The Catechism Method of Instruction in the Christian Religion As the Same is Taught in the Reformed Churches and SchoolsQuestion 1
What is thy only comfort in life and death?
Answer 1
That I with body and soul, both in life and death, (Romans 14:7,8) am not my own, (1 Corinthians 6:19) but belong unto my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ; (1 Corinthians 3:23; Titus 2:14) who, with his precious blood, has fully satisfied for all my sins, (1 Peter 1:18,19; 1 John 1:7; 1 John 2:2,12) and delivered me from all the power of the devil; (Hebrews 2:14; 1 John 3:8; John 8:34-36) and so preserves me (John 6:39; John 10:28; 2 Thessalonians 3:3; 1 Peter 1:5) that without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall from my head; (Matthew 10:29-31; Luke 21:18) yea, that all things must be subservient to my salvation, (Romans 8:28) and therefore, by his Holy Spirit, He also assures me of eternal life, (2 Corinthians 1:20-22; 2 Corinthians 5:5; Ephesians 1:13,14; Romans 8:16) and makes me sincerely willing and ready, henceforth, to live unto him. (Romans 8:14; 1 John 3:3)
Question 2
How many things are necessary for thee to know, that thou, enjoying this comfort, mayest live and die happily?
Answer 2
Three; (Matthew 11:28-30; Luke 24:46-48; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:3-7) the first, how great my sins and miseries are; (John 9:41; John 15:22) the second, how I may be delivered from all my sins and miseries; (John 17:3; Acts 4:12; Acts 10:43) the third, how I shall express my gratitude to God for such deliverance. (Ephesians 5:8-11; 1 Peter 2:9,10; Romans 6:1,2,12,13)
Question 3
Whence knowest thou thy misery?
Answer 3
Out of the law of God. (Romans 3:20)
Question 4
What does the law of God require of us?
Answer 4
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 neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." (Deuteronomy 6:5; Leviticus 19:18; Mark 12:30; Luke 10:27)
Question 5
Canst thou keep all these things perfectly?
Answer 5
In no wise; (Romans 3:10,20,23; 1 John 1:8,10) for I am prone by nature to hate God and my neighbour.(Romans 8:7; Ephesians 2:3; Titus 3:3; Genesis 6:5; Genesis 8:21; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 7:23)
Question 6
Did God then create man so wicked and perverse?
Answer 6
By no means; but God created man good, (Genesis 1:31) and after his own image, (Genesis 1:26,27) 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. (Colossians 3:9,10; Ephesians 4:23,24; 2 Corinthians 3:18)
Question 7
Whence then proceeds this depravity of human nature?
Answer 7
From the fall and disobedience of our first parents,Adam and Eve, in Paradise; (2 Corinthians gen.3; Romans 5:12,18,19) hence our nature is become so corrupt, that we are all conceived and born in sin. (Psalms 51:5; Genesis 5:3)
Question 8
Are we then so corrupt that we are wholly incapable of doing any good, and inclined to all wickedness?
Answer 8
Indeed we are; (Genesis 8:21; John 3:6; Genesis 6:5; Job 14:4; Job 15:14,16,36; Isaiah 53:6) except we are regenerated by the Spirit of God. (John 3:3,5; 1 Corinthians 12:3; 2 Corinthians 3:5)
Question 9
Does not God then do injustice to man, by requiring from him in his law, that which he cannot perform?
Answer 9
Not at all; (Ephesians 4:24; Ecclesiastes 7:29) for God made man capable of performing it; but man, by the instigation of the devil, (John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 11:3; Genesis 3:4) and his own wilful disobedience, (Genesis 3:6; Romans 5:12; Genesis 3:13; 1 Timothy 2:13,14) deprived himself and all his posterity of those divine gifts.
Question 10
Will God suffer such disobedience and rebellion to go unpunished?
Answer 10
By no means; but is terribly displeased (Genesis 2:17; Romans 5:12) with our original as well as actual sins; and will punish them in his just judgment temporally and eternally, (Psalms 5:5; Psalms 50:21; Nahum 1:2; 20:5; 34:7; Romans 1:18; Ephesians 5:6; Hebrews 9:27) as he has declared, "Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things, which are written in the book of the law, to do them." (Deuteronomy 27:26; Galatians 3:10)
Question 11
Is not God then also merciful?
Answer 11
God is indeed merciful, ( 34:6,7; 20:6) but also just; (Psalms 7:9; 20:5; 23:7; 34:7; Psalms 5:5,6; Nahum 1:2,3) therefore his justice requires, that sin which is committed against the most high majesty of God, be also punished with extreme, that is, with everlasting punishment of body and soul.
Question 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 favour?
Answer 12
God will have his justice satisfied: (Genesis 2:17; 20:5; 23:7; 18:4; Matthew 5:26; 2 Thessalonians 1:6; Luke 16:2) and therefore we must make this full satisfaction, either by ourselves, or by another. (Romans 8:3,4)
Question 13
Can we ourselves then make this satisfaction?
Answer 13
By no means; but on the contrary we daily increase our debt. (Job 9:2,3; Job 15:15,16; Job 4:18,19; Psalms 130:3; Matthew 6:12; Matthew 18:25; Matthew 16:26)
Question 14
Can there be found anywhere, one, who is a mere creature, able to satisfy for us?
Answer 14
None; for, first, God will not punish any other creature for the sin which man has committed; ( 18:4; Genesis 3:17; Hebrews 2:14-17) and further, no mere creature can sustain the burden of God's eternal wrath against sin, so as to deliver others from it. (Nahum 1:6; Psalms 130:3)
Question 15
What sort of a mediator and deliverer then must we seek for?
Answer 15
For one who is very man, and perfectly (1 Corinthians 15:21; Jeremiah 33:16; Isaiah 53:9; 2 Corinthians 5:21) righteous; (Hebrews 7:16,26) and yet more powerful than all creatures; that is, one who is also very God. (Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6; Romans 9:5; Jeremiah 23:5,6; Jeremiah 23:6; Luke 11:22)
Question 16
Why must he be very man, and also perfectly righteous?
Answer 16
Because the justice of God requires that the same human nature which has sinned, should likewise make satisfaction for sin; ( 18:4,20; Romans 5:12,15,18; 1 Corinthians 15:21; Hebrews 2:14-16; 1 Peter 3:18; Isaiah 53:3-5,10,11) and one, who is himself a sinner, cannot satisfy for others. (Hebrews 7:26,27; Psalms 49:7,8; 1 Peter 3:18)
Question 17
Why must he in one person be also very God?
Answer 17
That he might, by the power of his Godhead (Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 63:3) sustain in his human nature, (Isaiah 53:4,11) the burden of God's wrath; (Deuteronomy 4:24; Nahum 1:6; Psalms 130:3) and might obtain for, and restore to us, righteousness and life. (Isaiah 53:5,11; Acts 2:24; 1 Peter 3:18; John 3:16; Acts 20:28; John 1:4)
Question 18
Who then is that Mediator, who is in one person both very God, (1 John 5:20; Rom.9:5; Rom.8:3; Gal.4:4; Isa.9:6; Jer.23:6; Mal.3:1) and a real (Luke 1:42; Luke 2:6,7; Rom.1:3; Rom.9:5; Philip.2:7; Heb.2:14,16,17; Heb.4:15) righteous man? (Isa.53:9,11; Jer.23:5; Luke 1:35; John 8:46; Heb.4:15; Heb.7:26; 1 Pet.1:19; 1 Pet.2:22; 1 Pet.3:18)
Answer 18
Our Lord Jesus Christ: (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 2:9; Matthew 1:23; 1 Timothy 3:16; Luke 2:11) "who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption." (1 Corinthians 1:30)
Question 19
Whence knowest thou this?
Answer 19
From the holy gospel, which God himself first revealed in Paradise; (Genesis 3:15) and afterwards published by the patriarchs (Genesis 22:18; Genesis 12:3; Genesis 49:10,11) and prophets, (Genesis isa.53; Isaiah 42:1-4; Isaiah 43:25; Isaiah 49:5,6,22,23; Jeremiah 23:5,6; Jeremiah 31:32,33; Jeremiah 32:39-41; Micah 7:18-20; Acts 10:43; Romans 1:2; Hebrews 1:1; Acts 3:22-24; Acts 10:43; John 5:46) and represented by the sacrifices and other ceremonies of the law; (Hebrews 10:1,7; Colossians 2:7; John 5:46) and lastly, has fulfilled it by his only begotten Son. (Romans 10:4; Galatians 4:4,5; Galatians 3:24; Colossians 2:17)
Question 20
Are all men then, as they perished in Adam, saved by Christ?
Answer 20
No; (Matthew 7:14; Matthew 22:14) only those who are ingrafted into him, and, receive all his benefits, by a true faith. (Mark 16:16; John 1:12; John 3:16,18,36; Isaiah 53:11; Psalms 2:12; Romans 11:17,19,20; Romans 3:22; Hebrews 4:2,3; Hebrews 5:9; Hebrews 10:39; Hebrews 11:6)
Question 21
What is true faith?
Answer 21
True faith is not only a certain knowledge, whereby I hold for truth all that God has revealed to us in his word, (James 2:19) but also an assured confidence, (2 Corinthians 4:13; Ephesians 2:7-9; Ephesians 3:12; Galatians 2:16; Hebrews 11:1,7-10; Hebrews 4:16; James 1:6; Matthew 16:17; Philippians 1:19; Romans 4:16-21; Romans 5:1; Romans 1:16; Romans 10:10,17; Romans 3:24.25) which the Holy Ghost (Galatians 5:22; Matthew 16:17; 2 Corinthians 4:13; John 6:29; Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 1:19; Acts 16:14) works by the gospel in my heart; (Romans 1:16; Romans 10:17; 1 Corinthians 1:21; Acts 10:44; Acts 16:14) that not only to others, but to me also, remission of sin, everlasting righteousness and salvation, (Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:10,38; Galatians 2:16) are freely given by God, merely of grace, only for the sake of Christ's merits. (Ephesians 2:8; Romans 3:24; Romans 5:19; Luke 1:77,78)
Question 22
What is then necessary for a christian to believe?
Answer 22
All things promised us in the gospel, (John 20:31; Matthew 28:19; Mark 1:15) which the articles of our catholic undoubted christian faith briefly teach us.
Question 23
What are these articles?
Answer 23
1. I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth:2. And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord:3. Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary:4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, dead, and buried: He descended into hell:5. The third day he rose again from the dead:6. He ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty:7. From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead:8. I believe in the Holy Ghost:9. I believe a holy catholic church: the communion of saints:10. The forgiveness of sins:11. The resurrection of the body:12. And the life everlasting.
Question 24
How are these articles divided?
Answer 24
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 Ghost, and our sanctification.
Question 25
Since there is but one only divine essence, (Deut.6:4; Eph.4:6; Isa.44:6; Isa.45:5; 1 Cor.8:4,6) why speakest thou of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost?
Answer 25
Because God has so revealed himself in his word, (Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18; Genesis 1:2,3; Psalms 33:6; Isaiah 48:16; Psalms 110:1; Matthew 3:16,17; Matthew 28:19; 1 John 5:7; Isaiah 6:1,3; John 14:26; John 15:26; 2 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 4:6; Ephesians 2:18; Titus 3:5,6) that these three distinct persons are the one only true and eternal God.
Question 26
What believest thou when thou sayest, "I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth"?
Answer 26
That the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (Titus who of nothing made heaven and earth, with all that is in them; Titus (gen.1,2; Job 33:4; Job 38,39; Psalms 33:6; Acts 4:24; Acts 14:15; Isaiah 45:7) who likewise upholds and governs the same by his eternal counsel and providence) (Matthew 10:29; Hebrews 1:3; Psalms 104:27-30; Psalms 115:3; Matthew 10:29; Ephesians 1:11) is for the sake of Christ his Son, my God and my Father; (John 1:12; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:5-7; Ephesians 1:5) on whom I rely so entirely, that I have no doubt, but he will provide me with all things necessary for soul and body (Psalms 55:23; Matthew 6:25,26; Luke 12:22) and further, that he will make whatever evils he sends upon me, in this valley of tears turn out to my advantage; (Romans 8:28) for he is able to do it, being Almighty God, (Romans 10:12; Luke 12:22; Romans 8:23; Isaiah 46:4; Romans 10:12) and willing, being a faithful Father. (Matthew 6:25-34; Matthew 7:9-11)
Question 27
What dost thou mean by the providence of God?
Answer 27
The almighty and everywhere present power of God; (Acts 17:25-28; Jeremiah 23:23,24; Isaiah 29:15,16; 8:12) whereby, as it were by his hand, he upholds and governs (Hebrews 1:3) heaven, earth, and all creatures; so that herbs and grass, rain and drought, (Jeremiah 5:24; Acts 14:17) fruitful and barren years, meat and drink, health and sickness, (John 9:3) riches and poverty, (Proverbs 22:2) yea, and all things come, not by chance, but be his fatherly hand. (Matthew 10:20; Proverbs 16:33)
Question 28
What advantage is it to us to know that God has created, and by his providence does still uphold all things?
Answer 28
That we may be patient in adversity; (Romans 5:3; James 1:3; Psalms 39:9; Job 1:21,22) thankful in prosperity; (Deuteronomy 8:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:18) and that in all things, which may hereafter befall us, we place our firm trust in our faithful God and Father, (Psalms 55:22; Romans 5:4) that nothing shall separate us from his love; (Romans 8:38,39) since all creatures are so in his hand, that without his will they cannot so much as move. (Job 1:12; Job 2:6; Acts 17:25,28; Proverbs 21:1)
Question 29
Why is the Son of God called "Jesus", that is a Saviour?
Answer 29
Because he saveth us, and delivereth us from our sins; (Matthew 1:21; Hebrews 7:24,25) and likewise, because we ought not to seek, neither can find salvation in any other. (Acts 4:12; John 15:4,5; 1 Timothy 2:5; Isaiah 43:11; 1 John 5:11)
Question 30
Do such then believe in Jesus the only Saviour, who seek their salvation and welfare of saints, of themselves, or anywhere else?
Answer 30
They do not; for though they boast of him in words, yet in deeds they deny Jesus the only deliverer and Saviour; (1 Corinthians 1:13,30,31; Galatians 5:4) for one of these two things must be true, that either Jesus is not a complete Saviour; or that they, who by a true faith receive this Saviour, must find all things in him necessary to their salvation. (Hebrews 12:2; Isaiah 9:6; Colossians 1:19,20; Colossians 2:10; 1 John 1:7,16)
Question 31
Why is he called "Christ", that is anointed?
Answer 31
Because he is ordained of God the Father, and anointed with the Holy Ghost, (Hebrews 1:9; Psalms 45:8; Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18) to be our chief Prophet and Teacher, (Deuteronomy 18:15; Acts 3:22; Acts 7:37; Isaiah 55:4) who has fully revealed to us the secret counsel and will of God concerning our redemption; (John 1:18; John 15:15) and to be our only High Priest, (Psalms 110:4) who by the one sacrifice of his body, has redeemed us, (Hebrews 10:12,14; Hebrews 9:12,14,28) and makes continual intercession with the Father for us; (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 9:24; 1 John 2:1; Romans 5:9,10) and also to be our eternal King, who governs us by his word and Spirit, and who defends and preserves us in that salvation, he has purchased for us. (Psalms 2:6; 9:9; Matthew 21:5; Luke 1:33; Matthew 28:18; John 10:28; Revelation 12:10,11)
Question 32
But why art thou called a Christian? (Acts 11:26)
Answer 32
Because I am a member of Christ by faith, (1 Corinthians 6:15) and thus am partaker of his anointing; (1 John 2:27; Acts 2:17) that so I may confess his name, (Matthew 10:32; Romans 10:10; Mark 8:38) and present myself a living sacrifice of thankfulness to him: (Romans 12:1; 1 Peter 2:5,9; Revelation 5:8,10; Revelation 1:6) and also that with a free and good conscience I may fight against sin and Satan in this life (1 Peter 2:11; Romans 6:12,13; Galatians 5:16,17; Ephesians 6:11; 1 Timothy 1:18,19) and afterwards I reign with him eternally, over all creatures. (2 Timothy 2:12; Matthew 24:34)
Question 33
Why is Christ called the "only begotten Son" of God, since we are also the children of God?
Answer 33
Because Christ alone is the eternal and natural Son of God; (John 1:1-3,14,18; Hebrews 1:1,2; John 3:16; 1 John 4:9; Romans 8:32) but we are children adopted of God, by grace, for his sake. (Romans 8:15-17; John 1:12; Galatians 4:6; Ephesians 1:5,6)
Question 34
Wherefore callest thou him "our Lord"?
Answer 34
Because he hath redeemed us, both soul and body, from all our sins, not with silver or gold, but with his precious blood, and has delivered us from all the power of the devil; and thus has made us his own property. (1 Peter 1:18,19; 1 Peter 2:9; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 1 Corinthians 7:23; 1 Timothy 2:6; John 20:28)
Question 35
What is the meaning of these words "He was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the virgin Mary"?
Answer 35
That God's eternal Son, who is, and continues (Romans 1:4; Romans 9:5) true and eternal God, (1 John 5:20; John 1:1; John 17:3; Romans 1:3; Colossians 1:15) took upon him the very nature of man, of the flesh and blood of the virgin Mary, (Galatians 4:4; Luke 1:31,42,43) by the operation of the Holy Ghost; (John 1:14; Matthew 1:18,20; Luke 1:32,35) that he might also be the true seed of David, (Psalms 132:11; Romans 1:3; 7:12; Acts 2:30)like unto his brethren in all things, (Philippians 2:7; Hebrews 2:14,17) sin excepted. (Hebrews 4:15)
Question 36
What profit dost thou receive by Christ's holy conception and nativity?
Answer 36
That he is our Mediator; (Hebrews 7:26,27; Hebrews 2:17) and with His innocence and perfect holiness, covers in the sight of God, my sins, wherein I was conceived and brought forth. (1 Peter 1:18,19; 1 Peter 3:18; 1 Corinthians 1:30,31; Romans 8:3,4; Isaiah 53:11; Psalms 32:1)
Question 37
What dost thou understand by the words, "He suffered"?
Answer 37
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: (Isaiah 53:4; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 Peter 3:18; 1 Timothy 2:6) that so by his passion, as the only propitiatory sacrifice, (Isaiah 53:10,12; Ephesians 5:2; 1 Corinthians 5:7; 1 John 2:2; 1 John 4:10; Romans 3:25; Hebrews 9:28; Hebrews 10:14) he might redeem our body and soul from everlasting damnation, (Galatians 3:13; Colossians 1:13; Hebrews 9:12; 1 Peter 1:18,19) and obtain for us the favour of God, righteousness and eternal life. (Romans 3:25; 2 Corinthians 5:21; John 3:16; John 6:51; Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 10:19)
Question 38
Why did he suffer "under Pontius Pilate, as judge"?
Answer 38
That he, being innocent, and yet condemned by a temporal judge, (John 18:38; Matthew 27:24; Acts 4:27,28; Luke 23:14,15; John 19:4) might thereby free us from the severe judgement of God to which we were exposed. (Psalms 69:4; Isaiah 53:4,5; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:13)
Question 39
Is there anything more in his being "crucified", than if he had died some other death?
Answer 39
Yes there is; for thereby I am assured, that he took on him the curse which lay upon me; (Galatians 3:13) for the death of the cross was accursed of God. (Deuteronomy 21:23)
Question 40
Why was it necessary for Christ to humble himself even "unto death"?
Answer 40
Because with respect to the justice and truth of God, (Genesis 2:17) satisfaction for our sins could be made no otherwise, than by the death of the Son of God. (Romans 8:3,4; Hebrews 2:9,14,15)
Question 41
Why was he also "buried"?
Answer 41
Thereby to prove that he was really dead. (Matthew 27:59,60; Luke 23:52,53; John 19:38-42; Acts 13:29)
Question 42
Since then Christ died for us, why must we also die?
Answer 42
Our death is not a satisfaction for our sins, (Mark 8:37; Psalms 49:7) but only an abolishing of sin, and a passage into eternal life. (John 5:24; Philippians 1:23; Romans 7:24)
Question 43
What further benefit do we receive from the sacrifice and death of Christ on the cross?
Answer 43
That by virtue thereof, our old man is crucified, dead and buried with him; (Romans 6:6) that so the corrupt inclinations of the flesh may no more reign in us; (Romans 6:6-8,11,12; Colossians 2:12) but that we may offer ourselves unto him a sacrifice of thanksgiving. (Romans 12:1)
Question 44
Why is there added, "he descended into hell"?
Answer 44
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, (Psalms 18:5,6; Psalms 116:3; Matthew 26:38; Hebrews 5:7; Isaiah 53:10; Matthew 27:46) but especially on the cross, has delivered me from the anguish and torments of hell. (Isaiah 53:5)
Question 45
What does the "resurrection" of Christ profit us?
Answer 45
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 Corinthians 15:16; Romans 4:25; 1 Peter 1:3) secondly, we are also by his power raised up to a new life; (Romans 6:4; Colossians 3:1,3; Ephesians 2:5,6) and lastly, the resurrection of Christ is a sure pledge of our blessed resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:12,20,21; Romans 8:11)
Question 46
How dost thou understand these words, "he ascended into heaven"?
Answer 46
That Christ, in sight of his disciples, was taken up from earth into heaven; (Acts 1:9; Matthew 26:64; Mark 16:19; Luke 24:51) and that he continues there for our interest, (Hebrews 7:25; Hebrews 4:14; Hebrews 9:24; Romans 8:34; Ephesians 4:10; Colossians 3:1) until he comes again to judge the quick and the dead. (Acts 1:11; Matthew 24:30)
Question 47
Is not Christ then with us even to the end of the world, as he has promised? (Matt.28:20)
Answer 47
Christ is very man and very God; with respect to his human nature, he is no more on earth; (Hebrews 8:4; Matthew 26:11; John 16:28; John 17:11; Acts 3:21) but with respect to his Godhead, majesty, grace and spirit, he is at no time absent from us. (John 14:17-19; John 16:13; Matthew 28:20; Ephesians 4:8,12)
Question 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?
Answer 48
Not as all, for since the Godhead is illimitable and omnipresent, (Acts 7:49; Jeremiah 23:24) it must necessarily follow that the same is beyond the limits of the human nature he assumed, (Colossians 2:9; John 3:13; John 11:15; Matthew 28:6) and yet is nevertheless in this human nature, and remains personally united to it.
Question 49
Of what advantage to us is Christ's ascension into heaven?
Answer 49
First, that he is our advocate in the presence of his Father in heaven; (1 John 2:1; Romans 8:34) 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; (John 14:2; John 17:24; John 20:17; Ephesians 2:6) thirdly, that he sends us his Spirit as an earnest, (John 14:16,7; Acts 2:1-4,33; 2 Corinthians 1:22; 2 Corinthians 5:5) by whose power we "seek the things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God, and not things on earth." (Colossians 3:1; Philippians 3:14)
Question 50
Why is it added, "and sitteth at the right hand of God"?
Answer 50
Because Christ is ascended into heaven for this end, that he might appear as head of his church, (Ephesians 1:20,21,23; Colossians 1:18) by whom the Father governs all things. (Matthew 28:18; John 5:22)
Question 51
What profit is this glory of Christ, our head, unto us?
Answer 51
First, that by his Holy Spirit he pours out heavenly graces upon us his members; (Acts 2:33; Ephesians 4:8) and then that by his power he defends and preserves us against all enemies. (Psalms 2:9; Psalms 110:1,2; John 10:28; Ephesians 4:8)
Question 62
What comfort is it to thee that "Christ shall come again to judge the quick and the dead"?
Answer 52
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: (Luke 21:28; Romans 8:23; Philippians 3:20; Titus 2:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:16) who shall cast all his and my enemies into everlasting condemnation, (2 Thessalonians 1:6,8-10; Matthew 25:41-43) but shall translate me with all his chosen ones to himself, into heavenly joys and glory. (Matthew 25:34; 2 Thessalonians 1:7)
Question 53
What dost thou believe concerning the Holy Ghost?
Answer 53
First, that he is true and coeternal God with the Father and the Son; (1 John 5:7; Genesis 1:2; Isaiah 48:16; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Acts 5:3,4) secondly, that he is also given me, (Galatians 4:6; Matthew 28:19,20; 2 Corinthians 1:21,22; Ephesians 1:13) to make me by a true faith, partaker of Christ and all his benefits, (Galatians 3:14; 1 Peter 1:2; 1 Corinthians 6:17) that he may comfort me (Acts 9:31; John 15:26) and abide with me for ever. (John 14:16; 1 Peter 4:14)
Question 54
What believest thou concerning the "holy catholic church" of Christ?
Answer 54
That the Son of God (Ephesians 5:26; John 10:11; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:11-13) from the beginning to the end of the world, (Psalms 71:17,18; Isaiah 59:21; 1 Corinthians 11:26) gathers, defends, and preserves (Matthew 16:18; John 10:28-30; Psalms 129:1-5) to himself by his Spirit and word, (Isaiah 59:21; Romans 1:16; Romans 10:14-17; Ephesians 5:26) out of the whole human race, (Genesis 26:4; Revelation 5:9) a church chosen to everlasting life, (Romans 8:29,30; Ephesians 1:10-13) agreeing in true faith; (Acts 2:46; Ephesians 4:3-6) and that I am and forever shall remain, (Psalms 23:6; 1 Corinthians 1:8,9; John 10:28; 1 John 2:19; 1 Peter 1:5) a living member thereof. (1 John 3:14,19-21; 2 Corinthians 13:5; Romans 8:10)
Question 55
What do you understand by "the communion of saints"?
Answer 55
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 John 1:3; 1 Corinthians 1:9; Romans 8:32; 1 Corinthians 12:12,13; 1 Corinthians 6:17) 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. (1 Corinthians 12:21; 1 Corinthians 13:1,5; Philippians 2:4-8)
Question 56
What believest thou concerning "the forgiveness of sins"?
Answer 56
That God, for the sake of Christ's satisfaction, will no more remember my sins, neither my corrupt nature, against which I have to struggle all my life long; (1 John 2:2; 1 John 1:7; 2 Corinthians 5:19,21) but will graciously impute to me the righteousness of Christ, (Jeremiah 31:34; Psalms 103:3,4; Psalms 103:10,12; Micah 7:19,23-25) that I may never be condemned before the tribunal of God. (Romans 8:1-4; John 3:18; John 5:24)
Question 57
What comfort does the "resurrection of the body" afford thee?
Answer 57
That not only my soul after this life shall be immediately taken up to Christ its head; (Luke 16:22; Luke 23:43; Philippians 1:21,23) 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. (1 Corinthians 15:53,54; Job 19:25,26; 1 John 3:2; Philippians 3:21)
Question 58
What comfort takest thou from the article of "life everlasting"?
Answer 58
That since I now feel in my heart the beginning of eternal joy, (2 Corinthians 5:2,3) after this life, I shall inherit perfect salvation, which "eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither has it entered into the heart of man" to conceive, and that to praise God therein for ever. (1 Corinthians 2:9; John 17:3)
Question 59
But what does it profit thee now that thou believest all this?
Answer 59
That I am righteous in Christ, before God, and an heir of eternal life. (Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1:17; John 3:36)
Question 60
How are thou righteous before God?
Answer 60
Only by a true faith in Jesus Christ; (Romans 3:21-25,28; Romans 5:1,2; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8,9; Philippians 3:9) so that, though my conscience accuse me, that I have grossly transgressed all the commandments of God, and kept none of them, (Romans 3:9) and am still inclined to all evil; (Romans 7:23) notwithstanding, God, without any merit of mine, (Titus 3:5; Deuteronomy 9:6; 36:22) but only of mere grace, (Romans 3:24; Ephesians 2:8) grants and imputes to me, (Romans 4:4,5; 2 Corinthians 5:19) the perfect satisfaction, (1 John 2:2) righteousness and holiness of Christ; (1 John 2:1) 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; (2 Corinthians 5:21) inasmuch as I embrace such benefit with a believing heart. (Romans 3:22; John 3:18)
Question 61
Why sayest thou, that thou art righteous by faith only?
Answer 61
Not that I am acceptable to God, on account of the worthiness of my faith; but because only the satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ, is my righteousness before God; (1 Corinthians 1:30; 1 Corinthians 2:2) and that I cannot receive and apply the same to myself any other way than by faith only. (1 John 5:10)
Question 62
But why cannot our good works be the whole, or part of our righteousness before God?
Answer 62
Because, that the righteousness, which can be approved of before the tribunal of God, must be absolutely perfect, (Galatians 3:10; Deuteronomy 27:26) and in all respects conformable to the divine law; and also, that our best works in this life are all imperfect and defiled with sin. (Isaiah 64:6)
Question 63
What! do not our good works merit, which yet God will reward in this and in a future life?
Answer 63
This reward is not of merit, but of grace. (Luke 17:10)
Question 64
But does not this doctrine make men careless and profane?
Answer 64
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. (Matthew 7:18; John 15:5)
Question 65
Since then we are made partakers of Christ and all his benefits by faith only, whence does this faith proceed?
Answer 65
From the Holy Ghost, (Ephesians 2:8,9; Ephesians 6:23; John 3:5; Philippians 1:29) who works faith in our hearts by the preaching of the gospel, and confirms it by the use of the sacraments. (Matthew 28:19,20; 1 Peter 1:22,23)
Question 66
What are the sacraments?
Answer 66
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, viz., 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. (Genesis 17:11; Romans 4:11; Deuteronomy 30:6; Leviticus 6:25; Hebrews 9:7-9,24; 20:12; Isaiah 6:6,7; Isaiah 54:9)
Question 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? (Rom.6:3; Gal.3:27)
Answer 67
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.
Question 68
How many sacraments has Christ instituted in the new covenant, or testament?
Answer 68
Two: namely, holy baptism, and the holy supper.
Question 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?
Answer 69
Thus: That Christ appointed this external washing with water, (Matthew 28:19) adding thereto this promise, (Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38; Matthew 3:11; Mark 16:16; John 1:33; Romans 6:3,4) that I am as certainly washed by his blood and Spirit from all the pollution of my soul, that is, from all my sins, (1 Peter 3:21; Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3) as I am washed externally with water, by which the filthiness of the body is commonly washed away.
Question 70
What is it to be washed with the blood and Spirit of Christ?
Answer 70
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; (Hebrews 12:24; 1 Peter 1:2; Revelation 1:5; Revelation 7:14; 13:1; 36:25) 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. (John 1:33; John 3:5; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12)
Question 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?
Answer 71
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", Matt 28:19. And "he that believeth, and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not, shall be damned.", Mark 16:16. This promise is also repeated, where the scripture calls baptism "the washing of regenerations" and the washing away of sins. Tit 3:5, Acts 22:16. (Titus 3:5; Acts 22:16)
Question 72
Is then the external baptism with water the washing away of sin itself?
Answer 72
Not at all: (Matthew 3:11; 1 Peter 3:21; Ephesians 5:26,27) for the blood of Jesus Christ only, and the Holy Ghost cleanse us from all sin. (1 John 1:7; 1 Corinthians 6:11)
Question 73
Why then does the Holy Ghost call baptism "the washing of regeneration," and "the washing away of sins"?
Answer 73
God speaks thus not without great cause, to-wit, not only thereby to teach us, that as the filth of the body is purged away by water, so our sins are removed by the blood and Spirit of Jesus Christ; (Revelation 1:5; Revelation 7:14; 1 Corinthians 6:11) but especially that by this divine pledge and sign he may assure us, that we are spiritually cleansed from our sins as really, as we are externally washed with water. (Mark 16:16; Galatians 3:27)
Question 74
Are infants also to be baptized?
Answer 74
Yes: for since they, as well as the adult, are included in the covenant and church of God; (Genesis 17:7) and since redemption from sin (Matthew 19:14) by the blood of Christ, and the Holy Ghost, the author of faith, is promised to them no less than to the adult; (Luke 1:15; Psalms 22:10; Isaiah 44:1-3; Acts 2:39) 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 (Acts 10:47) as was done in the old covenant or testament by circumcision, (Genesis 17:14) instead of which baptism is instituted (Colossians 2:11-13) in the new covenant.
Question 75
How art thou admonished and assured in the Lord's Supper, that thou art a partaker of that one sacrifice of Christ, accomplished on the cross, and of all his benefits?
Answer 75
Thus: That Christ has commanded me and all believers, to eat of this broken bread, and to drink of this cup, in remembrance of him, adding these promises: (Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; Luke 22:19,20; 1 Corinthians 10:16,17; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25; 1 Corinthians 12:13) first, that his body was offered and broken on the cross for me, and his blood shed for me, as certainly as I see with my eyes, the bread of the Lord broken for me, and the cup communicated to me; and further, that he feeds and nourishes my soul to everlasting life, with his crucified body and shed blood, as assuredly as I receive from the hands of the minister, and taste with my mouth the bread and cup of the Lord, as certain signs of the body and blood of Christ.
Question 76
What is it then to eat the crucified body, and drink the shed blood of Christ?
Answer 76
It is not only to embrace with believing heart all the sufferings and death of Christ and thereby to obtain the pardon of sin, and life eternal; (John 6:35,40,47-54) but also, besides that, to become more and more united to his sacred body, (John 6:55,56) by the Holy Ghost, who dwells both in Christ and in us; so that we, though Christ is in heaven (Colossians 3:1; Acts 3:21; 1 Corinthians 11:26) and we on earth, are notwithstanding "flesh of his flesh and bone of his bone" (Ephesians 3:16; Ephesians 5:29,30,32; 1 Corinthians 6:15,17,19; 1 John 3:24; 1 John 4:13; John 14:23) and that we live, and are governed forever by one spirit, (John 6:56-58; John 15:1-6; Ephesians 4:15,16) as members of the same body are by one soul.
Question 77
Where has Christ promised that he will as certainly feed and nourish believers with his body and bleed, as they eat of this broken bread, and drink of this cup?
Answer 77
In the institution of the supper, which is thus expressed: (1 Corinthians 11:23-25; Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; Luke 22:19,20; 1 Corinthians 10:16,17) "The Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and: said: eat, this is my body, which is broken for you; this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying: this cup is the new testament in my blood; this do ye, as often as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For, as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come." 1Cor 11:23-26.This promise is repeated by the holy apostle Paul, where he says "The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread." 1Cor 10:16,17.
Question 78
Do then the bread and wine become the very body and blood of Christ?
Answer 78
Not at all: (Matthew 26:29) but as the water in baptism is not changed into the blood of Christ, neither is the washing away of sin itself, being only the sign and confirmation thereof appointed of God; (Ephesians 5:26; Titus 3:5) so the bread in the Lord's supper is not changed into the very body of Christ; (Mark 14:24; 1 Corinthians 10:16,17,26-28) though agreeably to the nature and properties of sacraments, (Genesis 17:10,11,14,19; 12:11,13,27,43,48; 13:9; 1 Peter 3:21; 1 Corinthians 10:1-4) it is called the body of Christ Jesus.
Question 79
Why then doth Christ call the bread "his body", and the cup "his blood", or "the new covenant in his blood"; and Paul the "communion of body and blood of Christ"?
Answer 79
Christ speaks thus, not without great reason, namely, not only thereby to teach us, that as bread and wine support this temporal life, so his crucified body and shed blood are the true meat and drink, whereby our souls are fed to eternal life; (John 6:51,55) but more especially by these visible signs and pledges to assure us, that we are as really partakers of his true body and blood by the operation of the Holy Ghost as we receive by the mouths of our bodies these holy signs in remembrance of him; (1 Corinthians 10:16,17) and that all his sufferings and obedience are as certainly ours, as if we had in our own persons suffered and made satisfaction for our sins to God.
Question 80
What difference is there between the Lord's supper and the popish mass?
Answer 80
The Lord's supper testifies to us, that we have a full pardon of all sin by the only sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which he himself has once accomplished on the cross; (Hebrews 7:27; Hebrews 9:12,25-28; Hebrews 10:10,12-14; John 19:30; Matthew 26:28; Luke 22:19,20) and, that we by the Holy Ghost are ingrafted into Christ, (1 Corinthians 6:17; 1 Corinthians 10:16) who, according to his human nature is now not on earth, but in heaven, at the right hand of God his Father, (Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 8:1,2; John 20:17) and will there be worshipped by us. (Matthew 6:20,21; John 4:21-24; Luke 24:52; Acts 7:55,56; Colossians 3:1; Philippians 3:20,21; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; Hebrews 9:6-10) But the mass teaches, that the living and dead have not the pardon of sins through the sufferings of Christ, unless Christ is also daily offered for them by the priests; and further, that Christ is bodily under the form of bread and wine, and therefore is to be worshipped in them; so that the mass, at bottom, is nothing else than a denial of the one sacrifice and sufferings of Jesus Christ, and an accursed idolatry. (Hebrews 9:26; Hebrews 10:12,14,19-31)
Question 81
For whom is the Lord's supper instituted?
Answer 81
For those who are truly sorrowful for their sins, and yet trust that these are forgiven them for the sake of Christ; and that their remaining infirmities are covered by his passion and death; and who also earnestly desire to have their faith more and more strengthened, and their lives more holy; but hypocrites, and such as turn not to God with sincere hearts, eat and drink judgment to themselves. (1 Corinthians 10:19-22; 1 Corinthians 11:28,29)
Question 82
Are they also to be admitted to this supper, who, by confession and life, declare themselves unbelieving and ungodly?
Answer 82
No; for by this, the covenant of God would be profaned, and his wrath kindled against the whole congregation; (1 Corinthians 11:20,34; Isaiah 1:11-15; Isaiah 66:3; Jeremiah 7:21-23; Psalms 50:16) therefore it is the duty of the christian church, according to the appointment of Christ and his apostles, to exclude such persons, by the keys of the kingdom of heaven, till they show amendment of life.
Question 83
What are the keys of the kingdom of heaven?
Answer 83
The preaching of the holy gospel, and christian discipline, or excommunication out of the christian church; by these two, the kingdom of heaven is opened to believers, and shut against unbelievers.
Question 84
How is the kingdom of heaven opened and shut by the preaching of the holy gospel?
Answer 84
Thus: when according to the command of Christ, it is declared and publicly testified to all and every believer, that, whenever they receive the promise of the gospel by a true faith, all their sins are really forgiven them of God, for the sake of Christ's merits; and on the contrary, when it is declared and testified to all unbelievers, and such as do not sincerely repent, that they stand exposed to the wrath of God, and eternal condemnation, so long as they are unconverted: (Matthew 16:18,19; Matthew 18:15-19; John 20:21-23) according to which testimony of the gospel, God will judge them, both in this, and in the life to come.
Question 85
How is the kingdom of heaven shut and opened by christian discipline?
Answer 85
Thus: when according to the command of Christ, those, who under the name of christians, maintain doctrines, or practices inconsistent therewith, and will not, after having been often brotherly admonished, renounce their errors and wicked course of life, are complained of to the church, or to those, who are thereunto appointed by the church; and if they despise their admonition, are by them forbidden the use of the sacraments; whereby they are excluded from the christian church, and by God himself from the kingdom of Christ; and when they promise and show real amendment, are again received as members of Christ and his church. (Matthew 18:15-18; 1 Corinthians 5:2-5,11; 2 Thessalonians 3:14,15; 2 Corinthians 2:6-8)
Question 86
Since then we are delivered from our misery, merely of grace, through Christ, without any merit of ours, why must we still do good works?
Answer 86
Because Christ, having redeemed and delivered us by his blood, also renews us by his Holy Spirit, after his own image; that so we may testify, by the whole of our conduct, our gratitude to God for his blessings, (Romans 6:13; Romans 12:1,2; 1 Peter 2:5,9,10; 1 Corinthians 6:20) and that he may be praised by us; (Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12; 1 Peter 1:6,7) also, that every one may be assured in himself of his faith, (2 Peter 1:10; Matthew 7:17; Galatians 5:6,22,23) by the fruits thereof; and that, by our godly conversation others may be gained to Christ. (1 Peter 3:1,2; Romans 14:19)
Question 87
Cannot they then be saved, who, continuing in their wicked and ungrateful lives, are not converted to God?
Answer 87
By no means; for the holy scripture declares that no unchaste person, idolater, adulterer, thief, covetous man, drunkard, slanderer, robber, or any such like, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 6:9,10; Ephesians 5:5,6; 1 John 3:14)
Question 88
Of how many parts does the true conversion of man consist?
Answer 88
Of two parts; of the mortification of the old, and the quickening of the new man. (Romans 6:1,4-6; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:5-10; 1 Corinthians 5:7; 2 Corinthians 7:10)
Question 89
What is the mortification of the old man?
Answer 89
It is a sincere sorrow of heart, that we have provoked God by our sins; and more and more to hate and flee from them. (Romans 8:13; Joel 2:13; Hosea 6:1)
Question 90
What is the quickening of the new man?
Answer 90
It is a sincere joy of heart in God, through Christ, (Romans 5:1; Romans 14:17; Isaiah 57:15) and with love and delight to live according to the will of God in all good works. (Romans 6:10,11; Galatians 2:20)
Question 91
But what are good works?
Answer 91
Only those which proceed from a true faith, (Romans 14:23) are performed according to the law of God, (Leviticus 18:4; 15:22; Ephesians 2:10) and to his glory; (1 Corinthians 10:31) and not such as are founded on our imaginations, or the institutions of men. (Deuteronomy 12:32; 20:18,19; Isaiah 29:13; Matthew 15:7-9)
Question 92
What is the law of God?
Answer 92
God spake all these words, Exodus 20:1-17 and Denteronomy 5:6-21, saying: I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.1st commandment: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.2nd commandment: Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them; for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me, and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.3rd commandment: Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.4th commandment: Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates. For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.5th commandment: Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.6th commandment: Thou shalt not kill.7th commandment: Thou shalt not commit adultery.8th commandment: Thou shalt not steal.9th commandment: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.10th commandment: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's.
Question 93
How are these commandments divided?
Answer 93
Into two tables; ( 34:28; Deuteronomy 4:13; Deuteronomy 10:3,4) the first of which teaches us how we must behave towards God; the second, what duties we owe to our neighbour. (Matthew 22:37-40)
Question 94
What does God enjoin in the first commandment?
Answer 94
That I, as sincerely as I desire the salvation of my own soul, avoid and flee from all idolatry, (1 John 5:21; 1 Corinthians 6:9,10;
