Episode 179: Synod 2024 Halfway Point - Our Confessional Denomination
“I'm in the CRC, not because I like Dutch culture, not because I like wooden shoes, but because I love your confessions.” -Israel Ledee
“I'm not Dutch and I'm more Christian Reformed than Alvin Plantinga.” -Patrick Anthony
Summary of this Episode
Jason was initially disappointed at not being delegated to Synod this year, because he wanted to continue the work started last year. However, he soon realized it was a blessing not to attend, as it shows the broader denomination is pushing forward on these issues, not just a few individuals.
Jason has appreciated how the officers have led by working as a team, reminding delegates of the importance of the confessions and God's Word, and setting precedents like ruling overtures out of order if they attempt to overturn past decisions without new grounds.
Jason also expresses appreciation for the way in which President Derek Buikema proactively engaged with those who couldn't affirm the Covenant for Office Bearers and establishing that conflicts of interest should recuse people from speaking on certain matters. He has had a joyful yet firm leadership style, making rulings with a smile, ceasing debate when needed, and holding the body accountable to standards of decorum.
Jason celebrates the work of Committee 9 on the issue of gravamen. Amazingly, they issued a unified report, with some members who dissented last year now signing on. The vast majority of their recommendations passed with 74% approval, with the general understanding that confessional difficulty gravamen cannot be considered permanent exceptions but must be temporary and must be resolved.
Other significant recommendations include requiring anyone holding such gravamen to recuse themselves from higher assemblies, and instructing CRC boards/institutions to rework any policies allowing exceptions to align with synod's decisions.
Jason believes this is showing a recovery of the CRC's confessional identity.
Several speeches from the floor are highlighted, including reminders that adhering to sound doctrine is a matter of salvation, and that being truly "Christian Reformed" is about wholehearted belief in the confessions' full agreement with Scripture, not ethnic identity. Patrick Anthony's floor speech stands out in particular, "I'm not Dutch and I'm more Christian Reformed than Alvin Plantinga."
Jason continues to point out that approximately 75% of synod is taking a conservative, confessional stance, which he estimates reflects 80-85% of the pew members. Synod's policies are finally aligning with who the CRC has been for a long time.
Looking ahead, two major committee reports are anticipated: one calling for disaffiliation of churches protesting CRC doctrine, and another mandating repentance/discipline for office bearers contradicting the confessions publicly.
We need to continue in prayer that delegates will have wisdom, courage and strength for the remaining difficult decisions. Overall, I rejoice in God's work recovering a confessional identity through "joyful warriors" at synod in this Messy Reformation.