detmer deddens (1923–2009) was a minister of the reformed churches (liberated). after having previously been passed over for appointment, he was appointed in 1979 as professor of church history and church polity. although his scholarly knowledge was extensive and he assembled a very large personal library in support of his research, he published relatively little, partly due to his perfectionism. his writings on church polity are now being published in accordance with his wishes. this volume includes, among other texts, his inaugural lecture, his rectoral address, and his farewell lecture. this second edition has been thoroughly revised and expanded.