A Goodly Heritage: The Secession of 1834 and Its Impact on Reformed Churches in the Netherlands and North America

by Cornelis Pronk

In A Goodly Heritage , Cornelis Pronk surveys the history of the Secession of 1834, beginning with the events leading up to this important spiritual movement and subsequently following its long journey through the Netherlands and North America until 1892. He then focuses on a small minority that decided to continue as the original Christian Reformed Church, considering its growth and how it formulated theological positions in relation to several other Reformed denominations. Throughout, special attention is given to the doctrines of covenant, baptism, and the Holy Spirit's ministry in applying salvation. This work not only explains the concerns of De Cock and other fathers of the Secession. It presses beyond the early years of the reform movement to present a larger picture of the developments of Secession theology and the contributions made by its main representatives.

512 pages, Hardcover

Published August 20, 2019

Reviews

[Alex]

At first, I was a little disappointed for his heavy reliance upon secondary sources and seemingly misrepresenting of certain positions by offering his assessment or opinion of things throughout. This disappointment faded however, as I accepted the work for what it was: an entryway into a portion of Dutch Reformed church history I was largely ignorant of. Having completed the work, I am thankful for it. There are many follow-up articles or books to read from some of Pronk’s sources.

[Timothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful history of major figures and events, particular in the 19th century to early 20th century Reformed Churches.

[Zachary Garris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent survey of Dutch Reformed history and theology.