The Apostolisch Genootschap

The Apostolisch Genootschap (AG) is a Dutch Reformed Christian denomination that was founded in the early 20th century.

The name "Apostolisch" refers to the apostolic nature of the church, emphasizing its connection to the original apostles and their teachings.

• Founding: The AG was founded in 1904 by a group of Dutch Reformed Christians who were dissatisfied with the existing denominational structures and sought to return to a more biblical and apostolic form of church governance.
• Beliefs: The denomination's founders believed that the traditional hierarchical structure of the church, with its emphasis on centralized authority and bureaucracy, had become corrupted and needed to be reformed.

The AG is characterized by its emphasis on biblical authority, the importance of personal conversion, and the need for Christian unity and cooperation. Its theology is rooted in Reformed traditions, but it also incorporates elements from other Christian denominations and movements.

1. Autonomy: The AG is a decentralized denomination with local congregations that are autonomous yet connected through regional and national councils.
2. Worship: Worship services in the AG typically feature traditional hymns, psalms, and prayers, as well as contemporary music and preaching that seeks to apply biblical truth to everyday life.
3. Simplified Governance: Congregations may use various forms of liturgy, such as the Heidelberg Catechism or the Belgic Confession, but ultimately the goal is to glorify God and edify believers through the preaching of the Gospel.

Overall, the Apostolisch Genootschap is a small but influential denomination within Dutch Reformed Christianity, known for its commitment to biblical authority, apostolic principles, and ecumenical cooperation. Despite its relatively small size, the AG has played an important role in shaping the course of Dutch Reformed theology and practice, and it continues to be a vital part of the global Christian community.