The Synod of Dordt (6): The expulsion of the Remonstrants
Douglas Kuiper examines the expulsion of the Remonstrants from the Synod of Dort on January 14, 1619, providing eyewitness accounts of President Bogerman's dismissal speech and offering a theological defense of the Synod's proceedings. The article addresses historical criticisms of the Synod's methods, arguing that synodical investigation need not depend entirely on verbal testimony from accused parties.
The Synod was growing frustrated with the Remonstrants. The Acts1 helps us understand why: the Remonstrants would not directly answer questions put to them; they tried to divert the discussion to other matters; and they repeatedly referred to the Synod as a conference, viewing themselves as equals with the delegates. They would not submit to the Synod or cooperate with its investigation into their views. At the momentous 57th session, on January 14, 1619, the matter came to a head:...
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