Reimagining Christian Doctrine? A Critical Analysis of Anthony Thiselton's Hermeneutics of Doctrine

Anthony Thiselton’s The Hermeneutics of Doctrine presents a hermeneutical framework that aims to rescue Christian doctrine from its perceived marginalisation and abstraction from everyday life. This research assesses the efficacy of Thiselton’s hermeneutical framework in bridging the gap between abstract doctrinal formulations and its potential for transformative practice. Using analytical and dialogical methods, the research traces the intellectual developments that inform Thiselton’s multidisciplinary approach and assesses his reconceptualisation of doctrine as a dynamic, performative act with “practical force” for the ethical and communal formation of believers. It further tests the applied usefulness of this framework through Thiselton’s analyses of fourteen doctrinal themes. The study then engages Thiselton in critical dialogue with African theology through the lens of Kwame Bediako’s work. This dialogue reveals significant convergences and notable tensions. While both theologians affirm orthopraxis and the authority of the believing community in shaping doctrine, a key divergence emerges between Thiselton’s grounding in Western philosophical traditions and Bediako’s decolonial orientation. Ultimately, the thesis concludes that although Thiselton’s framework offers a robust foundation for doctrine articulation, it may require a local mediator to highlight the cultural and socio-political particularities of the communities to which it is applied.

Grantor dc:publisher

Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University

Year dc:date.issued

2026

Author dc:creator

• Panda, Baptista Alberto

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Marais, Nadia

Language dc:language.iso

en

Repository record dc:identifier.uri

https://scholar.sun.ac.za/handle/10019.1/135961

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholar.sun.ac.za:10019.1/135961