Canons of Dordt—history: Whence the Canons of Dordt?
This historical article by Russell Dykstra explores the origins and context of the Canons of Dordt, tracing the religious and political circumstances that led to the 1618-1619 Synod of Dordrecht in the Dutch Lowlands. The piece provides biographical background on Jacob Arminius and situates the Synod within the broader narrative of Reformation struggle, persecution, and theological development in the Reformed tradition. It serves as an introductory resource for understanding the historical significance and doctrinal importance of this foundational Reformed confessional document.
The Canons of Dordt is an amazing document with an amazing history to match. Drawn up by the Synod of Dordrecht in 1618-19, it sets forth the Reformed doctrine of salvation, explaining further the teaching of the Heidelberg Catechism and the Belgic Confession. Our purpose is to explore some of this history and its significance. What occasioned the Synod of Dordrecht? And how did God accomplish His purposes in the meeting of this great Synod? The setting of the Synod was, first of all,...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org