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The Heidelberg Catechism
In the early 1560s Frederick III (1516-76), Elector Palatine desired that his subjects be led to a 'devout knowledge and fear of the Almighty and his holy Word of salvation'. He commissioned a group of theologians and ministers to compose a catechetical summary of biblical truth that could be committed to memory and be an encouragement to personal faith and growth in Christ. The final version was approved by the Synod in Heidelberg (1563), the city lending its name to the catechism. The Heidelberg Catechism follows the pattern of the Epistle to the Romans. It opens with the question 'What is your only comfort in life and in death?', and then examines the realities of human sin and misery (Rom. 1-3:20); salvation in Christ, including faith and repentance (Rom. 3:21-11:36); and the Christian life of thankful obedience in response to God's grace in Christ (Rom. 12-16). The catechism stands as a faithful testimony to the ancient Christian faith in its scripturally derived shape and content, and further expressed in its exposition and application of the Apostles' Creed, the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's Supper, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord's Prayer. FROM THE FOREWORD BY WILLIAM VANDOODEWAARD
88 pages, Leather Bound
First published January 1, 1563
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About the author
Zacharias Ursinus
38 books15 followersZacharias Ursinus was a sixteenth century German Reformed theologian, born Zacharias Baer in Breslau (now Wrocław, Poland). He became the leading theologian of the Reformed Protestant movement of the Palatinate, serving both at the University of Heidelberg and the College of Wisdom (Collegium Sapientiae). He is best known as the principal author and interpreter of the Heidelberg Catechism.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
August 2, 2015
I grew up on the Westminster Shorter Catechism, and just today realised I'd never read the Heidelberg but really should. It was jolly good reading - warmer, more personal, and comforting than the Westminster, if not so sharp and stirring. A splendid summary of Christian doctrine, very comforting and encouraging.
December 27, 2025
This Reformed catechism delivers strong doctrine in a pastoral, caring, comforting way. The structure helpfully models the Christian life: guilt, grace, gratitude (or sin, salvation, service).
Make sure you read a version that contains the Scripture references! Here it is on A Puritan's Mind. You can also listen to the audio recordings from the URC.
Notes
The First Part—Of the Misery of Man
1. "What is thy only comfort in life and death?"
"That I with body and soul, both in life and death, am not my own, but belong unto my faithful Savior Jesus Christ; who, with His precious blood, hath fully satisfied for all my sins, and delivered me from all the power of the devil; and so preserves me[7] that without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall from my head; 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."
[7] John 6:39; 10:28–29
[9] Rom. 8:28
[10] 2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5
The Second Part—Of Man’s Deliverance
5. "I am prone by nature to hate God and my neighbor."
Rom. 8:7; Titus 3:3
7. "our nature is become so corrupt, that we are all conceived and born in sin."
Ps. 51:5; Gen. 5:3
8. "Are we then so corrupt that we are wholly incapable of doing any good, and inclined to all wickedness?"
"Indeed we are,[25] except we are regenerated by the Spirit of God.[26]"
[25] Gen. 6:5; Job 14:4; 15:14, 16
[26] John 3:5; Eph. 2:5
26. "… the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (who of nothing made heaven and earth, with all that is in them; who likewise upholds and governs the same by His eternal counsel and providence) 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; and further, that He will make whatever evils He sends upon me, in this valley of tears, turn out to my advantage;[74] for He is able to do it, being Almighty God,[75] and willing, being a faithful Father.[76]"
[74] Ps. 55:22; Matt. 6:26
[75] Rom. 8:28; Rom. 4:21
[76] Rom. 10:12; Matt. 6:26; Matt. 7:9–11
27. "What dost thou mean by the providence of God?"
"The almighty and everywhere present power of God,[77] whereby, as it were by His hand, He upholds and governs heaven, earth, and all creatures;[78] so that herbs and grass, rain and drought,[79] fruitful and barren years, meat and drink,[80] health and sickness,[81] riches and poverty,[82] yea, and all things come, not by chance, but by His fatherly hand.[83]"
[77] Acts 17:25–28
[78] Heb. 1:3
[79] Jer. 5:24
[80] Acts 14:17
[81] John 9:3
[82] Prov. 22:2; Job 1:21
[83] Matt. 10:29; Eph. 1:11
28. "… all creatures are so in His hand, that without His will they cannot so much as move."
Job 1:12; 2:6; Matt. 8:31; Isa. 10:15
62. "But why cannot our good works be the whole or part of our righteousness before God?"
"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;[183] and also, that our best works in this life are all imperfect and defiled with sin.[184]"
[183] Gal. 3:10; Deut. 27:26
[184] Isa. 64:6
63. "What! Do not our good works merit, which yet God will reward in this and in a future life?"
"This reward is not of merit, but of grace."
Luke 17:10
74. "Are infants also to be baptized?"
"Yes; for since they, as well as the adult, are included in the covenant[204] and church of God;[205] and since redemption from sin by the blood of Christ, and the Holy Ghost, the author of faith, is promised to them[206] no less than to the adult; they must therefore by baptism, as a sign of the covenant, be also admitted into the Christian church, and be distinguished from the children of unbelievers[207] as was done in the old covenant or testament by circumcision,[208] instead of which baptism is instituted in the new covenant.[209]"
[204] Gen. 17:7; Acts 2:39
[205] 1 Cor. 7:14; Joel 2:16; Matt. 19:14
[206] Luke 1:14–15; Ps. 22:10; Acts 2:39
[207] Acts 10:47; 1 Cor 12:13; 1 Cor. 7:14
[208] Gen. 17:14
[209] Col. 2:11–13
85. "How is the kingdom of heaven shut and opened by Christian discipline?"
"Thus: when according to the command of Christ,[243] those who under the name of Christians maintain doctrines, or practices inconsistent therewith,[244] and will not, after having been often brotherly admonished, renounce their errors and wicked course of life, are complained of to the church,[245] or to those who are thereunto appointed by the church;[246] and if they despise their admonition, are by them forbidden the use of the sacraments;[247] …"
[243] Matt. 18:15
[244] 1 Cor. 5:11–12
[245] Matt. 18:15–18
[246] Rom. 12:7–9; 1 Cor. 12:28; 1 Tim. 5:17; 2 Thes. 3:14
[247] Matt. 18:17; 1 Cor. 5:3–5
The Third Part—Of Thankfulness
96. "What doth God require in the second commandment?"
"That we in no wise represent God by images,[278] nor worship Him in any other way than He has commanded in His Word.[279]"
[278] Deut. 4:15; Isa. 40:18; Rom. 1:23ff.; Acts 17:29
[279] 1 Sam. 15:23; Deut. 12:30
97. "Are images then not at all to be made?"
"God neither can nor may be represented by any means. …"
6 Deut. 4:15–16; Isa. 46:5; Rom. 1:23
98. "But may not images be tolerated in the churches as books to the laity?"
"No; for we must not pretend to be wiser than God, who will have His people taught, not by dumb images, but by the lively preaching of His Word."
Jer. 10:1ff.; Hab. 2:18–19
103. "What doth God require in the fourth commandment?"
"First, that the ministry of the gospel and the schools be maintained;[296] and that I, especially on the sabbath, that is, on the day of rest,[297] diligently frequent the church of God,[298] to hear His word, to use the sacraments, publicly to call upon the Lord,[299] and contribute to the relief of the poor,[300] as becomes a Christian. …"
[296] Deut. 12:19; Titus 1:5; 1 Tim. 3:14–15; 1 Cor. 9:11; 2 Tim. 2:2
[297] Lev. 23:3
[298] Acts 2:42; 46; 1 Cor. 14:19; 1 Cor. 14:29; 14:31; 1 Cor. 11:33
[299] 1 Tim. 2:1
[300] 1 Cor. 16:2
105. "What doth God require in the sixth commandment?"
"… nor willfully expose myself to any danger. …"
Matt. 4:5–7; Col. 2:23
Make sure you read a version that contains the Scripture references! Here it is on A Puritan's Mind. You can also listen to the audio recordings from the URC.
Notes
The First Part—Of the Misery of Man
1. "What is thy only comfort in life and death?"
"That I with body and soul, both in life and death, am not my own, but belong unto my faithful Savior Jesus Christ; who, with His precious blood, hath fully satisfied for all my sins, and delivered me from all the power of the devil; and so preserves me[7] that without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall from my head; 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."
[7] John 6:39; 10:28–29
[9] Rom. 8:28
[10] 2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5
The Second Part—Of Man’s Deliverance
5. "I am prone by nature to hate God and my neighbor."
Rom. 8:7; Titus 3:3
7. "our nature is become so corrupt, that we are all conceived and born in sin."
Ps. 51:5; Gen. 5:3
8. "Are we then so corrupt that we are wholly incapable of doing any good, and inclined to all wickedness?"
"Indeed we are,[25] except we are regenerated by the Spirit of God.[26]"
[25] Gen. 6:5; Job 14:4; 15:14, 16
[26] John 3:5; Eph. 2:5
26. "… the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (who of nothing made heaven and earth, with all that is in them; who likewise upholds and governs the same by His eternal counsel and providence) 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; and further, that He will make whatever evils He sends upon me, in this valley of tears, turn out to my advantage;[74] for He is able to do it, being Almighty God,[75] and willing, being a faithful Father.[76]"
[74] Ps. 55:22; Matt. 6:26
[75] Rom. 8:28; Rom. 4:21
[76] Rom. 10:12; Matt. 6:26; Matt. 7:9–11
27. "What dost thou mean by the providence of God?"
"The almighty and everywhere present power of God,[77] whereby, as it were by His hand, He upholds and governs heaven, earth, and all creatures;[78] so that herbs and grass, rain and drought,[79] fruitful and barren years, meat and drink,[80] health and sickness,[81] riches and poverty,[82] yea, and all things come, not by chance, but by His fatherly hand.[83]"
[77] Acts 17:25–28
[78] Heb. 1:3
[79] Jer. 5:24
[80] Acts 14:17
[81] John 9:3
[82] Prov. 22:2; Job 1:21
[83] Matt. 10:29; Eph. 1:11
28. "… all creatures are so in His hand, that without His will they cannot so much as move."
Job 1:12; 2:6; Matt. 8:31; Isa. 10:15
62. "But why cannot our good works be the whole or part of our righteousness before God?"
"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;[183] and also, that our best works in this life are all imperfect and defiled with sin.[184]"
[183] Gal. 3:10; Deut. 27:26
[184] Isa. 64:6
63. "What! Do not our good works merit, which yet God will reward in this and in a future life?"
"This reward is not of merit, but of grace."
Luke 17:10
74. "Are infants also to be baptized?"
"Yes; for since they, as well as the adult, are included in the covenant[204] and church of God;[205] and since redemption from sin by the blood of Christ, and the Holy Ghost, the author of faith, is promised to them[206] no less than to the adult; they must therefore by baptism, as a sign of the covenant, be also admitted into the Christian church, and be distinguished from the children of unbelievers[207] as was done in the old covenant or testament by circumcision,[208] instead of which baptism is instituted in the new covenant.[209]"
[204] Gen. 17:7; Acts 2:39
[205] 1 Cor. 7:14; Joel 2:16; Matt. 19:14
[206] Luke 1:14–15; Ps. 22:10; Acts 2:39
[207] Acts 10:47; 1 Cor 12:13; 1 Cor. 7:14
[208] Gen. 17:14
[209] Col. 2:11–13
85. "How is the kingdom of heaven shut and opened by Christian discipline?"
"Thus: when according to the command of Christ,[243] those who under the name of Christians maintain doctrines, or practices inconsistent therewith,[244] and will not, after having been often brotherly admonished, renounce their errors and wicked course of life, are complained of to the church,[245] or to those who are thereunto appointed by the church;[246] and if they despise their admonition, are by them forbidden the use of the sacraments;[247] …"
[243] Matt. 18:15
[244] 1 Cor. 5:11–12
[245] Matt. 18:15–18
[246] Rom. 12:7–9; 1 Cor. 12:28; 1 Tim. 5:17; 2 Thes. 3:14
[247] Matt. 18:17; 1 Cor. 5:3–5
The Third Part—Of Thankfulness
96. "What doth God require in the second commandment?"
"That we in no wise represent God by images,[278] nor worship Him in any other way than He has commanded in His Word.[279]"
[278] Deut. 4:15; Isa. 40:18; Rom. 1:23ff.; Acts 17:29
[279] 1 Sam. 15:23; Deut. 12:30
97. "Are images then not at all to be made?"
"God neither can nor may be represented by any means. …"
6 Deut. 4:15–16; Isa. 46:5; Rom. 1:23
98. "But may not images be tolerated in the churches as books to the laity?"
"No; for we must not pretend to be wiser than God, who will have His people taught, not by dumb images, but by the lively preaching of His Word."
Jer. 10:1ff.; Hab. 2:18–19
103. "What doth God require in the fourth commandment?"
"First, that the ministry of the gospel and the schools be maintained;[296] and that I, especially on the sabbath, that is, on the day of rest,[297] diligently frequent the church of God,[298] to hear His word, to use the sacraments, publicly to call upon the Lord,[299] and contribute to the relief of the poor,[300] as becomes a Christian. …"
[296] Deut. 12:19; Titus 1:5; 1 Tim. 3:14–15; 1 Cor. 9:11; 2 Tim. 2:2
[297] Lev. 23:3
[298] Acts 2:42; 46; 1 Cor. 14:19; 1 Cor. 14:29; 14:31; 1 Cor. 11:33
[299] 1 Tim. 2:1
[300] 1 Cor. 16:2
105. "What doth God require in the sixth commandment?"
"… nor willfully expose myself to any danger. …"
Matt. 4:5–7; Col. 2:23
February 28, 2025
Love the opening article:
.
Q. What is your only comfort
in life and in death?
A. That I am not my own,
but belong—
body and soul,
in life and in death—
to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.
January 6, 2024
Although I have no doubt it would be more difficult to memorize, I've always preferred the pastoral, comforting tone of the HC to the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Reading through it is never a slog!
November 3, 2023
This is my third time working through this catechism. The pastoral tone is rich and the content is excellent. This little Banner of Truth edition doesn’t weigh anything and can fit in your back pocket. Great for walks.
January 28, 2018
As a short, concise, question-and-answer format summary of the Christian faith, the Heidelberg Catechism stands as one of the greatest treasures that has lasted through the recent centuries -- a certain gift for modern readers. Whether you are wishing to understand, explain, teach, or memorize some of the most basic Christian doctrines, you cannot go wrong here.
The catechism includes one hundred twenty-nine sets of questions and answers, covering all the unifying beliefs of Protestant Christianity while going in-depth concerning the Trinity, the Apostle's Creed, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord's Prayer. It's worth noting, however, that this Q&A format isn't of the informational slant; rather, one of the most timeless and important features of the Heidelberg catechism is how it relates everything in terms of how a certain truth comforts the believer. This precedent is set by the famous first question, "What is your only comfort in life and in death?"
Out of the many questions, I would be hard-pressed to think that any Bible-believing Christian wouldn't agree with at least 75% of the answers. Personally, I disagree with only a small handful --
perhaps three or four. Nevertheless, each answer is so elequently and carefully stated, as well as buttressed by many Scripture references, that you might find your mind instructed or challenged at the same time that you find your heart warmed.
This small volume can be read devotionally (made very easy by the version I own, the "Pocket Puritan" edition from Banner of Truth) or taught/learned instructively. In its conception, the catechism was designed to teach and comfort children and new believers; so while it is of good use to every Christian, alongside everyone who wants to learn more about Christianity, I certainly plan on using it to help implant these beautiful, timeless truths into the hearts of my children -- you know, if I ever have any. (Fingers crossed.)
The catechism includes one hundred twenty-nine sets of questions and answers, covering all the unifying beliefs of Protestant Christianity while going in-depth concerning the Trinity, the Apostle's Creed, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord's Prayer. It's worth noting, however, that this Q&A format isn't of the informational slant; rather, one of the most timeless and important features of the Heidelberg catechism is how it relates everything in terms of how a certain truth comforts the believer. This precedent is set by the famous first question, "What is your only comfort in life and in death?"
Out of the many questions, I would be hard-pressed to think that any Bible-believing Christian wouldn't agree with at least 75% of the answers. Personally, I disagree with only a small handful --
perhaps three or four. Nevertheless, each answer is so elequently and carefully stated, as well as buttressed by many Scripture references, that you might find your mind instructed or challenged at the same time that you find your heart warmed.
This small volume can be read devotionally (made very easy by the version I own, the "Pocket Puritan" edition from Banner of Truth) or taught/learned instructively. In its conception, the catechism was designed to teach and comfort children and new believers; so while it is of good use to every Christian, alongside everyone who wants to learn more about Christianity, I certainly plan on using it to help implant these beautiful, timeless truths into the hearts of my children -- you know, if I ever have any. (Fingers crossed.)
March 20, 2023
Reassuring and gentle, yet firm. Has strengthened my faith indescribably.
November 6, 2012
Composed in large part by Reformer Zacharius Ursinus, the catechism distills Scripture into a clear grammar so as to introduce children and converts to the glorious truths of the Christian faith. Built on a structure of guilt, grace, and gratitude, it does what a catechism should do, and does it uncommonly well.
April 6, 2019
Utterly amazing, the best catechism for use in Christ's Church.
July 2, 2021
I felt it was amazing at describing quickly but in detail what a Christian should believe step by step. Really liked the part talking on Baptism and the Lord’s supper because those two things I’ve been asking lots of questions on and it helped me understand what we as Christians should believe in and provided the scripture to back it. Overall amazing and just a refreshing reminder because sometimes in life you forget what is important and this just gives you a nice reminder of the importance of our faith and why remembering each part is important. Love it!!!
March 20, 2022
“even though we do not deserve it,
God will surely listen to our prayer because of Christ our Lord.That is what God promised us in his Word.”
What blessed assurance
God will surely listen to our prayer because of Christ our Lord.That is what God promised us in his Word.”
What blessed assurance
September 14, 2021
This printing by BoT is highly practical for daily use. The work itself is also highly practical, devotional, and especially personal, something that the Westminster documents don't emphasize. A brilliant catechism with intellectual depth but also fervent experiential breadth written so early into the Reformation. I commend this Catechism, especially this pocket-sized leather Banner of Truth edition. I'll be reading this for my whole life.
February 28, 2018
Solid. I read it at the same time as I'm memorizing the Westminster Shorter Catechism, so the comparisons are sharp. The Heidelberg is definitely warmer and more devotional but also less precise and poignant, though one would expect this given that the Westminster Assembly had the benefit of writing 80/90 years after the Heidelberg was published.
The first questions are the most generally known, of course: "What is your only comfort in life and death?" "What is the chief end of man?" Warfield argued that the Heidelberg's starting point shows a sort of "spiritual utilitarianism." "There may be some danger that the pupil should acquire the impression that God exists for his benefit," which he believes far less likely in the case of the Shorter Catechism. I go back and forth but definitely appreciate that the Heidelberg Catechism provides not an abstract and generalized confession of faith (as in the Shorter Catechism) but one that issues from the lips of the child of the covenant! So even if the Shorter Catechism is superior in other ways, no one can dispute that the voice (1st person!) of the Heidelberg has more pastoral power.
It's nice that the questions are divided up across 52 "Lord's Days"; that it has a memorable structure (Guilt -> Grace -> Gratitude); and that it employs the Apostles' Creed, the Ten Commandments (the teaching here especially is fantastic), and the Lord's Prayer.
Highly recommended, both for its historical and theological interest and for the actual formation of children and adults in Reformed churches today.
The first questions are the most generally known, of course: "What is your only comfort in life and death?" "What is the chief end of man?" Warfield argued that the Heidelberg's starting point shows a sort of "spiritual utilitarianism." "There may be some danger that the pupil should acquire the impression that God exists for his benefit," which he believes far less likely in the case of the Shorter Catechism. I go back and forth but definitely appreciate that the Heidelberg Catechism provides not an abstract and generalized confession of faith (as in the Shorter Catechism) but one that issues from the lips of the child of the covenant! So even if the Shorter Catechism is superior in other ways, no one can dispute that the voice (1st person!) of the Heidelberg has more pastoral power.
It's nice that the questions are divided up across 52 "Lord's Days"; that it has a memorable structure (Guilt -> Grace -> Gratitude); and that it employs the Apostles' Creed, the Ten Commandments (the teaching here especially is fantastic), and the Lord's Prayer.
Highly recommended, both for its historical and theological interest and for the actual formation of children and adults in Reformed churches today.
November 21, 2016
By far my favorite catechism! Though some of the answers are pretty long, the theology and warmth of God's gracious truths that can be learned in this book are so clear in communicating His grace toward sinners and His work in our lives for His own glory.
If all parents and children went through one "Lord's Day" section of this catechism each week (usually one to three questions) - along with their corresponding Scripture verses - I truly believe the church in the U.S. would see the revival many are seeking, and which we desperately need.
Note: I especially like the gift edition from Banner of Truth Trust:
https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/th...
If all parents and children went through one "Lord's Day" section of this catechism each week (usually one to three questions) - along with their corresponding Scripture verses - I truly believe the church in the U.S. would see the revival many are seeking, and which we desperately need.
Note: I especially like the gift edition from Banner of Truth Trust:
https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/th...
May 18, 2016
Why have I waited so long to start reading the catechisms?!
This is my first and is so beautifully written and so faith fortifying and encouraging! Glory be to God! I can't wait to read more.
This is my first and is so beautifully written and so faith fortifying and encouraging! Glory be to God! I can't wait to read more.
March 26, 2019
Hard to think of a more perfect nexus of the confessional and pastoral.
April 28, 2020
The most influential catechism of the Reformation.
August 26, 2023
I was bound to disagree on several points in the Heidelberg Catechism, seeing as my theology is much more Anglo-Catholic than Reformed, but I did appreciate very much that this Catechism is simple, direct, and focused on revealing biblical truth to the catechumen. That being said:
Thoughts:
- I do disagree with Q55 and its definition of the communion of saints, because it's only focused on the Christians who are alive and interacting with you right now (who are physically alive in your lifetime). I think it's a more rich and accurate description to include the cloud of witnesses who have gone before us in that definition as well.
- Q60 ("How are you righteous before God?") is worded thusly: "it is BY TRUE FAITH in Jesus Christ that we are righteous before God", but I don't think it's our faith (which is imperfect, fragile, and treacherous) alone that makes us righteous, but the grace of God plays a huge part and ought to be mentioned. The last part ("God grants and credits to me the perfect satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ, as if I had never sinned nor been a sinner, and as if I had been as perfectly obedient as Christ was obedient for me. All I need to do is accept this gift with a believing heart") is also hurting my brain a little because I have some kind of thought about it, but can't at present articulate it properly
- I object strongly to the idea the Baptism is only a symbol and the Eucharist being likewise merely symbolic. This is because a) I was Catechised by an Anglo-Catholic, b) I'm surrounded by Anglo-Catholics who believe the biblically orthodox and traditional view of Baptism and Eucharist being a spiritual and physical experience (Physical Presence) and have broken down the symbolic argument using Scripture first and tradition afterwards, c) I'm an Anglo-Catholic and after being introduced to sacramental theology that is biblical as well as undisputed by the ancient church in the East and West, cannot go back to believing that the sacraments are just symbolic.
- It's interesting that this Catechism supports infant baptism (Q74), saying: "they too should be incorporated into the Christian church and distinguished from the children of unbelievers. This was done in the Old Testament by circumcision, which was replaced in the New Testament by baptism" - I'd highly recommend Fr. Michael McKinnon's episode on baptism in his Anglican Studies lecture series for a deeper dive into this; he does an excellent job of explaining (and dare I say defending) infant baptism
- I did appreciate, after reading the rather inflammatory footnote for Q80 (which basically says that the RC Mass teaches that living and dead are not forgiven through suffering of Christ unless Christ is offered for them daily by priests; that Catholics worship the bread and wine because they believe that Christ is present in the elements; that Mass is a denial of the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ "and a condemnable idolatry") that the Heidelberg Catechism has been changed somewhat in this regard. Thankfully, since the Christian Reformed Church's Interchurch Relations Committee's study of Catholic Mass led to a declaration in Synod 2004 that said this is no longer an accurate reflection of the official teaching and practice of the RC church today, the footnote for Q80 is no longer required as a confessional part of the HC.
- Q96-97 strictly forbids any visual/artistic portrayal of God, which is interesting. Does that mean they object to visual/artistic portrayals of Jesus or the Holy Spirit, too?
It was very interesting reading the HC, if only to understand Reformed and my Reformed Anglican friends' theology a bit better. Granted, I had a much more enjoyable time reading the Anglican Catechism (which is a bit longer, though less brain-bending in its wording) and bits of the Roman Catholic Catechism, because of their approaches on the communion of saints, Holy Baptism, and the Eucharist, and how those things are explained with depth and with biblical, historical, traditional support. tl;dr I'm clearly not a Reformed Anglican but I at least appreciate this tradition's passion for Scripture, simple and direct approach, and its fervent devotion to redirecting everything towards God without the trimmings of saintly intercession, etc. that they criticised in the RC church at that time.
Thoughts:
- I do disagree with Q55 and its definition of the communion of saints, because it's only focused on the Christians who are alive and interacting with you right now (who are physically alive in your lifetime). I think it's a more rich and accurate description to include the cloud of witnesses who have gone before us in that definition as well.
- Q60 ("How are you righteous before God?") is worded thusly: "it is BY TRUE FAITH in Jesus Christ that we are righteous before God", but I don't think it's our faith (which is imperfect, fragile, and treacherous) alone that makes us righteous, but the grace of God plays a huge part and ought to be mentioned. The last part ("God grants and credits to me the perfect satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ, as if I had never sinned nor been a sinner, and as if I had been as perfectly obedient as Christ was obedient for me. All I need to do is accept this gift with a believing heart") is also hurting my brain a little because I have some kind of thought about it, but can't at present articulate it properly
- I object strongly to the idea the Baptism is only a symbol and the Eucharist being likewise merely symbolic. This is because a) I was Catechised by an Anglo-Catholic, b) I'm surrounded by Anglo-Catholics who believe the biblically orthodox and traditional view of Baptism and Eucharist being a spiritual and physical experience (Physical Presence) and have broken down the symbolic argument using Scripture first and tradition afterwards, c) I'm an Anglo-Catholic and after being introduced to sacramental theology that is biblical as well as undisputed by the ancient church in the East and West, cannot go back to believing that the sacraments are just symbolic.
- It's interesting that this Catechism supports infant baptism (Q74), saying: "they too should be incorporated into the Christian church and distinguished from the children of unbelievers. This was done in the Old Testament by circumcision, which was replaced in the New Testament by baptism" - I'd highly recommend Fr. Michael McKinnon's episode on baptism in his Anglican Studies lecture series for a deeper dive into this; he does an excellent job of explaining (and dare I say defending) infant baptism
- I did appreciate, after reading the rather inflammatory footnote for Q80 (which basically says that the RC Mass teaches that living and dead are not forgiven through suffering of Christ unless Christ is offered for them daily by priests; that Catholics worship the bread and wine because they believe that Christ is present in the elements; that Mass is a denial of the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ "and a condemnable idolatry") that the Heidelberg Catechism has been changed somewhat in this regard. Thankfully, since the Christian Reformed Church's Interchurch Relations Committee's study of Catholic Mass led to a declaration in Synod 2004 that said this is no longer an accurate reflection of the official teaching and practice of the RC church today, the footnote for Q80 is no longer required as a confessional part of the HC.
- Q96-97 strictly forbids any visual/artistic portrayal of God, which is interesting. Does that mean they object to visual/artistic portrayals of Jesus or the Holy Spirit, too?
It was very interesting reading the HC, if only to understand Reformed and my Reformed Anglican friends' theology a bit better. Granted, I had a much more enjoyable time reading the Anglican Catechism (which is a bit longer, though less brain-bending in its wording) and bits of the Roman Catholic Catechism, because of their approaches on the communion of saints, Holy Baptism, and the Eucharist, and how those things are explained with depth and with biblical, historical, traditional support. tl;dr I'm clearly not a Reformed Anglican but I at least appreciate this tradition's passion for Scripture, simple and direct approach, and its fervent devotion to redirecting everything towards God without the trimmings of saintly intercession, etc. that they criticised in the RC church at that time.
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December 10, 2022I enjoyed reading this and agreed with the majority of it (though the parts I disagreed with, I really disagreed with). I've only ever read Luther's Small & Large Catechisms before, so it's good to get an alternate perspective. I would have liked to see more on law vs. gospel and the Word & Sacraments, but those are specifically Lutheran emphases so I'm not surprised I didn't.
A worthwhile and quick read. The first question/answer is worth memorizing.
A worthwhile and quick read. The first question/answer is worth memorizing.
January 20, 2021
A rich statement of belief in a great package and format. Conviction of sins, who is God, what is God's law, and how to pray. All biblical references are provided for quick reference on each page in NKJV.
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February 10, 2024kľúčové slovo kalvinizmu: vďačnosť
Forma mi inak príde príjemnejšia než KKC
Forma mi inak príde príjemnejšia než KKC
November 15, 2024
Heidelberg Catechism is best catechism.
October 16, 2022
I took my time with this. I have never read the entire catechism straight through. It definitely won't be my last time.
December 9, 2025
Very comforting, beneficial, and assuring
October 14, 2020
I have studied the Westminster Catechism, but this is my first time reading the Heidelberg Catechism. I needed to return to the glorious study of my faith. This was a marvelous book that I found so helpful even though I am not in theological agreement with two areas.
October 12, 2020
A wonderful summary of the Christian faith.
A short read.Can teach you the basics of faith and the meaning thereof. Helps to explain the Lord sacrifice on the cross. And our need of Christ.
A short read.Can teach you the basics of faith and the meaning thereof. Helps to explain the Lord sacrifice on the cross. And our need of Christ.
February 17, 2018
This catechism was formed for the purpose of instructing the youth of the church and pastors on the necessary doctrines of the Christian faith. Commissioned by Frederick III, Ursinus and Olevianus took the charge for seeing this catechism to it’s completion and publication on January 19, 1563. They did not work on this alone, but also included a board of Seminary people to gather and complete this extensive project for the maturity of others’ faith in God. Amidst the 129 questions and answers, one thing to commend this catechism for is the commitment to Holy Scripture with the following proof texts after each answer. This comprehensive set moves through God’s character, God’s triune nature, Christ’s deity and humanity, man’s redemption, God’s law, and prayer. The beauty of this literature is that it contains a list of questions which I have not logged or written down in one location to refer to at times of confusion or misunderstanding. So, this catechism organizes and references good questions well. I will definitely be coming back to this catechism. I felt fed by the content of this catechism which pushes me deeper into the Holy Scriptures.
Quotes worth remembering:
1) 129. What is the meaning of the word “Amen”? “Amen” means: so shall it truly and surely be. For my prayer is much more certainly heard of God than I feel in my heart that I desire these things of Him. (2 Tim. 1:20; 2 Tim. 2:13; *Ps. 145:18-19)
Quotes worth remembering:
1) 129. What is the meaning of the word “Amen”? “Amen” means: so shall it truly and surely be. For my prayer is much more certainly heard of God than I feel in my heart that I desire these things of Him. (2 Tim. 1:20; 2 Tim. 2:13; *Ps. 145:18-19)
December 24, 2018
Written during the Reformation for a prince wishing for a unified instruction manual for his subjects, this catechism has served to instruct and train Protestant church members for over 500 years. It asks and answers 129 questions broken up into 52 Sunday’s of instruction for new church members, and scripture references have been supplied in the more recent printings. The content covers the sweep of biblical themes and doctrines from a reformed perspective, and includes questions and answers about the apostle’s creed, the Ten Commandments, and concludes with the Lord’s Prayer. The two questions I hope to follow up on, and have been reflecting on even before reading this, are about infant baptism and what the scope of “graven images” is in the second of the Ten Commandments. Beyond those two questions and answers I didn’t find much that gave me pause, but rather found it quite devotional and helpful. I am of the strong opinion that the failure to properly catechize has led to untold damage in the modern church. I am convinced that it is essential for true discipleship and not because it is blind indoctrination, but because without it the proper place of doubts and questions find no barrier or guardrail, which doesn’t lead to the freedom of the human mind but the bondage of nothingness. But I digress. 85 tiny but dense pages of Christian doctrine and creed.
November 28, 2024
“What is your only comfort in life and in death?” - this is a question that we all have to answer at some stage, and the sooner we answer it, the better our lives will be.
In this current age where everything is subjective and there is little regard for truth, the Heidelberg Catechism stands alongside the Westminster Shorter Catechism as the first line of defence for non-negotiable core values of the Christian faith.
The Heidelberg Catechism begins by asking the reader about a rhetorical question on just what the only comfort in life and in death is, and concludes with an exposition of the Lord’s prayer - the ultimate expression of a believer’s joy and hope.
This unique emphasis on the personal application of Biblical doctrine can be seen by the fact that each question in the document is addressed directly to “You”, the reader. Making it what I consider to be the ideal entry point and introduction to the Reformed faith.
In fact, this is a must-read for every Christian.
In this current age where everything is subjective and there is little regard for truth, the Heidelberg Catechism stands alongside the Westminster Shorter Catechism as the first line of defence for non-negotiable core values of the Christian faith.
The Heidelberg Catechism begins by asking the reader about a rhetorical question on just what the only comfort in life and in death is, and concludes with an exposition of the Lord’s prayer - the ultimate expression of a believer’s joy and hope.
This unique emphasis on the personal application of Biblical doctrine can be seen by the fact that each question in the document is addressed directly to “You”, the reader. Making it what I consider to be the ideal entry point and introduction to the Reformed faith.
In fact, this is a must-read for every Christian.
July 20, 2023
Since introduced to the Reformed Faith in 1972 I have loved the Creeds and Confessions of the "Holy Catholic Church". My initial studies were through the Westminster Confession and Catechisms that faithfully teach that system of doctrine taught in the Holy Scriptures. In 1987 upon learning about The Reformed Church in the United States I was blessed with the study of the Heidelberg Catechism. The rich warm personal and devotional style captured my heart and I have studied this treasury of sound teaching ever since.
Join with thousands who have had their faith strengthened by thinking upon their only comfort in life and death!
Join with thousands who have had their faith strengthened by thinking upon their only comfort in life and death!
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