CH 550: Saving the Reformation: the Pastoral Theology of the Synod of Dort (1618-1619) Spring 2018 W. Robert Godfrey Course Description: This course will study the background, work, and conclusions of the Synod of Dort. This Synod was the only genuinely international ecclesiastical assembly in the history of the Reformed churches and prepared the first response to the Arminian challenge to Calvinism. The Canons of Dort will be carefully examined to understand their pastoral and theological character. The issues faced by the Synod are perennial in the life of the church and understanding the Canons will help the church in every age. Course Objectives: • Understand the theological background to the Synod of Dort • Master the teaching of the Canons of Dort • Appreciate the pastoral usefulness of the Canons Course Requirements (Credit Students): • Complete required readings • Participate in class discussions • Write an 8-10 page paper on a pastoral theme in the Canons (specific topic approved by the professor) due on the last day of the Spring Semester, May 11, 2018 at 10:00am. Papers should be delivered to the seminary front office assistant or emailed to [email protected] Required readings: 1) Belgic Confession 2) The Canons of the Synod of Dort 3) Synod of Dort: Preface to the Canons of Dort, Church Order, Form of Subscription, Doctrinal Deliverance on the Sabbath 4) Jacobus Arminius, “Declaration of Sentiments” in A Declaration of the Sentiments of Arminius" in The Works of James Arminius, Vol. 1 pages 124-193 5) The Remonstrance of 1610 6) De Jong, P.Y., “Rise of Reformed Churches in Netherlands” in Crisis in the Reformed Churches: Essays in Commemoration of the Great Synod of Dort, 1618-1619 (Reformed Fellowship, Inc. Grand Rapids, MI, 1968). Class Sessions: April 14: 9:00-12:00 - Dutch Reformation, Arminius and Arminianism, The Synod and its Work 1:00-3:00 - The First Head of Doctrine: Election and Reprobation April 21: 9:00-12:00 - The Second, and Third and Fourth Heads of Doctrine 1:00-3:00 - The Fifth Head of Doctrine, the Significance of the Synod .