2026 NTSSA Call for Papers

NTSSA Annual Meeting 2026

Date: Monday 23 March 2026 to Friday 27 March 2026
Hosting subgroup: Jesus and the Gospels
Venue: Bloemfontein
Theme: “Jesus in bi-optic perspective (Comparing John and Synoptics on the historical Jesus).”

CALL FOR PAPERS

The 2026 conference invites scholarly contributions exploring the portrayal of Jesus in the Gospels, with a particular focus on the bi-optic perspective—an approach that examines Jesus through the dual lenses of the Gospel of John and the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke).

Traditionally, the Gospel of John has been viewed as primarily theological and less historically reliable than the Synoptics. However, recent scholarship has begun to reassess John’s historical value, recognizing its unique contribution to our understanding of Jesus. The bi-optic perspective acknowledges that while John emphasizes Jesus’ divinity through extended discourses and symbolic imagery, the Synoptics present a more narrative-driven account focused on Jesus’ actions, parables, and human experiences.

This dual approach challenges long-standing assumptions and seeks to integrate both theological and historical dimensions to form a more nuanced and comprehensive portrait of Jesus. It opens up fresh avenues for dialogue between Johannine and Synoptic traditions, especially in texts where their portrayals intersect or diverge.

DUE DATE: 30 November 2025

ACCEPTANCE FEEDBACK: 15 December 2025