Around 1850 modernism found his way in the Nederlandse Hervormde Kerk. What was their doctrine, in other words: what did they believe?

1. The Bible is a book of human origin, but is ‘exemplary’ and unique
2. Some didn’t believe that Christ was born of a virgin
3. Jesus isn’t the Messiah, but just a Rabbi
4. Men are good in nature, but have to strive for perfection
5. Sin is relative, so forgiveness is an invention of people
6. No distinction or judgement

Groen van Prinsterer and Rev. Heldring established the ‘Confessionele Vereniging’ in 1864. They wanted modernism to be moved and their aim was to do that by applying discipline of the church. There were still quite a lot of people who stayed in the NHK, after the Secession, and had resistance against modernism. Especially in areas like Friesland, Veluwe and areas where the Secession didn’t reach. Abraham Kuyper wanted more resistance against modernism and gave leadership to the resistance.