Bybels- etiese beoordeling van egskeiding en hertrou in die Apostoliese Geloof Sending van Suid-Afrika.
- Authors: Botha, Johan
- Date: 2008-01-09T07:06:18Z
- Subjects: divorce , remarriage , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14749 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/182
- Description: In this study the problematic aspect of divorce and remarriage in the christian church is researched. Exceptional emphasis is laid on the policy of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (hereafter: AFM of SA) in this regard and how it is enforced in practice. Unfortunately we have to face the reality of divorce in the church, and the fact that not only members, but also the pastor can get involved in divorce and remarriage. Up to now the church has not really been able to come to a clear conclusion on the most appropriate way to handle such a situation. The AFM of SA, as well as several other churches prefer to prevent such situations by implementing certain precautionary measures. In this study the relevant problem of divorce and remarriage will be researched using a Biblical-ethical approach. The Bible refrains from giving specific pastoral guidelines to be used by the church and its members in cases of divorce and remarriage. The Pharisees incorrectly interpreted Deut. 24:1-4 that divorce and remarriage is acceptable when a man gives his wife a divorce letter. Jesus however controverts this interpretation in Matt. 5:32 when He says that divorce and remarriage was established due to the hardness of the human hart. The biblical message is rather that God hates divorce (Mal. 2:16). Some exegetes believe that there are two “grounds” on which a person is entitled to a divorce. These “grounds” are based on Matt. 5:31 & 32 when adultery is committed, and according to I Cor. 7:15 when the unbeliever wishes to not continue with the marriage (known as malicious separation). In this study we would like to stress that the Bible does not give any grounds for divorce. One cannot argue that God hates divorce, and then give “grounds” on which divorce is acceptable. Reference is only made to circumstances which destroys a marriage. Such incidents also hold connections with incidents where the marriage is not in honor of God, and leaves space for sin to ruin lives. The marriage is now an instrument in the hand of evil which will consequently lead to more sin. In these last instances a point can be reached where the marriage does not exist in the eyes of God any more, and can be separated lawfully by means of divorce. It is of opinion that divorce should remain as last resort to a broken marriage. Reconciliation should always be the first option. When divorce has taken place, the parties involved may choose to remarry as the previous marriage is ruined before God. If a person, however, should get married while the marriage still exists before the Lord, adultery is being committed. This marriage will be interpreted as a deed of adultery, but it would not be biblical to view such a marriage as a state of adultery. Marriage is therefore not seen as something which can’t be annulled, as opposed to the Roman Catholic Church, who views marriage as a sacrament. Marriage is not an absolute establishment, and can break up under certain circumstances. In this study we found that different religions, Christian and non-christian, have diverse views about marriage, divorce and remarriage. Most Christian religions uphold monogamous marriages – a lifelong binding between one man and one woman. Non-christians such as the Muslims believe in polygamous marriages where a man is allowed to marry four wifes at any given stage. Divorce is viewed as “allowable” on certain grounds by most religions. The Roman Catholic Church, as mentioned, differs in that the marriage is viewed as unbreakable. Nowadays an annulment is granted easier which allows remarriage to occur more often. In case of the AFM of SA, there are no clear guidelines on how divorce of a congregation member or pastor should be handled. Direction in this regard is however given by knowledgeable persons in the church. In earlier days, strict - mostly undocumented - guidelines have been followed in handling divorce and remarriage cases of pastors in the AFM. The person was found guilty because of his divorce status and was asked to resign from the ministry. In later years cases were handled on merit. Policies were enforced by means of disciplinary action following a church court’s ruling. Due to churches being reluctant to discipline members getting divorced and / or remarried, it seems as if members perceived divorce not as a serious sin, and to justify their act. The “guilty” party must be disciplined. The innocent party must be allowed to continue with his/her service in the ministry. The Bible teaches us that after sin was confessed to God, He unconditionally forgives and removes our sins, and never thinks about it ever again (1 John 1:9; Psalm 103:12). Divorce however, is perceived by the church to be a bigger sin and that divorced persons are second hand christians. This is especially true in case of a divorced church leader. Although the church, and specifically the AFM, strives to implement an acceptable policy relating to divorce and remarriage, most churches have not investigated the fundamental theory as yet. It seems as if churches are sensitive in compiling, or can not reach consensus on the theory. The AFM has a basic course called “Ethics – Divorce & Remarriage” being presented by Dr. F.P. Möller (jnr) in their Theological Seminary. The researcher of this study is a pastor in the AFM of SA who has experienced divorce and remarriage himself. The way the case was treated by the church and colleagues proved that the church did not follow biblical guidelines in dealing with a divorced pastor. His experience motivated him to conduct the mentioned study. The church should pick-up, and care for divorced members (in a biblical sense) as the good Samaritan or the shepherd leaving 99 sheep to search for 1 missing one to pick him up and caringly bring him back to the flock. The study is concluded with a theory that can be used by the AFM of SA. , Dr. F.P. Moller
- Full Text:
- Authors: Botha, Johan
- Date: 2008-01-09T07:06:18Z
- Subjects: divorce , remarriage , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14749 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/182
- Description: In this study the problematic aspect of divorce and remarriage in the christian church is researched. Exceptional emphasis is laid on the policy of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (hereafter: AFM of SA) in this regard and how it is enforced in practice. Unfortunately we have to face the reality of divorce in the church, and the fact that not only members, but also the pastor can get involved in divorce and remarriage. Up to now the church has not really been able to come to a clear conclusion on the most appropriate way to handle such a situation. The AFM of SA, as well as several other churches prefer to prevent such situations by implementing certain precautionary measures. In this study the relevant problem of divorce and remarriage will be researched using a Biblical-ethical approach. The Bible refrains from giving specific pastoral guidelines to be used by the church and its members in cases of divorce and remarriage. The Pharisees incorrectly interpreted Deut. 24:1-4 that divorce and remarriage is acceptable when a man gives his wife a divorce letter. Jesus however controverts this interpretation in Matt. 5:32 when He says that divorce and remarriage was established due to the hardness of the human hart. The biblical message is rather that God hates divorce (Mal. 2:16). Some exegetes believe that there are two “grounds” on which a person is entitled to a divorce. These “grounds” are based on Matt. 5:31 & 32 when adultery is committed, and according to I Cor. 7:15 when the unbeliever wishes to not continue with the marriage (known as malicious separation). In this study we would like to stress that the Bible does not give any grounds for divorce. One cannot argue that God hates divorce, and then give “grounds” on which divorce is acceptable. Reference is only made to circumstances which destroys a marriage. Such incidents also hold connections with incidents where the marriage is not in honor of God, and leaves space for sin to ruin lives. The marriage is now an instrument in the hand of evil which will consequently lead to more sin. In these last instances a point can be reached where the marriage does not exist in the eyes of God any more, and can be separated lawfully by means of divorce. It is of opinion that divorce should remain as last resort to a broken marriage. Reconciliation should always be the first option. When divorce has taken place, the parties involved may choose to remarry as the previous marriage is ruined before God. If a person, however, should get married while the marriage still exists before the Lord, adultery is being committed. This marriage will be interpreted as a deed of adultery, but it would not be biblical to view such a marriage as a state of adultery. Marriage is therefore not seen as something which can’t be annulled, as opposed to the Roman Catholic Church, who views marriage as a sacrament. Marriage is not an absolute establishment, and can break up under certain circumstances. In this study we found that different religions, Christian and non-christian, have diverse views about marriage, divorce and remarriage. Most Christian religions uphold monogamous marriages – a lifelong binding between one man and one woman. Non-christians such as the Muslims believe in polygamous marriages where a man is allowed to marry four wifes at any given stage. Divorce is viewed as “allowable” on certain grounds by most religions. The Roman Catholic Church, as mentioned, differs in that the marriage is viewed as unbreakable. Nowadays an annulment is granted easier which allows remarriage to occur more often. In case of the AFM of SA, there are no clear guidelines on how divorce of a congregation member or pastor should be handled. Direction in this regard is however given by knowledgeable persons in the church. In earlier days, strict - mostly undocumented - guidelines have been followed in handling divorce and remarriage cases of pastors in the AFM. The person was found guilty because of his divorce status and was asked to resign from the ministry. In later years cases were handled on merit. Policies were enforced by means of disciplinary action following a church court’s ruling. Due to churches being reluctant to discipline members getting divorced and / or remarried, it seems as if members perceived divorce not as a serious sin, and to justify their act. The “guilty” party must be disciplined. The innocent party must be allowed to continue with his/her service in the ministry. The Bible teaches us that after sin was confessed to God, He unconditionally forgives and removes our sins, and never thinks about it ever again (1 John 1:9; Psalm 103:12). Divorce however, is perceived by the church to be a bigger sin and that divorced persons are second hand christians. This is especially true in case of a divorced church leader. Although the church, and specifically the AFM, strives to implement an acceptable policy relating to divorce and remarriage, most churches have not investigated the fundamental theory as yet. It seems as if churches are sensitive in compiling, or can not reach consensus on the theory. The AFM has a basic course called “Ethics – Divorce & Remarriage” being presented by Dr. F.P. Möller (jnr) in their Theological Seminary. The researcher of this study is a pastor in the AFM of SA who has experienced divorce and remarriage himself. The way the case was treated by the church and colleagues proved that the church did not follow biblical guidelines in dealing with a divorced pastor. His experience motivated him to conduct the mentioned study. The church should pick-up, and care for divorced members (in a biblical sense) as the good Samaritan or the shepherd leaving 99 sheep to search for 1 missing one to pick him up and caringly bring him back to the flock. The study is concluded with a theory that can be used by the AFM of SA. , Dr. F.P. Moller
- Full Text:
‘n Bestuursmodel vir potensiaalontwikkeling en toerustig van lidmate van die AGS
- Botha, Frederick Pieter Jacobus
- Authors: Botha, Frederick Pieter Jacobus
- Date: 2012-08-20
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Spiritual direction , Church membership
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2826 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6262
- Description: M.A. , The objective with this study was to develop a management model for assemblies in the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM). This model is focussed on the development of positive potential and the equipping of assembly members. A number of assemblies instituted a cell-based structure whilst others are in a process of transformation towards a cell-based assembly structure. The management possibilities of such a structure was therefore considered. An analytical and critical approach, based on the social sciences, was taken to develop a better understanding of people's latent potential. The equipping task of the church was also analysed. With the aforementioned as departing point, consideration was given as to what type of management structure would be the most suitable to develop potential and to equip assembly members. The study indicates the following: Every person has latent positive potential that should be developed. The church leadership is responsible to God for the development and equipping of assembly members. A high standard of management effectiveness could be reached through a Body-of-Christ assembly approach with cell groups as a supporting structure. A purpose-driven management approach should be adopted. The best management model is therefore achieved through a combination of a Body-of-Christ assembly model based on a purposedriven management approach. This thesis is a contribution aimed to assist the leadership in assembly management and structuring. It is hoped that this will result in the development of latent potential, and the equipping of assembly members to support them in their Godly purpose and service.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Botha, Frederick Pieter Jacobus
- Date: 2012-08-20
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Spiritual direction , Church membership
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2826 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6262
- Description: M.A. , The objective with this study was to develop a management model for assemblies in the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM). This model is focussed on the development of positive potential and the equipping of assembly members. A number of assemblies instituted a cell-based structure whilst others are in a process of transformation towards a cell-based assembly structure. The management possibilities of such a structure was therefore considered. An analytical and critical approach, based on the social sciences, was taken to develop a better understanding of people's latent potential. The equipping task of the church was also analysed. With the aforementioned as departing point, consideration was given as to what type of management structure would be the most suitable to develop potential and to equip assembly members. The study indicates the following: Every person has latent positive potential that should be developed. The church leadership is responsible to God for the development and equipping of assembly members. A high standard of management effectiveness could be reached through a Body-of-Christ assembly approach with cell groups as a supporting structure. A purpose-driven management approach should be adopted. The best management model is therefore achieved through a combination of a Body-of-Christ assembly model based on a purposedriven management approach. This thesis is a contribution aimed to assist the leadership in assembly management and structuring. It is hoped that this will result in the development of latent potential, and the equipping of assembly members to support them in their Godly purpose and service.
- Full Text:
An investigation into the experience of congregational preaching at the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Soweto, Diepkloof Assembly
- Authors: Sangweni, Sibangani Manfred
- Date: 2008-07-14T11:20:39Z
- Subjects: Soweto (South Africa) , Preaching , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/791
- Description: An Investigation into the Experience of Congregational Preaching at the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Soweto, Diepkloof Assembly Preaching is one of the main pastoral or congregational activities that takes place in all Christian congregations. The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM), Diepkloof Assembly in Soweto has been selected as a study sample to investigate how church members experience their pastor’s preaching at church during worship services. In this study an empirical research was conducted by employing a qualitative research methodology, in which explorative, descriptive and contextual approaches have been applied. Phenomenological interviews were conducted among ten members of the AFM Diepkloof Assembly. The theory of data saturation was applied while conducting the interviews. This theory means that the researcher keeps on collecting data (e.g. by means of interviews) to obtain new data until no new information comes up. In this research, a literature study of the theoretical framework of preaching was undertaken to find out what the contemporary scholars think of congregational/pastoral preaching. There is a lack of African or black scholarship in this regard; most of the literature is from white scholars. Nevertheless, the researcher did establish a sound theoretical framework on congregational/pastoral preaching. Fieldwork mainly consisted of data collection through in-person, tape recorded interviews. This was followed by data analysis, through categorisation and a thematic analysis to draw scientific categories from the collected data. The findings, after data analysis, indicated that congregants generally regard: the Bible as central in preaching preaching as something that gives answers or solutions to real life problems the preacher to be important and he/she must be in agreement with his/her message preaching as having some influence on them to change their lifestyles for the better preaching as a necessary activity that covers as wide range of subjects about (Christian) life. It was noted during this study that there are no empirical studies that have been undertaken on how church members in black township churches experience their pastors’ preaching. The literature control among white church members in suburban churches indicates that: preaching must help to lead people to change (Swift,2005:18) the person of the preacher plays a very crucial role in his/her preaching (Venter & Kim, 2004:147) the teaching sermon should get more attention in our day (Pieterse, 2005:230) the audience must be involved (be part of) in the preaching (Swift, 2005:230) the preaching must be relevant to the lives of the audience (Swift, 2005:232). The above results of the literature control confirm what was gathered from the research findings. In conclusion, preaching still plays a very crucial role in the congregations, and that pastors and lay preachers need to continuously work on their preaching skills and methods to make it more effective and relevant to the contemporary church community and in society in general. , Dr. L.J. (Dennis) Erasmus Dr. S.J. (Lilly) Nortjé-Meyer
- Full Text:
- Authors: Sangweni, Sibangani Manfred
- Date: 2008-07-14T11:20:39Z
- Subjects: Soweto (South Africa) , Preaching , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10454 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/791
- Description: An Investigation into the Experience of Congregational Preaching at the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Soweto, Diepkloof Assembly Preaching is one of the main pastoral or congregational activities that takes place in all Christian congregations. The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM), Diepkloof Assembly in Soweto has been selected as a study sample to investigate how church members experience their pastor’s preaching at church during worship services. In this study an empirical research was conducted by employing a qualitative research methodology, in which explorative, descriptive and contextual approaches have been applied. Phenomenological interviews were conducted among ten members of the AFM Diepkloof Assembly. The theory of data saturation was applied while conducting the interviews. This theory means that the researcher keeps on collecting data (e.g. by means of interviews) to obtain new data until no new information comes up. In this research, a literature study of the theoretical framework of preaching was undertaken to find out what the contemporary scholars think of congregational/pastoral preaching. There is a lack of African or black scholarship in this regard; most of the literature is from white scholars. Nevertheless, the researcher did establish a sound theoretical framework on congregational/pastoral preaching. Fieldwork mainly consisted of data collection through in-person, tape recorded interviews. This was followed by data analysis, through categorisation and a thematic analysis to draw scientific categories from the collected data. The findings, after data analysis, indicated that congregants generally regard: the Bible as central in preaching preaching as something that gives answers or solutions to real life problems the preacher to be important and he/she must be in agreement with his/her message preaching as having some influence on them to change their lifestyles for the better preaching as a necessary activity that covers as wide range of subjects about (Christian) life. It was noted during this study that there are no empirical studies that have been undertaken on how church members in black township churches experience their pastors’ preaching. The literature control among white church members in suburban churches indicates that: preaching must help to lead people to change (Swift,2005:18) the person of the preacher plays a very crucial role in his/her preaching (Venter & Kim, 2004:147) the teaching sermon should get more attention in our day (Pieterse, 2005:230) the audience must be involved (be part of) in the preaching (Swift, 2005:230) the preaching must be relevant to the lives of the audience (Swift, 2005:232). The above results of the literature control confirm what was gathered from the research findings. In conclusion, preaching still plays a very crucial role in the congregations, and that pastors and lay preachers need to continuously work on their preaching skills and methods to make it more effective and relevant to the contemporary church community and in society in general. , Dr. L.J. (Dennis) Erasmus Dr. S.J. (Lilly) Nortjé-Meyer
- Full Text:
AGS-pastore se belewenis van die donkerkant van leierskap
- Authors: Myburgh, André Johan
- Date: 2012-09-04
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Christian leadership , Clergy - Psychology - South Africa
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3509 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6898
- Description: M.A. , Leadership failure in the church, which will be defined in the successive description, is of the order of the day. It has been recorded in the annals of church history that church leaders have failed ever since the Eden-narrative up until this day. The researcher assumed that there must be deep-seated reasons for some church leaders to fail. According to Barbara Hannah (1971:38), Robert Louis Stevenson struggled with, as he called it, "man is not truly one, but truly two" in his book, "The strange case of Dr Jeckyll and Mr Hyde", long before modern psychology. Here it is exactly all about that which happens consciously and that which works in the subconscious. The researcher has been involved in the AFM church as a pastor for nearly thirty years and has, through the years, been amazed at how well-meaning pastors, practically involuntarily become involved in practices foreign to ministry such as fraud and adultery, which lead to divorce, and in many cases to their ministry being terminated. Therefore he conducted interviews with ordained pastors of the AFM church with the view to determine whether a phenomenon such as a dark side, or as S.J. Jung calls it, shadow, exists which forms part of a person's composition. The question was put to the pastors as to how they experience their dark side, and without exception the interviews which were conducted during this study confirmed the existence of the dark side.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Myburgh, André Johan
- Date: 2012-09-04
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Christian leadership , Clergy - Psychology - South Africa
- Type: Mini-Dissertation
- Identifier: uj:3509 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/6898
- Description: M.A. , Leadership failure in the church, which will be defined in the successive description, is of the order of the day. It has been recorded in the annals of church history that church leaders have failed ever since the Eden-narrative up until this day. The researcher assumed that there must be deep-seated reasons for some church leaders to fail. According to Barbara Hannah (1971:38), Robert Louis Stevenson struggled with, as he called it, "man is not truly one, but truly two" in his book, "The strange case of Dr Jeckyll and Mr Hyde", long before modern psychology. Here it is exactly all about that which happens consciously and that which works in the subconscious. The researcher has been involved in the AFM church as a pastor for nearly thirty years and has, through the years, been amazed at how well-meaning pastors, practically involuntarily become involved in practices foreign to ministry such as fraud and adultery, which lead to divorce, and in many cases to their ministry being terminated. Therefore he conducted interviews with ordained pastors of the AFM church with the view to determine whether a phenomenon such as a dark side, or as S.J. Jung calls it, shadow, exists which forms part of a person's composition. The question was put to the pastors as to how they experience their dark side, and without exception the interviews which were conducted during this study confirmed the existence of the dark side.
- Full Text:
Die voortgesette akademiese ontwikkeling van die AGS-pastor
- Putter, Andries Petrus Johannes
- Authors: Putter, Andries Petrus Johannes
- Date: 2008-07-07T09:39:27Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Theology study and teaching (Higher) , Clergy education (Continuing education) , Training of clergy
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10368 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/772
- Description: Prof. W.J. Hattingh Prof. H. Viviers
- Full Text:
- Authors: Putter, Andries Petrus Johannes
- Date: 2008-07-07T09:39:27Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Theology study and teaching (Higher) , Clergy education (Continuing education) , Training of clergy
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10368 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/772
- Description: Prof. W.J. Hattingh Prof. H. Viviers
- Full Text:
Gemeentemobilisasie deur die ontdekking, ontwikkeling en toerusting van die lidmaat vir dienswerk
- Authors: Olwagen, Jacobus Marthinus
- Date: 2008-06-27T09:29:04Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Religious gatherings , Church work , Lay ministry
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10008 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/739
- Description: The study originated with the assumption that the praxis of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM) shows that pastors are possibly so busy with numerous duties, responsibilities and many demands made on them, that they have difficulty in mobilizing their assemblies for effective ministry (Eph. 4:12). The majority of assemblies in the AFM are functioning as institutional model assemblies. In these assemblies most of the ministries are primarily performed by the pastors, permanent staff members and a small group of the laity. The consequences are that such assemblies do not effectively fulfill the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19). Assembly mobilization implies a process whereby the laity is empowered to discover, develop and perform voluntary works of service (ministry). The study was undertaken based on the social sciences and implementing an analytical and critical approach, to develop an enhanced understanding of the way the church functions, as the body of Christ and as a living organism. The potential for growth in the body of Christ involves the mutual contribution of every member so that the whole might be built up and achieve maturity. Consequently the body of Christ metaphor was suggested as preferential for the future functioning and practice of assembly ministries, because: The metaphor presents a principal expression of the Biblical will of God for the way in which an assembly functions in carrying out the Great Commission; The disadvantages of institutionalism are counteracted and neutralized by this metaphor; Both qualitative and quantitative assembly growths occur where this metaphor is implemented. The study seeks to emphasize the importance of the fact that equipping the laity has to be an ongoing process in local assemblies. With the aforementioned as point of departure, it is argued that: All persons should be equipped to competent levels to enable them to contribute to the growth and development of the assembly through various ministries; The fivefold ministry (Eph. 4:12) should accept the responsibility to equip the laity for their ministry; Every lay person is gifted by God (Eph. 4:7) and should accept responsibility to minister using their gifts to build up and benefit the assembly; Equipping and empowering the laity are crucial elements to accomplish the Great Commission. The objective was to develop the body of Christ metaphor for assemblies that focus on utilizing the gifts of the laity. This study argues that assemblies will not accomplish this objective until pastors see it as their primary responsibility to mobilize their assemblies. The challenge facing pastors lies in whether they will be able to make the following paradigm shifts: Leadership shift from ministers to equippers; A ministry shift from consumers to contributors. Creating a new culture and promoting the equipping and empowerment of the laity should therefore be given priority by pastors in local assemblies as a whole. These changes will enable the body of Christ to contribute to carry out the Great Commission. The program that was designed is suitable for the discovery, equipping and empowerment of the potential of the laity for voluntary works of service (ministry). The study seeks to create a general development strategy to empower the laity in assemblies. It purposefully engineers certain paradigm shifts, changes structures, creates a new management approach and introduces new processes. The spiritual growth and autonomy of any assembly depends partially on effective organization. In order to function effectively assemblies need to apply sound managerial techniques. Assemblies are to pay attention to the critical judgment of current theories. Lastly, the assembly is seen as an organization with a strong spiritual component consisting mainly of volunteers. An assembly structured according to the body of Christ metaphor will benefit greatly when it implements a “utilization of people” management theory. This thesis is a contribution aimed at assisting the leadership not only to create a culture for assembly mobilization, but also to assist them in restructuring to ensure that the process will be managed effectively. , Dr. M. Nel Prof. L. Nortjé-Meyer
- Full Text:
- Authors: Olwagen, Jacobus Marthinus
- Date: 2008-06-27T09:29:04Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Religious gatherings , Church work , Lay ministry
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:10008 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/739
- Description: The study originated with the assumption that the praxis of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM) shows that pastors are possibly so busy with numerous duties, responsibilities and many demands made on them, that they have difficulty in mobilizing their assemblies for effective ministry (Eph. 4:12). The majority of assemblies in the AFM are functioning as institutional model assemblies. In these assemblies most of the ministries are primarily performed by the pastors, permanent staff members and a small group of the laity. The consequences are that such assemblies do not effectively fulfill the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19). Assembly mobilization implies a process whereby the laity is empowered to discover, develop and perform voluntary works of service (ministry). The study was undertaken based on the social sciences and implementing an analytical and critical approach, to develop an enhanced understanding of the way the church functions, as the body of Christ and as a living organism. The potential for growth in the body of Christ involves the mutual contribution of every member so that the whole might be built up and achieve maturity. Consequently the body of Christ metaphor was suggested as preferential for the future functioning and practice of assembly ministries, because: The metaphor presents a principal expression of the Biblical will of God for the way in which an assembly functions in carrying out the Great Commission; The disadvantages of institutionalism are counteracted and neutralized by this metaphor; Both qualitative and quantitative assembly growths occur where this metaphor is implemented. The study seeks to emphasize the importance of the fact that equipping the laity has to be an ongoing process in local assemblies. With the aforementioned as point of departure, it is argued that: All persons should be equipped to competent levels to enable them to contribute to the growth and development of the assembly through various ministries; The fivefold ministry (Eph. 4:12) should accept the responsibility to equip the laity for their ministry; Every lay person is gifted by God (Eph. 4:7) and should accept responsibility to minister using their gifts to build up and benefit the assembly; Equipping and empowering the laity are crucial elements to accomplish the Great Commission. The objective was to develop the body of Christ metaphor for assemblies that focus on utilizing the gifts of the laity. This study argues that assemblies will not accomplish this objective until pastors see it as their primary responsibility to mobilize their assemblies. The challenge facing pastors lies in whether they will be able to make the following paradigm shifts: Leadership shift from ministers to equippers; A ministry shift from consumers to contributors. Creating a new culture and promoting the equipping and empowerment of the laity should therefore be given priority by pastors in local assemblies as a whole. These changes will enable the body of Christ to contribute to carry out the Great Commission. The program that was designed is suitable for the discovery, equipping and empowerment of the potential of the laity for voluntary works of service (ministry). The study seeks to create a general development strategy to empower the laity in assemblies. It purposefully engineers certain paradigm shifts, changes structures, creates a new management approach and introduces new processes. The spiritual growth and autonomy of any assembly depends partially on effective organization. In order to function effectively assemblies need to apply sound managerial techniques. Assemblies are to pay attention to the critical judgment of current theories. Lastly, the assembly is seen as an organization with a strong spiritual component consisting mainly of volunteers. An assembly structured according to the body of Christ metaphor will benefit greatly when it implements a “utilization of people” management theory. This thesis is a contribution aimed at assisting the leadership not only to create a culture for assembly mobilization, but also to assist them in restructuring to ensure that the process will be managed effectively. , Dr. M. Nel Prof. L. Nortjé-Meyer
- Full Text:
Die problematiek van die AGS pastoor op die platteland
- Gloy, Stephanus Johannes Petrus
- Authors: Gloy, Stephanus Johannes Petrus
- Date: 2010-04-19T08:04:59Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Rural clergy , Rural churches
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6795 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3224
- Description: M.A. , The motivation for the study was to determine the problems encountered by pastors within the context of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (hereafter AFM Church) in a small rural congregation and what their specific needs were. The purpose of the research is to supply workable guidelines which will help the pastors to improve their situation in the rural area. A qualitative research investigation was done, which is investigative and descriptive. Interviews were conducted with sixteen pastors from small rural congregations and were asked: How do you experience the ministry in a small rural town? The information was collected and scientifically processed, and four areas were identified which could influence the pastor’s ministry in a rural environment, namely: • the congregation in which the pastor is working • the community in which the pastor is working • personal qualities of the pastor and • lack of personal and professional support and resources available to the pastor in rural areas. From the research it is clear that factors exist which obstruct the progress of rural congregations. Factors include a higher age profile and inadequate parishioner involvement in the congregations, whilst a conservative and tradition-bound community as well as inadequate involvement in the community also has a role to play. The research proved that the pastor’s personal background, age and experience in the ministry can be keys to success, while inadequate personal and professional backing to the pastor can handicap effectiveness in the ministry. There is a lack of useful resources available to the pastor while insufficient communication with head office can sometimes lead to frustration. The results from the qualitative research were subjected to a literature control. In the literature control it was attempted to investigate and verify the accuracy of the problem areas, according to which guidelines were compiled to assist the pastor and leadership of congregations to eliminate problem areas which may occur. The guidelines viewed as a whole provide for an attempt by the church that could hold various benefits for the AFM pastor in a small rural congregation.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Gloy, Stephanus Johannes Petrus
- Date: 2010-04-19T08:04:59Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Rural clergy , Rural churches
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:6795 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/3224
- Description: M.A. , The motivation for the study was to determine the problems encountered by pastors within the context of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (hereafter AFM Church) in a small rural congregation and what their specific needs were. The purpose of the research is to supply workable guidelines which will help the pastors to improve their situation in the rural area. A qualitative research investigation was done, which is investigative and descriptive. Interviews were conducted with sixteen pastors from small rural congregations and were asked: How do you experience the ministry in a small rural town? The information was collected and scientifically processed, and four areas were identified which could influence the pastor’s ministry in a rural environment, namely: • the congregation in which the pastor is working • the community in which the pastor is working • personal qualities of the pastor and • lack of personal and professional support and resources available to the pastor in rural areas. From the research it is clear that factors exist which obstruct the progress of rural congregations. Factors include a higher age profile and inadequate parishioner involvement in the congregations, whilst a conservative and tradition-bound community as well as inadequate involvement in the community also has a role to play. The research proved that the pastor’s personal background, age and experience in the ministry can be keys to success, while inadequate personal and professional backing to the pastor can handicap effectiveness in the ministry. There is a lack of useful resources available to the pastor while insufficient communication with head office can sometimes lead to frustration. The results from the qualitative research were subjected to a literature control. In the literature control it was attempted to investigate and verify the accuracy of the problem areas, according to which guidelines were compiled to assist the pastor and leadership of congregations to eliminate problem areas which may occur. The guidelines viewed as a whole provide for an attempt by the church that could hold various benefits for the AFM pastor in a small rural congregation.
- Full Text:
The phenomenology of divorce among Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa's pastors : a practical theological perspective.
- Authors: Malebe, George Nzimeni
- Date: 2008-01-09T09:02:13Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , family relationships , clergy , divorce , marriage
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8110 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/206
- Description: The rise in divorce cases among Christians, and among pastors in particular, has become an unsettling factor in contemporary South Africa. The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) of South Africa (SA) has been selected as a study sample to investigate this problem. From the above problem, the following question developed: “What are the motivations and justifications for AFM of SA (Pentecostal church) pastors indulging in the act of divorce, and what theologically educative measures can be advanced to resolve this problem…?” It has become incumbent upon researchers, especially theologians, to address this ongoing problem by employing a phenomenological study. Hence, the present researcher has employed the qualitative research methodology, in which the explorative, descriptive and contextual approaches have been applied. Consequently, phenomenological interviews were conducted among nine divorced AFM pastors. Fieldwork mainly consisted of data collection through in-person and telephonic interviews. This was followed by data analysis, through coding, categorisation and a thematic analysis to draw scientific categories from the collected data. Data analysis was conducted along two notable themes, namely, motivations and justifications/rationale with their subsequent categories and subcategories. The findings, after data analysis, show that the main motivations and justifications for pastors to divorce their spouses are as follows: ministerial incompatibility; communication breakdown; sexual incompatibility; socio-economic incompatibility; adultery; attitude or abusiveness; conflicting interests; dishonesty; cultural differences; influence of the extended family; academic incompatibility; insufficient time spent together; expired love; and jealousy. It has been noted that divorce is not a new phenomenon. Deuteronomy 24:1-4 shows that the problem of divorce existed from the days of Moses in the Old Testament. Because the men of Israel were arbitrarily divorcing their wives during Moses’ jurisdiction over Israel, he instructed that this be done in an orderly way – by issuing a certificate of divorce to the wives during the process of divorce. However, in the New Testament (Matthew 5:31-32, 19:1-9), Jesus spoke out against divorce. He stated that Moses allowed divorce because of the hard-heartedness of the men of Israel. Hence, ‘divorce’ is a theological concern that calls for a practical theological intervention strategy. Therefore, this thesis is concluded by recommending a ‘practical theological theory’ as an intervention strategy based on three aspects: firstly, the history of the AFM church on divorce; secondly, the reasons for divorce among AFM pastors as investigated in this research; lastly, the book of The Song of Songs and the incarnation of Christ were introduced as the basis of a new practical theological theory to ensure stable marriages among AFM pastors. , Dr. L.J. Erasmus
- Full Text:
- Authors: Malebe, George Nzimeni
- Date: 2008-01-09T09:02:13Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , family relationships , clergy , divorce , marriage
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8110 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/206
- Description: The rise in divorce cases among Christians, and among pastors in particular, has become an unsettling factor in contemporary South Africa. The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) of South Africa (SA) has been selected as a study sample to investigate this problem. From the above problem, the following question developed: “What are the motivations and justifications for AFM of SA (Pentecostal church) pastors indulging in the act of divorce, and what theologically educative measures can be advanced to resolve this problem…?” It has become incumbent upon researchers, especially theologians, to address this ongoing problem by employing a phenomenological study. Hence, the present researcher has employed the qualitative research methodology, in which the explorative, descriptive and contextual approaches have been applied. Consequently, phenomenological interviews were conducted among nine divorced AFM pastors. Fieldwork mainly consisted of data collection through in-person and telephonic interviews. This was followed by data analysis, through coding, categorisation and a thematic analysis to draw scientific categories from the collected data. Data analysis was conducted along two notable themes, namely, motivations and justifications/rationale with their subsequent categories and subcategories. The findings, after data analysis, show that the main motivations and justifications for pastors to divorce their spouses are as follows: ministerial incompatibility; communication breakdown; sexual incompatibility; socio-economic incompatibility; adultery; attitude or abusiveness; conflicting interests; dishonesty; cultural differences; influence of the extended family; academic incompatibility; insufficient time spent together; expired love; and jealousy. It has been noted that divorce is not a new phenomenon. Deuteronomy 24:1-4 shows that the problem of divorce existed from the days of Moses in the Old Testament. Because the men of Israel were arbitrarily divorcing their wives during Moses’ jurisdiction over Israel, he instructed that this be done in an orderly way – by issuing a certificate of divorce to the wives during the process of divorce. However, in the New Testament (Matthew 5:31-32, 19:1-9), Jesus spoke out against divorce. He stated that Moses allowed divorce because of the hard-heartedness of the men of Israel. Hence, ‘divorce’ is a theological concern that calls for a practical theological intervention strategy. Therefore, this thesis is concluded by recommending a ‘practical theological theory’ as an intervention strategy based on three aspects: firstly, the history of the AFM church on divorce; secondly, the reasons for divorce among AFM pastors as investigated in this research; lastly, the book of The Song of Songs and the incarnation of Christ were introduced as the basis of a new practical theological theory to ensure stable marriages among AFM pastors. , Dr. L.J. Erasmus
- Full Text:
A relevant curriculum framework for the training of pastors
- Authors: De Kok, Pieter Oscar
- Date: 2012-02-27
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Theology study and teaching (Higher) , Curriculum planning , Clergy training
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4419
- Description: M.Ed.
- Full Text:
- Authors: De Kok, Pieter Oscar
- Date: 2012-02-27
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Theology study and teaching (Higher) , Curriculum planning , Clergy training
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2071 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4419
- Description: M.Ed.
- Full Text:
'n Kritiese evaluering van die denke binne die A.G.S. van S.A. oor lyding en die bose.
- Van der Merwe, Jakobus Potgieter
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Jakobus Potgieter
- Date: 2008-04-15T07:57:29Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , suffering , theodicy , C.S. Lewis
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8212 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/224
- Description: In the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM) there is a school of thought, which has a very simplistic viewpoint of the role of the Evil One in the suffering in this world. Satan is seen as a very definite adversary who has to be resisted by rebuke and positive confession of the promises in the Bible in order for man to have a life free of any suffering. The consequence of the extreme dualistic perspective is that Satan is regarded as an independent entity. Man, as God’s representative, is the one with the authority and responsibility to thwart the efforts of Satan to cause suffering in the world. All suffering is the result of the direct onslaught of Satan. The Bible paints a different picture in both Testaments. Satan is a rebel, but still a creature subjected to the supremacy of God. There is also no preoccupation with Satan. He is an elusive foe, focusing his subtle attacks on the relationship between God and man. The Old Testament shows his subtle and illusive nature by using images of human enemies, mythical monsters and the threat of death. The believer of both Testaments resists him by living a Godfocused life. The life and works of C.S. Lewis have been pivotal in changing the perspective of the writer of this dissertation. Lewis shows that God is using suffering as a scalpel as it were, to cut out the infection caused by evil contamination in the heart of man. Until the Kingdom of God finally arrives in fullness, this will be the situation. Suffering has not only one role-player. The situation is more often than not of a very complex and mysterious nature. It is suggested that the simplistic school of thought take notice of the insights of Lewis. This study has shown that the simplistic school of thought in the AFM lacks the depth and balance found in the Bible and ingeniously expounded by C.S. Lewis. , Dr. LP Mare
- Full Text:
- Authors: Van der Merwe, Jakobus Potgieter
- Date: 2008-04-15T07:57:29Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , suffering , theodicy , C.S. Lewis
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8212 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/224
- Description: In the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM) there is a school of thought, which has a very simplistic viewpoint of the role of the Evil One in the suffering in this world. Satan is seen as a very definite adversary who has to be resisted by rebuke and positive confession of the promises in the Bible in order for man to have a life free of any suffering. The consequence of the extreme dualistic perspective is that Satan is regarded as an independent entity. Man, as God’s representative, is the one with the authority and responsibility to thwart the efforts of Satan to cause suffering in the world. All suffering is the result of the direct onslaught of Satan. The Bible paints a different picture in both Testaments. Satan is a rebel, but still a creature subjected to the supremacy of God. There is also no preoccupation with Satan. He is an elusive foe, focusing his subtle attacks on the relationship between God and man. The Old Testament shows his subtle and illusive nature by using images of human enemies, mythical monsters and the threat of death. The believer of both Testaments resists him by living a Godfocused life. The life and works of C.S. Lewis have been pivotal in changing the perspective of the writer of this dissertation. Lewis shows that God is using suffering as a scalpel as it were, to cut out the infection caused by evil contamination in the heart of man. Until the Kingdom of God finally arrives in fullness, this will be the situation. Suffering has not only one role-player. The situation is more often than not of a very complex and mysterious nature. It is suggested that the simplistic school of thought take notice of the insights of Lewis. This study has shown that the simplistic school of thought in the AFM lacks the depth and balance found in the Bible and ingeniously expounded by C.S. Lewis. , Dr. LP Mare
- Full Text:
An evaluation of the strategy of the Doxa Deo Group within the AFM of SA to transform city communities
- Botha, Frederick Pieter Jacobus
- Authors: Botha, Frederick Pieter Jacobus
- Date: 2008-05-14T10:47:39Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Church work , Communities religious aspects , Doxa Deo Group
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/386
- Description: The needs of city communities are so challenging and critical that it has become a matter of urgency for the Church to develop community transformation strategies that will address these needs. The community transformation strategy of the Tshwane-based Doxa Deo Group offers an approach that could be used as a guideline for other churches and assemblies to develop their own relevant strategies. The research study was undertaken to establish how the members of the Doxa Deo Group of assemblies perceive and experience the Group’s community transformation strategy, and whether any recommendations for the possible improvement of the Group’s community transformation strategy could be suggested for consideration by the Group. The researcher has made use of a research design that comprises, as integrated components in Zerfazz’s methodological design, a qualitative research study that is explorative, contextual and descriptive (Visagie, 2002:15; Creswell, 1994:145). Qualitative research information was gathered through conducting audio-taped, open-ended interviews (Denzin & Lincoln, 2000:674). Guba's model of trustworthiness was utilised in conjunction with an independent coder to ensure reliability and validity of the research data and results. A critical evaluation of the Group's community transformation strategy was completed against a background consisting of the results of the qualitative research as well as a literature control study. The analysis of the research data resulted in the formulation of definite themes, categories and sub-categories that are descriptive of the participants’ experiences. Whilst positive experiences unfolded, negative perceptions also emerged, indicating value conflict resulting in a sense of disillusionment and exclusion amongst members. The research results indicated that participants are positive about the leaders and the contents of the vision, values and passions defined by the Group. The research results also clearly indicate that participants have strong, contrasting viewpoints about the Group’s ministry practices. These contrasting views indicate that participants have positive experiences about the preaching and celebration services of the Doxa Deo Group, and are aware of the community involvement activities. However, participants describe ineffective ministry practises and are of the opinion that the needs of people in the community are not met. The participants also stated that pastoral care is lacking and that their needs are not met. The research results further produced various recommendations for consideration by the Group. The research results defined a new context from where the Group can further develop their community transformation strategy. This research study indicated that the Doxa Deo Group is achieving many positive results through their community transformation strategy, and that the strategy adopted by the Group can be applied to all community transformation ministries. The outcome of this research study provides valuable references to Assemblies of the AFM of SA when considering and defining their own community transformation strategies and ministries. It should however, be pointed out that other churches or assemblies should not merely use the Group as a model for community transformation, but should discover and explore God’s unique plan and strategies for their own church or assembly (Hybels & Hybels, 1995:148). , Prof. W.J. Hattingh Prof. J.H. Coetzee
- Full Text:
- Authors: Botha, Frederick Pieter Jacobus
- Date: 2008-05-14T10:47:39Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Church work , Communities religious aspects , Doxa Deo Group
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:7229 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/386
- Description: The needs of city communities are so challenging and critical that it has become a matter of urgency for the Church to develop community transformation strategies that will address these needs. The community transformation strategy of the Tshwane-based Doxa Deo Group offers an approach that could be used as a guideline for other churches and assemblies to develop their own relevant strategies. The research study was undertaken to establish how the members of the Doxa Deo Group of assemblies perceive and experience the Group’s community transformation strategy, and whether any recommendations for the possible improvement of the Group’s community transformation strategy could be suggested for consideration by the Group. The researcher has made use of a research design that comprises, as integrated components in Zerfazz’s methodological design, a qualitative research study that is explorative, contextual and descriptive (Visagie, 2002:15; Creswell, 1994:145). Qualitative research information was gathered through conducting audio-taped, open-ended interviews (Denzin & Lincoln, 2000:674). Guba's model of trustworthiness was utilised in conjunction with an independent coder to ensure reliability and validity of the research data and results. A critical evaluation of the Group's community transformation strategy was completed against a background consisting of the results of the qualitative research as well as a literature control study. The analysis of the research data resulted in the formulation of definite themes, categories and sub-categories that are descriptive of the participants’ experiences. Whilst positive experiences unfolded, negative perceptions also emerged, indicating value conflict resulting in a sense of disillusionment and exclusion amongst members. The research results indicated that participants are positive about the leaders and the contents of the vision, values and passions defined by the Group. The research results also clearly indicate that participants have strong, contrasting viewpoints about the Group’s ministry practices. These contrasting views indicate that participants have positive experiences about the preaching and celebration services of the Doxa Deo Group, and are aware of the community involvement activities. However, participants describe ineffective ministry practises and are of the opinion that the needs of people in the community are not met. The participants also stated that pastoral care is lacking and that their needs are not met. The research results further produced various recommendations for consideration by the Group. The research results defined a new context from where the Group can further develop their community transformation strategy. This research study indicated that the Doxa Deo Group is achieving many positive results through their community transformation strategy, and that the strategy adopted by the Group can be applied to all community transformation ministries. The outcome of this research study provides valuable references to Assemblies of the AFM of SA when considering and defining their own community transformation strategies and ministries. It should however, be pointed out that other churches or assemblies should not merely use the Group as a model for community transformation, but should discover and explore God’s unique plan and strategies for their own church or assembly (Hybels & Hybels, 1995:148). , Prof. W.J. Hattingh Prof. J.H. Coetzee
- Full Text:
Die mobilisering van lidmate in 'n tipiese AGS gemeente,Robertsham.
- Authors: Putter, Andries Petrus
- Date: 2008-02-25T08:12:53Z
- Subjects: religious gatherings , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , church membership , church growth , spiritual direction , christian leadership
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8164 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/216
- Description: The aim of this study was to research the content of the Robertsham AFM congregation, as well as to identify growth areas in the congregation and to design and implement guidelines for mobilisation. The Robertsham AFM congregation was evaluated, in order to determine its profile at the commencement of the study. This profile enabled the pastor to offer members of the congregation the opportunity to join the growth towards bigger involvement. Questionnaires were used to conduct the evaluation. The mobilisation process of the Robertsham AFM congregation was preceded by a preparatory process, during which the pastor as well as the congregation were prepared. Church leaders had to be prepared in terms of mobilisation, a serious reflection on their reason for existence (raison d¡¦etre) and the way ahead. The upliftment of both the congregation and members of the congregation contributed as follows: ƒá The way members of the congregation experienced God, was promoted by positive preaching, word school presentations and spiritual growth classes. The church going experience of the congregation was enhanced, by implementing specific essential actions. ƒá The image of a congregation that had been uplifted created pride within members of the congregation. Currently, more members of the community are aware of what Robertsham AFM congregation stands for. ƒá Member¡¦s experience of their fellow human beings was promoted by interpersonal relationships and by creating specific opportunities. ƒá The needs of poor members of the community were addressed by implementing a number of services. These services also promoted job creation. Eight quality characteristics of growing churches, according to CA Schwarz, are currently still being used to evaluate and monitor the congregational context. A questionnaire was used to determine to what extent members of the congregation benefitted from the development process at an early stage. Testimonies from members of the congregation were provided to supplement the personal enrichment process. The research demonstrated the importance of knowledge of the background of members of the congregation, as well as the profile of the congregation. The preparation of the pastor is of importance, in order for the mobilisation process to support and promote the correct upliftment, resources and development of members of the congregation. The research contributes towards mobilising and structuring the Robertsham AFM congregation in such a way that it will result in members of the congregation developing their potential to the maximum. In turn, this will enable them to help develop other people¡¦s potential to the maximum. , Prof. W.J. Hattingh
- Full Text:
- Authors: Putter, Andries Petrus
- Date: 2008-02-25T08:12:53Z
- Subjects: religious gatherings , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , church membership , church growth , spiritual direction , christian leadership
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8164 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/216
- Description: The aim of this study was to research the content of the Robertsham AFM congregation, as well as to identify growth areas in the congregation and to design and implement guidelines for mobilisation. The Robertsham AFM congregation was evaluated, in order to determine its profile at the commencement of the study. This profile enabled the pastor to offer members of the congregation the opportunity to join the growth towards bigger involvement. Questionnaires were used to conduct the evaluation. The mobilisation process of the Robertsham AFM congregation was preceded by a preparatory process, during which the pastor as well as the congregation were prepared. Church leaders had to be prepared in terms of mobilisation, a serious reflection on their reason for existence (raison d¡¦etre) and the way ahead. The upliftment of both the congregation and members of the congregation contributed as follows: ƒá The way members of the congregation experienced God, was promoted by positive preaching, word school presentations and spiritual growth classes. The church going experience of the congregation was enhanced, by implementing specific essential actions. ƒá The image of a congregation that had been uplifted created pride within members of the congregation. Currently, more members of the community are aware of what Robertsham AFM congregation stands for. ƒá Member¡¦s experience of their fellow human beings was promoted by interpersonal relationships and by creating specific opportunities. ƒá The needs of poor members of the community were addressed by implementing a number of services. These services also promoted job creation. Eight quality characteristics of growing churches, according to CA Schwarz, are currently still being used to evaluate and monitor the congregational context. A questionnaire was used to determine to what extent members of the congregation benefitted from the development process at an early stage. Testimonies from members of the congregation were provided to supplement the personal enrichment process. The research demonstrated the importance of knowledge of the background of members of the congregation, as well as the profile of the congregation. The preparation of the pastor is of importance, in order for the mobilisation process to support and promote the correct upliftment, resources and development of members of the congregation. The research contributes towards mobilising and structuring the Robertsham AFM congregation in such a way that it will result in members of the congregation developing their potential to the maximum. In turn, this will enable them to help develop other people¡¦s potential to the maximum. , Prof. W.J. Hattingh
- Full Text:
Die rol van leraars in die ontwikkeling van leiers vir bedieninge in die gemeente.
- Authors: Weideman, Henri Jacobus
- Date: 2008-04-16T06:45:54Z
- Subjects: Christian leadership , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Lay ministry training
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/381426 , uj:8227 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/231
- Description: In most congregations “the work” of ministering is primarily performed by salaried pastors and permanent staff. The members of the congregation are mainly spectators and, at best, helpers in the various ministries of the church. They are perceived as laymen and are generally only the objects of ministry. Very few members come forward of their own accord to minister the grace of God and fewer still are afforded the opportunity to become leaders. This study seeks to show that members of the congregation should be fully incorporated in the ministry teams and leadership structure of local congregations; that as voluntary co-workers, they should be equal to the pastors and permanent staff and should play an active part in realising the vision and mission of the congregation; that they should be empowered, allowed to minister and function as leaders, according to their gifts. Supported by literature on leadership available in local congregations and examples of what congregations are already doing in this respect, the study further seeks to emphasise the importance of leadership development in local congretations. In the closing paragraph we look at a few fundamental principles that should form the basis of our thoughts on leadership and the development thereof in congregations. It emphasises that the way we conceive leadership and the implications of our concepts should be fully understood before attempting to implement leadership development. The study does not seek to establish a definite model or fixed program for leadership development, but concludes with a presentation of universally applicable guidelines for the creation of a leadership development strategy in local congregations. , Prof. WJ Hattingh
- Full Text:
- Authors: Weideman, Henri Jacobus
- Date: 2008-04-16T06:45:54Z
- Subjects: Christian leadership , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Lay ministry training
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: http://ujcontent.uj.ac.za8080/10210/381426 , uj:8227 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/231
- Description: In most congregations “the work” of ministering is primarily performed by salaried pastors and permanent staff. The members of the congregation are mainly spectators and, at best, helpers in the various ministries of the church. They are perceived as laymen and are generally only the objects of ministry. Very few members come forward of their own accord to minister the grace of God and fewer still are afforded the opportunity to become leaders. This study seeks to show that members of the congregation should be fully incorporated in the ministry teams and leadership structure of local congregations; that as voluntary co-workers, they should be equal to the pastors and permanent staff and should play an active part in realising the vision and mission of the congregation; that they should be empowered, allowed to minister and function as leaders, according to their gifts. Supported by literature on leadership available in local congregations and examples of what congregations are already doing in this respect, the study further seeks to emphasise the importance of leadership development in local congretations. In the closing paragraph we look at a few fundamental principles that should form the basis of our thoughts on leadership and the development thereof in congregations. It emphasises that the way we conceive leadership and the implications of our concepts should be fully understood before attempting to implement leadership development. The study does not seek to establish a definite model or fixed program for leadership development, but concludes with a presentation of universally applicable guidelines for the creation of a leadership development strategy in local congregations. , Prof. WJ Hattingh
- Full Text:
Die genadegawes in die genesingsbediening van die A.G.S. van S.A.
- Authors: Joubert, Pierre
- Date: 2012-08-13
- Subjects: Spiritual healing , Healing -- Religious aspects , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9080 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5540
- Description: M.Th. , There is still great uncertainty about the role of healing in proclaiming the Gospel and in church building and development. For many Christian denominations this is still a contentious and controversial subject. Especially the differences in the theories on healing and the way in which these theories should be applied, cause many problems to come to the fore in obvious and unsettling ways. In the past few Pentecostal theologians have tried to make contributions that help to identify and solve these problems. By doing this study from a Pentecostal viewpoint, the student is hoping to aid the church in developing a theory and praxis for the healing ministry that is based on Scripture. This study is unique in the sense that it approaches the issue from the standpoint that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are an absolute necessity in developing a Scriptually sound theory and praxis for the healing ministry. It was therefore necessary first to stress the important role of the gifts of the Spirit in the ministry of Christ and the New Testament church. The study then looks at the role and influence that the gifts had in the emergence of the modern Pentecostal movement and of the AFM of South Africa. To discover whether this ministry is still functioning effectively, a questionnaire was given to believers in eight different assemblies. The information was then used to compile a list of guidelines that might be adhered to in order to maximise the usefulness of the gifts of the Spirit.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Joubert, Pierre
- Date: 2012-08-13
- Subjects: Spiritual healing , Healing -- Religious aspects , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:9080 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/5540
- Description: M.Th. , There is still great uncertainty about the role of healing in proclaiming the Gospel and in church building and development. For many Christian denominations this is still a contentious and controversial subject. Especially the differences in the theories on healing and the way in which these theories should be applied, cause many problems to come to the fore in obvious and unsettling ways. In the past few Pentecostal theologians have tried to make contributions that help to identify and solve these problems. By doing this study from a Pentecostal viewpoint, the student is hoping to aid the church in developing a theory and praxis for the healing ministry that is based on Scripture. This study is unique in the sense that it approaches the issue from the standpoint that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are an absolute necessity in developing a Scriptually sound theory and praxis for the healing ministry. It was therefore necessary first to stress the important role of the gifts of the Spirit in the ministry of Christ and the New Testament church. The study then looks at the role and influence that the gifts had in the emergence of the modern Pentecostal movement and of the AFM of South Africa. To discover whether this ministry is still functioning effectively, a questionnaire was given to believers in eight different assemblies. The information was then used to compile a list of guidelines that might be adhered to in order to maximise the usefulness of the gifts of the Spirit.
- Full Text:
AGS-pastore se belewenis van hulle teologiese opleiding.
- Authors: Mare, Leonard Philippus
- Date: 2008-01-09T11:27:37Z
- Subjects: theological seminaries , theology study and teaching , clergy training , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8114 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/208
- Description: Theological training is in a crisis worldwide. Although the role that Theological Seminaries have fulfilled is acknowledged, there is a growing concern about the ability of these institutions to serve the upcoming generations of Christian leaders. Some warn they may not be well tailored for our post-modern age. Many people feel that the Seminary as an institution is in danger of extinction due to irrelevancy. Seminaries, in general, are perceived as not connecting to the needs of today’s church. The Auckland Park Theological Seminary (ATS), whose training is the subject of this research, is not excluded from this concern of the Church for relevant theological training. Many pastors of the AFM of SA are of the opinion that the training offered at the ATS does not effectively train pastors for the ministry. The purpose of this research is to investigate and describe how pastors who studied at the ATS experienced their theological training, as well as to offer guidelines to the Church and the ATS to develop a more effective model for theological training. Semi-structured, phenomenological interviews were conducted with a number of pastors. These interviews were taped with their permission. The question asked during each interview was: “How do you experience the theological training offered at the ATS as preparation for the ministry?”. The research has revealed a number of themes and sub-themes that should be addressed by a new model for theological training. They are as follows: • There is a need of a thorough theological education as foundation, especially in the areas of Bible knowledge and Dogmatics. • The focus of the training is mainly cognitive and not practical. There should be a greater emphasis on the “how” of doing ministry. • The respondents indicated that they have a need that their own spiritual gifts and ministries should be developed. • They experience a lack of training in interpersonal skills. There is especially a need for training on how the pastor’s family should effectively function in ministry. • The research has shown that the ATS should take co-responsibility to develop the character and spirituality of their students. • The students expressed a need that the lecturers should be their mentors. • The greatest needs were in the areas of management and ministerial skills. The students felt that they were not adequately prepared in the areas of leadership, management of personnel, team building, developing a vision for ministry, marketing and funding, preaching and communication skills, how to mobilize the members of their churches, the Missiological purpose of the Church, youth – and children’s ministry, the planning of church services, music and worship, technical skills such as video productions, the use of multimedia, and computer skills, and general skills such as the practice of the sacraments, hospital visitation, and the role of statistics. • The research has shown that the students have a need for specialized training in accordance with their gifts and ministries. Based on these results, guidelines are then offered for a more effective model for theological training. , Dr. B.J. Geyser
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- Authors: Mare, Leonard Philippus
- Date: 2008-01-09T11:27:37Z
- Subjects: theological seminaries , theology study and teaching , clergy training , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8114 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/208
- Description: Theological training is in a crisis worldwide. Although the role that Theological Seminaries have fulfilled is acknowledged, there is a growing concern about the ability of these institutions to serve the upcoming generations of Christian leaders. Some warn they may not be well tailored for our post-modern age. Many people feel that the Seminary as an institution is in danger of extinction due to irrelevancy. Seminaries, in general, are perceived as not connecting to the needs of today’s church. The Auckland Park Theological Seminary (ATS), whose training is the subject of this research, is not excluded from this concern of the Church for relevant theological training. Many pastors of the AFM of SA are of the opinion that the training offered at the ATS does not effectively train pastors for the ministry. The purpose of this research is to investigate and describe how pastors who studied at the ATS experienced their theological training, as well as to offer guidelines to the Church and the ATS to develop a more effective model for theological training. Semi-structured, phenomenological interviews were conducted with a number of pastors. These interviews were taped with their permission. The question asked during each interview was: “How do you experience the theological training offered at the ATS as preparation for the ministry?”. The research has revealed a number of themes and sub-themes that should be addressed by a new model for theological training. They are as follows: • There is a need of a thorough theological education as foundation, especially in the areas of Bible knowledge and Dogmatics. • The focus of the training is mainly cognitive and not practical. There should be a greater emphasis on the “how” of doing ministry. • The respondents indicated that they have a need that their own spiritual gifts and ministries should be developed. • They experience a lack of training in interpersonal skills. There is especially a need for training on how the pastor’s family should effectively function in ministry. • The research has shown that the ATS should take co-responsibility to develop the character and spirituality of their students. • The students expressed a need that the lecturers should be their mentors. • The greatest needs were in the areas of management and ministerial skills. The students felt that they were not adequately prepared in the areas of leadership, management of personnel, team building, developing a vision for ministry, marketing and funding, preaching and communication skills, how to mobilize the members of their churches, the Missiological purpose of the Church, youth – and children’s ministry, the planning of church services, music and worship, technical skills such as video productions, the use of multimedia, and computer skills, and general skills such as the practice of the sacraments, hospital visitation, and the role of statistics. • The research has shown that the students have a need for specialized training in accordance with their gifts and ministries. Based on these results, guidelines are then offered for a more effective model for theological training. , Dr. B.J. Geyser
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Die AGS gemeente as missionale geloofsgemeenskap: 'n deelnemende-aksienavorsingsprojek
- Authors: Basson, Ernrich Frederique
- Date: 2012-06-06
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Religious gatherings , Mission of the church , Practical theology
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2462 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4919
- Description: D.Litt. et Phil. , Having lost its prominent position at the centre of Western society, the church currently finds itself in a post-Christian era. This position leads to a drastic loss of members (Braaten & Jenson 2002:21). Estrangement in churches therefore brings about a new dialogue regarding the identity of the congregation which constitutes the essence of its reason for being (Greenwood 2002:21 ). The identity of the congregation as a missional faith-community is indispensable to a healthy, growing congregation (Van Engen 1996:26; Frost & Hirsch 2003:15; Guder 1998:3). Theologians agree that the loss of this identity constitutes one of the main reasons for churches declining influence. This necessitates a reorientation of the true essence of being church. The changing of the times is an important factor, because it challenges the local congregation to grow towards becoming the missional faith-community that God has in mind. A missional faithcommunity is exemplified by a congregation that rethinks its essential identity and purpose for existence. This reorientation restores the local congregation's true nature to God's original plan and objective, thus enabling it to meaningfully embody the Missio Dei. It was therefore important to undertake a comprehensive literary study in order to ascertain the definition of a faith-community, how it is formed, how it is sustained and how it may demonstrate its missional purpose. This study has a dual contribution in that it presents a systematic PracticalTheological study of the essence of church and that it allows for the development of a contextual model. This model was developed and tested through a process of participative action research in the context of two AFM-congregations. The method also allowed for the formation of a measuring-instrument which will enable congregations to do self-evaluation. In the future this PracticalTheological study may form a guideline for meaningful church-development while the developed incarnation model will enable the local congregation to function as a missional faith-community.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Basson, Ernrich Frederique
- Date: 2012-06-06
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Religious gatherings , Mission of the church , Practical theology
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2462 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4919
- Description: D.Litt. et Phil. , Having lost its prominent position at the centre of Western society, the church currently finds itself in a post-Christian era. This position leads to a drastic loss of members (Braaten & Jenson 2002:21). Estrangement in churches therefore brings about a new dialogue regarding the identity of the congregation which constitutes the essence of its reason for being (Greenwood 2002:21 ). The identity of the congregation as a missional faith-community is indispensable to a healthy, growing congregation (Van Engen 1996:26; Frost & Hirsch 2003:15; Guder 1998:3). Theologians agree that the loss of this identity constitutes one of the main reasons for churches declining influence. This necessitates a reorientation of the true essence of being church. The changing of the times is an important factor, because it challenges the local congregation to grow towards becoming the missional faith-community that God has in mind. A missional faithcommunity is exemplified by a congregation that rethinks its essential identity and purpose for existence. This reorientation restores the local congregation's true nature to God's original plan and objective, thus enabling it to meaningfully embody the Missio Dei. It was therefore important to undertake a comprehensive literary study in order to ascertain the definition of a faith-community, how it is formed, how it is sustained and how it may demonstrate its missional purpose. This study has a dual contribution in that it presents a systematic PracticalTheological study of the essence of church and that it allows for the development of a contextual model. This model was developed and tested through a process of participative action research in the context of two AFM-congregations. The method also allowed for the formation of a measuring-instrument which will enable congregations to do self-evaluation. In the future this PracticalTheological study may form a guideline for meaningful church-development while the developed incarnation model will enable the local congregation to function as a missional faith-community.
- Full Text:
The ethos of personal financial management of church members: a case study of the AFM Taberna Dei assembly
- Authors: Strauss, Willem Petrus
- Date: 2012-06-06
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Personal finance , Money , Christians and money
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2461 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4918
- Description: M.A. , Money plays an important role in the everyday lives of church members. How church members view and engage with money has various implications. It concerns their theology, their well being and a number of other areas. In many cases the church has abdicated its responsibility to instruct and give guidance to church members and not provided adequate leading in the sphere of personal financial management. Diverse views on money are propagated through various media by both the secular world and the church alike. This Practical Theological study concerns the ethos of church members with regards to their personal financial management. It is a qualitative, phenomenological case study of the members of the AFM Taberna Dei assembly located in Polokwane, South Africa. This study is explorative and contextual. Qualified research subjects were selected by random sampling. Participants had to meet defined criteria, and data collection took place primarily through interviews with the chosen subjects. The probing question asked to participants is: “How do you approach your personal financial management?” Two main themes emerged during the coding and analytical phases of the research: theme A concerns religious beliefs influencing personal financial management and theme B non-religious beliefs and practices influencing the personal financial management of the participants. It is apparent that a general ethos of the personal financial management of members of Taberna Dei exists. This ethos is both defined and critiqued.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Strauss, Willem Petrus
- Date: 2012-06-06
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , Personal finance , Money , Christians and money
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:2461 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4918
- Description: M.A. , Money plays an important role in the everyday lives of church members. How church members view and engage with money has various implications. It concerns their theology, their well being and a number of other areas. In many cases the church has abdicated its responsibility to instruct and give guidance to church members and not provided adequate leading in the sphere of personal financial management. Diverse views on money are propagated through various media by both the secular world and the church alike. This Practical Theological study concerns the ethos of church members with regards to their personal financial management. It is a qualitative, phenomenological case study of the members of the AFM Taberna Dei assembly located in Polokwane, South Africa. This study is explorative and contextual. Qualified research subjects were selected by random sampling. Participants had to meet defined criteria, and data collection took place primarily through interviews with the chosen subjects. The probing question asked to participants is: “How do you approach your personal financial management?” Two main themes emerged during the coding and analytical phases of the research: theme A concerns religious beliefs influencing personal financial management and theme B non-religious beliefs and practices influencing the personal financial management of the participants. It is apparent that a general ethos of the personal financial management of members of Taberna Dei exists. This ethos is both defined and critiqued.
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Die veranderende missionale taak van die AGS van SA binne die hedendaagse wereld.
- Authors: Lundie, Johannes George
- Date: 2008-01-09T09:01:59Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , mission of the church
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8108 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/204
- Description: The history of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM) confirms its own missional character. In the light of the church’s rich missional history, an attempt is made to determine to what extent non-christians are still reached through the gospel by the AFM. Various missional models and methods have been used over the years by the AFM. The following has been asked in this concern: Which of these missional models and methods being used are still successful today? Qualitative research has been used to search within the white sector of the AFM for presentday missional models and methods that are still effective. Congregations within the following provinces have been included in the qualitative research: Gauteng, North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State and Kwazulu Natal. The following literary study has revealed certain missional changes that have taken place in the Western Church. While it confirmed some of the missional challenges of the AFM, it also provides some missional guidelines to the church. Certain missional models and methods seem to be less effective than in the past, while others have phased out completely. Some of the missional models and methods currently used in the church are less effective than some AFM members suggest. Although the AFM has not lost its missional aim, the missional passion of some of its members is a growing concern. It appears that in the early years of the AFM the church’s members had a greater missional passion than today. The ideal missional approach for today seems to be an effective personal relationship approach. The Alpha course has been identified as one of these approaches from which the AFM may gain various missional guidelines. , Prof. W.J. Hattingh
- Full Text:
- Authors: Lundie, Johannes George
- Date: 2008-01-09T09:01:59Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , mission of the church
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8108 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/204
- Description: The history of the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM) confirms its own missional character. In the light of the church’s rich missional history, an attempt is made to determine to what extent non-christians are still reached through the gospel by the AFM. Various missional models and methods have been used over the years by the AFM. The following has been asked in this concern: Which of these missional models and methods being used are still successful today? Qualitative research has been used to search within the white sector of the AFM for presentday missional models and methods that are still effective. Congregations within the following provinces have been included in the qualitative research: Gauteng, North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free State and Kwazulu Natal. The following literary study has revealed certain missional changes that have taken place in the Western Church. While it confirmed some of the missional challenges of the AFM, it also provides some missional guidelines to the church. Certain missional models and methods seem to be less effective than in the past, while others have phased out completely. Some of the missional models and methods currently used in the church are less effective than some AFM members suggest. Although the AFM has not lost its missional aim, the missional passion of some of its members is a growing concern. It appears that in the early years of the AFM the church’s members had a greater missional passion than today. The ideal missional approach for today seems to be an effective personal relationship approach. The Alpha course has been identified as one of these approaches from which the AFM may gain various missional guidelines. , Prof. W.J. Hattingh
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Die paradigmaskuif wat 'n tradisionele AGS pastor moet ondergaan vir effektiewe gemeentemobilisasie.
- Authors: Olwagen, Jacobus Marthinus
- Date: 2008-01-09T11:28:17Z
- Subjects: church growth , church membership , religious gatherings , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , christian leadership , spiritual direction
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213
- Description: The purpose of this study is to suggest a paradigm shift that will enable the traditional pastor to effectively mobilize his congregation. An in depth look at the early history of the pastor of the Carletonville-AFM congregation and his idea of the ministry was undertaken. Due to certain frustrations he experienced trying to do everything himself, the Body of Christ model was proposed for the congregation whereby every member of the congregation has a function in fulfulling the Great Commision. Certain statistics of the Carletonville-AFM congregation were analysed to obtain information about membership involvement in service ministry. It became clear that a process for the mobilisation of the congregation was needed. Mobilising the congregation should be seen as the purpose of the pastor and considered to be very important. The pastor’s managerial approach was scrutinized from the paradigm shift of ‘purposefulness,’ and the recommendation made that as the leader, he should build a strong team around himself to whom he can delegate work, thus making his work load lighter. This will empower him to concentrate on the purpose of mobilising the congregation. The study argues that there is no such thing as an untalented member, in other words, everybody has received a talent to do service ministry. The potential in people must be developed by way of equipping the members. The pastor is responsible for this development and equipping of the members. This study is a contribution that endeavours to focus the managerial approach of the pastor in the mobilisation of the Body of Christ. , Prof. W.J. Hattingh
- Full Text:
Die paradigmaskuif wat 'n tradisionele AGS pastor moet ondergaan vir effektiewe gemeentemobilisasie.
- Authors: Olwagen, Jacobus Marthinus
- Date: 2008-01-09T11:28:17Z
- Subjects: church growth , church membership , religious gatherings , Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , christian leadership , spiritual direction
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:8142 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/213
- Description: The purpose of this study is to suggest a paradigm shift that will enable the traditional pastor to effectively mobilize his congregation. An in depth look at the early history of the pastor of the Carletonville-AFM congregation and his idea of the ministry was undertaken. Due to certain frustrations he experienced trying to do everything himself, the Body of Christ model was proposed for the congregation whereby every member of the congregation has a function in fulfulling the Great Commision. Certain statistics of the Carletonville-AFM congregation were analysed to obtain information about membership involvement in service ministry. It became clear that a process for the mobilisation of the congregation was needed. Mobilising the congregation should be seen as the purpose of the pastor and considered to be very important. The pastor’s managerial approach was scrutinized from the paradigm shift of ‘purposefulness,’ and the recommendation made that as the leader, he should build a strong team around himself to whom he can delegate work, thus making his work load lighter. This will empower him to concentrate on the purpose of mobilising the congregation. The study argues that there is no such thing as an untalented member, in other words, everybody has received a talent to do service ministry. The potential in people must be developed by way of equipping the members. The pastor is responsible for this development and equipping of the members. This study is a contribution that endeavours to focus the managerial approach of the pastor in the mobilisation of the Body of Christ. , Prof. W.J. Hattingh
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AGS-pastore se belewenis van gemeentestrukture.
- Authors: Basson, Ernrich Frederique
- Date: 2007-12-07T09:02:53Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , christian leadership , church membership
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14742 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/177
- Description: Churches in the twenty-first century experiences a crisis. According to Barna (1998:2) churches are: Holding fast to programs and goals established by their charter members years ago. Many of these ministries have mastered the art of denying the cataclysmic cultural changes around them, responding with cosmetic changes that make little difference. Subsequently the church is losing its influence in the world. One of the reasons is that the church is structured in such a way that it is unable to respond to its changing environment. Therefore, structural change in churches is continually debated and it remains a great challenge for churches to structure themselves in order to become relevant in the twenty-first century. As a result, the proposed study focuses on the re-engineering of the leadership structures of the local Apostolic Faith Mission(AFM) church. In the AFM church, this debate was going on for over two decades. Whereas historically, the larger denomination developed structures and introduced it in the local assembly, they reviewed this position. The purpose of this research is thus to investigate and describe how pastors experience their local church structures as well as to offer guidelines for effective structures to the Church. The researcher conducted semi-structured, phenomenological interviews with eight pastors. The research question was: “How do you personally experience your local church structures?” , Dr. L.P. Mare
- Full Text:
- Authors: Basson, Ernrich Frederique
- Date: 2007-12-07T09:02:53Z
- Subjects: Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa , christian leadership , church membership
- Type: Thesis
- Identifier: uj:14742 , http://hdl.handle.net/10210/177
- Description: Churches in the twenty-first century experiences a crisis. According to Barna (1998:2) churches are: Holding fast to programs and goals established by their charter members years ago. Many of these ministries have mastered the art of denying the cataclysmic cultural changes around them, responding with cosmetic changes that make little difference. Subsequently the church is losing its influence in the world. One of the reasons is that the church is structured in such a way that it is unable to respond to its changing environment. Therefore, structural change in churches is continually debated and it remains a great challenge for churches to structure themselves in order to become relevant in the twenty-first century. As a result, the proposed study focuses on the re-engineering of the leadership structures of the local Apostolic Faith Mission(AFM) church. In the AFM church, this debate was going on for over two decades. Whereas historically, the larger denomination developed structures and introduced it in the local assembly, they reviewed this position. The purpose of this research is thus to investigate and describe how pastors experience their local church structures as well as to offer guidelines for effective structures to the Church. The researcher conducted semi-structured, phenomenological interviews with eight pastors. The research question was: “How do you personally experience your local church structures?” , Dr. L.P. Mare
- Full Text: