Rediscovering and Applying God's Holiness in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4 Through the Lens of Abraham Kuruvilla's Hermeneutical and Homiletical Approach

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the rich theological concept of God’s holiness in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4, utilizing Abraham Kuruvilla’s hermeneutical and homiletical method for preaching. This study focuses on elucidating a comprehensive understanding of God’s holiness, which includes both its transcendent majesty and immanent presence. It also explores how the concept of God’s holiness can be effectively communicated through preaching, with the aim of inspiring transformative experiences that align with God’s ideal of holiness.

Chapter 1 addresses the contemporary neglect of God’s holiness in preaching and identifies three main reasons: the complexities surrounding its semantic meanings of the words “holy” or “holiness,” the challenges in finding an appropriate hermeneutical approach, and a lack of homiletical applications. Introducing Abraham Kuruvilla’s hermeneutical and homiletical method, this chapter advocates for a renewed approach to preaching God’s holiness that is both theologically sound and practically relevant.

Chapter 2 surveys an in-depth analysis of the concept of God’s holiness in Scripture initially in a general sense and then specifically in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4. This chapter accentuates the need of a theological approach to fully grasp the dual aspects of God’s holiness—its transcendence and immanence—and their implications for preaching.

Chapter 3 focuses on refining hermeneutical methods for effective preaching on God’s holiness in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4. It advocates for Kuruvilla’s hermeneutical approach, the world in front of the text, as a means to achieve a comprehensive interpretation that not only resonates with the author’s original intention but also establishes a pertinent connection to modern listeners, thereby enhancing the sermon’s impact.

Chapter 4, building upon the established hermeneutical foundation, seeks to explore the relevance and resonance of homiletical practices for articulating valid applications, particularly for the topic of God’s holiness in Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4. It demonstrates how God’s immanent holiness evokes personal repentance and authentic worship, underpinned by the foundation of his transcendent holiness.

Chapter 5 concludes the dissertation by summarizing the key arguments and insights presented. It reiterates the significance of Kuruvilla’s hermeneutical and homiletical approach for preaching about God’s holiness and encourages preachers to boldly preach God’s holiness, aiming for the transformation of the congregation.