Kerkorde en doop – Toegespits op twee gereformeerde kerkordes

Abstract

Church order and baptism – with reference to two reformed church orders: The purpose of a church order is not an end itself, but to serve the church in its calling as an institute of the Christian faith. A church order and church polity as a subject should serve the church. Thus, the theme on church order and baptism implies the serving identity of the first in connection with the latter. It implies a church order which serves and secure the sacrament of baptism in keeping to its biblical character or identity when served. This is an order which assists the sacrament of baptism as a sacrament to explain, convey and guarantee its message. From a reformed perspective the triune God is the central acting figure in baptism. Baptism is about connecting them to and establishing people in the covenant of grace of the triune God - and about securing it.