Doctrine and Polity
Theologically, the Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk is in the Reformed branch of Protestantism. It holds the Bible as authoritative Word of God by which all doctrine is judged. It has three doctrinal standards: the Belgic Confession, the Heidelberg Catechism, and the Canons of Dordt.
The NGK has a presbyterian polity with power divided between synods, presbyteries, and church councils. Church councils govern local congregations and are elected by members of the congregation. Local churches are organised geographically into 146 presbyteries which are further organized into synods. There are nine synods in South Africa, whose borders roughly resemble those of the provinces, and one covering all of Namibia. Every four years, the 10 synods come together and meet as the General Synod. The office of the General Synod is in Pretoria, Gauteng Province.
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Famous quotes containing the word doctrine:
“Hume’s doctrine was that the circumstances vary, the amount of happiness does not; that the beggar cracking fleas in the sunshine under a hedge, and the duke rolling by in his chariot; the girl equipped for her first ball, and the orator returning triumphant from the debate, had different means, but the same quantity of pleasant excitement.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)