(Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State, 2014) Naudé, P. J.
This article commences with the observation – drawn from a number of standard
collections – that a multiplicity of confessions is a particular trait of the Reformed
tradition. An explanation for this is then sought with reference to the very
conception of theology in the Reformed tradition (Willie Jonker); the spiritual power
of the church to declare doctrine (John Calvin), and the relative authority of the
confessions themselves (Karl Barth). It is concluded that new confessions will
continue to emerge in this tradition as the gospel is proclaimed or put under threat
in possible new circumstances in future.