Abstract:
The Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa (NRCA) that is situated in South-Africa is
currently experiencing a serious decline in numbers. The question arises whether Christ will
sustain the NRCA in the words of the Afrikaans Hymn 477 in the ‘Liedboek van die Kerk’
(Hymnbook of the Church): ‘Christ will maintain his church …’ Is it a matter of faith, or even
more – a matter of obedience? The membership of the NRCA mainly consists of white
Afrikaans-speaking people. Apart from the situation in the NRCA there is also a serious
decline in the number of white people in South Africa. It raises the question about the
sustainability of the NRCA if it continues to maintain a membership of predominately white
Afrikaans-speaking people. The NRCA is very much institutionalised with a history that lacks
missional intention and involvement in the community. This study investigates the possibility
for a more applicable missional curriculum in the training of theology students to counter the
lack of missional involvement. It also investigates new ways to reach the unchurched society
with a missional approach. The Fresh Expression Movement that originated in the UK provides
a new paradigm for the NRCA that will hopefully lead to a new way of thinking and doing.
Will Christ sustain the NRCA? The answer lies in the willingness of the NRCA to show a
missional heart for all the people of Africa, especially those in Southern Africa.
