Die Hervormde Kerk: Soekend na ’n weg tussen ekklesiologiese verstarring en innovasie sonder tradisie

Abstract

The Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa: Searching for a road between ecclesiological petrifaction and innovation without tradition. This article is a critical contribution to the discourse in the Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa on ecclesiology. In preparation for the next synod meeting in September 2013, the church is confronted by many discussion papers. This article is a plea to return to the basic ecclesiological perspectives of the Early Church and the Reformation. Where this is not done, unbiblical ideas creep into the church. Concentration falls on eschatological character, catholicity, the offices and the calling of the church. Continued attention is given to the notion ‘people’s church’.

Keywords

• Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa
• ecclesiology
• eschatological character of the church
• catholicity of the church
• people’s church