Publisher's Synopsis
The church has always given instruction in the truth of the gospel. One of the ways that this has been done has been through the use of catechisms. Two of the most influential catechisms are the Heidelberg Catechism (1563) and the Westminster Catechism (1648). They arose out of different situations and had different purposes, but for Christians, particularly within the Reformed tradition, they have had considerable impact. The Heidelberg Catechism was published within the context of church life. Its contents are divided into fifty-two sections, so that one section might be learned and studied each Lord's Day. There is a personal tone that focuses the reader not just on doctrine, but also on the personal application of that doctrine. Each question is personal, addressed to "you." This reminds us that truth must be applied in the believer's heart as well as being understood in his mind. Each answer draws heavily on biblical language. This reminds us that what we believe must be grounded in Scripture. The overall tone is gentle. We would do well to model this in our own day, when contending for the truth is often done in a way that is hurtful rather than edifying. The Westminster Catechism was produced three generations after the Heidelberg Catechism, and reflected developments in Reformed theology in the intervening years. Unlike the Heidelberg Catechism, which was basically the work of two men, the Westminster Catechism was the work of committees of ministers and theologians. This gives it a slightly less pastoral tone than the Heidelberg Catechism. If the twin themes in the Heidelberg Catechism are the comfort and joy of the Christian, then in the Westminster Catechism they are the glorification and enjoyment of God. This is not to say that the former catechism is centered on man and the latter focused on God, but there is a difference in emphasis that is maintained throughout both. Now both historic documents are found together in this one LUMEN Classics volume.
