The Bible in discussion: Three recent South African publications on Scripture

Three recent South African books on Scripture from various theological trad itio n s and social circles (one Reformed, one Dutch Reformed and one Methodist, two by white authors and one by a black author) are discussed in order to evaluate their arguments and ascertain their points of difference, with a view to enhancing a meaningful South African dialogue on Scripture

Die kerk: ’n Verenigende of verdelende faktor in die ontwikkeling van Suid-Afrika?

The church: A unifying or dividing factor in the development of South Africa?In South Africa churches have, by mystifying institutions, beliefs, prejudices, political strategies, violence and theological views, contributed towards ethnocentrism, egotism, etc. The church will have to demystify these institutions and views in order to prevent theomachy, sacrifice its Constantine privileges, and become the servant of the world - whether the state allows it to function publically or not - in order to contribute towards peace

Profete in Israel: ’n Probleemstelling

Prophets in Israel: Stating a problemThe Writing Prophets have, in Christian circles, traditionally been painted in a fairly romantic light as the giants of faith. A comparison between the superscriptions of the prophetic books and the historical literature of the Old Testament as well between the Jewish, Samaritan and Christian traditions’ views of the prophets raises several questions regarding the ‘office’ of the prophets, their social role and the notion of the church’s ‘prophetic’ calling. In the light of these questions the article calls for a fresh historical look at the Writing Prophets and identifies a few problem areas that may warrant further investigation