 HC Memory Work LD 1-26
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first printing: 2000
Preface
The lessons of this book are based upon the Lord’s Days of the Heidelberg Catechism. Each lesson therefore corresponds with an individual Lord’s Day. The content as well as much of the wording is retained in order that the catechumen as much as possible may learn the Catechism itself. It is our prayer that this will assist the catechumen in coming to a richer understanding of this precious confession of our churches.
The book covers the first 26 Lord’s Days of the Heidelberg Catechism. It is to be used in conjunction with the Heidelberg Catechism Workbook I written by Rev. D.H. Kuiper.
INTRODUCTION TO THE HEIDELBERG CATECHISM
The Heidelberg Catechism, the second of our Three Forms of Unity, received its name from the place of its origin, Heidelberg, the capital of the German Electorate of the Palatinate. There, in order that the Reformed faith might be maintained in his domain, Elector Frederick III commissioned Zacharias Ursinus, professor at Heidelberg University, and Caspar Olevianus, the court preacher, to prepare a manual for catechetical instruction. Out of this initiative came the Catechism, which was approved by the Elector himself and by the Synod of Heidelberg and first published in 1563. With its comfort motif and its warm, personal style, the Catechism soon won the love of the people of God, as is evident from the fact that more editions of the Catechism had to be printed that same year. While the first edition had 128 questions and answers, in the second and third editions, at the behest of the Elector, the eightieth question and answer, which refers to the popish mass as an accursed idolatry, was added. In the third edition the 129 questions and answers were divided into 52 Lord’s Days with a view to the Catechism’s being explained in one of the services on the Lord’s Day. That salutary practice is still maintained today, in harmony with the prescription of the Church Order of Dordrecht. In the Netherlands the Heidelberg Catechism was translated into the Dutch language as early as 1566, and it soon became widely loved and used in the churches there. It was adopted by several National Synods during the later sixteenth century, and finally included by the Synod of Dordrecht, 1618-1619, among our Three Forms of Unity, a place which it has to this day.
LORD’S DAY 1
Q. 1. What is thy only comfort in life and death?
A. That I with body and soul,1 both in life and death, am not my own,2 but belong unto my faithful Savior Jesus Christ;3 who, with His precious blood,4 hath fully satisfied for all my sins,5 and delivered me from all the power of the devil;6 and so preserves me7 that without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall from my head;8 yea, that all things must be subservient to my salvation,9 and therefore, by His Holy Spirit, He also assures me of eternal life,10 and makes me sincerely willing and ready, henceforth, to live unto Him.11
3 I Cor. 3:23.
5 I John 1:7.
7 John 6:39 and 10:28, 29.
9 Rom. 8:28.
10 II Cor. 1:22 and 5:5.
11 Rom. 8:14, and 7:22.
Q. 2. How many things are necessary for thee to know, that thou, enjoying this comfort, mayest live and die happily?
A. Three;1 the first, how great my sins and miseries are;2 the second, how I may be delivered from all my sins and miseries;3 the third, how I shall express my gratitude to God for such deliverance.4
1 Luke 24:47.
2 I Cor. 6:10, 11; John 9:41; Rom. 3:10, 19.
3 John 17:3.
LORD’S DAY 1
My Only Comfort
1. What is your only comfort in life and in death?
That I with body and soul, both in life and death, am not my own but belong to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 3:23; 6:19, 20; Romans 14:7-9.
2. Why is it a great comfort to belong to Jesus?
Because He atoned and fully satisfied with His blood for all my sins.
3. From what has Christ delivered you through His precious blood?
He delivered me from all the power of the devil, sin, and death.
4. Is every detail of your life under God’s control?
Yes, He so preserves me that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my heavenly Father. Luke 21:18; Matthew 10:30.
5. Of what advantage is it to you to know that God so controls all things?
I know God works all things for my good, and that all things are therefore subservient to my salvation. Romans 8:28.
6. How do you know that for Jesus’ sake you have eternal life?
He assures me of this by His Holy Spirit.
7. Are you assured of eternal life by the fruits of God’s work in you?
Yes, God also makes me sincerely willing and ready to live unto Him.
8. What three things are necessary to know in order to live and die happily?
How great my sins and miseries are, how I may be delivered from them, and how I must express my gratitude to God for that deliverance.
LORD’S DAY 2
Q. 3. Whence knowest thou thy misery?
A. Out of the law of God.1
1 Rom. 3:20.
Q. 4. What doth the law of God require of us?
A. Christ teaches us that briefly, Matt. 22:37-40, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. This is the first and the great commandment; and the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.1
1 Luke 10:27.
Q. 5. Canst thou keep all these things perfectly?
A. In no wise,1 for I am prone by nature to hate God and my neighbor.2
1 Rom. 3:10; 1 John 1:8.
LORD’S DAY 2
The Knowledge of Our Misery
1. Whence do you know your sin and misery?
Out of the law of God. Romans 3:20.
2. What do we mean by the law of God?
The Decalogue or the law of the Ten Commandments.
3. What is the first and great commandment?
“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” Matthew 22:37
4. And what is the second commandment, which is like unto the first?
“Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” Matthew 22:39
5. What do these two great commandments of God’s law teach you?
That all my thoughts, words, and actions must flow out of a perfect love for God and my neighbor.
6. Can you keep this law of God perfectly?
In no wise, for I am prone by nature to hate God and my neighbor.
7. Does the Bible teach this proneness of our nature to hate God and the neighbor?
Yes, Romans 8:7: “Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.”
8. When does man come to a knowledge of this misery?
Only after God by His Spirit works in man’s heart a spiritual understanding of sin. I Corinthians 2:12
LORD’S DAY 3
Q. 6. Did God then create man so wicked and perverse?
A. By no means; but God created man good,1 and after His own image,2 in true righteousness and holiness, that he might rightly know God his Creator, heartily love Him, and live with Him in eternal happiness to glorify and praise Him.3
1 Gen. 1:31.
2 Gen. 1:26, 27; Col. 3:10; Eph. 4:24.
3 Eph. 1:6; 1 Cor. 6:20.
Q. 7. Whence then proceeds this depravity of human nature?
A. From the fall and disobedience of our first parents, Adam and Eve, in Paradise;1 hence our nature is become so corrupt, that we are all conceived and born in sin.2
1 Gen. 3:6; Rom. 5:12, 18, 19.
Q. 8. Are we then so corrupt that we are wholly incapable of doing any good, and inclined to all wickedness?
A. Indeed we are, 1 except we are regenerated by the Spirit of God.2
1 Gen. 6:5; Job 14:4; Job 15:14, 16.
LORD’S DAY 3
The Blame for Sin
1. Did God create man wicked and perverse?
By no means, but God created man good and after His own image. Genesis 1:26, 27.
2. What does it mean that God created man in His own image?
Man was created to reflect in a limited, earthly way some of God’s perfections.
3. What were some of the perfections of God man reflected in Paradise?
Knowledge of God, true righteousness, and holiness. Colossians 3:10; Ephesians 4:24.
4. Why did God create man in His own image?
That he might rightly know God, heartily love Him, and live with Him in eternal happiness to glorify and praise Him. I Corinthians 6:20.
5. From where then comes the depravity of the human nature?
From the fall and disobedience of our first parents, Adam and Eve, in Paradise.
6. What was the result of this fall into sin for Adam and Eve?
They died the spiritual death and lost the image of God.
7. What was the result of this fall into sin for all their children?
Because Adam and Eve were the first parents of the human race, all their children inherited the sin and depravity of their natures. Psalm 51:5.
8. Was there another result of this fall for Adam’s children?
Yes, for Adam also represented the human race as its legal head in Paradise, and therefore his guilt was imputed to every man. Romans 5:12.
9. How great is our depravity?
Total: we are so corrupt that we are wholly incapable of doing any good and inclined to all wickedness. Genesis 6:5; Psalm 14:1-3; Romans 3:9-20.
10. How are we delivered from our depravity?
Only by being regenerated by the Spirit of God. John 3:3-5.
LORD’S DAY 4
Q. 9. Doth not God then do injustice to man, by requiring from him in His law that which he cannot perform?
A. Not at all; 1 for God made man capable of performing it;2 but man, by the instigation of the devil,3 and his own wilful disobedience, deprived himself and all his posterity of those divine gifts.4
1 Eccl. 7:29.
2 John 8:44; 2 Cor. 11:3.
3 Gen. 3:4, 7.
4 Rom. 5:12.
Q. 10. Will God suffer such disobedience and rebellion to go unpunished?
A. By no means; but is terribly displeased1 with our original as well as actual sins; and will punish them2 in His just judgment temporally and eternally, as He hath declared, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.3
1 Psa. 5:5.
2 Rom. 1:18; Deut. 28:15; Heb. 9:27.
3 Deut. 27:26; Gal. 3:10.
Q. 11. Is not God then also merciful?
A. God is indeed merciful,1 but also just;2 therefore His justice requires that sin which is committed against the most high majesty of God be also punished3 with extreme, that is, with everlasting punishment4 of body and soul.
1 Ex. 34:6.
3 Psa. 5:5, 6.
4 Gen. 2:17. Rom. 6:23.
LORD’S DAY 4
Inescapable Punishment
1. Does God still demand that we keep His law, though we cannot perform it?
Yes, God always maintains the demands of His law, which is holy, just, and good.
2. But is it unjust of God to demand something of us which we cannot do?
Not at all; for God made man capable of performing His law, but man deprived himself and all his posterity of this capability.
3. How did man deprive himself of his ability to keep God’s law?
By the instigation of the devil and his own willful disobedience man deprived himself of the divine gifts of righteousness, holiness, and true knowledge.
4. Will God suffer such disobedience and rebellion to go unpunished?
By no means; but He is terribly displeased with our original as well as actual sins. Psalm 5:5; Romans 1:18.
5. How then does God punish sin?
In His just judgment He punishes sin with temporal misery and eternal desolation in hell. Matthew 25:41-46.
6. Can you prove that God punishes man on account of his disobedience?
Yes, God has declared, “Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.” Galatians 3:10.
7. But is not God also merciful?
God is merciful, but also just; therefore His mercy can never contradict His justice.
8. What does God’s justice require?
Since sin is committed against the most high majesty of God, it must be punished with extreme, that is, with everlasting punishment of body and soul. Romans 2:5-9.
LORD’S DAY 5
Q. 12. Since then, by the righteous judgment of God, we deserve temporal and eternal punishment, is there no way by which we may escape that punishment and be again received into favor?
A. God will have His justice satisfied;1 and therefore we must make this full satisfaction, either by ourselves or by another.2
1 Ex. 20:5.
2 Deut. 24:16; 2 Cor. 5: 14, 15.
Q. 13. Can we ourselves then make this satisfaction?
A. By no means; 1 but on the contrary we daily increase our debt.2
1 Job 9:2, 3; Job 15:14-16.
2 Mat. 6:12; Isa. 64:6.
Q. 14. Can there be found anywhere one who is a mere creature, able to satisfy for us?
A. None; for, first, God will not punish any other creature for the sin which man hath committed;1 and further, no mere creature can sustain the burden of God’s eternal wrath against sin, so as to deliver others from it.2
1 Ezek. 18:20.
2 Rev. 5:3; Psa. 49:8, 9.
Q. 15. What sort of a mediator and deliverer then must we seek for?
A. For one who is very man,1 and perfectly righteous; and yet more powerful than all creatures; that is, one who is also very God.2
1 1 Cor. 15:21; Rom. 8:3.
LORD’S DAY 5
The Necessity of Full Satisfaction
1. How can we, who deserve temporal and eternal punishment, be again received into favor with God?
God will have His justice satisfied: and therefore we must make this full satisfaction either by ourselves or by another. Romans 2:8, 9; Deuteronomy 24:16.
2. In what way can the justice of God be satisfied?
Only by the full payment of the debt of our sin. Romans 6:23.
3. How can that debt of sin be paid?
Only by the bearing of the burden of God’s eternal wrath against sin.
4. Can we ourselves make this satisfaction?
By no means, but on the contrary we daily increase our debt. Job 9:2, 3; 15:14-16; Matthew 6:12.
5. Can any other creature satisfy in our stead?
No, for God will not punish any other creature for the sin which man has committed. Ezekiel 18:20.
6. Is there another reason a mere creature is not able to satisfy for us?
Yes, no mere creature can sustain the burden of God’s eternal wrath against sin, so as to deliver others from it. Psalm 49:6-9.
7. If God will not punish any other creature for the sin of man, what then must our Mediator be?
He must be very man. Hebrews 10:5, 12; Matthew 18:11.
8. But what must be true of this man if he is to satisfy in our stead?
He must be perfectly righteous in order that he might himself be free of any debt of sin. Romans 5:19.
9. Since man is but a mere creature, would he not be crushed under the burden of God’s wrath?
Yes, therefore our Deliverer must be more powerful than all creatures, that is, one who is very God. Isaiah 7:14; Romans 9:5.
LORD’S DAY 6
Q. 16. Why must He be very man, and also perfectly righteous?
A. Because the justice of God requires that the same human nature which hath sinned should likewise make satisfaction for sin;1 and one who is himself a sinner cannot satisfy for others.2
1 Rom. 5:12, 15.
2 1 Pet. 3:18; Isa. 53:11.
Q. 17. Why must He in one person be also very God?
A. That He might, by the power of His Godhead, sustain in His human nature the burden of God’s wrath;1 and might obtain for, and restore to us, righteousness and life.2
1 1 Pet. 3:18; Acts 2:24; Isa. 53:8.
2 1 John 1:2; Jer. 23:6; 2 Tim. 1:10; John 6:51.
Q. 18. Who then is that Mediator, who is in one person both very God and a real righteous man?
A. Our Lord Jesus Christ,1 who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.2
1 Mat. 1:23; 1 Tim. 3:16; Luke 2:11.
2 1 Cor. 1:30.
Q. 19. Whence knowest thou this?
A. From the holy gospel, which God Himself first revealed in Paradise; 1 and afterwards published by the patriarchs and prophets,2 and represented by the sacrifices3 and other ceremonies of the law; and, lastly, has fulfilled it by His only begotten Son.4
1 Gen. 3:15.
2 Gen. 22:17, 18; Gen. 28:14; Rom. 1:2; Heb. 1:1; John 5:46.
3 Heb. 10:7, 8.
LORD’S DAY 6
Our Mediator Introduced
1. Why must our Mediator be very man?
The justice of God requires that the same human nature which has sinned should make satisfaction for sin.
2. Why must He also be perfectly righteous?
One who is himself a sinner cannot satisfy for others.
3. Why must He in one person be also very God?
That He might, by the power of His Godhead sustain in His human nature the burden of God’s wrath, and obtain for us righteousness and life.
4. Who is this Mediator?
Our Lord Jesus Christ, “who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.” I Corinthians 1:30.
5. From what source do we know that Christ is made unto us redemption?
From the holy gospel.
6. Was the holy gospel revealed in the Old Testament?
It was first revealed in Paradise, and afterwards published by the patriarchs and prophets. Genesis 3:15; Romans 1:2; Hebrews 1:1.
7. Was the gospel later revealed in the Old Testament?
Yes, it was represented by the sacrifices and other ceremonies of the law. Hebrews 10:7, 8.
8. How was that gospel finally fulfilled?
By God’s only begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. John 1:1, 14, 18; Romans 10:4.
9. Where is the gospel revealed to us today?
In the Bible, which is the written Word of God. II Timothy 3:15-17.
10. But are you sure that the Bible is the Word of God?
Yes, first, the Bible itself teaches us this, II Peter 1:20-21; and, secondly, the Spirit testifies of this in our hearts, I Corinthians 2:12.
LORD’S DAY 7
Q. 20. Are all men then, as they perished in Adam, saved by Christ?
A. No,1 only those who are ingrafted into Him, and receive all His benefits, by a true faith.2
1 Mat. 1:21; Isa. 53:11.
2 John 1:12, 13; Rom. 11:20; Heb. 10:39.
Q. 21. What is true faith?
A. True faith is not only a certain knowledge,1 whereby I hold for truth all that God has revealed to us in His Word, but also an assured confidence,2 which the Holy Ghost3 works by the gospel in my heart;4 that not only to others, but to me also, remission of sin,5 everlasting righteousness, and salvation6 are freely given by God, merely of grace, only for the sake of Christ’s merits.7
1 John 6:69; John 17:3; Heb. 11:3, 6.
2 Eph. 3:12.
3 Rom. 4:16, 20, 21; Heb. 11:1; Eph. 3:12; Rom. 1:16; 1 Cor. 1:21; Acts 16:14; Mat. 16:17; John 3:5.
4 Rom. 10:14, 17; Mat. 9:2.
5 Rom. 5:1.
6 Gal. 2:20.
7 Rom. 3:24-26.
Q. 22. What is then necessary for a Christian to believe?
A. All things promised us in the gospel,1 which the articles of our catholic undoubted Christian faith briefly teach us.
Q. 23. What are these articles?
A. I. I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth;
II. etc.
LORD’S DAY 7
True Faith
1. Are all men, as they perished in Adam, saved by Christ?
No, only those who are grafted into Him, and receive all His benefits, by a true faith.
2. What is true faith?
That faith is the spiritual bond of living fellowship with Jesus Christ. John 15:1-5; Ephesians 5:30-32.
3. What is an essential element of a true and active faith?
It is a certain knowledge whereby I hold for truth all that God has revealed to me in His Word. John 17:3.
4. What other element is included in a true and active faith?
It is also an assured confidence that not only to others, but to me also, salvation is freely given by God, merely of grace, only for the sake of Christ’s merits. Ephesians 3:12; II Timothy 1:12.
5. How do you obtain such faith?
The Holy Spirit works it in my heart by the holy gospel. Matthew 16:17; Romans 1:16.
6. In whom does the Holy Spirit work this faith?
Only in those whom the Lord has ordained to eternal life from eternity. Acts 13:48.
7. What is necessary for a Christian to believe?
All things promised us in the gospel, which the articles of our catholic undoubted Christian faith briefly teach us.
8. What are these articles?
I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth;
And in Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the virgin Mary; suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into hell; the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God, the Father, Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Ghost.
I believe an holy catholic church; the communion of saints; The forgiveness of sins; The resurrection of the body; And the life everlasting.
LORD’S DAY 8
Q. 24. How are these articles divided?
A. Into three parts: the first is of God the Father and our creation; 1 the second, of God the Son and our redemption; 2 the third, of God the Holy Ghost and our sanctification.3
1 Gen. 1.
2 1 Pet. 1:18, 19.
3 1 Pet. 1:21, 22.
Q. 25. Since there is but one only divine essence,1 why speakest thou of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost?
A. Because God hath so revealed Himself in His Word,2 that these three distinct persons are the one only true and eternal God.
1 Deut. 6:4.
2 Gen. 1:26; Isa. 61:1; John 14:16, 17; 1 John 5:7; John 1:13; Mat. 28:19; 2 Cor. 13:14.
LORD’S DAY 8
The Holy Trinity
1. How are the articles of our Christian faith divided?
Into three parts: the first is of God the Father and our creation, the second of God the Son and our redemption, the third of God the Holy Spirit and our sanctification.
2. What does the Bible reveal to us about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
That all three are properly called God. Ephesians 4:6; John 10:30-33; Acts 5:3, 4.
3. Do we then worship three Gods?
No, we worship one God, for there is only one God and there is none beside Him. Deuteronomy 6:4.
4. Why then do we speak of three, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
Because God has so revealed Himself in His Word that these three distinct persons are the one only true and eternal God.
5. Where does the Bible reveal that God is triune?
Throughout the entire Bible, but especially in texts such as Matthew 28:19 and II Corinthians 13:14.
6. In what are these three persons one?
They are one in essence or being, all the persons being co-equal and co-eternal. I John 5:7, 8; Matthew 28:19.
7. What is the distinct activity of each person within the Trinity?
The Father generates the Son, the Son is generated by the Father, and the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son. John 1:14, 18; 15:26.
8. What does the Trinity reveal concerning God’s life within Himself?
That He lives a perfect covenant life in Himself, the three persons sharing together in an eternal life of love. John 17:20-24.
LORD’S DAY 9
Q. 26. What believest thou when thou sayest, “I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth”?
A. That the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (who of nothing made heaven and earth, with all that is in them;1 who likewise upholds and governs the same by His eternal counsel and providence2 ) is, for the sake of Christ His Son, my God and my Father; on whom I rely so entirely, that I have no doubt but He will provide me with all things necessary for soul and body;3 and further, that He will make whatever evils He sends upon me, in this valley of tears, turn out to my advantage;4 for He is able to do it, being Almighty God,5 and willing, being a faithful Father.6
2 Psa. 115:3; Mat. 10:29; Heb. 1:3; John 5:17.
3 John 1:12, 16; Rom. 8:15, 16; Gal. 4:5, 6; Eph. 1:5; 1 John 3:1.
4 Psa. 55:22; Mat. 6:26.
5 Rom. 8:28; Rom. 4:21.
6 Rom. 10:12; Mat. 6:26; Mat. 7:9-11.
LORD’S DAY 9
Our Father Creator
1. What do you believe when you confess, “I believe in God the Father”?
That God is, for the sake of Christ His Son, my God and my Father. Romans 8:14-16.
2. What is the relationship of the triune God to Jesus?
He is the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. John 17:1; 20:17.
3. What does God do as your Father?
He provides me with all things necessary for body and soul. Matthew 6:31, 32; Ephesians 1:3.
4. But are you confident that God provides all things when you experience troubles in this life too?
Yes, I believe that whatever evils He sends me in this valley of tears He will turn to my advantage. Psalm 55:22; Romans 8:28.
5. What is your response to this care of God for you?
I rely on Him entirely because I know He is able to do all this, being Almighty God, and and willing, being a faithful Father.
6. What do you believe when you confess that your Father is also “Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth”?
That God out of nothing made heaven and earth and all that is in them. Genesis 1.
7. In how long a period did God create all things?
In six successive days, each limited by morning and evening. Genesis 1:5; Exodus 20:11.
8. For what purpose did God create all things?
That He might reveal Himself to us and glorify Himself through the works of His hands. Romans 1:20.
LORD’S DAY 10
Q. 27. What dost thou mean by the providence of God?
A. The almighty and everywhere present power of God,1 whereby, as it were by His hand, He upholds and governs heaven, earth, and all creatures;2 so that herbs and grass, rain and drought,3 fruitful and barren years, meat and drink,4 health and sickness,5 riches and poverty,6 yea, and all things come, not by chance, but by His fatherly hand.7
1 Acts 17:25-28.
2 Heb. 1:3.
3 Jer. 5:24.
4 Acts 14:17.
5 John 9:3.
6 Prov. 22:2; Job 1:21.
7 Mat. 10:29, 30; Eph. 1:11.
Q. 28. What advantage is it to us to know that God has created, and by His providence doth still uphold all things?
A. That we may be patient in adversity;1 thankful in prosperity;2 and that in all things which may hereafter befall us, we place our firm trust in our faithful God and Father,3 that nothing shall separate us from His love;4 since all creatures are so in His hand, that without His will they cannot so much as move.5
1 Rom. 5:3; Psa. 39:10.
2 Deut. 8:10; 1 Thes. 5:18.
3 Rom. 5:3-6.
4 Rom. 8:38, 39.
5 Job 1:12; Job 2:6; Mat. 8:31; Isa. 10:15.
LORD’S DAY 10
Our Father Provider
1. Did God, having created all things, leave the world to itself?
By no means, but He upholds all things by His providence.
2. What do you mean by the providence of God?
The almighty and everywhere present power of God whereby He upholds and governs heaven, earth, and all creatures. Nehemiah 9:6.
3. What is included under the providence of God?
All of nature, such as, herbs and grass, rain and drought, fruitful and barren years, meat and drink. Psalm 104:27-30.
4. Does the power of God’s providence extend over man?
Yes, God governs everything that takes place in the history of this world and in our own personal lives, such as health and sickness, riches and poverty. Proverbs 16:9; 21:1; Job 1:21.
5. But does God direct in His providence the good and evil acts of men as well?
God is God, and nothing stands outside of the power of His rule, even when devils and wicked men act unjustly. Job 1:6-12; 2:1-7; Acts 2:22, 23; Ephesians 2:10; Philippians 2:13.
6. What does it mean that God upholds all things?
That God preserves and sustains all things that they might continue to exist.
7. What does it mean that God governs all things?
That nothing happens by chance, since all creatures are so in God’s hand that without His will they cannot so much as move.
8. What advantage is it to us to know that God by His providence upholds all things?
Since God is our faithful God and Father, He will so govern all things that nothing will ever separate us from His love. Romans 8:28, 35-39.
9. How will the assurance that God is our faithful Father show itself in our lives?
We will be patient in adversity and thankful in prosperity; and in everything that befalls us we will place our trust in our faithful Father.
LORD’S DAY 11
Q. 29. Why is the Son of God called Jesus, that is, a Savior?
A. Because He saveth us, and delivereth us from our sins;1 and likewise, because we ought not to seek, neither can find salvation in any other.2
1 Mat. 1:21.
2 Acts 4:12.
Q. 30. Do such then believe in Jesus the only Savior, who seek their salvation and welfare of saints, of themselves, or anywhere else?
A. They do not; for though they boast of Him in words, yet in deeds they deny Jesus the only deliverer and Savior;1 for one of these two things must be true, either that Jesus is not a complete Savior, or that they who by a true faith receive this Savior must find all things in Him necessary to their salvation.2
1 1 Cor. 1:13, 31; Gal. 5:4.
2 Col. 2:20; Isa. 9:6, 7; Col. 1:19, 20.
LORD’S DAY 11
Jesus Savior
1. Which are the principal names of the Savior?
Jesus, Christ, and Lord.
2. What are a few other names of our Savior used in Scripture?
Son of God, Son of Man, Lamb of God, Lion of Judah’s Tribe, Immanuel.
3. Why is the Son of God called Jesus, that is, a Savior?
Because He saves us, and delivers us from our sins. Matthew 1:21.
4. What is it to save?
To save is to deliver us from sin and hell and make us partakers of the highest joy of heaven. Psalm 40:2, 3.
5. For whom is Jesus a Savior?
Jesus came to save only those whom God has chosen and therefore given to Him from eternity. John 6:37-39; 13:1; 17:2.
6. May we seek or can we find salvation in any other than in Jesus?
No, there is none other name under heaven whereby we can be saved. Acts 4:12.
7. Do such believe in Jesus who seek their salvation of themselves or anywhere else?
They do not; for though they boast of Him in words, yet in deeds they deny Jesus as the only deliverer and Savior.
8. What must be true of those who by faith receive this Savior?
They find in Him all things necessary to their salvation. Colossians 1:19, 20.
LORD’S DAY 12
Q. 31. Why is He called Christ, that is, anointed?
A. Because He is ordained of God the Father, and anointed with the Holy Ghost,1 to be our chief Prophet and Teacher,2 who has fully revealed to us the secret counsel and will of God concerning our redemption; and to be our only High Priest,3 who by the one sacrifice of His body has redeemed us, and makes continual intercession with the Father for us;4 and also to be our eternal King,5 who governs us by His Word and Spirit, and who defends and preserves us6 in (the enjoyment of) that salvation He has purchased for us.
1 Heb. 1:9.
2 Deut. 18:18; Acts 3:22; John 1:18; John 15:15; Mat. 11:27.
3 Psa. 110:4; Heb. 7:21; Heb. 10:14.
4 Rom. 8:34.
6 Mat. 28:18; John 10:28.
Q. 32. But why art thou called a Christian?
A. Because I am a member of Christ by faith,1 and thus am partaker of His anointing;2 that so I may confess His name,3 and present myself a living sacrifice of thankfulness to Him;4 and also that with a free and good conscience I may fight against sin and Satan in this life,5 and afterwards reign with Him eternally over all creatures.6
1 1 Cor. 6:15.
2 1 John 2:27; Joel 2:28.
3 Mat. 10:32.
4 Rom. 12:1.
5 Eph. 6:11, 12; 1 Tim. 1: 18, 19.
6 2 Tim. 2:12.
LORD’S DAY 12
Christ the Anointed
1. What is the meaning of the name Christ?
This is Jesus’ official name, meaning Anointed.
2. Why is He called Christ?
Because He was ordained of God the Father, and anointed with the Holy Spirit to be our chief Prophet, only High Priest, and eternal King. Acts 3:22; Hebrews 4:14, 15; Luke 1:32, 33.
3. What is the work of Christ as our chief Prophet?
He has fully revealed to us the secret counsel and will of God concerning our redemption. John 15:15.
4. What is the work of Christ as our only High Priest?
By the one sacrifice of His body He has redeemed us. Hebrews 10:14.
5. What does Christ do now as our High Priest?
He makes continual intercession with the Father for us. Hebrews 4:14-16.
6. What is the work of Christ as our eternal King?
He governs us by His Word and Spirit, defending and preserving us in the salvation He has purchased for us. John 10:28.
7. Why are you called a Christian?
Because I am a member of Christ by faith, and thus am partaker of Christ’s anointing. I John 2:20, 27.
8. What do you do as a prophet?
I confess Christ’s name in this world. Romans 10:9, 10.
9. What is your calling as a priest?
I present myself as a living sacrifice of thankfulness to God. Romans 12:1.
10. What is your calling as a king.
With a free and good conscience I fight against sin and Satan in this life; and afterwards I will reign with Him eternally over all creatures. Ephesians 6:11-17
LORD’S DAY 13
Q. 33. Why is Christ called the only begotten Son of God, since we are also the children of God?
A. Because Christ alone is the eternal and natural Son of God;1 but we are children adopted of God, by grace, for His sake.2
Q. 34. Wherefore callest thou Him our Lord?
A. Because He hath redeemed us, both soul and body, from all our sins, not with gold or silver, but with His precious blood,1 and hath delivered us from all the power of the devil; and thus hath made us His own property.
1 1 Pet. 1:18, 19; 1 Cor. 6:20.
LORD’S DAY 13
The Son of God, Our Lord
1. Why is Christ called the only begotten Son of God?
Because Christ alone is the eternal and natural Son of God. John 1:14, 18; Hebrews 1:1, 2.
2. Why are we also called the children of God?
We are children adopted of God, by grace, for Christ’s sake. Romans 8:15-17; Galatians 4:4-7.
3. How are we adopted by God to be His children?
God reconciles us to Himself through the blood of Christ that we might become members of His family. Romans 5:9, 10.
4. Why do we call Christ our Lord?
Because He has redeemed us and thus made us His own property. I Corinthians 6:20.
5. How complete is this redemption?
He has purchased us, both soul and body, from all our sins, and delivered us from all the power of the devil. Romans 6:11-14.
6. With what did Christ redeem us from all our sins?
Not with silver and gold, but with His precious blood. I Peter 1:18,19.
7. Does the name Lord imply also Christ’s rule over the wicked?
Yes, for at the name of Christ every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord. Philippians 2:9-11.
8. When did our Lord become the great Ruler of heaven and earth?
After His ascension Christ took His place at God’s right hand of power. Romans 8:34; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3.
LORD’S DAY 14
Q. 35. What is the meaning of these words — “He was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary”?
A. That God’s eternal Son, who is and continueth true and eternal God,1 took upon Him the very nature of man, of the flesh and blood of the Virgin Mary,2 by the operation of the Holy Ghost;3 that He might also be the true seed of David,4 like unto His brethren in all things, sin excepted.5
1 John 1:1; Col. 1:15; Psa. 2:7; Rom. 9:5; 1 John 5:20.
4 Psa. 132:2; Acts 2:30; Rom. 1:3.
5 Phil. 2:7; Heb. 4:15.
Q. 36. What profit dost thou receive by Christ’s holy conception and nativity?
A. That He is our Mediator,1 and, with His innocence and perfect holiness, covers in the sight of God my sins,2 wherein I was conceived and brought forth.
2 Psa. 32:1; 1 Cor. 1:30; Rom. 8:34.
LORD’S DAY 14
Very God and Very Man
1. What do we mean when we confess: “He was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the virgin Mary”?
That the Son of God took upon Him the flesh and blood of the virgin Mary, by the operation of the Holy Spirit. Luke 1: 34, 35; John 1:14.
2. What does it mean that the Son of God took upon Him the flesh and blood of Mary?
That the Son of God assumed the very nature of man.
3. Did Christ’s Godhead then change into humanity?
No, Christ is God’s eternal Son, who is and continues true and eternal God. Colossians 1:15; John 1:1.
4. What can we say then about the relationship between the human and the divine elements in Christ?
There is in the one person of the Son of God two natures, the human and the divine.
5. How did the incarnation fulfill Old Testament prophecy?
Christ, as the true seed of David, established the throne of David forever. Luke 1:32, 33.
6. What sort of a human nature did Christ assume?
He was like us in all things, sin excepted. Hebrews 4:15.
7. What does it mean that Christ had no sin?
He was born free from the corruption and guilt in which I am conceived and brought forth. II Corinthians 5:21; I Peter 2:22.
8. What profit then do you receive by Christ’s holy conception and nativity?
That He is our Mediator; and with His innocence and perfect holiness He covers, in the sight of God, my sins.
LORD’S DAY 15
Q. 37. What dost thou understand by the words, “He suffered”?
A. That He, all the time that He lived on earth, but especially at the end of His life, sustained in body and soul the wrath of God against the sins of all mankind;1 that so by His passion, as the only propitiatory sacrifice,2 He might redeem our body and soul from everlasting damnation, and obtain for us the favor of God, righteousness and eternal life.
2 1 John 2:2; Rom. 3:25.
Q. 38. Why did He suffer under Pontius Pilate as judge?
A. That He, being innocent, and yet condemned by a temporal judge,1 might thereby free us from the severe judgment of God to which we were exposed.2
1 Luke 23:14; John 19:4; Psa. 69:4.
Q. 39. Is there anything more in His being crucified than if He had died some other death?
A. Yes [there is]; for thereby I am assured that He took on Him the curse which lay upon me; for the death of the cross was accursed of God.1
1 Deut. 21:23; Gal. 3:13.
LORD’S DAY 15
Christ’s Suffering in Life
1. What do you understand by the words, “He suffered”?
That Christ sustained in body and soul the wrath of God against the sins of all mankind. I Peter 2:24.
2. Does this mean that Christ died for every man in this world?
No, His death was a sacrifice only for the sins of God’s elect, who are saved from every nation, race, and class of men. Ephesians 1:4-7; I Timothy 2:3-6.
3. When did Christ suffer?
All the time He lived on earth, but especially at the end of His life.
4. What did Christ’s sacrifice of body and soul on the cross achieve for us?
He redeemed us body and soul from everlasting damnation. Psalm 86:13; 103:3, 4.
5. What does it mean that Christ’s sacrifice of Himself on the cross was propitiatory?
He obtained for us the favor of God, righteousness, and eternal life. Romans 3:25; I John 2:2.
6. Did Jesus suffer under Pontius Pilate?
Yes; being innocent, He was yet condemned to death by this temporal judge.
7. Why was it important that Jesus be declared innocent before Pilate?
To show that He suffered, not for His own sin, but to free us from the severe judgment of God to which we were exposed. Galatians 3:13, 14.
8. Is there anything more in His being crucified, than if He had died some other death?
Yes, for thereby I am assured that He took on Him the curse which lay upon me, for the death of the cross was accursed of God. Deuteronomy 21:23; Galatians 3:13.
LORD’S DAY 16
Q. 40. Why was it necessary for Christ to humble Himself even unto death?
A. Because, with respect to the justice and truth of God,1 satisfaction for our sins could be made no otherwise than by the death of the Son of God.2
1 Gen. 2:17.
2 Heb. 2:9, 10; Phil. 2:8.
Q. 41. Why was He also “buried”?
A. Thereby to prove that He was really dead.1
Q. 42. Since then Christ died for us, why must we also die?
A. Our death is not a satisfaction for our sins, but only an abolishing of sin, and a passage into eternal life.1
1 John 5:24; Phil. 1:23.
Q. 43. What further benefit do we receive from the sacrifice and death of Christ on the cross?
A. That by virtue thereof our old man is crucified, dead, and buried with Him;1 that so the corrupt inclinations of the flesh may no more reign in us;2 but that we may offer ourselves unto Him a sacrifice of thanksgiving.3
1 Rom. 6:6, 7 &c.
2 Rom. 6:12.
3 Rom. 12:1.
Q. 44. Why is there added, “He descended into hell”?
A. That in my greatest temptations, I may be assured, and wholly comfort myself in this, that my Lord Jesus Christ, by His inexpressible anguish, pains, terrors, and hellish agonies, in which He was plunged during all His sufferings, but especially on the cross, hath delivered me from the anguish and torments of hell.1
1 Isa. 53:10; Mat. 27:46.
LORD’S DAY 16
Christ’s Suffering in Death
1. What more do we confess concerning Christ in the Apostles’ Creed?
That He “was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into hell.”
2. Why was it necessary for Christ to humble Himself even unto death?
Because, with respect to God’s justice, satisfaction for our sins could be made no otherwise, than by the death of the Son of God.
3. Why was Christ also “buried”?
Thereby to prove that He was really dead.
4. Since then Christ died for us, why must we also die?
Our death is not a satisfaction for our sins, but only an abolishing of sin and a passage into eternal life. John 5:24; Philippians 1:23.
5. Does the sacrifice and death of Christ on the cross also destroy the power of sin in us?
Yes, by virtue thereof our old man of sin is crucified, dead, and buried with Christ. Romans 6:6, 7.
6. What can we say then about the corrupt inclinations of our sinful flesh?
That they no more reign in us, but that we now offer ourselves as a sacrifice of thanksgiving to God. Romans 6:11-14; 12:1.
7. Why do you add to your confession, “He descended into hell”?
Because my Lord Jesus Christ bore the inexpressible anguish, pains, terrors, and agonies of hell during all His sufferings, but especially on the cross. Isaiah 53:3-7; Matthew 27:45, 46.
8. Why is the fact that Christ descended into hell a great comfort to you?
Because in my greatest temptations I can be assured that Christ has delivered me from the anguish and torments of hell. Romans 8:1.
LORD’S DAY 17
Q. 45. What doth the resurrection of Christ profit us?
A. First, by His resurrection He has overcome death, that He might make us partakers of that righteousness which He had purchased for us by His death;1 secondly, we are also by His power raised up to a new life;2 and lastly, the resurrection of Christ is a sure pledge of our blessed resurrection.3
1 1 Cor. 15:16.
LORD’S DAY 17
Christ’s Ressurection
1. What do we mean when we confess, “the third day He rose again from the dead”?
That Christ, three days after His death, became alive again and rose from the grave. Matthew 28:5-7.
2. Did Christ rise with the same body that was laid in the grave?
Yes, but it was changed into a glorious and heavenly body. John 20:19, 26; Philippians 3:20, 21.
3. How does the Bible prove that Christ rose from the dead?
By means of the empty grave and grave clothes, and by Jesus’ appearances to many witnesses. Matthew 28:6; John 20:6-8; I Corinthians 15:4-8.
4. What is the significance of Christ’s resurrection?
By His resurrection Christ has overcome death. Romans 6:9.
5. How does Christ’s resurrection profit us?
By overcoming death, Jesus has made us partakers of that righteousness which He had purchased for us by His death. Romans 4:25; 5:18.
6. Does Christ’s resurrection affect our spiritual life?
Yes, for we are also by His power raised up to a new life. Romans 6:4; Colossians 3:3, 4.
7. What is the relation between Christ’s resurrection and our resurrection at the end of time?
The resurrection of Christ is to us a sure pledge of our own blessed resurrection. I Corinthians 15; Romans 8:11.
LORD’S DAY 18
Q. 46. How dost thou understand these words, “He ascended into heaven”?
A. That Christ, in sight of His disciples, was taken up from earth into heaven;1 and that He continues there for our interest,2 until He comes again to judge the quick and the dead.
1 Acts 1:9; Mark 16:19.
2 Heb. 4:14; Rom. 8:34; Eph. 4:10.
Q. 47. Is not Christ then with us even to the end of the world, as He hath promised?
A. Christ is very man and very God; with respect to His human nature, He is no more on earth;1 but with respect to His Godhead, majesty, grace, and spirit, He is at no time absent from us.
1 Acts 3:21; John 3:13; John 16:28; Mat. 28:20.
Q. 48. But if His human nature is not present wherever His Godhead is, are not then these two natures in Christ separated from one another?
A. Not at all, for since the Godhead is illimitable and omnipresent,1 it must necessarily follow that the same is beyond the limits of the human nature He assumed,2 and yet is nevertheless in this human nature and remains personally united to it.
1 Acts 7:49; Mat. 24:30.
2 Mat. 28:20; John 16:28; John 17:11; John 3:13.
Q. 49. Of what advantage to us is Christ’s ascension into heaven?
A. First, that He is our advocate in the presence of His Father in heaven;6 secondly, that we have our flesh in heaven as a sure pledge that He, as the Head, will also take up to Himself, us, His members;7 thirdly, that He sends us His Spirit as an earnest,8 by whose power we seek the things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God, and not things on earth.9
1 Heb. 9:24; 1 John 2:2; Rom. 8:34.
3 John 14:16; 2 Cor. 1:22; 2 Cor. 5:5.
3 Col. 3:1; Phil. 3:20.
LORD’S DAY 18
Christ’s Ascension
1. How do you understand these words, “He ascended into heaven”?
That Christ, in the sight of His disciples, was taken up from earth into heaven. Mark 16:19; Acts 1:9.
2. How long will Christ remain in heaven?
He continues there for our interest until He comes again to judge the quick and the dead. John 14:1-4.
3. Is not Christ then with us even to the end of the world, as He has promised?
With respect to His human nature He is no more on earth, but with respect to His Godhead He is at no time absent from us.
4. If this is true, were not the human and divine natures separated at the time of Jesus’ ascension?
Not at all, since the Godhead is omnipresent it is beyond the limits of the human nature, but yet remains personally united to it. John 3:13.
5. Of what advantage to us is Christ’s ascension into heaven?
He is our advocate in the presence of His Father in heaven. Hebrews 9:24; I John 2:1.
6. Does Christ’s ascension assure us of our place in heaven?
Yes, we have our flesh in heaven as a sure pledge that He, as the Head, will also take up to Himself, us, His members. John 14:2, 3.
7. Whom does our ascended Lord send to us from heaven?
He sends to us His Spirit as an earnest. John 14:16, 17; II Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 1:13, 14.
8. What does the Spirit Christ sends us from heaven work in us?
By His power we “seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” Colossians 3:1.
LORD’S DAY 19
Q. 50. Why is it added, “and sitteth at the right hand of God”?
A. Because Christ is ascended into heaven for this end, that He might appear as Head of His church,1 by whom the Father governs all things.2
2 Mat. 28:18; John 5:22.
Q. 51. What profit is this glory of Christ, our Head, unto us?
A. First, that by His Holy Spirit He pours out heavenly graces upon us His members;1 and then that by His power He defends and preserves us against all enemies.2
1 Eph. 4:8.
2 Psa. 2:9; John 10:28.
Q. 52. What comfort is it to thee that “Christ shall come again to judge the quick and the dead”?
A. That in all my sorrows and persecutions, with uplifted head I look for the very same person who before offered Himself for my sake to the tribunal of God, and has removed all curse from me, to come as judge from heaven;1 who shall cast all His and my enemies into everlasting condemnation,2 but shall translate me with all His chosen ones to Himself, into heavenly joys and glory.3
1 Luke 21:28; Rom. 8:23, 24; 1 Thes. 4:16.
4 Mat. 25:34.
LORD’S DAY 19
Christ the King and Judge
1. Why do we confess concerning Christ, “and sitteth at the right hand of God”?
Because Christ is ascended into heaven for this end, that by Him the Father might govern all things. Colossians 1:18; I Corinthians 15:24-28.
2. What advantage is it to us that Christ rules at God’s right hand?
Christ appears in heaven as the Head of His church, and rules all things for our profit. Ephesians 1:20-22.
3. What profit do we receive from this rule of Christ?
By His Holy Spirit He pours out heavenly graces upon us His members. Ephesians 4:8.
4. What assurance does Christ’s rule give us with respect to our enemies?
By His power He also defends and preserves us against all enemies. John 10:28.
5. What comfort is it to you that “Christ shall come again to judge the quick and the dead”?
That in all my sorrows and persecutions, with uplifted head I look for Christ to come as Judge from heaven? II Corinthians 5:9, 10.
6. But should not we fear Christ as the Judge?
By no means, this same Christ is He who offered Himself for my sake to the tribunal of God and has removed all curse from me. Romans 8:34.
7. What then shall be His judgment upon you?
I shall be declared righteous in His blood, and shall be translated with all His chosen ones to Himself into heavenly joys and glory. Romans 2:7, 10.
8. And what shall be His judgment upon His and our enemies?
They shall be declared guilty on account of their sins, and shall be cast into everlasting condemnation. Romans 2:5-9.
LORD’S DAY 20
Q. 53. What dost thou believe concerning the Holy Ghost?
A. First, that He is true and co-eternal God with the Father and the Son;1 secondly, that He is also given me,2 to make me, by a true faith, partaker of Christ and all His benefits,3 that He may comfort me4 and abide with me for ever.5
1 Gen. 1:2; Isa. 48:16; 1 Cor. 3:16.
3 Gal. 3:14; 1 Pet. 1:2.
4 Acts 9:31.
LORD’S DAY 20
The Holy Spirit
1. What do you believe concerning the Holy Spirit?
That He is true and co-eternal God with the Father and the Son.
2. How do you know that the Holy Spirit is really God?
Because the Bible ascribes to Him divine names, attributes, works, and honors. Hebrews 9:14; John 14:16; Job 33:4; Matthew 12:28.
3. How do you know that the Holy Spirit is a person?
Because all the personal attributes of intellect and will belong to Him. Isaiah 11:2; I Timothy 4:1; Acts 13:2.
4. What can you say of the work of the Holy Spirit?
As the Spirit of Christ He is given me to comfort and abide with me forever. Acts 9:31; John 14:16.
5. When was the Spirit given to the church?
He was poured out upon the church on the day of Pentecost, ten days after Christ’s ascension. Acts 2:1-4.
6. What work does the Spirit perform in your salvation?
He makes me, by a true faith, partaker of Christ and all His benefits.
7. What does it mean that you are a partaker of Christ’s benefits?
The Spirit applies to me the blessings of salvation Christ has earned on the cross. John 3:5; Romans 8:1, 2; I Corinthians 2:10, 14.
LORD’S DAY 21
Q. 54. What believest thou concerning the “holy catholic church” of Christ?
A. That the Son of God, from the beginning to the end of the world,1 gathers,2 defends, and preserves to Himself3 by His Spirit and Word,4 out of the whole human race,5 a church chosen to everlasting life,6 agreeing in true faith; and that I am, and for ever shall remain, a living member thereof.7
1 John 10:11; Gen. 26:4.
3 John 10:16.
4 Isa. 59:21.
6 Acts 13:48.
7 1 Cor. 1:8, 9; Rom. 8:35, &c.
Q. 55. What do you understand by “the communion of saints”?
A. First, that all and every one who believes, being members of Christ, are, in common, partakers of Him and of all His riches and gifts;1 secondly, that every one must know it to be his duty, readily and cheerfully to employ his gifts, for the advantage and salvation of other members.2
1 John 1:3, 4; Rom. 8:32; 1 Cor. 12:13.
2 1 Cor. 13:5; Phil. 2:4-6.
Q. 56. What believest thou concerning “the forgiveness of sins”?
A. That God, for the sake of Christ’s satisfaction,1 will no more remember my sins,2 neither my corrupt nature, against which I have to struggle all my life long; but will graciously impute to me the righteousness of Christ, that I may never be condemned before the tribunal of God.3
1 1 John 2:2; 2 Cor. 5: 19, 21.
2 Jer. 31:34; Psa. 103:3, 4, 10, 11; Rom. 8:1-3.
3 John 3:18.
LORD’S DAY 21
The Holy Catholic Church
1. What do you believe concerning the “holy catholic church”?
That the Son of God gathers, defends, and preserves out of the whole human race a church chosen to everlasting life. Revelation 7:9.
2. In what does the unity of the church lie?
That all members of this church agree in true faith. Ephesians 4:3-6.
3. When does God gather His church?
God gathers, defends, and preserves His church from the beginning to the end of the world. Genesis 17:5 compared with Romans 4:13-17 and Galatians 3:7-9, 29. Also see Ephesians 2:11-22.
4. How does God gather, defend, and preserve His church?
By His Spirit and Word. John 16:13, 14; I Corinthians 1:21.
5. What is your assurance concerning the holy catholic church?
That I am and ever shall remain a living member thereof.
5. What do you believe concerning the “communion of saints”?
That all who believe, being members of Christ, are in common partakers of Him and His riches and gifts. Romans 8:32; II Corinthians 8:9.
6. How will the confession of the communion of saints reveal itself in the life of a child of God?
Everyone must know it to be his duty readily and cheerfully to employ his gifts for the advantage of other members. Ephesians 4:1-16; Philippians 2:4-6.
7. What do you believe concerning the “forgiveness of sins”?
That God, for the sake of Christ, will no more remember my sins, neither my corrupt nature, against which I have to struggle all my life long. Jeremiah 31:34; Psalm 103.
8. What does God impute to you when He grants forgiveness?
God graciously imputes to me the righteousness of Christ, that I may never be condemned before His tribunal. Romans 4:23-25; 8:33, 34.
LORD’S DAY 22
Q. 57. What comfort doth the “resurrection of the body” afford thee?
A. That not only my soul after this life shall be immediately taken up to Christ its Head;1 but also, that this my body, being raised by the power of Christ, shall be reunited with my soul, and made like unto the glorious body of Christ.2
1 Luke 23:43; Phil. 1:23.
2 1 Cor. 15:53; Job 19:25, 26.
Q. 58. What comfort takest thou from the article of “life everlasting”?
A. That since I now feel in my heart the beginning of eternal joy,1 after this life I shall inherit perfect salvation,2 which eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive,3 and that, to praise God therein for ever.
1 2 Cor. 5:2, 3, 6; Rom. 14:17.
2 Psa. 10:11.
4 1 Cor. 2:9.
LORD’S DAY 22
Resurrection and Life
1. What happens to us at the time of death?
The body is laid to rest in the grave, but the soul is immediately taken up to Christ its Head. Luke 23:43; Philippians 1:23.
2. What happens to the body while it is in the grave?
It returns to the dust from whence it came. Genesis 3:19; Job 19:26.
3. What do you believe concerning “the resurrection of the body”?
This my body shall be reunited with my soul and made like unto the glorious body of Christ. I Corinthians 15:53; Job 19:25-27.
4. But how is the resurrection of your body possible?
My body shall be raised by the power of Christ, who is the resurrection and the life. John 6:39, 40; 11:25, 26.
5. When will the resurrection of the body take place?
At the end of time, when Christ shall come again to take His people to be with Him in heaven. John 14:3; I Thessalonians 4:13-17.
6. What do you believe concerning “life everlasting”?
That I shall inherit perfect salvation in heaven to praise God therein forever. Psalm 16:9-11; Revelation 21:3, 4.
7. Do you experience life everlasting already in this life?
Yes, even now I feel in my heart the beginning of eternal joy. Romans 14:17.
8. How beautiful will heaven be?
So beautiful that, “eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” I Corinthians 2:9.
LORD’S DAY 23
Q. 59. But what doth it profit thee now that thou believest all this?
A. That I am righteous in Christ, before God, and an heir of eternal life.1
1 Rom. 5:1; Rom. 1:17; John 3:36.
Q. 60. How art thou righteous before God?
A. Only by a true faith in Jesus Christ;1 so that, though my conscience accuse me that I have grossly transgressed all the commandments of God, and kept none of them,2 and am still inclined to all evil;3 notwithstanding, God, without any merit of mine,4 but only of mere grace,5 grants6 and imputes to me7 the perfect satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ;8 even so, as if I never had had nor committed any sin: yea, as if I had fully accomplished all that obedience which Christ has accomplished for me;9 inasmuch as I embrace such benefit with a believing heart.10
1 Rom. 3:22, &c.; Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2:8, 9.
2 Rom. 3:9, &c.
3 Rom. 7:23.
4 Rom. 3:24.
5 Tit. 3:5; Eph. 2:8, 9.
7 1 John 2:1.
9 2 Cor. 5:21.
Q. 61. Why sayest thou that thou art righteous by faith only?
A. Not that I am acceptable to God on account of the worthiness of my faith,12 but because only the satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ is my righteousness before God;13 and that I cannot receive and apply the same to myself any other way than by faith only.14
1 Psa. 16:2; Eph. 2:8, 9.
3 1 John 5:10.
LORD’S DAY 23
Righteous By Faith
1. What is the profit in believing the articles of the Apostles’ Creed?
It assures me that I am righteous in Christ before God and an heir of eternal life.
2. How are you righteous before God?
Only on the grounds of the perfect satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ. Romans 3:24, 25; Titus 3:5-7.
3. Have you merited in some way this righteousness of Christ?
No, without any merit of mine, but only of mere grace, God imputes to me the righteousness of Christ. Romans 4:16.
4. How does God impute to you this righteousness of Christ?
Only by means of a true faith. Romans 4:24; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8, 9.
5. What comfort do you receive when you embrace such a benefit with a believing heart?
That though my conscience accuse me that I have grossly transgressed the commandments of God and kept none of them, I am yet assured that God sees me in Christ as if I never had had nor committed any sin. Psalm 51:9-15.
6. Can you boast, then, in your faith?
No, I am not acceptable to God on account of the worthiness of faith, but only because Christ’s satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness are my righteousness before God. I Corinthians 1:30; Ephesians 2:8-10; I Corinthians 2:2.
7. Why then is faith necessary?
I cannot receive and apply Christ’s righteousness to myself any other way than by faith only. Romans 5:1.
LORD’S DAY 24
Q. 62. But why cannot our good works be the whole or part of our righteousness before God?
A. Because that the righteousness which can be approved of before the tribunal of God must be absolutely perfect, and in all respects conformable to the divine law;1 and also, that our best works in this life are all imperfect and defiled with sin.2
1 Gal. 3:10; Deut. 27:26.
2 Isa. 64:6.
Q. 63. What! Do not our good works merit, which yet God will reward in this and in a future life?
A. This reward is not of merit, but of grace.1
1 Luke 17:10.
Q. 64. But doth not this doctrine make men careless and profane?
A. By no means; for it is impossible that those who are implanted into Christ by a true faith should not bring forth fruits of thankfulness.1
LORD’S DAY 24
Faith and Good Works
1. Do we who are in Christ perform good works?
Yes, we are created in Christ Jesus unto good works. Ephesians 2:10.
2. Why cannot these good works be the whole or a part of our righteousness before God?
Because the righteousness approved of by God must be absolutely perfect, and in all respects conformable to the divine law. Galatians 3:10.
3. Are not our good works perfectly conformable to God’s law?
No, even our best works in this life are all imperfect and defiled with sin. Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:19, 20.
4. But will not Christ judge every man according to his works in the day of judgment?
Every man will indeed be rewarded according to the works he has done in this life. Romans 14:10-12; II Corinthians 5:10.
5. Do not our good works merit that which God will reward in this and a future life?
This reward is not of merit, but of grace.
6. What does it mean that our reward is of grace?
That though we work out our own salvation, it is God who works in us both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Philippians 2:12, 13.
7. Does not this doctrine make men careless and profane?
By no means, for it is impossible that those who are in Christ by a true faith should not bring forth fruits of thankfulness. Matthew 7:17, 18; John 15:5.
8. What can we say, then, about the relation between salvation and good works?
Good works never earn salvation, but are always the fruit of salvation. James 2:14-26.
LORD’S DAY 25
Q. 65. Since then we are made partakers of Christ and all His benefits by faith only, whence doth this faith proceed?
A. From the Holy Ghost, who works faith in our hearts1 by the preaching of the gospel, and confirms it by the use of the sacraments.2
1 Eph. 2:8; Eph. 6:23; Phil. 1:29.
2 Mat. 28:19; Rom. 4:11.
Q. 66. What are the sacraments?
A. The sacraments are holy, visible signs and seals, appointed of God for this end, that by the use thereof He may the more fully declare and seal to us the promise of the gospel, namely, that He grants us freely the remission of sin and life eternal, for the sake of that one sacrifice of Christ accomplished on the cross.1
1 Gen. 17:11; Rom. 4:11; Ex. 12; Lev. 6:25; Acts 22:16; Acts 2:38; Mat. 26:28.
Q. 67. Are both Word and sacraments, then, ordained and appointed for this end, that they may direct our faith to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross as the only ground of our salvation?
A. Yes, indeed; for the Holy Ghost teaches us in the gospel, and assures us by the sacraments, that the whole of our salvation depends upon that one sacrifice of Christ which He offered for us on the cross.1
Q. 68. How many sacraments has Christ instituted in the new covenant, or testament?
A. Two, namely, holy baptism and the holy supper.1
LORD’S DAY 25
The Means of Grace
1. From where does true faith proceed?
From the Holy Spirit, who works and confirms faith in our hearts.
2. What means does the Holy Spirit use to work and confirm faith in us?
The means of grace, which are the preaching of the gospel and the sacraments.
3. How is the preaching of the gospel a means of grace?
By it the Holy Spirit both works faith in our hearts and confirms our faith, causing us to grow in grace and the knowledge of Christ. I Corinthians 1:18-24; Romans 10:14-17.
4. What are sacraments?
They are holy visible signs and seals appointed by God to declare and seal unto us more fully the promise of the gospel. Romans 4:11.
5. What is the promise of the gospel declared and sealed to us?
That God grants us freely the forgiveness of sins and life eternal for the sake of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
6. Do both the Word and the sacraments direct our faith to the cross as the only ground of our salvation?
Yes, for the Holy Spirit teaches us in the gospel, and assures us by the sacraments, that the whole of our salvation depends on the one sacrifice of the cross. I Corinthians 1:23, 24; Galatians 3:27.
7. How many sacraments has Christ instituted in the New Testament?
Two: namely, holy baptism and the holy supper.
LORD’S DAY 26
Q. 69. How art thou admonished and assured by holy baptism that the one sacrifice of Christ upon the cross is of real advantage to thee?
A. Thus: That Christ appointed this external washing with water,1 adding thereto this promise,2 that I am as certainly washed by His blood and Spirit from all the pollution of my soul, that is, from all my sins,3 as I am washed externally with water, by which the filthiness of the body is commonly washed away.
1 Mat. 28:19; Acts 2:38.
2 Mark 16:16; Mat. 3:11; Rom. 6:3.
Q. 70. What is it to be washed with the blood and Spirit of Christ?
A. It is to receive of God the remission of sins freely, for the sake of Christ’s blood, which He shed for us by His sacrifice upon the cross;1 and also to be renewed by the Holy Ghost, and sanctified to be members of Christ, that so we may more and more die unto sin and lead holy and unblamable lives.2
1 Heb. 12:24; 1 Pet. 1:2.
2 John 1:33; Rom. 6:4; Col. 2:11.
Q. 71. Where has Christ promised us that He will as certainly wash us by His blood and Spirit as we are washed with the water of baptism?
A. In the institution of baptism, which is thus expressed: Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.1 He that believeth, and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not, shall be damned.2 This promise is also repeated where the scripture calls baptism the washing of regeneration3 and the washing away of sins.4
2 Mark 16:16.
3 Tit. 3:5.
4 Acts 22:16.
LORD’S DAY 26
The Sign and Seal of Baptism
1. What is the outward sign of baptism?
The external sprinkling with water, by which I am assured and admonished that the one sacrifice of Christ is of real advantage to me. Leviticus 16:14-16; Hebrews 10:22.
2. How does holy baptism assure and admonish you that the sacrifice of Christ is of real advantage to you?
Christ adds to this external washing this promise: that I am as certainly washed by Christ’s blood from all the pollution of my soul as I am washed externally with water. John 13:6-10; Romans 6:3.
3. What does it mean to be washed with the blood of Christ?
That we receive of God the remission of sins, freely, for the sake of Christ’s blood shed upon the cross. Psalm 51:1, 2.
4. What does it mean to be washed with the Spirit of Christ?
That we are renewed by the Holy Spirit, and sanctified to be members of Christ. John 1:33; Titus 3:5, 6; II Thessalonians 2:13.
5. What is the result of being washed with the blood and Spirit of Christ?
We more and more die unto sin, and lead holy and unblamable lives. Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:11, 12.
6. Where has Christ promised us that He will as certainly wash us by His blood as we are washed with the water of baptism?
Matthew 28:19, “Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
7. Where else does Christ promise us that we are most certainly washed in His blood?
In Titus 3:5, where baptism is referred to as the “washing of regeneration,” and in Acts 22:16, which speaks of baptism as “the washing away of sins.”
Bruinsma, Wilbur
Rev. Wilbur G. Bruinsma (Wife: Mary)
Ordained: October 1978
Pastorates: Faith, Jenison, MI - 1978; Missionary to Jamaica - 1984; First, Holland, MI - 1989; Kalamazoo, MI - 1996; Eastern Home Missionary - 2006; Pittsburgh PRC - 2016.
Website: www.prcpittsburgh.org/Contact Details
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Address216 Thornberry Dr.
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CityPittsburgh
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State or ProvincePennsylvania
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Zip Code15235
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CountryUnited States
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Telephone412-727-6778 (study)