In the Dutch Golden Age (1585-1672) the Northern Netherlands became the Dutch Republic and in the process took over the leading role from their southern counterpart in all relevant aspects: commerce, trade, finance, culture.

As the most important areas of Dutch economic ventures had by then become predominantly Lutheran, a large influx of Lutheran migrants arrived in the nascent republic. Consequently, Lutheran congregations were established, especially in Amsterdam. However, Lutheranism in the Dutch Republic differed from its European co-religionists in the fact that it was not introduced, established and protected by the ruling elite.

Under these specific conditions, the Dutch Lutherans developed an ecclesiology characterized by a highly pragmatic approach. In this seminar, this pragmatic ecclesiology will be explored, by examining the theological teachings, liturgical practices and material culture of the Dutch Lutherans. The social and societal implications of this development will also be addressed.