Eskatologiese dimensie in die Wêreldsendingkonferensies 1910-1938

Abstract

This thesis attempts to explore the relationship between eschatology and mission. This is done in the context of three ecumenical mission conferences held from 1910 to 1938. In the first chapter an overview is given of a number of the most important eschatological models, as well as an evaluation of these models to explore the author's own viewpoint. The broad eschatological lines through the ages are then followed and the relationship between eschatology and mission is indicated in a few important areas, namely the involvement of the church in social questions, unity in the church and the Christian hope. In the second chapter the mission conferences held in New York (1900) and Edinburgh (1910), which both occurred at a time of great optimism in the church, are discussed. At that time mission was especially seen as the salvation of the soul. In the third chapter the meeting held in Jerusalem in 1928, which took place in a time of great uncertainty for the church, is discussed. Here emphasis was laid upon the social task of the church. In chapter four mission in the shadow of the Second World War is discussed, concentrating on the meeting held at Tambaram (1938). During this meeting eschatology played an important role. There was a greater balance between the salvation of the soul and the salvation of the body. Church unity and a living hope also played an important role amongst the delegates. In the fifth chapter some conclusions are drawn for the church in general, while a few principles are indicated regarding eschatology and mission specifically for the Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk (Dutch Reformed Church).