The Canons of Dort

The Canons of Dort, also known as the Five Articles Against the Remonstrants, is a confession of faith that was written in 1618-1619 by the Synod of Dort. It is one of the most important documents in the Reformed tradition and is used to this day to articulate the Reformed belief in the doctrines of grace. In this webpage, we will explore the history and significance of The Canons of Dort and how they have influenced the Reformed Church.

Background:

The Synod of Dort was convened in the Netherlands in response to a controversy within the Dutch Reformed Church over the teachings of Jacobus Arminius and his followers, known as the Remonstrants. The Remonstrants challenged the traditional Reformed belief in the doctrines of grace, particularly the doctrine of predestination. The Synod of Dort was called to resolve this controversy and to provide a clear statement of faith for the Reformed Church.

Summary:

The Canons of Dort are divided into five chapters, or “articles,” that address the key issues in the controversy between the Reformed Church and the Remonstrants. These articles cover the following topics: divine election and reprobation, the death of Christ and human redemption, the corruption of human nature and the free will of man, the perseverance of the saints, and the assurance of faith.

Key Points:

The Canons of Dort were written in 1618-1619 by the Synod of Dort in response to a controversy within the Dutch Reformed Church.
The document is divided into five chapters, or “articles,” that address the key issues in the controversy between the Reformed Church and the Remonstrants.
The Canons of Dort affirm the traditional Reformed belief in the doctrines of grace, particularly the doctrine of predestination.
The document emphasizes the sovereignty of God in salvation and the total depravity of human nature.
The Canons of Dort have been a key part of the Reformed tradition ever since and continue to be used to articulate the Reformed belief in the doctrines of grace.

Conclusion:

The Canons of Dort are an important document in the history of the Reformed Church. They were written to resolve a controversy over the doctrines of grace and provide a clear statement of faith for the Reformed Church. The document emphasizes the sovereignty of God in salvation and the total depravity of human nature. The Canons of Dort have been a key part of the Reformed tradition ever since and continue to be used to articulate the Reformed belief in the doctrines of grace. They remind us of the importance of God’s grace in our salvation and the need for a humble and faithful response to that grace.