Dr. Ridderbos and Article 79

Let us now examine what remains of Dr. Ridderbos's attempt to prove with the Church Order that Classis (Synod) rightfully deposes officebearers. It is the doctor's exegesis of Art. 79 of the Church Order to which we next have regard. The article reads, "When Ministers of the Divine Word, Elders or Deacons, have committed any public, gross sin, which is a disgrace to the Church, or worthy of punishment by the authorities, the Elders and Deacons shall immediately by preceding sentence of the...