Title

A Hermeneutical and Exegetical Evaluation of Contextualization in Light of John 1:14

Date of Award

3-1-2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Theology (Th.M)

Department

Exegetical Theology

First Advisor

Robert Thomas

Abstract

This thesis provides a hermeneutical and exegetical evaluation of contextualization in light of John 1: 14, as asserted by evangelical contextualizers. This study will initially discuss the origin and development of contextualization. Given its broad acceptance across the spectrum of Christianity, a survey of its definition and approaches of its practice is examined. Furthermore, the influence of Rudolf Bultmann's New Hermeneutic and Anthony Thiselton's The Two Horizons on the advancement of contextualization is discussed. Their impact upon contextualization has led its proponents to embrace the necessity of cultural relevance in presenting the gospel and other biblical teaching in cross-cultural settings. Through cultural relevancy, the missionary is able to reach the receptor audience by appealing to their preunderstanding. Thus, cultural relevance becomes the effectual tool in ministry success. Additionally, such a perspective embraces subjective interpretation and multiple meanings.

Comments

If you are not a patron of the Concordia Seminary Library this dissertation is available from the "Theological Research Exchange Network" at http://tren.com/.

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