Doctoral Degrees (Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology)

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Browsing Doctoral Degrees (Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology) by Author "Basson, F. D. J."

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    Bevrydende waarheid : soteriologie as sleutel tot die verstaan van W.D. Jonker
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015-12) Basson, F. D. J.; Smit, D. J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Theology. Dept. of Systematic Theology and Ecclesiology.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This study attempts to show that soteriology is the key to unlock the theology of Willie Jonker. Through creative reordering, respectful representation and questioning interpretation of his thought it gradually becomes evident that soteriology according to him should be understood as both biblical and reformed. In chapter one of the study, the origin of the author's own interest in the question of the key to Jonker’s influential thought is explained, while definite markers, suggesting possible treatments of this topic, are indicated, throughout Jonker's life as well as in his writings and the ways in which he understood his life's calling. The critical question is therefore how these markers should be related to one another. From a hermeneutical reading of his writings and speeches, it becomes clear that soteriology is a legitimate key to understand his theology. Chapter two aims to explain one of the key pillars on which his theological insights rest. It also presents the doorway to his understanding of the gospel. It was namely Jonker's outspoken intention to do theology according to Scripture, to speak “as Scripture speaks.” Scripture was not merely a document to him, instead it was a Word intended to call human beings to faith in Jesus Christ. Through the power of the Spirit, human beings are called to trust and obedience, to accept Scripture as the authoritative witness to Jesus Christ. Jonker also incorporated this insight in respect to social ethics. The pivotal point of Jonker's theology is discussed in chapter three of the study. Jonker namely understands theology in the light of Christ. Christ is for him the Mediator. This enables him to echo Scripture more clearly and to emphasise that the Saviour reconciles those, chosen in Christ, with the Father. The covenant becomes the space in which this election in Christ is realized and in and through the sacraments this faith is strengthened. Chapter four of the study indicates why Jonker believes the Spirit to be the Spirit of Christ. In this way, the Scripture may best be honoured and the Reformed perspective on the soteriological work of the Spirit may best be expressed. In and through Christ, the justification and sanctification by the Spirit is mediated to believers so that in faith the assurance of salvation can be received as gift of the Spirit. Jonker’s views of both the experience and the expression of this salvation can therefore be discussed under the term “spirituality”. The diverse manners in which Reformed, Anabaptist and Pentecostal traditions view the experience of salvation are therefore also investigated in this section. Salvation in Christ can however easily be misunderstood as individual salvation only. Chapter five therefore demonstrates that Jonker does not follow this path. He holds a "wider view" on redemption in order to emphasize the full scope of the work of the Spirit according to Scripture, for the interests of total salvation including the fullness of human life. In order to provide concrete illustration of his convictions in this regard, his perspectives on the law, politics and culture are investigated. Chapter six deals with the church. The church was to Jonker a soteriological reality in the heart of the gospel. For him, the church was founded on God’s free grace of election and God’s saving and renewing involvement with the world. The church results from the Missio Dei. The Church of Jesus Christ is accordingly one and an absolute necessity. The church is ruled by Christ. Even church discipline is a sign thereof. The church must faithfully, according to Scripture, give form to her calling. The story of Jonker's position on the Belhar Confession as well as his own confession at the Rustenburg summit together demonstrate his specific views on the church. Soteriology is thus the golden thread that runs through the theology of Jonker. In chapter seven, attention is given to why he often speaks of “liberating truth.” For him, this truth was focused on salvation. It frees and from this freedom flows joy. He finds this liberating truth expressed in the church’s confessions. He warns on the one hand against political misuse of this message of freedom, yet on the other hand encourages that all of life should be taken seriously in the light of this truth. This liberating truth of the gospel is an “alien liberation,” according to him. Jesus Christ, the alien Liberator embodies this truth and calls human beings to the obedient acceptance of this good news.