Theses and Dissertations (Church History and Church Policy)

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A critical analysis of the role played by the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon in addressing the political crisis in Cameroon, 1990 – 1992
(University of Pretoria, 2023-10-23) Pillay, Jerry; mm_moks@yahoo.com; Mokoko, Thomas Mbue
The aim of this study was to critically analyse the role played by the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC) in addressing the political crisis in Cameroon from 1990 – 1992. This research sourced data from primary and secondary sources. The qualitative method was employed in the collection and treatment of data. This research examined the Dietrich Bonhoeffer paradigm as a tool for the analysis of the role the PCC played in resolving the 1990-1992 political crisis in Cameroon, and compared it to the South African and El Salvadoran models, established the remote and immediate causes of the 1990 – 1992 political crisis in Cameroon, identified and examined the various roles the PCC played in addressing the 1990-1992 political crisis in Cameroon, critically analysed the role the PCC played in addressing the crisis in the light of Bonhoeffer’s paradigm and proposed a contextual model for the public role of the Church in Cameroon. In applying the Bonhoeffer three-step model to the role the PCC played in addressing the 1990-1992 political crisis in Cameroon this research realised that the PCC aptly applied the first step, timidly applied the second step, and did not engage the third step. This research found out that PCC’s inability to engage the third step was caused by the inapplicability of this step given the Cameroonian context of church-state relations, the lack of precedence in Cameroon of church involvement in politics beyond the first step and the constraints of the Constitution of the PCC. This was the foundation of the proposed contextual model. The research work rounded off with some recommendations and a conclusion.
Towards an understanding of dispensationalism before John Nelson Darby : a transition from Disregard to Dialogue
(University of Pretoria, 2023-10-05) Van der Merwe, J.M. (Johan Matthys); mvjjsanders@gmail.com; Sanders, Marlin
The broad aim of this study is to recognize the instances where dispensational concepts arose throughout church history in order to dispel the common belief that dispensationalism is a modern phenomenon. The research highlights the various instances where dispensational concepts or ideas arose in church history prior to John Nelson Darby (1800-1882). This research was used as a basis to dialogue with the ministers of the Dutch Reformed Churches in Pretoria, South Africa, in order to form a model and bridge for others in cities and suburbs seeking to form partnerships and relationships with their own local Dutch Reformed Ministers.
African traditional religion : a receptive vessel for the preparation for the Christian faith
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Pillay, Jerry; mmnthali@ymail.com; Nthali, Micah Mhlupheki
South Africa has been characterised by affliction of colonialism, apartheid and the failure to love other races, a Christian country which oppressed and forced blacks to embrace western style of life imparted by the missionaries. Due to colonisation and missionary zeal, Africans were to live in pretence by a double standard which has now resulted in schizophrenic behaviour of betrayal of their own roots. Swazi beliefs and practices were not taken into consideration as they were regarded non-existent.The research study will introduce the Swazi African Traditional Religion of South Africa as the main source of Christianity and examine how it prepared so many millions of the Swazi people to embrace the Christian faith; make a contribution to nation building and social cohesion of the Swazi people of South Africa and other South African ethnic groups as well as the continental Swazi people; establish the relationship between Swazi African Traditional Religion and Christanity;make a contribution to the contemporary Church context; analyse the data captured during the interviews of both Christians and adherents of SATR in the fourteen traditional councils in order to formulate some findings; examine where Christianity and Swazi African Traditional Religion have their meeting points to merge the ideas and understanding and make recommendations to the FBOs, Government and sampled Traditional Councils for possible implementation and their benefit. The researcher will engage in field research methodologies where other multi-disciplinary applications such as history; anthropology; liberation, black and African Christian theologies will be considered and involved. The reason to use this multidisciplinary approach is that the study involves God, human beings, their religion, their environment, their patterns of social, cultural behaviour and their liberation as societies of the past, present and future.We will use mainly qualitative research method which includes participant observation, direct observation, and conducting interviews using questionnaires entailing structured and unstructured questions.
A historical-critical analysis of the Church of England in South Africa’s historiographical claim of apoliticism during apartheid (1948-1994)
(University of Pretoria, 2023) Van der Merwe, J.M. (Johan Matthys); mbebe.dg@tuks.co.za; Mbebe, Daluxolo Gerald
This study investigates the role of the Church of England in South Africa during the apartheid years from 1948 to 1994. It examines its Truth and Reconciliation Commission claim of political disengagement, which resulted in it being classified as a victim, not an agent, of oppression. It traces the history of Evangelical Anglicans in the Cape Colony and argues that its Erastian and Reformed theology made it a natural receptor of apartheid political ideology. This study also demonstrates that CESA aligned itself with the government from 1954 when it was used by the state to discredit prophetic voices from the Church of the Province of South Africa. It argues that CESA should be viewed as a historically Right-Wing Christian Group which advocated for State Theology. It questions the claim that its 1985 Synod resolution against violence and discrimination indicated a departure from its historical position. It argues that CESA did not condemn apartheid until the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings and thus proves that it obfuscated the truth before the commission. Last, this study demonstrates that the commission failed to investigate CESA and recommends the retraction of CESA’s TRC statement because of its historical inaccuracy.
A history of ministerial formation of Uniting Churches at the University of Pretoria : 2000-2017
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Pillay, Jerry; Duncan, Graham A.; u13226012@tuks.co.za; Womack, Jonathan Michael
This research has focused on the history of ministerial formation in the Uniting Presbyterian Church of Southern Africa (UPCSA) and the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa (URCSA). This history falls within a focus period from 2000 to 2017. This work was inspired by a perceived lack in contemporary history surrounding ministerial formation from an ecclesial perspective inside South Africa. Ministerial formation is the way in which leaders of the church are formed and trained. As such, an understanding of the recent history of ministerial formation is important, not only in understanding the current situation but also in its future development. This research worked through the method of comparative histories. This methodology allowed insight to be developed that was relevant and meaningful to each denomination (Ideographic insight) as well as the development of general principles pertinent to ministerial formation in general (nomothetic insight). Working from this perspective, a recent history of ministerial formation was established. This history has importance in its own right, as well as in how it can educate and guide future endeavours in ministerial formation. In order to establish the history of ministerial formation, a theory surrounding the discipline was first outlined. This theory focused on both the ideal understanding of ministerial formation and the contextual relevance of such a theory. Once established this theory was used to help guide the development of the historical narrative of each denomination. First focusing on each denomination as an independent case study, this research worked to draw out key events in their approach to ministerial formation. Here each denominations success and struggles with ministerial formation were presented. Following the case studies, a comparison was undertaken. This comparison allowed for confirmation of the significance of each individual history. Further, the comparison allowed for the development of general principle relating to ministerial formation. Working predominantly from the discipline of church history, but also incorporating church polity, missiology and practical theology, this work has brought forward information from an ecclesial perspective relevant to the wider dialogue on ministerial formation. This work has challenged current discourse which tended to focus on theory and demonstrated the vital importance of practicality. Working from an ecclesial perspective has allowed it to give insight to the two focus denominations, highlighting success and challenges. Beyond this, it has shown the importance of understanding, and being rooted in, the local context and developing approaches to ministerial formation which are practically achievable and guided by a strong theoretical understanding of the nature and aims of ministerial formation.
The tough-love proposal : a novel theodicy
(University of Pretoria, 2020) Pillay, Jerry; leethai.az@gmail.com; Thai, Le Pham
In this study, we reviewed the literature concerning the problem(s) of evil and found that, while there is a consensus that the logical problem of evil as raised by J. L. Mackie has been successfully addressed by Alvin Plantinga’s “Free Will Defense,” the evidential problem of evil as argued by William Rowe has yet to be resolved. The various solutions suggested by recognized scholars (e.g., John Hick and Richard Swinburne) have not met with broad acceptance. Most of the efforts to resolve the problem have been focused on Rowes’ factual premise (i.e., there are gratuitous evils). This approach has been fraught with difficulties and uncertainties as the determination of “gratuitousness” may be “beyond our ken.” Instead, this research aims to challenge Rowe’s theological premise (i.e., God prevents all gratuitous evils) by supplying a morally justifying reason (i.e., “tough-love) for God to exist in the presence of evil (gratuitous or otherwise). We also endeavor to stay within the bounds of Christian orthodoxy in affirming that God is omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, and the omnibenevolent creator of the universe. As Rowe insisted on keeping the discussion within the narrow confines of Restricted Standard Theism (i.e., an Omnigod creator without other religious claims), in the section for non-theists, we introduce a “Tough-love Proposal” that does not rely on biblical or religious literature. As humans deny God’s existence, God lets them go their own way (resulting in good and evil) and in “tough love,” waits patiently for them to respond to his message of salvation as proclaimed by the Church and the Holy Spirit. The evils in this world (gratuitous, excessive, horrendous . . .) are strictly the results of people living independently from God. Rowe’s argument that the presence of “gratuitous” evils makes God’s existence improbable is answered by the commonsense notion of “tough love” as often used in the restoration of broken relationships. The numerous requirements advocated by scholars for a “successful” theodicy are shown to be met by the “Tough-love Proposal,” using findings from other fields of knowledge (e.g., economics, psychology . . .). As God does not act in the same way toward believers and non-believers, in the section for theists, following the historical-grammatical method of hermeneutics (i.e., interpretation using lexical data, grammatical data, historical and cultural backgrounds, near and broader contexts), we apply Christian Scriptures and show that God promises that “all things work together for good to those who love God” (Romans 8:28), thus negating the possibility of gratuitous evils in (faithful) believers’ lives. The question raised by theists and non-theists concerning the creation of humans with “free will and no possibility of sinning” is answered by the “simplicity” of God, logically preventing him from creating a creature sharing the divine impeccability. Additionally, we propose some theories concerning the “world of death” (i.e., our world with the “survival of the fittest”) and the world of life (i.e., a new heaven and a new earth). In God’s sovereignty, we are free to choose the world/path that we desire.
The “Poor of Christ” and their significant impact on setting the scene for the 16th Century Reformation
(University of Pretoria, 2020) Pillay, Jerry; homuller@gmail.com; Müller, Horst
During the 500th Commemoration of the Reformation in 2017 a huge emphasis was placed on the main Reformation characters of 1517, especially Martin Luther. Those that preceded him were side-lined. Jan Huss was hardly mentioned, although the 600th anniversary of his execution by fire was only two years earlier, in 2015. Valdes of Lyon did not feature at all. This study shows that this lay person, Valdes, about whom hardly anything is known, had a significant impact on the 16th Century Reformation. This impact is not immediately obvious. The researcher reveals it by looking at the movement that resulted from his conversion in 1174, normally called the Waldenses, but in this study referred to as Poor of Christ, a name that they identified themselves with. The research does not focus on the Romanesque part that later formed the Waldensian Church, but on those living and ministering in the Holy Roman Empire, especially the German region. Original sources such as papal letters, inquisition reports and reports of eyewitnesses of that time are researched and the information gathered. Through historical contextual analysis and synthesis, the information is brought together to show the impact that the Poor of Christ ultimately had in their own context and beyond. The researcher shows how the Roman Church, instead of engaging with these lay preachers, tried to silence and eradicate them over a period of 350 years. This action harmed the church itself more than it did the people it was fighting against. The study shows how doctrines and decrees were formulated in reaction to the Poor of Christ, which became major issues in the run-up to the Reformation. The study shows an important link between the Poor of Christ and the Augustinian Order, that is generally not taken note of, and throws a different light on why the Augustinian Order played such an important role in producing Reformation Theologians. Further, the research shows how the underground lay movement influenced the thinking in cities and regions in Germany which became the first strongholds of the 16th Century Reformation, and that through their ministry the basics of Solus Christus and sola scriptura where already taught and practised in homes and families for generations prior to 1517. The researcher argues that Martin Luther and the other prominent Reformers were not the originators of the 16th century Reformation. Unlike Jan Hus a hundred years before, they succeeded because the climate in Europe, and especially Germany, had changed due to the presence and ministry of the Poor of Christ. The real force behind the Reformation were not the theologians, but the lay men and women who for generations shaped Christ- centred values, who, for 350 years prior to 1517 had already been studying and teaching scripture in the local vernacular. This study hopes that the Poor of Christ will become part of main stream Reformation teaching, a place the movement deserves. The study heightens the historical value of this research by showing how core aspects of the Poor of Christ can help the church today to be resilient and relevant. Their authentic way of living their faith is an example worth following. Church leadership are reminded of the importance of servant leadership, and all theologians are reminded that the real strength of the church lies in the lay people who are not dependent on clergy, but empowered to live and share what they believe.
The ANC chaplaincy : a religio-political perspective
(University of Pretoria, 2019) Pillay, Jerry; u16400713@tuks.co.za; Nthali, Micah Mhlupheki
No abstract
The decline of Confessional Calvinism among Baptist Associations in the Southern States during the Nineteenth Century
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Pillay, Jerry; u17248745@tuks.co.za; Lumpkins, Edgar Peter Frank
No abstract
A Critical historical evaluation of the Anglican Diocese of Harare's decade of turmoil, 2002-2012
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Duncan, Graham A.; mutamiri68@gmail.com; Mutamiri, Farai
The Anglican Diocese of Harare found itself dragged through a decade of turmoil which ran from 2002 to 2012, by the actions of its sitting Bishop, Bishop Nolbert Kunonga who, for reasons, of which some are highlighted in this research, became intent on severing ties with the Church of the Province of Central Africa (CPCA). In the process Bishop Nolbert Kunonga formed his own Province called the Anglican Province of Zimbabwe (APZ) but, notwithstanding this, was determined to hold on to the properties that belonged to the CPCA. The build-up to the formation of the APZ, saw the Anglican Diocese of Harare clergy and laity being subjected to and witnessing the total disregard of the Constitution and Canons of the Province of Central Africa by Bishop Kunonga and some of those who were supporting him. This unusual development which did not conform to the often cited ‘quest for belonging’, caused a lot of bickering involving the Bishop, some clergy and some parishioners which culminated in an attempt to bring Bishop Kunonga before an ecclesiastical court on thirty-eight charges among them that of inciting murder. The second half of the decade of turmoil, the years 2008 to 2012, was characterised by the persecution of CPCA Anglicans in the Diocese of Harare as they fought to regain their properties. The ‘doctrinal’ reason for withdrawing the Diocese of Harare from CPCA, as cited by Bishop Kunonga, that the CPCA was condoning homosexuality drew the ire of the state. The fierce fighting between the two Provinces, that is the APZ and CPCA, over control of the properties belonging to the Anglican Diocese of Harare, saw the police and state intervening but seemingly taking sides with Bishop Kunonga. By so doing the Anglicans in the Diocese of Harare CPCA ended up appearing as if they were a political outfit fighting the state in the guise of fighting for their properties. The Supreme Court ruling of the 19th of November 2012 brought the matter to its finality when it ruled in favour of the CPCA and declared that Bishop Kunonga had no legal right to claim ownership or control of properties that belonged to an organisation (CPCA) which he had withdrawn from.
Faithful Reformation : the Importance of Apostolicity and Consensual Orthodoxy for Emerging Christian Expressions
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Pillay, Jerry; Jonathan.sharpe@gcu.edu; Sharpe, Jonathan
In this study, we have considered if, how, or to what extent emerging Christian expressions within the context of the Emerging Church (EC) movement, and related Emerging Missional partners and postcedents, might reform, contextualize, innovate, or revise Christian forms, language, practices, or doctrines to reform the church and inculturate the gospel in postmodern contexts, while retaining continuity and congruence with apostolicity and orthodoxy. We also wished to see if, how, or to what extent EC voices considered accountability to apostolicity and orthodoxy and, if not, to what they were accountable and also to what extent they remain authentically Christian. We have done so by examining the perspectives of leading EC authors, practitioners, and current and historical conversation partners including Vincent of Lérins and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, using historical, theological, ethnographic and narrative inquiry and analysis methods. Our review of literature from EC authors provides insights into debates that led to fracturing of the EC movement and that offer challenges to orthodoxy. Our analysis also reveals methods EC authors appealed to in order to justify their views, or defense or revisions of core historic doctrines. When they rarely appealed to orthodoxy, there were two common but divergent approaches in which orthodoxy was either viewed as a system of beliefs, in which one could treat orthodox doctrines trans-subjectively, or else as being subjectively grounded in the incarnate Christ, in which accountability to Christ was primarily evidenced in materialist acts. We also placed our analysis of key EC sources and their approaches to apostolicity and orthodoxy in conversation with the historical perspectives of Vincent of Lérins and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, as well as with current EC practitioners, via an ethnographic questionnaire. We found that Vincent’s method of consensual orthodoxy, instead of seeing orthodoxy as a system of universal beliefs, or as entirely subjective, appeared to center orthodoxy in the unified life of the Body of Christ in which doctrine may grow and, yet, its apostolic meaning is safeguarded by requiring Christians to surrender current interpretations of Scripture to the universal ecumenical consensus of the Body of Christ through history. Then too, our review of Bonhoeffer’s works reveals the ways that he provides room for questioning and flexibility, while holding that the creedal beliefs and sacred practices of the apostolic faith must be surrendered to as-is, as agents of revelation. In further analysis of primary sources and ethnographic responses, the study also reveals a third EC approach to apostolicity and orthodoxy, in which, in synergy with Vincent and Bonhoeffer, orthodox doctrine is seen as the unified faith, obedience, worship, and witness of the Body of Christ, and in which body doctrine may contextually grow in faithful alignment with apostolicity. Additionally, we considered Vincent’s method as providing orthodox EC voices a rule to guide contextual listening, inculturation and growth of doctrine while ensuring continuity and congruity with apostolicity.
The identity of Bernard Mzeki from the formative history of the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe (1890-2013) : retracing his life, martyrdom and influence
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Duncan, Graham A.; chawarikaj@gmail.com; Chawarika, John
The intention of this investigation was to retrace the life, martyrdom and influence of Bernard Mzeki’s identity from the formative history of the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe (1890 up to 2013). This study intended to establish the following objectives: tracing the history of the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe from its formative period leading up to the death of Bernard Mzeki; to establish the socio – anthropological, political and economic factors that might have contributed to the death of Mzeki; to establish the theological and biblical notion of martyrdom; to analyze the historical and religious life of Bernard Mzeki leading to his mysterious and controversial death, resultant commemoration and influence to the Anglican Church. And finally, the last objective was to give a critical examination of Mzeki’s martyrdom in light of contemporary African Christendom notion and the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe. In terms of research methodology of the study, there were many forms from which historical data was obtained. Primary and secondary sources were used to gather information. Critical analysis was done using a tool of probability value. Furthermore, historical, comparative, socio-anthropological, theological, phenomenological and political approaches were considered and utilized in order determine specific information in this research work. The theoretical framework of post-colonial theory was used as water that flowed along the study since Mzeki was a character lived in the late eighteen hundred. Bernard Mzeki was traced from his childhood life history in Mozambique, his calling, education in South Africa and his journey to Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) through Beira Mozambique to establish a new Anglican Diocese of Mashonaland with Bishop Knight Bruce as part of the formative history of the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe. Mzeki was murdered during the revolt on the 18th of June, 1896 due to his Faith as established by the Western historian who painted and claimed him a martyr. After the study, the researcher highlighted conclusively that the political, economic and socio – religious factors forwarded disqualified him to be named a martyr. According to the researcher, history was silent on the procedure that the Anglican Church took to confer the status of martyrdom on Bernard yet the church referred to him as a saint and martyr. This research work alluded to the fact that Anglican Church in Zimbabwe, CPCA and the Anglican Communion worldwide did not have a process or system put in place or a liturgy in its history that bestowed saintly/martyrdom status like the Roman Catholic Church did. Yet, Mzeki was being venerated as a martyr without no traceable criteria or public function sanctioned by the church to bestore martyrdom on him. And his name was in the lectionary of the Church to be commemorated in the Anglican Communion worldwide annually. This showed how significant and influential Mzeki was as part of the spirituality of the Anglican community in Zimbabwe, CPCA and the Anglican Communion when shrines, institutions and many more were named after him. The researcher raised Revd. Wagner and Mrs (Mbuya) Mandeya, Anglicans who were claimed to have died of their faith and there was a need to recognise them as contemporary martyrs of the twenty first century in the Anglican Church in Zimbabwe but there was no procedure to do so. Recommendations were forwarded, one of them being an advocacy for the Anglican Church to establish a way of conferring martyrdom.
Ds. L.E. Brandt (1873 - 1939) as kerklike leier en bouer
(University of Pretoria, 1989) Pont, A.D. (Adriaan Drost), 1927-; Botes, Hendrik Jacobus
Afrikaans: Louis Ernst Brandt wat op 21 Oktober 1873 te Zoeterwoude in Nederland gebore is, het tussen 1904 en 1939 'n groat bydrae tot die Suid-Afrikaanse kerklike en openbare lewe gemaak. Hy het onder besonder bevoorregte omstandighede in Velp groat geword, waar sy vader die amp van burgemeester beklee het. Sy skoolopleiding ontvang hy tuis en aan die Stedelike Gimnasium van Arnhem. Vanaf 1893 tot 1898 studeer hy teologie aan die Universiteit van Utrecht, waar hy in aanraking kom met 'n teologie wat grootliks deur die Nederlandse etiese rigting van die negentiende eeu bepaal is. Prof J J P Valeton jr ( 1848 - 1912) was een van sy vernaamste mentors. Brandt was 'n eminente student wat veral op kulturele en sportgebied uitstaande prestasies gelewer het. Na voltooiing van sy universit~re studie word hy die eerste voltydse sekretaris van die NCSV waarvan hy 'n leidinggewende stigterslid was. Vanaf 1900 tot 1903 is hy predikant van die Nederlandse Hervormde Kerk, gemeente Niezijl. Op 28 Augustus 1902, tree hy in die huwelik met Johanna van Warmelo van Transvaal, 'n gevierde Afrikaner-heldin gedurende die Engelse Oorlog van 1899 - 1902. In 1904 verhuis die gesin na Transvaal waar Brandt agtereenvolgens Nederduitsch in die volgende gemeentes van die Hervormde Kerk van Afrika dien:- Zoutpansberg/Waterberg, Johannesburg, Vereeniging/Heilbron en Kensington/Turffontein. Sy bydrae wat hy gelewer het tot opbou van die Kerk na die ontwrigting van die oorlog en die bewo~ twintiger en dertiger jare wat daarop gevolg het, kan nie te hoog waardeer word nie. Afgesien van talle kerklike kommissies waarop hy gedien het, was hy vir 21 jaar voorsitter van die Algemene Kerkvergadering. Die vernaamste vrugte van sy ewewigtige leierskap was die vestiging van 'n deeglike kerklike infrastruktuur, die teologiese fakul tei t aan UP en sendingwerk onder die heidene. Hy vereenselwig hom volkome met Afrikaner-nasionalisme. Onvermoeid bevorder hy die ideaal op die terrein van die onderwys, kul tuur en ekonomiese opheffing. Hy beywer hom doelbewus vir die verbetering van tussen-kerklike betrekkinge en speel in die verband 'n beduidende rol. Op 23 Junie 1939 sterf hy op 66-jarige ouderdom.
Die beskuldiging van vrysinnigheid teen die Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk : ŉ Herinterpretasie van die teologiese diskoers (1842 - 1894)
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Van der Merwe, J.M. (Johan Matthys); willemdreyer01@gmail.com; Dreyer, Willem Akkerhuys (Wim)
In this study the accusations of theological liberalism made against the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika is tested to see if they are historically and theologically justified. Four incidents, namely the establisment of the Hervormde Kerk in 1842, the schism of the Gereformeerde Kerk van Suid-Afrika in 1859, the schism of the Dutch Reformed Church in the Transvaal in 1865, and the failed church unification of 1885 are trawled for a sign of theological liberalism. The only justifiable occurence of theological liberalism found in this period is in 1865 when the Rev. Dirk Van der Hoff repudiated the Canons of Dordt and the teaching on the election. It is found that the Hervormde kerk is not a liberal church, but a church that harbours a certain theological diversity. Furthermore it is concluded that a single occurence (in terms of Rev. Van der Hoff) fundamentally influenced South African ecclesial historiography regarding the Hervormde Kerk and it’s supposed theological liberalism.
An appreciation of the correlation between academic theology and the local church : John Calvin as a vision for contemporary South Africa
(University of Pretoria, 2018) Pillay, Jerry; jonnymwomack@gmail.com; Womack, Jonathan
This work, inspired by the concept of the Pastor-Theologian, explores the correlation between academic theology and the local church in contemporary South Africa and the person of John Calvin. It is motivated by the assumption that academic theology and the local Church need each other but, within South Africa, these two institutes are struggling to correlate to each other. As such this research elicits an appreciation of the historical correlation between the local Church and academic theology. This appreciation aims to start to reawaken the need for a correlation between academic theology and the local Church within contemporary South Africa. This research works mainly from a method of critical correlation to establish how academic theology and the local church function in their own right but also correlate in a mutually beneficial way. In line with this methodology, a historical overview of the tradition is given providing the background to the debate. This history proves the longevity of the tradition, making it normative, while also outlining its demise. In the analysis of contemporary South Africa, the demise of the tradition is explored specifically in relation to the South African context. Here it is discovered that the correlation between academic theology and the Local church is in a state of disconnect which is detrimental to both. Academic theology is becoming isolated and commercialised. This had created a mix reaction among various churches. Some denominations have separated from theological education, while those still positive towards the academy experience its works to be irrelevant. In response to this Calvin is presented as a Pastor and a Theologian over two chapters, demonstrating the benefit of a correlation between academic theology and the Local Church. This in-depth historical analysis works to provide a vision for today. It shows the importance of the Pastor and the Theologian in its own right, as well as the essential need for the two vocations to correlate. In closing, this research brings all the lines of investigation together to prove how the vision of the Pastor-Theologian, as demonstrated through Calvin, is beneficial for today and in need of appreciation.
From proto-missional to mega-church : a practical-ecclesiological critique of ecclesial “growth” in Korea
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Dreyer, Willem Akkerhuys (Wim); missionalee0926@gmail.com; Lee, Yongsoo
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A historical analysis of the Presbyterian Church of Southern Africa’s socio-political and economical influence on Zimbabwe (1890-1990)
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Pillay, Jerry; revmushayavanhu@yahoo.com; Mushayavanhu, David
The PCSA has its roots in the Reformed Tradition, is embedded in the reformed culture, and, as such, it imparted reformed flavour into the community of service in Zimbabwe. This thesis offers a historical analysis and reformed theological perspective and inquiry relating to the issues of socio-politics and economics and the role of the PCSA in Zimbabwe from 1890 to 1990. It raised pertinent questions on the relevance, implications of, and work of, the PCSA; as to whether the celebration of the 100 year of mission work in Zimbabwe was of any relevance to the country. The study traced, the bearing of socio-political and economic influence as they were imparted through reformed perspectives, and interpreted the teachings and practices from a third world perspective. Four themes were used namely: 1. Exploring the Zimbabwean society before Presbyterianism; 2. Examining the missionary Presbyterianism's impact on politics during the period under review; 3. Delineating the Presbyterian teachings on politics and economics and, 4. Evaluating its influence in reconstructing the Zimbabwean society. A theoretical statement was also tested: “PCSA outlines a basis for constructive involvement in socio-politics and economics of Zimbabwe.” Successes and failures to develop the socio-political and economic context of Zimbabwe by PCSA were unearthed, presented and analysed. The study exposed the historical significance of the PCSA’s influence in the developments on Zimbabwean history and presents an historical account of the PCSA in Zimbabwe, a virgin ground to trade on. The methodology employed mainly included oral history and the southern approach to Church history with the intention to engage African perspectives. The study utilized archival and oral data as primary sources, the interpretation form of contextual theology, and the holistic framework for analyzing history. The study revealed that the PCSA had a special relationship with the colonial government from the Pioneer Column era, which determined how the PCSA responded and made demands on government until the country's independence in 1980. It also uncovered how the PCSA moved from acceptance and collaboration to acceptance and selective rejection of colonial policies, and how the PCSA contributed to the politics and the role played by the mission-educated group in Zimbabwe. The study showed how reformed theology enabled the PCSA to respond to the socio-political and economic situation in Zimbabwe from 1890 to 1990. Extracting from this the study further indicated what role the PCSA can play today as a reformed church in Zimbabwe.
Die geskieoenis van die apostoliese geloof sending van Suid-Afrika (1908 - 1958)
(University of Pretoria, 1987) Van der Watt, P.B. (Philip Blignaut); Van der Merwe Burger, Isak Schalk
The A.F.M. of S.A. is part of the classical Pentecostal Movement which originated early in the 20th century. It is the oldest Pentecostal Church in South Africa, and among the oldest in the world. The Pentecostal movement considers itself a continuation of the Church of Acts, in spirit, doctrine and practice. Since the time of that church there has never been a exact equivalent to the modern Pentecostal Movement, although occasionally Pentecostal phenomena have occurred among believers. Pentecost ascribes its origin and extension to God. It has in fact been, since its inception, the fastest growing section of the Christian Church. It was preceded and influenced at its origin by various movements and persons - Pietism, Methodism, The Holiness Movement and Zionism (Dewey). Preparatory factors in South Africa were the revival of 1860, Andrew Murray and the poor-white situation. The origin of the movement can be traced to a Bible College in Topeka, Kansas, on 1st January, 1901, although it gained its impetus later at Azusa Street, Los Angeles, in April 1906. The Americans, in particular John G. Lake and Thomas Hezmalhalch, were instrumental in the establishment of the A.F.M. of S.A. in May 1908. Upoa a foundation laid by Zionism in particular, the A.F.M. grew rapidly from the start. As in America, services were originally multiracial. This phenomenal growth, and the development from a revival movement to an established church, is discussed. The novelty and disparate character of Pentecost in a largely Calvinist Church situation in S. A., with its resultant reciprocal influences, is also considered. The entire spectrum of ecclesial development is examined church polity, liturgy and doctrine, and various activities such as missions, welfare, training, youth and Sunday School. The history of the· A.F.M. clearly demonstrates that the Pentecostal Movement has not only come to stay, but that it is increasingly extending its influence as a church in South Africa.
The "life and work" of South African Historiography
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Duncan, Graham A.; taylorjus@gmail.com; Taylor, Justin William
South Africa has had three periods of historiographical change. As South Africa has transitioned from colonialism, to apartheid, to democracy, historiography has been influenced by those in power. Post-1994 and with the onset of a democratic government, the Nation sought to create a new historiographical framework. However, as this attempt to build a National historiography developed questions could be raised as to whether this historiography was inclusive of a variety of sources? This dissertation looks at three areas regarding South African historiography. First, the current role of Churches in South Africa in fostering historiography. Second, the theological framework of "Ras, Volk en Nasie", the "Kairos Document", and the "Belhar Confession". Third, the depiction of South Africa by the Church of Scotland's National magazine "Life and Work" during 1975 – 1985. By looking at this time period, the thesis shows that as various strands of theology developed in South Africa, these changes had connotations within the Church of Scotland. Life and Work shows a distinct change in attitude towards the Dutch Reformed Church and the Black Consciousness movement. It argues that underrepresented stories about South Africa allow for a holistic historiography. Churches in South Africa have an opportunity to use their position within society to develop this holistic historiography and thus, historiography becomes a practical theological issue.
'n Kerkhistoriese ondersoek na die onwikkeling van die kalendriese aspekte van die paasfees binne die Christendom in die eerste drie eeue N.C
(University of Pretoria, 2017) Van der Merwe, J.M. (Johan Matthys); wilhelm.pretorius@yahoo.com; Pretorius, Wilhelm
The thesis researches the development of the Calendrical Aspects of the Passover within Christianity of the first three centuries AD. It presents the different Calendrical systems, their reason why different Calendrical systems developed and which of the systems had an effect on the development of the Calendrical Aspect of the Passover. The Passover consist out of different liturgical elements, which portrays into six different aspects. The Calendrical Aspect is one of these aspects. Because it consists out of Liturgical Elements, development could be analysed and researched as mimetically or etiologically based development. In general there are two main foundations on which the development is based, namely the Law or Old Testament and the New Testament, specifically the chronology of Jesus' crucifixion. The development can generally be traced within the parameters of the different groups' view and authority they granted to these two bases. Christianity developed within a specific era, within a specific sociological environment. The most important basis which is taken into consideration is its origin from Judaism and Jewish background. Christianity mainly developed from the Enochite Judaism and was vehemently opposed by the Hasmonite Judaism. These two opposing forces evolved into two perpetual conflicting parties, namely the Rabbinic Judaism and the developing Christianity. The different groups' calculation of the Passover Calendrical Aspects was multifariously linked to their relationship towards this Christian-Judaic animosity. The Passover actually consist out of two discernable feasts, namely the Pascha and the Feast of the Unleavened Bread. These two combined feasts originated as an eight day feast. The Feast of the First Fruit is a separate feast, independent from the Passover, but connected through its Calendrical Aspects. It serves as an important clue in the analysis of the development of the Passover's Calendrical Aspects, but does not form part of the Passover. Although traces of the Passover during the first two centuries could be detected, the controversy regarding the calculation of the Passover generally developed during the second half of the second century AD. It is called the Quartadecima Controversy. The controversy is portrayed as consisting out of three stages, but its aftermath lasted throughout the third century AD. Within this controversy two main groups aroused, namely the Quartadecimans and the Anti-Quartadecimans. The Quartadecimans generally calculated the commencement of the Passover on 14 Abib. The Anti- Quartadecimans used the 14th Abib as beacon from which to calculate the Passover, but celebrated it on the weekend or second weekend after 14 Abib. Within these two groups, a variety of streams developed with various ways of calculating the commencement and duration of Passover. Due to the development of the two groups and various streams within them, one cannot claim an authentic or normative calculation of the Passover date and duration thereof.

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