Ecclesial autonomy as independence or interdependence? A concise overview of the concept of ecclesial autonomy in the early histories of the Dutch Reformed Mission Church and the Dutch Reformed Church in Africa

Abstract

The histories of the Dutch Reformed Mission Church and the Dutch Reformed Church in Africa depict a strong striving towards attaining a position of ecclesial autonomy and the acknowledgment of such autonomy by the Dutch Reformed Church. This article examines historical interpretations of the theological principle of ecclesial autonomy in relation to the mentioned churches. In the final instance, an understanding of ecclesial autonomy that points towards interdependence is proposed. As an outcome, this interpretation points towards the interdependent relationship of churches. Finally, with the article affirming the interdependence and interrelatedness of churches, an argument is proposed for the building of a vulnerable ecclesiology.