and his suffering. The reply in Job makes it clear that this is not so. Job himself passes through the desperate situation of feeling deserted by God to a certain faith that whatever happens to him, God is faithful. CHAPTER TWO. Jesus' teaching on "discipleship". Basically Jesus's teaching centres around Mark 8 : 34, "Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow me". The cost of discipleship from this point of view means, then, that even as Jesus Himself bears the cross for the salvation of the world, so the disciple is called upon to bear that cross in association with his Lord. Jesus offers the reward of both a present foretaste and a future consummation of eternal life, as the disciple shares in His resurrection. St. Paul's teaching of "Life in Christ". The central teaching of Paul is found in Romans 6 : 11, "Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord." The cost of discipleship is death, the death of self- will. It means being crucified with Christ. The reward of the righteous man is both a present and future participation in the risen life of Christ. CHAPTER THREE The need of man. Because man is a sinner, being estranged from God in whose image he was created, he stands in need of being reconciled to God. This he cannot do himself because, to his sin, he is not able to make the full sacrifice of his self-will. "Man requires to be put right with God because as a matter of fact he is not right." The Christ. Only in the person of the God-man is God able to effect man's resolution. Jesus, the Christ, who alone of all men did not participate in the sinfulness of man, is this God-man, realising in Himself the fact that salvation can only be wrought by one who is both God and man. The necessity of the Cross. The death of the Christ is seen to be necessary both from the side of man and from that of God. It was essential that the Christ should give His life for man; everything for His purpose of salvation turns on the will to die. He must give himself to reconcile man to God. The sacrifice of the Cross. Seen in the context of the Old Testament sacrificial system, what is important about the sacrifice of the Christ is that on the cross He offered up His life for man. The sacrifice of the Christ is both in the category of divine revelation and that of human response. It is the love of God in its utter self-offering making a way whereby the sinner might be reconciled to Him. The use of the Ransom Theory of the atonement is regarded as inadequate for expressing this cost. Basically it is a costly sacrifice because it is the self-offering of the Son of God upon the cross. CHAPTER FOUR The New Testament picture. A closer analysis is made of the New Testament teaching of discipleship, where it is seen that it is required of men that he should make, like the Christ, the costly sacrifice of himself. Soren Kierkegaard. This existential thinker felt the need of awakening men to a full recognition of the costliness of life. Despair. Man, due to his state of sinfulness is in despair, for "sin can be defined as despair at not willing to be oneself or not willing to be oneself before God." It is necessary to make the leap of faith to pass from this despair. The Three Stages. These are the aesthetical, ethical and religious stages. The individual must enter the last by making the leap of faith out of his despair; and this leap means the costly commitment of the self to the Christ. "Purify your hearts." In this book, Kierkegaard analyses man's double-mindedness. He comes to two conclusions. "If anybody would will the Good truly, then he must with knowledge of himself be ready to renounce all double-mindedness. If anybody would will the Good truly, then he must be ready to do all for the Good, and suffer for for the Good." His teaching on the cost of discipleship could be summed up thus : "The negating of one's finite self, or the negating of one's finitude means for him nothing less than the conscious sacrifice of all that is finite." Paul Tillich. Tillich deals with the ultimate problem of being and non-being, and in the "Courage to be" he develops the reactions of the individual when he is faced with the possibility of his non-being. The individual can either lose himself in his world by the courage to be as a part, or lose his world in himself by the courage to be as himself. These two forms of courage are transcended by the courage to accept acceptance, which is the ultimate courage to be, in which the individual accepts the fact that though he is sinful, yet God accepts him. This courage is the outcome of faith, which is found in an encounter with the New Being, in which the self is lost in the Christ, being found also in the Christ. The disciple surrenders himself that he may be made more truly himself. CHAPTER FIVE In this chapter an attempt is made to analyse the reward of righteousness. This reward is firstly seen to be the outcome of the life of discipleship and not its motive. Basically it is found in the new quality of life which is called eternal life. It is a reward both in the future and in the present. In the future it is the fullness of life in communion, peace and joy in the presence of God. In the present it is a foretaste of that life which is to come, a present possession in the midst of finitude of communion, peace and joy with God. Ultimately this means participation in the resurrection of the Christ. CHAPTER SIX We can conclude from this thesis, then, that Jesus the Christ is the prototype of the Christian. Discipleship is costly because it means participation in His utter self-offering of Himself; and the righteous man, who is the one who by faith commits himself to and in the Christ, is rewarded with the new quality of eternal life. The death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ are the criteria of the cost of discipleship and the reward of the righteous man.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1960
The contribution of F. D. Maurice to the nineteenth century discussion of the atonement in Britain
- Authors: Richardson, Robert Neville
- Date: 1971
- Subjects: Maurice, Frederick Denison, 1805-1872 Atonement -- History of doctrines -- 19th century Atonement -- Great Britain -- 19th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1235 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007485
- Description: From Introduction: Frederick Denison Maurice is generally remembered in connection with the rise of Christian Socialism. That his activities in this Movement were the most important aspect of his career is doubtful. ... Maurice's fundamental theological principles were: first, the idea of unity - unity in the Godhead, "Unity in Trinity", and unity among men in the human family; secondly, the Fatherhood of God - a Fatherhood which had at its heart the principle of sacrificial love. The events of Maurice's life proved to be fertile ground for the growth of these convictions. It was these convictions which shaped his whole understanding of the Atonement. Davies (3) points out that, in his teaching on the Atonement, Maurice turned away from the Western and Augustinian insistence that the basis of man's relationship to God was the Fall, and held, with the theolo Gians of the Eastern Church, that Christ's redemption of man is best understood as a restoration of man's relationship to God in Creation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1971
- Authors: Richardson, Robert Neville
- Date: 1971
- Subjects: Maurice, Frederick Denison, 1805-1872 Atonement -- History of doctrines -- 19th century Atonement -- Great Britain -- 19th century
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1235 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007485
- Description: From Introduction: Frederick Denison Maurice is generally remembered in connection with the rise of Christian Socialism. That his activities in this Movement were the most important aspect of his career is doubtful. ... Maurice's fundamental theological principles were: first, the idea of unity - unity in the Godhead, "Unity in Trinity", and unity among men in the human family; secondly, the Fatherhood of God - a Fatherhood which had at its heart the principle of sacrificial love. The events of Maurice's life proved to be fertile ground for the growth of these convictions. It was these convictions which shaped his whole understanding of the Atonement. Davies (3) points out that, in his teaching on the Atonement, Maurice turned away from the Western and Augustinian insistence that the basis of man's relationship to God was the Fall, and held, with the theolo Gians of the Eastern Church, that Christ's redemption of man is best understood as a restoration of man's relationship to God in Creation.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1971
A study of the concept of the church in the Pauline Corpus and in Luke-Acts with special reference to the reasons for differences in their understanding
- Authors: Maclean, Iain Stewart
- Date: 1980
- Subjects: Bible. Luke -- Theology -- Criticism, interpretation, etc. Bible. Acts -- Theology -- Criticism, interpretation, etc. Pauline churches
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1227 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006984
- Description: This essay consists of six chapters with an introduction and conclusion. INTRODUCTION: The introduction sets out the scope of the essay and states the methodology that is followed. CHAPTER I: THE PEOPLE OF GOD. This and the next two chapters deal with the Pauline conception of the Church. This chapter deals in particular with Paul's understanding of the continuity of the Church with Israel. The Old 'Testament terms and types that Paul uses are examined and their new application to the Church noted. The Church is examined as the "people of God", the "ekklesia" the "saints", the "elect" and the "temple of the Holy Spirit". CHAPTER II: THE WHOLE CHRIST. This chapter deals with the understanding of the Church as being "in Christ", as being "with Christ" in his redemptive acts. Here the close union between Christ and the Christian is examined,especially as it is conveyed by the "local" understanding of "in Christ" and the Christians' participation "with Christ" in baptism. The term fellowship (Koinonia) is also examined. The chapter concludes that Paul regards Christians as being "solid" with Christ. CHAPTER III: THE BODY OF CHRIST. Here the corporate understanding of the Church as the Body of Christ is examined. After a brief survey of various theories of origin it is suggested that the formula and concept itself was an original Pauline formulation. The "body of Christ" is closely identified with the actual redemptive acts, but it is exceeding the figures usage to regard the Church under this figure as the Iiteral physical body of Christ. While the term is used metaphorically, it is yet more than a metaphor. It expresses the corporate nature of the Christian Church, in its union with Christ. CHAPTER IV: LUKE, JESUS AND THE COMMUNITY. This chapter looks at Luke's treatment of Jesus' purpose. It seeks to answer the question as to whether Jesus intended to found a community. The question of eschatology and its relationship to the Lukan concept of the Church is examined. It is shown that Luke did have an interest in eschatology and that this did not prevent him conceiving of Jesus' founding a community. CHAPTER V: THE RESTORATION OF THE PEOPLE OF GOD (ISRAEL). We see in this chapter that Luke has an unique ecclesiology. For he does conceive of a Church, but one that is essentially Jewish, in fact the restored Israel. Luke only envisages one Israel, from which unbelieving Jews are cut off. This Israel, as part of its restoration, comprehends within itself both the Samaritans (who are viewed by Luke more as Jews than non-Jews) and the Gentiles. CHAPTER VI: THE APOSTLES, THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE COMMUNITY. The Apostles are regarded by Luke as the regents of the restored Israel, not really as the guarantors of a Jesus tradition or as the first ecclesiastical officials. As such they are instrumental in showing the Church's continuity with Israel and the events of Jesus' Resurrection and Ascension. They are vital for the Lukan conception of the restoration of Israel. When this is done by the inclusion of believing Jews, Samaritans and Gentiles, they disappear from Luke's account. The Holy Spirit is viewed as Jesus' gift to the Church, which guides it into an understanding of its universal nature. The Holy Spirit is seen as essential in Christian initiation. Participation in the Holy Spirit, together with the Church's common origin, give the Church its unity and life. CONCLUSION. The conclusion sums up the Lukan and the Pauline concepts of the Church, noting both their similarities and the points wherein they differ. Reasons are advanced for these differences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1980
- Authors: Maclean, Iain Stewart
- Date: 1980
- Subjects: Bible. Luke -- Theology -- Criticism, interpretation, etc. Bible. Acts -- Theology -- Criticism, interpretation, etc. Pauline churches
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1227 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1006984
- Description: This essay consists of six chapters with an introduction and conclusion. INTRODUCTION: The introduction sets out the scope of the essay and states the methodology that is followed. CHAPTER I: THE PEOPLE OF GOD. This and the next two chapters deal with the Pauline conception of the Church. This chapter deals in particular with Paul's understanding of the continuity of the Church with Israel. The Old 'Testament terms and types that Paul uses are examined and their new application to the Church noted. The Church is examined as the "people of God", the "ekklesia" the "saints", the "elect" and the "temple of the Holy Spirit". CHAPTER II: THE WHOLE CHRIST. This chapter deals with the understanding of the Church as being "in Christ", as being "with Christ" in his redemptive acts. Here the close union between Christ and the Christian is examined,especially as it is conveyed by the "local" understanding of "in Christ" and the Christians' participation "with Christ" in baptism. The term fellowship (Koinonia) is also examined. The chapter concludes that Paul regards Christians as being "solid" with Christ. CHAPTER III: THE BODY OF CHRIST. Here the corporate understanding of the Church as the Body of Christ is examined. After a brief survey of various theories of origin it is suggested that the formula and concept itself was an original Pauline formulation. The "body of Christ" is closely identified with the actual redemptive acts, but it is exceeding the figures usage to regard the Church under this figure as the Iiteral physical body of Christ. While the term is used metaphorically, it is yet more than a metaphor. It expresses the corporate nature of the Christian Church, in its union with Christ. CHAPTER IV: LUKE, JESUS AND THE COMMUNITY. This chapter looks at Luke's treatment of Jesus' purpose. It seeks to answer the question as to whether Jesus intended to found a community. The question of eschatology and its relationship to the Lukan concept of the Church is examined. It is shown that Luke did have an interest in eschatology and that this did not prevent him conceiving of Jesus' founding a community. CHAPTER V: THE RESTORATION OF THE PEOPLE OF GOD (ISRAEL). We see in this chapter that Luke has an unique ecclesiology. For he does conceive of a Church, but one that is essentially Jewish, in fact the restored Israel. Luke only envisages one Israel, from which unbelieving Jews are cut off. This Israel, as part of its restoration, comprehends within itself both the Samaritans (who are viewed by Luke more as Jews than non-Jews) and the Gentiles. CHAPTER VI: THE APOSTLES, THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE COMMUNITY. The Apostles are regarded by Luke as the regents of the restored Israel, not really as the guarantors of a Jesus tradition or as the first ecclesiastical officials. As such they are instrumental in showing the Church's continuity with Israel and the events of Jesus' Resurrection and Ascension. They are vital for the Lukan conception of the restoration of Israel. When this is done by the inclusion of believing Jews, Samaritans and Gentiles, they disappear from Luke's account. The Holy Spirit is viewed as Jesus' gift to the Church, which guides it into an understanding of its universal nature. The Holy Spirit is seen as essential in Christian initiation. Participation in the Holy Spirit, together with the Church's common origin, give the Church its unity and life. CONCLUSION. The conclusion sums up the Lukan and the Pauline concepts of the Church, noting both their similarities and the points wherein they differ. Reasons are advanced for these differences.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1980
Christo-centric reconciliation : being a dissertation considering reconciliation with particular reference to; the baptism of Jesus, the temptations of Jesus, the title of Son of Man as used by Jesus, and the Pauline texts which refer to reconciliation
- Authors: Jeannot, Hugues Donald
- Date: 1973
- Subjects: Reconciliation -- Biblical teaching , Jesus Christ -- Temptation , Baptism -- Biblical teaching , Son of Man -- Biblical teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1278 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013397
- Description: [From Introduction]. "God, ... through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." "Among all churches throughout the world there is a growing conviction that God's great reconciliation in Jesus Christ is still the answer desperately needed by modern man." The United Presbyterian Church U.S.A.'s Confession of 1967 made "reconciliation the all-embracing category for describing God's work and man's response, including especially his response in social and political action".
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1973
- Authors: Jeannot, Hugues Donald
- Date: 1973
- Subjects: Reconciliation -- Biblical teaching , Jesus Christ -- Temptation , Baptism -- Biblical teaching , Son of Man -- Biblical teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1278 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013397
- Description: [From Introduction]. "God, ... through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation." "Among all churches throughout the world there is a growing conviction that God's great reconciliation in Jesus Christ is still the answer desperately needed by modern man." The United Presbyterian Church U.S.A.'s Confession of 1967 made "reconciliation the all-embracing category for describing God's work and man's response, including especially his response in social and political action".
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1973
Agnus Dei
- Christ the New Man Centre Congregation, Composer Not Specified, Dargie, Dave
- Authors: Christ the New Man Centre Congregation , Composer Not Specified , Dargie, Dave
- Date: 1987
- Subjects: Folk music , Field recordings , Africa, Sub-Saharan , Africa South Africa Ngqoko f-sa
- Language: Setswana
- Type: sound recordings , field recordings , sound recording-musical
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:58096 , International Library of African Music, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , Dave Dargie Field Tapes, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , DD105-22
- Description: Sung Mass at Christ the New Man Centre with Marimba accompaniment.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 1987
- Authors: Christ the New Man Centre Congregation , Composer Not Specified , Dargie, Dave
- Date: 1987
- Subjects: Folk music , Field recordings , Africa, Sub-Saharan , Africa South Africa Ngqoko f-sa
- Language: Setswana
- Type: sound recordings , field recordings , sound recording-musical
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/${Handle} , vital:58096 , International Library of African Music, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , Dave Dargie Field Tapes, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , DD105-22
- Description: Sung Mass at Christ the New Man Centre with Marimba accompaniment.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 1987
Marimba Piece
- Christ the New Man Centre Congregation, Composer not specified, Dargie, Dave
- Authors: Christ the New Man Centre Congregation , Composer not specified , Dargie, Dave
- Date: 1985
- Subjects: Folk music , Field recordings , Africa, Sub-Saharan , Africa South Africa Garankuwa f-sa
- Language: Language not specified
- Type: sound recordings , field recordings , sound recording-musical
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/295681 , vital:57368 , International Library of African Music, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , Dave Dargie Field Tapes, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , DD092-22
- Description: Sung mass at Christ the New Man Centre, GaRankuwa with Marimba accompaniment.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 1985
- Authors: Christ the New Man Centre Congregation , Composer not specified , Dargie, Dave
- Date: 1985
- Subjects: Folk music , Field recordings , Africa, Sub-Saharan , Africa South Africa Garankuwa f-sa
- Language: Language not specified
- Type: sound recordings , field recordings , sound recording-musical
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/295681 , vital:57368 , International Library of African Music, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , Dave Dargie Field Tapes, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , DD092-22
- Description: Sung mass at Christ the New Man Centre, GaRankuwa with Marimba accompaniment.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 1985
The doctrine of election in the theology of John Calvin, with special reference to the Reformed confessions of faith
- Authors: Elias, James Reginald
- Date: 1962
- Subjects: Calvin, Jean, 1509-1564 , Calvinism , Election (Theology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1277 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013319
- Description: From the preface: This Thesis is an attempt to emphasise the importance and prominence of the doctrine of election for the Christian Faith through studying its formulation in the writings of' John Calvin, one of the finest systematic theologians of the Church.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1962
- Authors: Elias, James Reginald
- Date: 1962
- Subjects: Calvin, Jean, 1509-1564 , Calvinism , Election (Theology)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1277 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013319
- Description: From the preface: This Thesis is an attempt to emphasise the importance and prominence of the doctrine of election for the Christian Faith through studying its formulation in the writings of' John Calvin, one of the finest systematic theologians of the Church.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1962
The eucharist in St John's Gospel : an examination of the extent to which it is justifiable to see allusions to the eucharist in St John's Gospel
- Authors: Verryn, Paul
- Date: 1979
- Subjects: Bible -- John -- Commentaries Lord's Supper
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007273
- Description: This thesis shows that the incarnation of Jesus Christ is an ever present reality for St. John. Christ's abiding presence is known to those who are committed to him because he is their Saviour and Lord. This presence is especially real when his disciples, the believers, the Church gather for worship. In the eucharist, which is an act of worship, the meaning and purpose of the incarnation becomes apparent for St. Paul. By showing that aspects of John's understanding of the incarnation co-incide with the early Church's doctrine of eucharist (as portrayed by St. Paul) the conclusion is reached that we have eucharistic allusions in the gospel of John. Furthermore, John presents Jesus in contrast to the Old Covenant. Jesus supersedes the Old Covenant and establishes the new covenant of love. Just as the Old Covenant was celebrated in the Passover, so the eucharist re-enacts the new covenant. By alluding to the old sacrament, John shows how the eucharist fulfils the true meaning of Passover. After a brief examination of existing methodologies, I present the working hypothesis for this dissertation as outlined above. In a fairly detailed exegesis of Jn 6 (with digressions to other relevant passages in John) which is divided into three sections (In 6:1-21 6:22-48, 6:49-71), I have tried to show that John sees the eucharist as a celebration which emphasises the community of the church, which re-enacts God's great demonstration of love (typified especially in the death of Jesus) and which foreshadows that great heavenly banquet, when, all will be gathered to him. I reach the conclusion therefore that we are justified in finding allusions in the eucharist in the gospel of John.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1979
- Authors: Verryn, Paul
- Date: 1979
- Subjects: Bible -- John -- Commentaries Lord's Supper
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007273
- Description: This thesis shows that the incarnation of Jesus Christ is an ever present reality for St. John. Christ's abiding presence is known to those who are committed to him because he is their Saviour and Lord. This presence is especially real when his disciples, the believers, the Church gather for worship. In the eucharist, which is an act of worship, the meaning and purpose of the incarnation becomes apparent for St. Paul. By showing that aspects of John's understanding of the incarnation co-incide with the early Church's doctrine of eucharist (as portrayed by St. Paul) the conclusion is reached that we have eucharistic allusions in the gospel of John. Furthermore, John presents Jesus in contrast to the Old Covenant. Jesus supersedes the Old Covenant and establishes the new covenant of love. Just as the Old Covenant was celebrated in the Passover, so the eucharist re-enacts the new covenant. By alluding to the old sacrament, John shows how the eucharist fulfils the true meaning of Passover. After a brief examination of existing methodologies, I present the working hypothesis for this dissertation as outlined above. In a fairly detailed exegesis of Jn 6 (with digressions to other relevant passages in John) which is divided into three sections (In 6:1-21 6:22-48, 6:49-71), I have tried to show that John sees the eucharist as a celebration which emphasises the community of the church, which re-enacts God's great demonstration of love (typified especially in the death of Jesus) and which foreshadows that great heavenly banquet, when, all will be gathered to him. I reach the conclusion therefore that we are justified in finding allusions in the eucharist in the gospel of John.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1979
The vocation of man and the Great Commission: a theological dissertation based on the doctrine of reconciliation in Karl Barth's Church Dogmatics
- Authors: Fourie, Ethne Maud
- Date: 1976
- Subjects: Barth, Karl., 1886-1968 Theology, Doctrinal Great Commission (Bible) Reconciliation -- Biblical teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1252 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011870
- Description: The purpose of this thesis is to establish a theological basis for an ecclesiology which takes account of the claim which the Lordship of Jesus Christ asserts over his appointed servants and the appropriate response from the Christian community corporately and from the members of the community individually. The interpretation and application of Christian discipleship by liturgical acts of the community in which the individual members participate and are prepared, trained and nourished for the purpose of equipping them for their corporate and individual task of witness is based on the promise and command of Jesus Christ recorded in Acts 1:8. The theological interpretation of the key concepts of the promise of power in the Holy Spirit and the commission to witness in the world is based on the theology of Karl Barth. Chapter I outlines the immediate context of the doctrine of vocation and the sending of the Christian community and the wider context of the doctrine of reconciliation and its place in the whole of theology. Chapters II and III enlarge on the vocation of man and the sending of the Christian community in the power of the Holy Spirit as the two parts of the doctrine of reconciliation which have particular relevance for our interpretation of the great commission. Chapter IV is devoted to a hypothesis of a special ethic based on Barth's unfinished work and Appendix A to methodological outline. Appendix B considers the practicality of this hypothesis in the light of two contemporary ecumenical interpretations and applications of the great commission. A concluding critique recognises the problems of the hypothesis and the inevitable problems that arise from any attempt to formulate a system or to define in precise categories the unique event of God's free and gracious love poured out and given to us in his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1976
- Authors: Fourie, Ethne Maud
- Date: 1976
- Subjects: Barth, Karl., 1886-1968 Theology, Doctrinal Great Commission (Bible) Reconciliation -- Biblical teaching
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1252 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011870
- Description: The purpose of this thesis is to establish a theological basis for an ecclesiology which takes account of the claim which the Lordship of Jesus Christ asserts over his appointed servants and the appropriate response from the Christian community corporately and from the members of the community individually. The interpretation and application of Christian discipleship by liturgical acts of the community in which the individual members participate and are prepared, trained and nourished for the purpose of equipping them for their corporate and individual task of witness is based on the promise and command of Jesus Christ recorded in Acts 1:8. The theological interpretation of the key concepts of the promise of power in the Holy Spirit and the commission to witness in the world is based on the theology of Karl Barth. Chapter I outlines the immediate context of the doctrine of vocation and the sending of the Christian community and the wider context of the doctrine of reconciliation and its place in the whole of theology. Chapters II and III enlarge on the vocation of man and the sending of the Christian community in the power of the Holy Spirit as the two parts of the doctrine of reconciliation which have particular relevance for our interpretation of the great commission. Chapter IV is devoted to a hypothesis of a special ethic based on Barth's unfinished work and Appendix A to methodological outline. Appendix B considers the practicality of this hypothesis in the light of two contemporary ecumenical interpretations and applications of the great commission. A concluding critique recognises the problems of the hypothesis and the inevitable problems that arise from any attempt to formulate a system or to define in precise categories the unique event of God's free and gracious love poured out and given to us in his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1976
Amen, Ntate re a leboha
- Christ the New Man Centre Congregation, Composer not specified, Dargie, Dave
- Authors: Christ the New Man Centre Congregation , Composer not specified , Dargie, Dave
- Date: 1985
- Subjects: Folk music , Field recordings , Africa, Sub-Saharan , Africa South Africa Garankuwa f-sa
- Language: Zulu
- Type: sound recordings , field recordings , sound recording-musical
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/295691 , vital:57370 , International Library of African Music, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , Dave Dargie Field Tapes, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , DD092-23
- Description: Unaccompanied sung mass at Christ the New Man Centre, GaRankuwa.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 1985
- Authors: Christ the New Man Centre Congregation , Composer not specified , Dargie, Dave
- Date: 1985
- Subjects: Folk music , Field recordings , Africa, Sub-Saharan , Africa South Africa Garankuwa f-sa
- Language: Zulu
- Type: sound recordings , field recordings , sound recording-musical
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/295691 , vital:57370 , International Library of African Music, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , Dave Dargie Field Tapes, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa , DD092-23
- Description: Unaccompanied sung mass at Christ the New Man Centre, GaRankuwa.
- Full Text: false
- Date Issued: 1985
An exploratory study of South African choral identity with specific reference to three regional children's choirs
- Authors: Swart, Jan-Erik
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Children's choirs , Cultural pluralism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8519 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013205
- Description: This qualitative mini-treatise explores how South African choral identity is perceived by three regional children’s choirs, facing challenges of representing cultural diversity against the background of an ongoing process of social transformation. The study proposes that choirs from South Africa project a distinctly South African “choral” identity which they themselves have constructed by fabricating a mental representation of themselves, and which they project outwardly by means of a range of musical and extra-musical elements observable in the cultural product and artifacts generated over time. The researcher has analyzed a selection of cultural products and artifacts of the Eastern Cape Children’s Choir, the Cantare Children’s Choir and the Tygerberg Children’s Choir, in order to identify common practices among three subject choirs which sustain their continuity, in terms of Richard’s definition of identity (in Torres 2008: 3): “to name a set of practices which subjects may adopt in sustaining both the individual and, to varying degrees, collective continuity”. Research findings indicate that subject choirs are perceived, and project their choral identities, according to their musical ability to communicate and interact with other world-class choirs. Recurring practices undertaken by each subject choir, in order to maintain their international perspective, are identified as key to sustaining their continuity. Choral identity is furthermore strongly influenced by the choral tradition of the choir and the role of the conductor in developing their choral tone. This study is significant to regional children’s choirs seeking to overcome challenges of renegotiating cultural identity, as well as sustaining and expanding choral singing as an art form in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Swart, Jan-Erik
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Children's choirs , Cultural pluralism
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8519 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1013205
- Description: This qualitative mini-treatise explores how South African choral identity is perceived by three regional children’s choirs, facing challenges of representing cultural diversity against the background of an ongoing process of social transformation. The study proposes that choirs from South Africa project a distinctly South African “choral” identity which they themselves have constructed by fabricating a mental representation of themselves, and which they project outwardly by means of a range of musical and extra-musical elements observable in the cultural product and artifacts generated over time. The researcher has analyzed a selection of cultural products and artifacts of the Eastern Cape Children’s Choir, the Cantare Children’s Choir and the Tygerberg Children’s Choir, in order to identify common practices among three subject choirs which sustain their continuity, in terms of Richard’s definition of identity (in Torres 2008: 3): “to name a set of practices which subjects may adopt in sustaining both the individual and, to varying degrees, collective continuity”. Research findings indicate that subject choirs are perceived, and project their choral identities, according to their musical ability to communicate and interact with other world-class choirs. Recurring practices undertaken by each subject choir, in order to maintain their international perspective, are identified as key to sustaining their continuity. Choral identity is furthermore strongly influenced by the choral tradition of the choir and the role of the conductor in developing their choral tone. This study is significant to regional children’s choirs seeking to overcome challenges of renegotiating cultural identity, as well as sustaining and expanding choral singing as an art form in South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A study of the place of the eucharist in ecumenical discussion
- Authors: Reimers, D G
- Date: 1964
- Subjects: Ecumenical movement , Lord's Supper
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1267 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013058
- Description: Christian disunity, as has been shown by Rouse and Neill, has been a major problem in the Church from the time of its inception. In Apostolic times Paul had to face serious dissension at Corinth and elsewhere. The great councils of the 4th and 5th centuries were convened to settle doctrinal disputes. The schism between Eastern and Western Christianity, which finally became permanent at about the end of the 12th century, was the result of thoroughgoing doctrinal as well as cultural differences. At the Reformation, Christianity was again drastically divided and between the 16th and 19th centuries,divisions were greatly multiplied. Chap. 1, p. 1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1964
- Authors: Reimers, D G
- Date: 1964
- Subjects: Ecumenical movement , Lord's Supper
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1267 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013058
- Description: Christian disunity, as has been shown by Rouse and Neill, has been a major problem in the Church from the time of its inception. In Apostolic times Paul had to face serious dissension at Corinth and elsewhere. The great councils of the 4th and 5th centuries were convened to settle doctrinal disputes. The schism between Eastern and Western Christianity, which finally became permanent at about the end of the 12th century, was the result of thoroughgoing doctrinal as well as cultural differences. At the Reformation, Christianity was again drastically divided and between the 16th and 19th centuries,divisions were greatly multiplied. Chap. 1, p. 1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1964
An evaluaton of the subjective element in atonement doctrine
- Authors: Perkins, Edwin Alfred
- Date: 1967
- Subjects: Atonement , Subjectivity -- Religious aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1266 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013025
- Description: The Church has never formulated an official doctrine of the atonement. Unlike the Trinitarian and Christological doctrines, the atonement was never a major issue in the early ecumenical councils. This central mystery of the faith, which speaks of the restoring of the relationship between God and man through Jesus Christ, has resisted every attempt at 'a formulation or statement in a nutshell'. Tillich has suggested that the Church's refusal to state the doctrine in definite dogmatic terms, is the instinctive recognition of the indefiniteness which is introduced by the human element. This element means that the doctrine has a subjective as well as an objective element. Since in his view the subjective element depends on the incalculable reaction of men to God's provision of a Saviour the formulation of the doctrine must remain uncertain. While we will agree with Tillich that the atonement has an objective as well as a subjective side, we cannot agree that the failure to formulate a doctrine has only to do with the uncertainty implied by the will of men. Intro. p, 1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1967
- Authors: Perkins, Edwin Alfred
- Date: 1967
- Subjects: Atonement , Subjectivity -- Religious aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1266 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013025
- Description: The Church has never formulated an official doctrine of the atonement. Unlike the Trinitarian and Christological doctrines, the atonement was never a major issue in the early ecumenical councils. This central mystery of the faith, which speaks of the restoring of the relationship between God and man through Jesus Christ, has resisted every attempt at 'a formulation or statement in a nutshell'. Tillich has suggested that the Church's refusal to state the doctrine in definite dogmatic terms, is the instinctive recognition of the indefiniteness which is introduced by the human element. This element means that the doctrine has a subjective as well as an objective element. Since in his view the subjective element depends on the incalculable reaction of men to God's provision of a Saviour the formulation of the doctrine must remain uncertain. While we will agree with Tillich that the atonement has an objective as well as a subjective side, we cannot agree that the failure to formulate a doctrine has only to do with the uncertainty implied by the will of men. Intro. p, 1.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1967
In the gaze of God : aspects of the spiritual significance of Rublev's holy trinity
- Authors: Snyman, Desiree
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Prayer , Spirituality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1302 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016261
- Description: An icon is more than an image. It is a "sacramental form of presence" that makes present that which it signifies (Evdokimov 1976: 167). To come before an icon is to come before the presence of God. To gaze at an icon is to pray. Rublev's Holy Trinity icon (see frontispiece) is a theology in colour. Inspired by the story in Genesis 18, the icon depicts the three hypostases of the Trinity sitting around an altar with a chalice placed on top. The Biblical story is an account of the genuine hospitality that Abraham and Sarah shared with three pilgrims. This theme of hospitality is expressed by the three hypostases in the icon who invite the cosmos to share in their love-life. This research project investigates aspects of the spiritual significance that Rublev's icon has on our Christian living. To this end, an interpretation of the icon is offered in chapter two. Chapter three focuses on the relationship among the three hypostases in the icon. This chapter reflects on the meaning that trinitarian pericheresis could have on our spiritual living in the way we develop our relationships and the type of church and socio-political structures we adopt and support. The research project also explores the meaning that Rublev's icon could have for Methodists. The resource that Wesleyan spirituality offers to those who seek a deepened spirituality is the doctrine of Christian perfection. Perfection, in the Wesleyan model, is sought through the means of grace, nurtured through Christian koinonia and evidenced in social transformation. Christian perfection is discussed with reference to Rublev's icon in chapter four. Chapter five summarises aspects of the spirituality of the icon, postulates some implications that the icon has and unravels key issues arising out of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Snyman, Desiree
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Prayer , Spirituality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Bachelor , BDiv
- Identifier: vital:1302 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016261
- Description: An icon is more than an image. It is a "sacramental form of presence" that makes present that which it signifies (Evdokimov 1976: 167). To come before an icon is to come before the presence of God. To gaze at an icon is to pray. Rublev's Holy Trinity icon (see frontispiece) is a theology in colour. Inspired by the story in Genesis 18, the icon depicts the three hypostases of the Trinity sitting around an altar with a chalice placed on top. The Biblical story is an account of the genuine hospitality that Abraham and Sarah shared with three pilgrims. This theme of hospitality is expressed by the three hypostases in the icon who invite the cosmos to share in their love-life. This research project investigates aspects of the spiritual significance that Rublev's icon has on our Christian living. To this end, an interpretation of the icon is offered in chapter two. Chapter three focuses on the relationship among the three hypostases in the icon. This chapter reflects on the meaning that trinitarian pericheresis could have on our spiritual living in the way we develop our relationships and the type of church and socio-political structures we adopt and support. The research project also explores the meaning that Rublev's icon could have for Methodists. The resource that Wesleyan spirituality offers to those who seek a deepened spirituality is the doctrine of Christian perfection. Perfection, in the Wesleyan model, is sought through the means of grace, nurtured through Christian koinonia and evidenced in social transformation. Christian perfection is discussed with reference to Rublev's icon in chapter four. Chapter five summarises aspects of the spirituality of the icon, postulates some implications that the icon has and unravels key issues arising out of this study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
Constructing a web of culture: the case of akKOORd, an Overberg community choir
- Authors: Jacobs, Sunell Human
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Choral music -- South Africa -- Overberg , Choirs (Music) , Overberg (South Africa) -- History , City and town life -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8506 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1254 , Choral music -- South Africa -- Overberg , Choirs (Music) , Overberg (South Africa) -- History , City and town life -- Social aspects
- Description: akKOORd, a community choir in the relatively small southern region of the Overberg, was formed in 2006, and although the choir has only a brief history, its spirit, activities, and concerts have inspired and touched many people. This qualitative study pays attention to aspects of the choir’s history, its performance practice and of the “web” of community members connected to and involved in its activities. Through interviews and personal notes this in-depth study provides a “micronarrative” of this choir within the “web” of the Overberg community itself. It aims to not only interpret this narrative with regard to the meaning behind actions and their symbolic importance in society, but also to explore its relevance in the broader context of current South African cultural discourse. During this research it became evident that policy makers and potential funders regard this predominantly white choir with its Western repertoire as a form of undesirable exclusivity and elitism. This study opposes such a point of view, contending instead that elitism in the form of excellence has the power to defy barriers of social standing and ethnicity, and to unite people through a collective sense of ownership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Jacobs, Sunell Human
- Date: 2010
- Subjects: Choral music -- South Africa -- Overberg , Choirs (Music) , Overberg (South Africa) -- History , City and town life -- Social aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MMus
- Identifier: vital:8506 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1254 , Choral music -- South Africa -- Overberg , Choirs (Music) , Overberg (South Africa) -- History , City and town life -- Social aspects
- Description: akKOORd, a community choir in the relatively small southern region of the Overberg, was formed in 2006, and although the choir has only a brief history, its spirit, activities, and concerts have inspired and touched many people. This qualitative study pays attention to aspects of the choir’s history, its performance practice and of the “web” of community members connected to and involved in its activities. Through interviews and personal notes this in-depth study provides a “micronarrative” of this choir within the “web” of the Overberg community itself. It aims to not only interpret this narrative with regard to the meaning behind actions and their symbolic importance in society, but also to explore its relevance in the broader context of current South African cultural discourse. During this research it became evident that policy makers and potential funders regard this predominantly white choir with its Western repertoire as a form of undesirable exclusivity and elitism. This study opposes such a point of view, contending instead that elitism in the form of excellence has the power to defy barriers of social standing and ethnicity, and to unite people through a collective sense of ownership.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Aspects of imagery in Catherine of Siena from a Jungian perspective
- Authors: Munro, Alison Mary
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Catherine of Siena, Saint, 1347-1380 , Christian Saints -- Italy , Jung, C G (Carl Gustav), 1875-1961
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTh
- Identifier: vital:1308 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018216
- Description: This study investigates whether or nor not the imagery of Catherine of Siena can be interpreted from a Jungian perspective. It takes a lead from other studies, notably one on Teresa of Avila and Jung. Reading of medieval literature suggests that medievals applied the use of symbols and imagery in ways that are at times baffling to people of our time. Carl Jung was no stranger to imagery and symbol. In our current age with its renewed emphasis on the insights of spirituality, and to some extent its disenchantment with aspects of traditional psychology, there is room for a dialogue between the two disciplines of mysticism and psychology across a six-hundred year divide. The use of imagery, as a window to the soul, in the Christian tradition is examined. Catherine of Siena is situated within her own medieval context, one of upheaval in the church, but also an age of mysticism and spiritual/religious phenomena strange to our own time. Catherine is introduced against the background of her world and against the backdrop of the Dominican tradition. A discussion of some of her major imagery demonstrates her aim of union with God. An understanding of conscious aspects and of unconscious aspects of the self is shown as key to Jung ' s view of the psyche. Elucidation of some archetypes and a discussion of Jung's dream analysis demonstrates how Jung believed the unconscious becomes conscious, and how individuation becomes a possibility. Key Catherinian images are examined from a Jungian perspective. Catherine has relevance for the twenty first century, and we are invited to be challenged by the mysteries and truths to which her images point us.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
- Authors: Munro, Alison Mary
- Date: 2001
- Subjects: Catherine of Siena, Saint, 1347-1380 , Christian Saints -- Italy , Jung, C G (Carl Gustav), 1875-1961
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MTh
- Identifier: vital:1308 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018216
- Description: This study investigates whether or nor not the imagery of Catherine of Siena can be interpreted from a Jungian perspective. It takes a lead from other studies, notably one on Teresa of Avila and Jung. Reading of medieval literature suggests that medievals applied the use of symbols and imagery in ways that are at times baffling to people of our time. Carl Jung was no stranger to imagery and symbol. In our current age with its renewed emphasis on the insights of spirituality, and to some extent its disenchantment with aspects of traditional psychology, there is room for a dialogue between the two disciplines of mysticism and psychology across a six-hundred year divide. The use of imagery, as a window to the soul, in the Christian tradition is examined. Catherine of Siena is situated within her own medieval context, one of upheaval in the church, but also an age of mysticism and spiritual/religious phenomena strange to our own time. Catherine is introduced against the background of her world and against the backdrop of the Dominican tradition. A discussion of some of her major imagery demonstrates her aim of union with God. An understanding of conscious aspects and of unconscious aspects of the self is shown as key to Jung ' s view of the psyche. Elucidation of some archetypes and a discussion of Jung's dream analysis demonstrates how Jung believed the unconscious becomes conscious, and how individuation becomes a possibility. Key Catherinian images are examined from a Jungian perspective. Catherine has relevance for the twenty first century, and we are invited to be challenged by the mysteries and truths to which her images point us.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2001
Conflict within the church: a theological approach to conflict resolution with special reference to the boundary disputes between the Livingstonia and Nkhoma synods in Malawi
- Authors: Zgambo, Humphreys F C
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Conflict management -- Malawi , Councils and synods -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Th
- Identifier: vital:11801 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/497 , Conflict management -- Malawi , Councils and synods -- Malawi
- Description: The research study acknowledges that life is possibly full of conflict, be it psychological, spiritual or otherwise. Conflict is an inescapable reality that confronts Churches and societies regardless of how loving and caring the people are. Conflict brings both the negative and positive impact on the life of Church and society. Conflict presents us with challenges and choices that reflect and shape our personal identity. Technically the challenge is not to avoid conflict, but rather to deal with it constructively. Conflict could be dangerous and destructive. Conflict could also be an opportunity for self-examination, for growth, service to people and giving glory to God. Hence the serious need for developing a theological approach to conflict resolution within the Church and society. Generally, there are two methods to conflict resolution namely: the Law court and Atonement Models based on human and divine effort to conflict respectively. Using mere psychological and legal experience, the Law court models deal with immediate substantive offenses, injustices and inequity faced by people. The Law court methods are sometimes unproductive, unprofitable and short-lived, while the Atonement methods radically deal with deep rooted matters and sinful motivations of the human heart such as idolatry, lusts and cravings. The Atonement models are reliable, fruitful and long-lasting. The purpose of conflict resolution must be to uproot the negative elements and destructive results of conflict, while at the same time preserving it’s beneficial, life- giving qualities to achieve genuine reconciliation. Therefore this new theology of conflict resolution calls for radical change. Change of the heart and on how to deal with conflict in order to accelerate transformation, growth, maturity and peace. Chapter one will provide a general background to the research study. Chapter two before looking at the case of disputes between the Livingstonia and Nkhoma Synods, it will firstly, cite briefly some conflicts in the history of the Church to get an appreciation of the impact of conflict in the life of the Church. Secondly, the chapter will outline the historical background of the Church of Central Presbyterian (CCAP) Blantyre and Livingstonia Synods, Nkhoma Synod and the General Assembly and how the boundary disputes between the two rival Synods started in Malawi. Chapter three will discuss the question of sin and its effects. Humanity cherishes sin in the heart (Ps 51:3-10, 66:19). Milne (1982:107) asserts that sin causes racial prejudice and antagonisms. The problem of sin is the world’s biggest problem. The study will also define conflict and its root causes using Marxist’s conflict conception. The argument of the study will base on the fact that sin brings conflict and produces great divisions among human beings. Therefore, if sin brings conflict with God, His will and between humans, God has provided a divine means to deal with the problem. Chapter four will discuss the answer to question of sin and conflict. There are two dimensions to conflict resolution namely: the Law court and Atonement Models based on human and divine efforts respectively. Contemporary Christian conflict theories are deficient in the God ward dimensions of conflict and most theories and practices come from within the human legal or political professions. Deep rooted matters and motivations of the human heart such as idolatry, anger, revenge, lusts and cravings in opposition to God are better addressed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The study will review and critique contemporary models of conflict resolution including the atonement with a view to understand the antithesis of conflict. The study will lastly formulate a synthetic model from various aspects of atonement to bring about a better understanding of conflict resolution. Chapter five will discuss the general application of the full concept of atonement. The question for discussion will be: how can the life, sufferings and death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ that occurred almost 2000 years ago affect us today? How can the atonement conception be applied to resolve human conflict? The atonement of Christ will be ineffective unless it is applied to the lives of human beings. The actualization of the atonement could be done through power of the Holy Spirit who unites a person with Jesus Christ and in their close relationship, the penalty for the person’s sin is paid both together, so by Christ (Stott 1986:256ff). As we relate to God in through confession, repentance of sin and sanctification, we relate to each other that removes the cause of conflict between persons. Chapter six will discuss the application of atonement and reconciliation aspects to specific disputes in Malawi. It will also suggest recommendations on how to deal with those disputes. Christianity is not just a creed, it involves action. What is needed in Christian salvation is the practical restoration of broken relationships between God and creation, the removal of rupture within human race in order to facilitate reconciliation. Reconciliation in Malawian context means restoration, amendment, making up, settling an argument of boundary and bringing back lost relationship between the Livingstonia and Nkhoma Synods. Chapter seven will just deal with summary and conclusion. The theology of conflict resolution calls for change. Change of the heart and on how to deal with conflict. All human efforts in conflict are sometimes unproductive, unprofitable, and short-lived while divine efforts radically deal with deep rooted matters and motivations of the human heart. Divine efforts are fruitful and long-lasting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Zgambo, Humphreys F C
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: Conflict management -- Malawi , Councils and synods -- Malawi
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , M Th
- Identifier: vital:11801 , http://hdl.handle.net/10353/497 , Conflict management -- Malawi , Councils and synods -- Malawi
- Description: The research study acknowledges that life is possibly full of conflict, be it psychological, spiritual or otherwise. Conflict is an inescapable reality that confronts Churches and societies regardless of how loving and caring the people are. Conflict brings both the negative and positive impact on the life of Church and society. Conflict presents us with challenges and choices that reflect and shape our personal identity. Technically the challenge is not to avoid conflict, but rather to deal with it constructively. Conflict could be dangerous and destructive. Conflict could also be an opportunity for self-examination, for growth, service to people and giving glory to God. Hence the serious need for developing a theological approach to conflict resolution within the Church and society. Generally, there are two methods to conflict resolution namely: the Law court and Atonement Models based on human and divine effort to conflict respectively. Using mere psychological and legal experience, the Law court models deal with immediate substantive offenses, injustices and inequity faced by people. The Law court methods are sometimes unproductive, unprofitable and short-lived, while the Atonement methods radically deal with deep rooted matters and sinful motivations of the human heart such as idolatry, lusts and cravings. The Atonement models are reliable, fruitful and long-lasting. The purpose of conflict resolution must be to uproot the negative elements and destructive results of conflict, while at the same time preserving it’s beneficial, life- giving qualities to achieve genuine reconciliation. Therefore this new theology of conflict resolution calls for radical change. Change of the heart and on how to deal with conflict in order to accelerate transformation, growth, maturity and peace. Chapter one will provide a general background to the research study. Chapter two before looking at the case of disputes between the Livingstonia and Nkhoma Synods, it will firstly, cite briefly some conflicts in the history of the Church to get an appreciation of the impact of conflict in the life of the Church. Secondly, the chapter will outline the historical background of the Church of Central Presbyterian (CCAP) Blantyre and Livingstonia Synods, Nkhoma Synod and the General Assembly and how the boundary disputes between the two rival Synods started in Malawi. Chapter three will discuss the question of sin and its effects. Humanity cherishes sin in the heart (Ps 51:3-10, 66:19). Milne (1982:107) asserts that sin causes racial prejudice and antagonisms. The problem of sin is the world’s biggest problem. The study will also define conflict and its root causes using Marxist’s conflict conception. The argument of the study will base on the fact that sin brings conflict and produces great divisions among human beings. Therefore, if sin brings conflict with God, His will and between humans, God has provided a divine means to deal with the problem. Chapter four will discuss the answer to question of sin and conflict. There are two dimensions to conflict resolution namely: the Law court and Atonement Models based on human and divine efforts respectively. Contemporary Christian conflict theories are deficient in the God ward dimensions of conflict and most theories and practices come from within the human legal or political professions. Deep rooted matters and motivations of the human heart such as idolatry, anger, revenge, lusts and cravings in opposition to God are better addressed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The study will review and critique contemporary models of conflict resolution including the atonement with a view to understand the antithesis of conflict. The study will lastly formulate a synthetic model from various aspects of atonement to bring about a better understanding of conflict resolution. Chapter five will discuss the general application of the full concept of atonement. The question for discussion will be: how can the life, sufferings and death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ that occurred almost 2000 years ago affect us today? How can the atonement conception be applied to resolve human conflict? The atonement of Christ will be ineffective unless it is applied to the lives of human beings. The actualization of the atonement could be done through power of the Holy Spirit who unites a person with Jesus Christ and in their close relationship, the penalty for the person’s sin is paid both together, so by Christ (Stott 1986:256ff). As we relate to God in through confession, repentance of sin and sanctification, we relate to each other that removes the cause of conflict between persons. Chapter six will discuss the application of atonement and reconciliation aspects to specific disputes in Malawi. It will also suggest recommendations on how to deal with those disputes. Christianity is not just a creed, it involves action. What is needed in Christian salvation is the practical restoration of broken relationships between God and creation, the removal of rupture within human race in order to facilitate reconciliation. Reconciliation in Malawian context means restoration, amendment, making up, settling an argument of boundary and bringing back lost relationship between the Livingstonia and Nkhoma Synods. Chapter seven will just deal with summary and conclusion. The theology of conflict resolution calls for change. Change of the heart and on how to deal with conflict. All human efforts in conflict are sometimes unproductive, unprofitable, and short-lived while divine efforts radically deal with deep rooted matters and motivations of the human heart. Divine efforts are fruitful and long-lasting.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011