Theology Interviews VU University Amsterdam

An interview with Lietaert Peerbolte, Professor of New Testament Studies, VU University and Jan Krans, Professor of New Testament studies, VU University. The codex sinaiticus of the 4th century, or King James bible, can we describe as the first bible we have. But was there ever something like an original text of the new testament? Individual books, letters and collections were compiled to one bible in a later stadium. The new testament is therefore a scholarly reproduction from several manuscripts. Textual criticism is changed trough the ages from undoing the bible from textual corruptions to interpreting textual changes as having their historical value of their own, reflecting the liturgical practice of several communities through the ages. 'The living text of the gospels'.

Interview with professor doctor Fernando Enns, chair for peace and ethic of the faculty of theology of the VU, specialized in Mennonite Theology and Ethics, and doctor Annette Mosher from the faculty of theology of the VU and assistant professor of ethics. The theme is peace and justice from both Mennonite and ecumenical perspective. What was the understanding of peace and justice in the different cultures and ages? By understanding that we can easier answer the question what the meaning is of peace and justice in our time and culture and develop a common understanding of these two concepts. Seen from a Mennonite and ecumenical perspective, how are the issues interpreted surrounding immigration? What difference theology makes when it comes to issues like justice and peace? From a PhD student point of view: what is Fernando Enns vision about his research, what would he like to see further developed and what items is he working on?

An interview with Johan Roeland, sociologist of religious culture and media, and Ruard Ganzevoort, professor of practical theology about research on film and religion. They talk about the meaning of popular culture for this course. Has cinema taken over the role of the church to provide religious frames? According to reception studies, movies can be an inspiration source, can be used by young people to develop their own religious repertoire and can provoke temporarily a religious experience.
It is no longer the church where people are taught in religion. Religion becomes more individual, experimental and playful. Movies can challenge or even change our whole theological framework.