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The Good News We Almost Forgot: Rediscovering the Gospel in a 16th Century Catechism
If there is "nothing new under the sun," perhaps the main task now facing the Western church is not to reinvent or be relevant, but to remember. Thetruth of the gospel is still contained within vintage faith statements.Within creeds and catechisms we canhave our faith strengthened, our knowledge broadened, and our love for Jesusdeepened.
In The Good News We Almost Forgot,...more
In The Good News We Almost Forgot,...more
Paperback, 256 pages
Published
March 17th 2010
by Moody Publishers
(first published 2010)
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My full review can be read at Blogging Theologically:
When I was a kid, the only time I ever heard the word “catechism” was when a friend grumbled about how he couldn’t be wait to be done with it when he was thirteen. I had no idea what a catechism was, but sounded horrible—obviously it was some sort of hellish torture device. So imagine my surprise when I eventually learned that it was a simply a series of questions and answers about the Bible. (In all fairness, I’ve also come to realize that fo...more
When I was a kid, the only time I ever heard the word “catechism” was when a friend grumbled about how he couldn’t be wait to be done with it when he was thirteen. I had no idea what a catechism was, but sounded horrible—obviously it was some sort of hellish torture device. So imagine my surprise when I eventually learned that it was a simply a series of questions and answers about the Bible. (In all fairness, I’ve also come to realize that fo...more
Chances are pretty good that many people reading this are wondering, What in the world is a catechism? The short answer is that it is a method of teaching Biblical truth in an orderly way. The word "catechize" comes from the Greek word katecheo, which is the word Paul used several times in the New Testament translated "instruct" or "teach" (see for example,
1 Cor. 14:19
,
Gal. 6:6
, and
Acts 18:25
). Typically, a catechism teaches the doctrines held by the church through a series of questions an...more
An enjoyable commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism, which is itself largely a commentary on the Apostles Creed, Ten Commandments, and Lord's Prayer. This book is definitely a book on theology, but it has a very devotional feel and could probably be used as a devotional.
I found some of the chapters uplifting or even awe-inspiring - awe-inspiring because of what they spoke of God, not because of the quality of the writing. (Although that too was fine.) Who could not be moved by the first questio...more
I found some of the chapters uplifting or even awe-inspiring - awe-inspiring because of what they spoke of God, not because of the quality of the writing. (Although that too was fine.) Who could not be moved by the first questio...more
Before I say anything else, I must offer a big thanks to Moody Publishing for their patience in waiting for this review. I took my time with this book and read it more as a devotional which incidentally the book is perfectly laid out for. More on that in a moment.
Who would have guessed that a catechism from the 16th century could be anything but dry, propositional and boring? Yet Kevin DeYoung has taken the Heidelberg Catechism and unearthed a treasure that is modern, relevant and even interesti...more
Who would have guessed that a catechism from the 16th century could be anything but dry, propositional and boring? Yet Kevin DeYoung has taken the Heidelberg Catechism and unearthed a treasure that is modern, relevant and even interesti...more
Apr 12, 2010
Michaelpatrick Keena
rated it
5 of 5 stars
Shelves:
biblical-theology,
christian-theology
Oh how beautiful is the Heidelberg Catechism! As a Baptist I am an odd bird, for Baptist are not by nature fans of confessions and catechisms. Though those of us who are Calvinistic in our leanings have an appreciation for them. We see them as handles or summations of the Scriptures. They have no authority other us in themselves; but are beautiful expressions of those doctrines we hold so dear. Do I agree with everything embodied in the Heidelberg? No, neither do agree to everything in the Westm...more
Apr 17, 2010
Jesse
marked it as to-read
In addition to Kevin DeYoung's great little devotional commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism, The Good News We Almost Forgot (Moody), there is also J.I. Packer and Gary A. Parrett's learned and provocative argument for putting catchesis back at the heart of the church, Grounded in the Gospel (Baker). Taken together, these books are delightful, encouraging, and, for those involved in church leadership, challenging, calling us to revisit old paths in new ways, avoiding both the romantic antiquari...more
Admittedly, this is a book that explains the Heidelberg Catechism, day-by-day (the catechism is broken down into 52 "days"). I think the best way to start to describe this book is from the Epilogue:
"This has been a book about theology, about knowing theology and loving theology. But if we've really paid attention to the Heidelberg Catechism, this should also be a book about warmhearted experiential faith. In fact, knowing and loving theological truth is what produces the warmhearted experiential...more
"This has been a book about theology, about knowing theology and loving theology. But if we've really paid attention to the Heidelberg Catechism, this should also be a book about warmhearted experiential faith. In fact, knowing and loving theological truth is what produces the warmhearted experiential...more
What a gem of a book! This goes through the Heidelberg Catechism each Lord's day for 52 weeks. Each week has several questions and then his commentary or explanation of them. They are short, but packed full. Our family has thoroughly enjoyed reading these and then having very rich discussion afterwards. Kevin DeYoung (URC) tackles this in a practical fashion, not dry and stodgy. Highly recommend.
The Heidelberg Catechism (http://www.reformed.org/documents/ind...) is a great introduction to Reformed faith in particular and the Christian faith in general, and DeYoung's book is a great introduction to the Heidelberg Catechism. In the introduction, DeYoung shares his passion and love for the Heidelberg Catechism urging everyone to "come and see" the Catechism no matter your initial reaction. The Heidelberg Catechism is divided into 52 days so that one section may be preached on every Lord's...more
This book was given to me as a gift from my capitulum leader for Christmas one year. It is a one of a kind book in that it takes a catechism and creates a devotional reading out of it. This corresponds with a project I'm working on myself to create liturgical devotional practices, so on that front I find it very interesting and useful.
DeYoung's work is deep and theological, yet still practical. (though, in a sense, all theology might need to bear practical implications...).
DeYoung is one of my...more
DeYoung's work is deep and theological, yet still practical. (though, in a sense, all theology might need to bear practical implications...).
DeYoung is one of my...more
An excellent and easy read. It can be read like a devotional which is a nice feature. The author works through some basic Christian beliefs in a clear, concise, and yet profound way. Every Christian should get a copy.
A profound and helpful book to chew on. Not one to rush!
I'm currently reading one chapter each week with a friend and we are never short of things to talk about, apply and turn to prayer each week.
I'm currently reading one chapter each week with a friend and we are never short of things to talk about, apply and turn to prayer each week.
The Heidelberg Catechism rocks, and for that I am very thankful this book exists. However, the parts written by DeYoung fluctuate - some are good, some are kind of off-topic.
Kevin DeYoung gives an excellent overview and explanation of the Heidelberg Catechism, which in itself is an edifying and encouraging document.
A very good entry level read on the Heidelberg Catechism. Would be good to use for study in a high school class, with the average church member who does not have a lot of theological background, or a read aloud and discussion for family devotions. DeYoung has good understanding of basic reformed theology. He also has a great concern that his people grow in holiness. Both the theology and the piety are held in balance throughout the book. He keeps the chapters short and to the point, which makes...more
This book is excellent. Question 1 and Question 60 are worth their weight in gold!
Very clear discussion of a beautiful catechism
Excellent.
Very Good
If Kevin DeYoung's sermons are anything like his books I would consider a move to Michigan. Being a newcomer to Reformed thinking this is a helpful guide to catechism in general and to the Heidelberg specifically. I read this alongside Sproul's The Prayer of the Lord and The Truth of the Cross and they each complement the others.
A concentrated dose of Reformed theology lively presented. Kevin DeYoung explains the fundamentals of the Christian faith by systematically elaborating on the Heidelberg Catechism, originally published in 1563. It truly is better than it sounds! The catechism--which will be new to many--is illuminating and hard-hitting. DeYoung's accompanying prose amplifies the catechism's message and connects it to the contemporary world, making its continuing relevance plain to see.
Cracking book. Set out in tiny chapters covering a year of Sundays, so great for people who "don't read". Clear and concise presentation of the Heidelburg Catechism, brought bang up to date with some pithy lines and wise words.
What is this book about?
It is a commentary on the Hiedelburg Cachetism.
What is it useful in?
Personal devotions, doctrinal knowledge and, to an extent, apologetics.
When should one read this book?
I suggest breakfast, a chapter a day.
How much of the cachetism do you actually know?
I know the first question and answer of both this and the Westminster.
Are you serious, that's all?
Look, don't judge.
It is a commentary on the Hiedelburg Cachetism.
What is it useful in?
Personal devotions, doctrinal knowledge and, to an extent, apologetics.
When should one read this book?
I suggest breakfast, a chapter a day.
How much of the cachetism do you actually know?
I know the first question and answer of both this and the Westminster.
Are you serious, that's all?
Look, don't judge.
DeYoung is a great guide through a great Catechism. The Heidelberg Catechism is becoming one of my all-time favorite expressions of theology. It is just brilliant. Even taking one question and answer to read through before turning the lights off at night is a great way to end the day.
If you are not familiar with the catechetical method of learning Christian theology this is a helpful book to get you excited about the HC.
If you are not familiar with the catechetical method of learning Christian theology this is a helpful book to get you excited about the HC.
This was my first time reading the Heidelberg Catechism, a beautiful early Protestant summary of belief. DeYoung's book is divided into 52 meditations on the importance of core Christian doctrines for faithful living. I'm very glad a book like this exists and would recommend it as devotional reading for Protestants who haven't had much exposure to the confessional foundations of their religion.
This work is a nearly perfect help to one's study of the Heidelberg Catechism. The short "devotionals" that go with each week's reading are insightful, on point, and give solid notes on how to apply these great truths. If you are going to take on the Heidelberg, which I highly recommend, you definitely to have this book close.
Wasn't sure what to expect, but I really enjoyed this look at the Heidelberg Catechism. Lots of great insight without being too "heady."
The strength of this book lies in its accessibility. For a new Christian wanting to grow in understanding or for someone just discovering the Reformed catechisms, this could be a good recommendation.
I really like the writing style of Mr. DeYoung, and again this book does not dissapoint. However, I don't agree with all that is said, however, this is a great catachism to not only read but more importantly study to get a clearer view of your faith and of Jesus Christ.
I had never read the Heidelberg Catechism before and this was a great way to go about it. The HC is divided into 52 Lord's day readings and DeYoung adds three to four pages of devotional commentary along the way. It made me want to read the HC more regularly.
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Kevin DeYoung is the Senior Pastor at University Reformed Church (RCA) in East Lansing, Michigan, right across the street from Michigan State University.
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