In diens van die tale Kanans? Oor sistematiese teologie vandag

Abstract

Following a comment of Barth, who followed Kohlbrugge, who followed John Bunyan, the essay reflects on the task of systematic theology by using the metaphor of the language of Canaan. The conviction that theology is closely related to language is not the product of a linguistic turn and post-modern climate, but represents a long and influential tradition. Four general comments are made about theology in the service of the language of faith, preparing three concluding remarks regarding systematic theology today. Firstly, theology, like the study of grammar, is a second-order activity. The language of Canaan is primarily used in the faith and life of the community. Secondly, proper language skills call for the ability to speak anew in ever-changing contexts. Thirdly, there is accordingly no standard language, and authorities like Scripture, tradition, reason and experience together call for continuing responsible interpretation in the community. Fourthly, the language of Canaan is a strange language, a language of hope, of cross and resurrection. In a final section, some practical conclusions regarding the state, challenges and opportunities regarding systematic theology in South Africa today are drawn in the light of these general comments.