South Africa : from Calvinistic exclusivism to religious freedom 1652-2008

Abstract

Although South Africa was never officially a Christian country, Calvinistic Christianity has been the dominant religion since the European settlement. The three hundred and fifty years since Christianity was officially introduced to South Africa can be divided into three major periods. During the first 150 years, no denomination other than the Dutch-Calvinistic tradition was officially recognised in the colony. This exclusivity was broken in 1804 when marginal religious tolerance was introduced. Calvinistic Christianity, however, continued to dominate almost every aspect of life until the end of the second millennium. Other Christian traditions and denominations entered the country during this time while new states were formed in the northern and eastern parts of the country. Early in the 20th century the states were consolidated and the Calvinistic church reinforced its privileged position, influencing the governing of the country. In 1994 religious freedom was introduced alongside the democratic government system and most of the Calvinistically inspired laws changed. It seems as if South Africans (both the Christian churches and individuals) are still struggling to come to terms with the consequences of religious freedom. The current situation gives freedom to the church to be of service in the world without interference and restrictions or demands from government. The church is free to act as an instrument of healing in every sphere of a sick society while individuals must learn that choices are not based on laws or relevance but on biblical mandates and faith.