Die Gereformeerde Kerke in Suid-Afrika en die verhouding tot die owerheid: geleenthede en knelpunte

Abstract

Since its founding in 1859, the Reformed Church in South Africa (RCSA) has maintained a critical distance in the relationship with the magistracy (civil government). The churches of the RCSA also adhere to the biblical principles regarding the position and calling of the government as we confess in Article 36 of the Belgic Confession. According to this confession, a neutral state is not acceptable. Every government is a servant of God and called by Him to play a positive role in the coming of his Kingdom. With the transition to a new political dispensation in 1994, a constitutional state has been established in South Africa. At the same time, the South African state is also a secular state. In this state the executive powers are subject to the Constitution with its Bill of Rights in which, inter alia, religious freedom is guaranteed. The South African Constitution, as well as the government, simultaneously maintains a policy of the equality of religions, a policy that is in contrast with the biblical truth that the Triune God is the only true God. In future, this policy could have a negative impact on the relation between church and state. Nevertheless, the church, under all circumstances, has to continue to fulfil her God-given calling, especially in witnessing the true gospel of Jesus Christ.