The Canons of Dordt

In 1610, the Armenians prepared a document, comprised of five articles, known as the Remonstrance. This Remonstrance was the source of much controversy, and as such, the National Synod of Dordt was convened in 1618 to examine the problem and arrive at a resolution. The Canons of Dordt are the outcome of the Synod of Dordt, and the outcome was thoroughly against Armenian doctrine. The structure of the Canons of Dordt is similar to the Remonstrance, laid out in five articles, each rebutting one of the five articles of the Remonstrance. Of the Canons, Schaff writes, "The Canons of Dordt have for Calvinism the same significance which the Formula of Concord has for Lutheranism. Both betray a very high order of theological ability and care. Both are consistent and necessary developments. Both exerted a powerful conservative influence on these Churches."¹

First Head of Doctrine

Divine Election and Reprobation

Article 1

As all men have sinned in Adam, lie under the curse, and are deserving of eternal death, God would have done no injustice by leaving them all to perish and delivering them over to condemnation on account of sin, according to the words of the apostle: That every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may be brought under the judgment of God (Rom. 3:19). And: For all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). And: For the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23).

Article 2

But in this the love of God was manifested, that He sent his only begotten Son into the world, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life (1 John 4:9; John 3:16).

Article 3

And that men may be brought to believe, God mercifully sends the messengers of these most joyful tidings to whom He will and at what time He pleases; by whose ministry men are called to repentance and faith in Christ crucified. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach except they be sent? (Rom. 10:14, 15).