On the Trail of the Reformation - Number One

        Catechisms are a different subject to write upon, but they were an integral part of the Reformation.  Having had a good conversation with a friend about catechisms has helped me formulate my thoughts, which are based upon Scripture and history, into this post.

Catechisms Are a Tool Whereby We Can Clearly Understand and Articulate the Doctrines of the Faith

          The picture on the right of this post is of a part of Heidelburg Castle, Germany.  On the trip to Europe earlier this year, we stopped by this important site where the doctrines of the Reformation were beautifully thought out and put down in what we know today as the Heidelburg Catechism.  It was in 1562 that the Elector Frederick III, who was ruler of the Palatinate, commissioned two young men, whose names were Caspar Olevianus and Zacharias Ursinus to write a catechism to put an end to disputes in his kingdom.  Making use of many documents available at the time, they succeeded in completing a finished draft of it by the end of 1562.  Once approved by members of the Palatinate, it was published in 1563, and even having gone through many editions, the catechism still retains its intended ability and purpose - to explain the Reformed doctrines in a clear and simple, yet rich and full, way.

      Which brings me to the one thing which I would like to point out.  Catechisms are, I believe, one of the best ways to thoroughly and concisely be able understand and share the doctrines of the Faith - with everyone.  When I am asked about theology, one of the first things that pops into my head is a relating question from the catechism.  Knowing a catechism is one of the most useful things to have - both to defend the faith and to understand key doctrinal theology.  So learn theology through a catechism and you will have a good foundation to understanding and confidently sharing the whole Gospel.

Written and posted by William A Moore