Dutch Baptist Identity (1845–2021): A Multi-Coloured Robe

Abstract

Dutch Baptist history is relatively short. In 1845 the first Baptist Church was founded in Gasselternijveen (Drenthe). During the 176 years of its existence, Baptist life has displayed different colours as it has responded to its environment and as the community has swayed back and forth between ‘movement’ and ‘institution’. This becomes visible in the different historical phases that are described in this article. A variety of influences emerge, such as the pillarisation and de-pillarisation in Dutch society, revival movements, and ecumenical engagement. An important factor in the colouration of the community is the Baptist Seminary, which since its inception in 1958 has worked closely with the local churches, and whose successive rectors have helped shape the community. At the beginning of the third decade of the twenty-first century, the Dutch Baptist Union is about to merge with the CAMA churches and functions in a broad network of evangelical and ecumenical churches, educational institutions, and organisations.