Archive for the 'Heidelberg Catechism' Category

Heidelberg Q. 21 – What is true faith?

Try reading through this question and answer twice.  The first time read to get a feel for it.  The second time read with rhythm and expression.

Q. 21 – What is true faith?

A. True faith is

not only a knowledge and conviction

that everything God reveals in his Word is true;

it is also a deep-rooted assurance,

created in me by the Holy Spirit through the gospel,

that, out of sheer grace earned for us by Christ,

not only others, but I too,

have had my sins forgiven,

have been made forever right with God,

had have been granted salvation.

What is the Christian’s only comfort in life and death?

One of the most beautiful doctrinal statements ever written is the first question and answer of the Heidelberg catechism. Perhaps, read this aloud to your family at dinner time.

Heidelberg Question 1. What is thy only comfort in life and death?

Answer: That I with body and soul, both in life and death, (a) am not my own, (b) but belong unto my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ; (c) who, with his precious blood, has fully satisfied for all my sins, (d) and delivered me from all the power of the devil; (e) and so preserves me (f) that without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall from my head; (g) yea, that all things must be subservient to my salvation, (h) and therefore, by his Holy Spirit, He also assures me of eternal life, (i) and makes me sincerely willing and ready, henceforth, to live unto him. (j)

What does that little word “Amen” express?

Heidelberg Question 129. What does that little word “Amen express”?

Answer: Amen means,

This is to be sure!

It is even more sure that God listens to my prayer, than that I really desire what I pray for.