The States General and the Great Synod
This article examines the political structure of the Dutch States General and its relationship to the Reformed churches during the period of the Synod of Dordrecht (1618-1619). Dykstra explains how the seven provinces governed together, the role of Holland's dominance, and crucially, how civil magistrates wielded significant control over Reformed congregations—including approval of ministers and ownership of church buildings—creating a close entanglement between ecclesiastical and civil authority during this pivotal moment in Reformed history.
The ruling body in the Netherlands at the time of the Synod of Dordrecht was the States General -- a gathering of delegates representing the seven provinces that comprised the Netherlands in that day. The seven provinces were Gelderland, Holland, Zeeland, Utrecht, Friesland, Overijssel, and Groningen, of which Holland was the largest and dominant. Called "the states of Holland" (North Holland and South Holland), it controlled much of the coast and contained many of the major Dutch cities...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org