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Compile, but a true and regular detail of the constitution of the Reformed Dutch Church in America,
As our charters and our discipline refer us to the
Synod of Dort, we must show that we build upon that
basis, with such deviations as time and circumstances
have rendered unavoidable. We have two sources
from whence we draw our present constitution, —
one, the Synod of Dort; — and the other, the resolutions and fundamental articles agreed upon by our
Churches, and ratified by the Classis of Amsterdam,
in the name of the Synod of North Holland. —
From these and some subsequent acts of our own
Synod, our discipline is formed. If we mention
these sources in the head or title, and then proceed
to exhibit one regular system, without any circumlocutions or repetitions, it will appear more simple
and connected, and will be better understood, than
a large translation, and explanatory notes, could
possibly make it. To this end, suppose a title like
this was made. "The Constitution and Form of
Government of the Reformed Dutch Church in
America, as established in the Synod Nat: of
Dort, 1618 — 19; and agreed upon in the Assembly
held at New-York, 1771—72, by and with the approbation of the Classis of Amsterdam,and finally
ratified in Synod, held at New-York, October, 1791." —
This, or something shorter, which may comprehend
these ideas, will justify us in making such extracts
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from each of these sources, as shall, altogether, bring
forward one complete system. This will show to
the world what our present constitution is, and sufficiently prove our connection and adherence to the
Synod of Dort. I wish to know your ideas upon
the subject. Please to drop me a line."
Under date of August 1st, 1791, he says, "I have
not yet been able to pay much attention to the
business respecting our church government, but I
will endeavour to draw out soon, the whole sketch,
agreeably to our mutual views, and will send it up
for your inspection."
Again he says, under date of August 20th: "I am
so slow in my progress with the Acts of Dordrecht,
that I know not whether I shall be able to accomplish your expectations."
The sketch, however, was prepared and submitted
to the Synod; but not being in a finished state, was
again put into the hands of the committee, for revisal: — And in November, he wrote again — "I will
try, as the Lord shall give me strength, to attend to
our constitution, and prepare a fair and accurate
copy, for the approbation and final decision of
Synod. The notes and observations you mention,
must be attended to also; but they must be short
and guardedly worded. I wish you would draw
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