Articles of the Synod of Dort [pp. 239-255]

.drticles of the Synod of Dort.
Papers containing elaborate discussions of the five points of
controversy, were also sent to the Synod by theologians of
eminence, who could not attend, which were read, and in serted in the acts of the Synod.
The theologians who composed the Synod, were among
the most learned, pious, and moderate, who ever met in any
ecclesiastical council. And that the divine blessing might be
obtained on the labours of this venerable body, a day of fasting and prayer was appointed by the government in all the
Belgic churches, to deprecate the wrath of God, and to implore his.gracious assistance. The Synod being met, and the
divine aid and blessing being solemnly invoked, every mnember bound himself by a sacred oath, THAT HE WOULD T.AKE
THE HOLY SCRIPTURES ALONE AS THE RULE OF JUDGMENT;
AND ENGAGE IN THE EXAMINATION AND DECISION OF THE
CAUSE WITH A GOOD AND UPRIGHT CONSCIENCE.
The result of the deliberations of this venerable Synod,
may be seen in the translation of the decision to which they
came on the five disputed points, as given by Doctor Scott,
in the little volume from which we have abridged the above
history; and we believe that a knowledge of the facts here
stated, may be useful to the American churches at the present time.
But to those who are capable of reading them, we would
strongly recommend the perusal of the whole of the acts of
this very important Synod, and of all the theological discussions which were read before it; all of which have been
printed, and furnish as able a defence of the doctrines of
grace, as can be found in any language. And as to the small
diversities of opinion which appeared among the theologians
of this Synod, they only serve to prove, that while they were
firm and zealous in defending the fundamental doctrines of
Christianity, they knew how to exercise a tolerant and liberal
spirit towards those who differed from them in matters of
minor importance.
Dr. Scott, in speaking of the solemn obligation under
which the members came to judge of all matters according to the Holy Scriptures alone, gives this testimony: "'In
fact, I must give it as my opinion at least, that they did fulfil
their solemn engagement; and must confess, THAT FEWER
THINGS APPEAR TO ME UNSCRIPTURAL IN THESE ARTICLES,
THAN I14 ALMOST ANY HUMAN COMPOSITION I HAVE READ ON
THE SUBJECT. "
255