Semi-mistieke spiritualiteit by Johannes Calvyn en by Abraham Kuyper

Die invloed daarvan tot vandag

Abstract

Semi-mystical spirituality in John Calvin and Abraham Kuyper; its influence till today

Semi-mystical spirituality has become very popular today. Appealing totheir reformed predecessors, some theologians today regard it as an important injection needed for the revitalization of their churches. Others, however, are taking a critical, more negative stance against mysticism. Thus the urgent question to be answered is: Should mysticism, as a part of contemporary spirituality, be accepted by Christians who want to be faithful to the Scriptures?
In order to provide an answer, this investigation develops through thefollowing five sections. It firstly takes a look backwards at the semi- mysticism of John Calvin (1509-1564). Secondly, it focuses on thetrichotomist view of the human soul which strengthened the basis forsemi-mysticism throughout history. The third section indicates that the semi-mystical thinking of Abraham Kuyper (1837-1920) was based onthe same kind of view of the human being – an idea continuing till today.Therefore the next (fourth) part looks at some indications of the revival of a kind of piety characterised by inner, spiritual experience. The fifth sectionconcentrates on a similar contemporary spirituality, emphasising the need of a close, personal and intimate relationship of Christian believers with God. Throughout the investigation the author’s own comments andcritique are included to be summarised in a concluding (sixth) part.

Published

2015-09-30

How to Cite

Semi-mistieke spiritualiteit by Johannes Calvyn en by Abraham Kuyper: Die invloed daarvan tot vandag. (2015). Tydskrif Vir Christelike Wetenskap | Journal for Christian Scholarship, 51(3), 99-124. Retrieved from https://pubs.ufs.ac.za/index.php/tcw/article/view/380

Issue

Section

Artikels | Articles