Abstract

THERON, Johann. A Reformed confessional perspective on racial apartheid in the history, theology, and practice in the South African Dutch Reformed Church. STJ [online]. 2021, vol.7, n.1, pp.1-25. ISSN 2413-9467.  https://doi.org/10.17570/stj.2021.v7n1.a30.

The Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa has had a long history and association with the system of apartheid and its theological justification. This article attempts to point out how the theological and practical support for racially divided churches is Biblically untenable and inconsistent with the Dutch Reformed Church's own Confessions. A Biblical and Confessional perspective on apartheid and racial separation in theology and within the current structure of the Dutch Reformed church is explored in light of the history and development of racially divided churches. The current ecclesiastical situation is then evaluated with reference to recent synodical decisions and its implications regarding the reunification with the Uniting Reformed Church.

Keywords : Reformed; confessions; apartheid; church unity; free will.

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