Some homiletical perspectives for the Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa

Abstract

This article explores Professor T.F.J. Dreyer’s definition for preaching that he developed for preaching in the Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa (NRCA) three decades ago. Dreyer’s own homiletical perspective towards preaching developed continuously through numerous philosophical paradigm shifts since 1989. His basis theory plays an important role in the theological training of the church’s students today. The aim of the research is to reflect on the changes, following Dreyer’s homiletical development over three decades. The research discovers a strong prophetical character in the homiletical approach of Dreyer and concludes by asking how a kairos moment of prophetical speech can benefit the NRCA. Contribution: This research hopes to contribute to the existing research that was done in the homiletical field of traditional Afrikaans-speaking churches in South Africa. The research also contributes by identifying some homiletical perspectives that can help the church to proclaim the gospel in times of transition.

Keywords

• practical theology
• homiletical studies
• reformation
• new homiletics
• new hermeneutics
• inductive preaching
• prophetic preaching
• contextual preaching