Conflict and injustice are endemic to the imperfectness of human existence, and the Church of
Christ is not immune to them. Various means can be adopted to solve conflict in the church.
This study is concerned with legal restitution through calling at a major assembly, as provided
in Article 31 Church Order.
Statement of the problem
Biblical grounds for the right of appeal are largely lacking in the Reformed church polity. In
addition, there is no clear definition of the concept 'injustice' in Article 31 Church Order. In the
case of appeals brought to a synod of the RCSA, the verdict usually contains no guidelines on
how the matter should be dealt with in practice in order to effect reconciliation. Consequently,
the outcome of an appeal does not necessarily contribute to the solution and restoration of
broken relationships.
Aim and method of work
This study endeavours to
determine the biblical grounds of appeal and legal restitution in Reformed church polity
through scriptural study;
establish the essence and content of appeal in Reformed church polity; and
examine the functioning, treatment and application of appeal with a view to legal restitution
in the RCSA, and address shortcomings in this respect.
Findings
Legal restitution occurs when
an appeal is judged according to clearly defined norms;
the verdict rests on the same norms; and
the necessary steps had been taken to reconcile the parties involved in the appeal
Organisation
The study is divided into four main sections:
biblical foundation of appeal with a view to legal restitution;
historical development of appeal with a view to legal restitution;
fundamental definition of appeal with a view to legal restitution; and practical treatment of appeal with a view to legal restitution. Finally, the research questions born from the problem statement are answered by means of concluding statements. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Church Polity))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2006.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:NWUBOLOKA1/oai:dspace.nwu.ac.za:10394/78 |
| Date | January 2006 |
| Creators | Meijer, Gerard Johannes |
| Publisher | North-West University |
| Source Sets | North-West University |
| Language | other |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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