This is a modern-English version of Luther's Small Catechism Explained in Questions and Answers, originally written by Sverdrup, Harald Ulrik.
It has been thoroughly updated, including changes to sentence structure, words, spelling,
and grammar—to ensure clarity for contemporary readers, while preserving the original spirit and nuance. If
you click on a paragraph, you will see the original text that we modified, and you can toggle between the two versions.
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Luther's
Small CatechismLuther's Small Catechism
Small Catechism
Explained in Questions and Answers
BY
H. U. Sverdrup,
Late Pastor in the Church of Norway.
ABRIDGED
Translated from the Norwegian
By H. A. URSETH
THIRD EDITION
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.
THE FREE CHURCH BOOK CONCERN
1906.
COPYRIGHTED BY
The Free Church Book ConcernThe Free Church Book Store
1900.
PREFACE.
In 1897 the present publishers issued in Norwegian an Explanation of Luther's Small Catechism by Pastor H. U. Sverdrup, being an abridged edition of a larger work by the same author, based on Dr. Pontoppidan's Explanation of the Catechism. Some alterations were made in the answers to questions 244–252. The present work is a translation of this abridged and slightly altered edition.
In 1897, the current publishers released a Norwegian version of an Explanation of Luther's Small Catechism by Pastor H. U. Sverdrup. This was an abbreviated version of a larger work by the same author, based on Dr. Pontoppidan's Explanation of the Catechism. Some changes were made to the answers for questions 244–252. This work is a translation of that condensed and slightly modified edition.
A literal translation has been avoided rather than sought; an attempt has been made to render the original in the simplest and strongest English, and to avoid words and expressions with which the young are little familiar.
A direct translation has been avoided instead of pursued; an effort has been made to express the original in the simplest and most powerful English, while steering clear of words and phrases that the young may not be very familiar with.
In the catechism proper the Standard English Catechism Version has been followed when it did not interfere with the plan stated above. But departures have been made reluctantly and only when simplicity and clearness seemed to be gained thereby. It is not thought that these few changes will cause any disturbance.
In the catechism itself, the Standard English Catechism Version has been used when it didn’t conflict with the plan explained earlier. However, changes were made hesitantly and only when it appeared that simplicity and clarity were improved as a result. It’s not believed that these few changes will cause any issues.
Scripture quotations have been added somewhat freely from the larger edition.
Scripture quotes have been added more liberally from the larger edition.
As the needs of our English speaking young people have been constantly borne in mind during the preparation of this translation, it is hoped that the book may not fail to carry some blessing to them.
As we've kept in mind the needs of young English speakers while preparing this translation, we hope the book will bring them some blessings.
Luther's Small Catechism.Luther's Small Catechism.
PART ONE.
THE TEN COMMANDMENTS.
THE FIRST COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
You shall have no other gods before me.
That is,
That’s
We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things.
We should fear, love, and trust God above everything else.
THE SECOND 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.
You shall not use the name of the Lord your God carelessly, because the Lord will not leave unpunished anyone who uses His name in vain.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and not curse, swear, conjure, lie, or deceive by His name, but call upon His name in every time of need, and worship Him with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.
We should fear and love God, and not curse, swear, conjure, lie, or deceive using His name, but call on His name in every time of need, and worship Him with prayer, praise, and gratitude.
THE THIRD COMMANDMENT.
Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.
Keep the Sabbath day special and make it holy.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and not despise or neglect His Word, but deem it holy and gladly hear and learn it.
We should respect and love God, not ignore or overlook His Word, but consider it sacred and happily listen to and learn from it.
THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT.
Honor thy father and thy mother, that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
Honor your father and your mother, so that things may go well for you, and you may live a long life on the earth.
That is,
That’s
We should fear and love God, and not despise or give offense to our parents or superiors; but honor, serve, obey, love, and esteem them.
We should both respect and love God, and not disrespect or offend our parents or those in authority; instead, we should honor, serve, obey, love, and value them.
THE FIFTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not kill.
You shall not kill.
That is,
That’s
We should fear and love God, and not hurt or harm our neighbor in his body, but help and befriend him in all bodily distress.
We should respect and love God, and not hurt or harm our neighbor physically, but help and support them in all physical difficulties.
THE SIXTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
You shall not commit adultery.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and live a chaste and pure life, in words and deeds, husband and wife loving and honoring each other.
We should respect and love God, and live a chaste and pure life, in our words and actions, with husband and wife cherishing and honoring each other.
THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not steal.
You shall not steal.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and not take our neighbor's money or property, nor get it by unfair dealing or other dishonesty, but help him to improve and protect his property and living.
We should respect and love God, and not take our neighbor's money or property, nor obtain it through unfair means or dishonesty, but instead assist him in improving and safeguarding his property and livelihood.
THE EIGHTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
You shall not lie about your neighbor.
That is,
That's it,
We should fear and love God, and not tell lies about our neighbor, nor betray, slander, or defame him; but excuse him, speak well of him, and look upon all his acts as well-meant.
We should have respect and love for God, and not tell lies about our neighbor, nor betray, slander, or defame them; instead, we should excuse them, speak positively about them, and view all their actions as well-intentioned.
THE NINTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house.
You shall not covet your neighbor's house.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and not by deceit or craft seek to gain our neighbor's inheritance or home, nor try to get it though we seem to have some right thereto, but help him to keep his own.
We should fear and love God, and not try to deceitfully or cunningly take our neighbor's inheritance or home, nor attempt to get it even if we think we have some right to it, but help him keep what is his.
THE TENTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his cattle, nor anything that is his.
You shall not desire your neighbor's wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his cattle, nor anything that belongs to him.
That is,
That’s
We should fear and love God, and not estrange, force, or entice away from our neighbor, his wife, servants, or cattle, but urge them to stay and do their duty.
We should both respect and love God, and not alienate, coerce, or lure away from our neighbor, his wife, servants, or livestock, but encourage them to remain and fulfill their responsibilities.
What does God say of all his commandments?
What does God say about all his commandments?
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 showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
I the Lord your God am a jealous God, punishing the sins of the parents on the children to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me; but showing mercy to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments.
That is,
That's
God threatens to punish all who transgress these commandments; we should therefore fear His wrath, and do nothing against them.
God warns that He will punish anyone who breaks these commandments; we should, therefore, be afraid of His anger and avoid doing anything that goes against them.
On the other hand He promises grace and every blessing to all who keep these commandments; we should therefore love Him and trust in Him, and gladly do according to His commandments.
On the other hand, He promises grace and every blessing to everyone who follows these commandments; we should therefore love Him, trust in Him, and willingly obey His commandments.
PART TWO.
THE THREE ARTICLES OF THE CREED.
THE FIRST ARTICLE.
CONCERNING CREATION.
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
That is,
That’s
I believe that God has made me and all other creatures; that He has given me body and soul, eyes, ears, and all other members, my reason, and all my senses.
I believe that God has created me and all other beings; that He has given me a body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my other parts, my intellect, and all my senses.
I also believe that He preserves all He has made, and that He daily provides me with all I need, giving me clothing and food, home and family, and every good thing.
I also believe that He takes care of everything He has created and that He gives me what I need every day, providing me with clothes and food, a home and family, and all good things.
I further believe that He protects me from all danger, and keeps me from all evil; not because I have deserved it, but because He is a loving and merciful Father.
I also believe that He protects me from all danger and keeps me from all harm; not because I’ve earned it, but because He is a loving and merciful Father.
For all these blessings it is my duty to serve Him thankfully and obediently all the days of my life.
For all these blessings, it's my responsibility to serve Him with gratitude and obedience every day of my life.
All this is certainly true.
This is definitely true.
THE SECOND ARTICLE.
CONCERNING REDEMPTION.
I believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary; suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into hell; the third day He arose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from whence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary; suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; He went down to hell; on the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from there He will come to judge the living and the dead.
That is,
That's
I believe that Jesus Christ is true God, begotten of the Father from eternity; I also believe that He is true man, born of the Virgin Mary; that He is my Lord, who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned sinner; who has freed me from sin, from death, and from the power of Satan, not with gold or silver but with His holy and precious blood and His innocent death.
I believe that Jesus Christ is the true God, born of the Father from eternity; I also believe that He is fully man, born of the Virgin Mary; that He is my Lord who has saved me, a lost and condemned sinner; who has freed me from sin, death, and the power of Satan, not with gold or silver but with His holy and precious blood and His innocent death.
All this He has done that I might be His own, and that I might serve Him in righteousness, innocence, and happiness, and live and reign with Him in His kingdom forever, even as He arose from the dead, lives and reigns through all eternity.
All of this He has done so that I can be His own, and so that I can serve Him in righteousness, innocence, and happiness, and live and reign with Him in His kingdom forever, just as He rose from the dead, lives, and reigns for all eternity.
All this is certainly true.
This is definitely true.
THE THIRD ARTICLE.
CONCERNING SANCTIFICATION.
I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy Christian church, the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and life everlasting. Amen.
I believe in the Holy Spirit; the holy Christian church, the fellowship of believers; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and everlasting life. Amen.
That is,
That's
I believe that I cannot through my own strength believe in Jesus Christ my Lord, or come to Him. This is the work of the Holy Spirit alone, who has called me through the gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, and sanctified and preserved me in the true faith;
I believe that I can’t, on my own, have faith in Jesus Christ my Lord or come to Him. This is the work of the Holy Spirit alone, who has called me through the gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, and kept me in the true faith;
Even as he calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and preserves it in fellowship with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.
Even as he calls, gathers, enlightens, and makes holy the entire Christian church on earth, and keeps it united with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.
In this Christian church He daily forgives me and all believers all our sins, and He will raise up me and all the dead on the last day, and will give me and all believers everlasting life.
In this Christian church, He forgives me and all believers our sins every day, He will raise me and all the dead on the last day, and He will grant me and all believers everlasting life.
All this is certainly true.
This is definitely true.
PART THREE.
THE LORD'S PRAYER.
Our Father who art in heaven.
Our Father who is in heaven.
That is,
That's it,
God would hereby tenderly invite us to believe that He is truly our Father, and we are truly His children, so that we may ask of Him with all cheerfulness and confidence, as dear children ask of their dear father.
God is kindly inviting us to believe that He is truly our Father, and we are genuinely His children, so that we can ask Him with all cheerfulness and confidence, just like beloved children ask their dear father.
THE FIRST PETITION.
Hallowed be Thy name.
Blessed be Your name.
That is,
That's it,
The name of God is indeed holy in itself; but we pray in this petition that it may be hallowed also among us.
The name of God is truly holy on its own; but in this prayer, we ask that it may be made holy among us as well.
This is done when the Word of God is rightly taught, and when we as the children of God live holy lives in obedience to the Word. This grant us, heavenly Father.
This happens when the Word of God is taught correctly and when we, as God's children, live holy lives in accordance with the Word. Please grant us this, heavenly Father.
THE SECOND PETITION.
Thy kingdom come.
Your kingdom come.
That is,
That’s
The kingdom of God comes indeed of itself, without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it may come also to us.
The kingdom of God comes on its own, without our prayer, but we pray in this request that it may also come to us.
This is done when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by His grace we believe the Word of God, and live holy and Christ-like lives here in time, and in heaven forever.
This happens when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by His grace we believe in the Word of God and live holy, Christ-like lives on earth and in heaven forever.
THE THIRD PETITION.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
That is,
That's
The good and gracious will of God is done indeed without our prayer; but we pray in this petition that it may be done also among us.
The good and gracious will of God is done even without our prayers; but we pray in this petition that it may also be done among us.
This is done when God brings to nothing all evil plans and purposes of the devil, the world, and our own flesh, that would hinder the hallowing of His name and the coming of His kingdom.
This happens when God nullifies all evil schemes and intentions of the devil, the world, and our own desires that could obstruct the sanctification of His name and the arrival of His kingdom.
On the other hand, it is the good and gracious will of God to strengthen us and keep us steadfast in His Word and in faith, until death.
On the other hand, it is God's kind and generous will to support us and keep us firm in His Word and in faith, until death.
THE FOURTH PETITION.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Give us today our daily bread.
That is,
That's it,
God gives daily bread indeed without our prayer even to the wicked; but we pray in this petition that He would help us to appreciate His benefits, that we may receive our daily bread with thanksgiving.
God provides daily bread even to the wicked without our prayers; but with this request, we ask Him to help us appreciate His blessings, so we can receive our daily bread with gratitude.
By daily bread is meant all those things which are needed for our support and well-being in life, as food and clothing, home and property, happy family relations, a good government, favorable weather, peace and health, faithful friends, good neighbors, and the like.
By "daily bread," we mean everything needed for our support and well-being in life, like food and clothing, shelter and belongings, happy family relationships, good governance, nice weather, peace and health, loyal friends, good neighbors, and similar things.
THE FIFTH PETITION.
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And forgive us our wrongs, just as we forgive those who wrong us.
That is,
That's
We pray in this petition that our Father in heaven would not look upon our sins, nor, on account of them, deny our prayer, for we are not worthy of anything we ask, neither have we deserved it; but we pray that He would give it to us out of His mercy; for we sin every day, and deserve nothing but punishment.
We ask in this prayer that our Father in heaven won't focus on our sins or deny our requests because of them. We aren't worthy of what we ask for, nor have we earned it; instead, we hope He will provide for us out of His mercy, as we sin every day and deserve nothing but punishment.
And we on our part will heartily forgive those who have sinned against us, and return good for evil.
And we, for our part, will genuinely forgive those who have wronged us and respond to evil with kindness.
THE SIXTH PETITION.
And lead us not into temptation.
And don't let us fall into temptation.
That is,
That’s
God indeed tempts no one, but we pray in this petition that He would guard and keep us from the devil, the world, and our own flesh, that we fall not, through their deceit, into unbelief, despair, or other sins; but we pray that although we be thus tempted, we may overcome the temptation, and remain victorious.
God doesn't actually tempt anyone, but in this request, we ask Him to protect us from the devil, the world, and our own weaknesses, so we don't fall into unbelief, despair, or other sins because of their deception. We also pray that even though we face these temptations, we can overcome them and come out on top.
THE SEVENTH PETITION.
But deliver us from evil.
But save us from evil.
That is,
That's
We pray in this petition, in general, that our Father in heaven would deliver us from all evil, affecting body and soul, property and honor, and at last grant us a blessed end, and graciously take us from this world of sorrow to Himself in heaven.
We ask in this request, in general, that our Father in heaven would protect us from all evil that impacts our bodies and souls, our belongings and our dignity, and finally grant us a blessed end, and kindly take us from this sorrowful world to be with Him in heaven.
What are the closing words of the Lord's Prayer?
What are the final words of the Lord's Prayer?
For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
For Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
That is,
That's
We should remember that God is able to answer our prayer, and that the glory belongs to Him alone, when we get according to our prayer.
We should remember that God can answer our prayers, and that the glory belongs to Him alone when we receive what we ask for.
Why is the word "Amen" added?
Why is the word "Amen" included?
It is added in order that I may be fully assured that these petitions are acceptable to our Father in heaven, and are heard by Him.
It’s included so that I can be completely confident that these requests are pleasing to our Father in heaven and are heard by Him.
PART FOUR.
THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM.
What is Baptism?
What is baptism?
Baptism is not water alone, but it is water comprehended in God's command, and united with His Word.
Baptism isn't just water; it's water understood through God's command and combined with His Word.
What is God's command concerning Baptism?
What does God say about Baptism?
It is given in the words of Christ in the last chapter of Matthew:
It is stated in the words of Christ in the last chapter of Matthew:
"Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."
"So go and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit."
What benefit do we have from Baptism?
What benefit do we get from Baptism?
Baptism works the forgiveness of sins, delivers from death and the devil, and gives everlasting life to all who believe what the Word and promises of God declare.
Baptism brings the forgiveness of sins, frees us from death and the devil, and offers eternal life to everyone who believes in what God's Word and promises say.
What is God's promise concerning Baptism?
What is God's promise about Baptism?
It is given in the words of Christ in the sixteenth chapter of Mark:
It is stated in the words of Christ in the sixteenth chapter of Mark:
"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be condemned."
"Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; but whoever does not believe will be condemned."
How can water do such great things?
How can water do such amazing things?
It is not water indeed that does it, but the Word of God, which is in and with the water, and faith which trusts this Word of God in the water.
It isn’t just water that does the job; it’s the Word of God that’s present in and with the water, along with the faith that believes in this Word of God in the water.
For without the Word of God, the water is water alone, and no Baptism. But with the Word of God it is a Baptism, that is, a gracious water of life and a washing of regeneration in the Holy Ghost; as Paul says in the third chapter of the epistle to Titus:
For without the Word of God, the water is just water, and there's no Baptism. But with the Word of God, it becomes a Baptism, which is a wonderful water of life and a renewal through the Holy Spirit; as Paul states in the third chapter of the letter to Titus:
"According to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior; that being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life."
"According to His mercy, He saved us through the washing of rebirth and the renewal of the Holy Spirit, which He generously poured out on us through Jesus Christ our Savior. So that, having been justified by His grace, we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life."
What does the baptizing with water signify?
What does being baptized with water mean?
It signifies that the old man in us should, by daily sorrow and repentance, be drowned and die, with all sins and evil desires; and again a new man daily appear more and more, who shall live before God in righteousness and purity forever.
It means that the old version of ourselves should, through daily sorrow and regret, be drowned and die, along with all our sins and bad desires; and instead, a new version of ourselves should emerge more and more each day, living before God in righteousness and purity forever.
PART FIVE.
THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD'S SUPPER.
What is the Lord's Supper?
What is Communion?
It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, under bread and wine, instituted by Christ Himself for Christians to eat and to drink.
It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, present in bread and wine, established by Christ Himself for Christians to eat and drink.
Repeat the Words of Institution.
Recite the Words of Institution.
"Our Lord Jesus Christ, in the night in which He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He brake it and gave it to His disciples, saying, Take, eat; this is my body, which is given for you; this do in remembrance of me.
"Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night He was betrayed, took bread. After giving thanks, He broke it and gave it to His disciples, saying, 'Take, eat; this is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.'
"After the same manner, also, when He had supped, He took the cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; this cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you, and for many, for the remission of sins; this do, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me."
"Similarly, after the meal, He took the cup, and when He had thanked God for it, He gave it to them, saying, Drink from it, all of you; this cup is the New Covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you and many, for the forgiveness of sins; do this as often as you drink it, in memory of me."
What benefit do we have from the Lord's Supper?
What do we gain from the Lord's Supper?
It is shown by these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins;" namely, that in the sacrament forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation are given us through these words. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.
It is shown by these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins;" meaning that in the sacrament, forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation are given to us through these words. Because where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.
How can bodily eating and drinking do such great things?
How can eating and drinking have such a significant impact?
It is not the eating and drinking, indeed, that does it, but the words which stand here: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins." These words, together with the bodily eating and drinking, are the chief thing in the sacrament; and He that believes these words, has what they say and mean, namely, the forgiveness of sins.
It’s not just about eating and drinking, but rather the words that are here: "Given and shed for you, for the forgiveness of sins." These words, along with the physical act of eating and drinking, are the most important part of the sacrament; and anyone who believes these words has what they convey and mean, which is the forgiveness of sins.
Who, then, receive this sacrament worthily?
So, who can receive this sacrament in a worthy manner?
Fasting and bodily preparation are indeed a good outward practise;
Fasting and getting the body ready are definitely a good outward practice;
But he alone is truly worthy and well prepared, who believes these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins."
But only he is truly worthy and well prepared, who believes these words: "Given and shed for you, for the forgiveness of sins."
But he who believes not these words is unworthy and unprepared. The words, "for you" require truly believing hearts.
But whoever doesn't believe these words is unworthy and unprepared. The words, "for you" require truly believing hearts.
INTRODUCTION.
1. What is God's will concerning man?
1. What does God want for humanity?
God willeth that all men should be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Tim. 2:4.
God wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Tim. 2:4.
2. Where does God show us how we may be saved?
2. Where does God show us how we can be saved?
In the holy Scriptures, also called the Bible.
In the holy Scriptures, also known as the Bible.
3. Who wrote the Bible?
3. Who authored the Bible?
The holy prophets, evangelists, and apostles wrote the Bible.
The holy prophets, evangelists, and apostles wrote the Bible.
4. But how can their word be the Word of God?
4. But how can their word be the Word of God?
The Spirit of God revealed to them what to speak and write.
The Spirit of God showed them what to say and write.
2 Pet. 1:21. [R. V.] Men spoke from God, being moved by the Holy Ghost.
2 Pet. 1:21. [R. V.] People spoke from God, inspired by the Holy Spirit.
2 Tim. 3:16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.
2 Tim. 3:16. Every scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, and for training in righteousness.
5. What must we do to experience personally that their word is the Word of God?
5. What do we need to do to personally experience that their message is the Word of God?
We must obey the Word and receive it into our hearts.
We need to follow the Word and take it to heart.
John 7:17. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
John 7:17. If anyone is willing to do his will, they will understand the teaching, whether it’s from God or if I’m speaking on my own.
6. Is the Bible then the only safe rule of our faith and duty?
6. Is the Bible the only reliable guide for our beliefs and responsibilities?
Yes; the Bible alone contains full information of the will of God concerning our salvation.
Yes; the Bible alone provides complete information about God's will regarding our salvation.
7. How do we rightly use the Word of God?
7. How do we properly use the Word of God?
We must first look to God for the light of His Spirit, and then read with devotion and an earnest purpose to live according to the Word.
We must first turn to God for the guidance of His Spirit, and then read with commitment and a sincere intention to live by the Word.
1 Cor. 2:14. [R. V.] The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him; and he cannot know them, because they are spiritually judged.
1 Cor. 2:14. [R. V.] The natural person doesn't accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they seem foolish to him; and he can't understand them because they are discerned spiritually.
8. Who should read the Bible?
8. Who should read the Bible?
It is the will of God that all should use His Word and love it as a dear gift.
It is God's desire that everyone should embrace His Word and cherish it as a precious gift.
9. What is the substance of all the books of the Bible?
9. What is the main message of all the books of the Bible?
The great truth that Jesus is the way to salvation for all who believe.
The important truth is that Jesus is the path to salvation for everyone who believes.
John 20:31. But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
John 20:31. But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that by believing you may have life in his name.
10. How is the Bible divided in regard to its teaching?
10. How is the Bible organized in terms of its teachings?
It is divided into Law and Gospel.
It is split into Law and Gospel.
11. What is the Law?
11. What’s the Law?
The Law is the divine Word which tells us what we must do.
The Law is the divine Word that guides us on what we need to do.
12. What is the Gospel?
12. What’s the Gospel?
The Gospel is the glad tidings of the grace of God in Jesus Christ our Savior.
The Gospel is the good news of God's grace in Jesus Christ our Savior.
PART ONE.
THE TEN COMMANDMENTS, OR THE LAW.
13. How has God given His law to us?
13. How has God given His law to us?
1. In the creation God wrote His Law in the heart of man. (Conscience.) Rom. 2:15.
1. God wrote His Law in the heart of humanity. (Conscience.) Rom. 2:15.
2. At Mount Sinai He gave His Law in the Ten Commandments, written on two tables of stone. Ex. 20:1–17.
2. At Mount Sinai, He provided His Law through the Ten Commandments, which were written on two stone tablets. Ex. 20:1–17.
14. Does this Law demand outward observance only?
14. Does this Law only require external compliance?
No; it demands the whole man, and the willing obedience of heart and mind.
No; it requires the full commitment of a person, along with the willing obedience of both heart and mind.
Luk. 10:27. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind.
Luke 10:27. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind.
15. Can we be saved through the Law?
15. Can we be saved by the Law?
No; since the fall in sin no man can perfectly keep the Law.
No; since the fall into sin, no one can perfectly keep the Law.
Rom. 8:7. The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be.
Rom. 8:7. The sinful mind is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so.
16. Of what benefit, then, is the Law?
16. So, what’s the purpose of the Law?
1. It points out to us our sins and the wrath of God toward sin.
1. It highlights our wrongdoings and God's anger toward sin.
Rom. 3:20. [R. V.] Through the law cometh the knowledge of sin.
Rom. 3:20. [R. V.] The law brings understanding of sin.
Gal. 3:24. The law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ.
Gal. 3:24. The law was our teacher to lead us to Christ.
3. It points out to the believer what fruits his faith must bear.
3. It shows the believer what results their faith should produce.
Ps. 119:105. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Ps. 119:105. Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path.
17. What is the substance of the law?
17. What is the essence of the law?
Love to God, ourselves, and our neighbor. Matt. 22:37–40.
Love God, yourself, and your neighbor. Matt. 22:37–40.
Rom. 13:10. [R. V.] Love is the fulfilment of the law.
Rom. 13:10. [R. V.] Love is the fulfillment of the law.
1 Tim. 1:5. [R. V.] But the end of the charge is love out of a pure heart and a good conscience and faith unfeigned.
1 Tim. 1:5. [R. V.] But the goal of this instruction is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith.
THE FIRST TABLE OF THE LAW.
18. What is the substance of the first table?
18. What is the content of the first table?
Love of God.
God's love.
Luk 10:27. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind.
Luke 10:27. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your strength, and with all your mind.
THE FIRST COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
You shall have no other gods before me.
That is,
That’s
We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things.
We should fear, love, and trust God above everything else.
19. What does the first commandment forbid?
19. What does the first commandment prohibit?
It forbids the worship of strange gods, or idols.
It bans the worship of foreign gods or idols.
Matt. 4:10. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
Matt. 4:10. You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.
20. What is meant by an idol?
20. What does an idol mean?
Anything that man worships, fears, loves, and trusts in instead of the one true God.
Anything that people worship, fear, love, and trust in instead of the one true God.
21. Who practice idolatry openly?
21. Who openly practices idolatry?
They who worship the created things instead of the Creator, and pray to the sun, the moon, stars, images, angels, or saints.
They who worship created things instead of the Creator, and pray to the sun, moon, stars, images, angels, or saints.
Rom. 1:25. They changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever.
Rom. 1:25. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and they worshipped and served created things rather than the Creator, who is to be praised forever.
22. Who practice idolatry secretly?
Who secretly practices idolatry?
They who turn their love, fear, and trust from the living God, that they may secretly cling to something else than Him.
They who shift their love, fear, and trust away from the living God to secretly hold on to something else instead of Him.
23. Whom do all idolaters really serve?
23. Who do all idolaters really serve?
They serve the devil who is the father of lies, and the lord of all impenitent and hardened sinners.
They serve the devil, who is the father of lies and the master of all unrepentant and unyielding sinners.
1 John 3:8. [R. V.] He that doeth sin is of the devil.
1 John 3:8. [R. V.] Anyone who practices sin belongs to the devil.
2 Cor. 4:4. [R. V.] The god of this world hath blinded the minds of the unbelieving.
2 Cor. 4:4. [R. V.] The god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers.
24. What does God require of us in the first commandment?
24. What does God expect from us in the first commandment?
We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things.
We should fear, love, and trust in God above everything else.
25. Upon what does God then really look?
25. What does God actually look at?
Upon the attitude of our hearts toward Him.
Upon the attitude of our hearts toward Him.
Prov. 23:26. My son, give me thine heart.
Prov. 23:26. My child, give me your heart.
Prov. 4:23. Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Prov. 4:23. Guard your heart with all diligence, for everything you do flows from it.
26. When do we fear God?
26. When do we fear God?
We fear God when we think so highly of Him, that we are afraid of offending Him by any wrongdoing.
We fear God when we hold Him in such high regard that we’re afraid of upsetting Him through any wrongdoing.
Ps. 33:8. Let all the earth fear the Lord!
Ps. 33:8. Let everyone on earth respect the Lord!
27. Of how many kinds is the fear of God?
27. What types of fear of God are there?
Of two kinds: slavish fear and child-like fear.
Of two types: submissive fear and innocent fear.
28. What is meant by slavish fear?
28. What does slavish fear mean?
When we fear God because we are afraid of punishment.
When we fear God because we're scared of punishment.
29. What is meant by child-like fear?
29. What does child-like fear mean?
When we love God so dearly that we wish to do nothing that is against His will.
When we love God so much that we want to do nothing that goes against His will.
Gen. 39:9. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?
Gen. 39:9. How could I do something so wrong and sin against God?
1 John 4:18. Perfect love casteth out fear.
1 John 4:18. Perfect love drives out fear.
30. Who fear God in this manner?
30. Who fears God like this?
God's children only.
God's kids only.
Rom. 8:15. [R. V.] Ye received not the spirit of bondage again unto fear; but ye received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
Rom. 8:15. [R. V.] You did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear; but you received the spirit of adoption, through which we cry, Abba, Father.
31. When do we love God?
31. When do we love God?
We love God when He is dearer to us than all else, so that we have no true joy except in Him, and gladly submit to His will in all things.
We love God when He means more to us than anything else, so that our only real joy comes from Him, and we willingly accept His will in everything.
Ps. 18:1. I will love Thee, O Lord, my strength.
Ps. 18:1. I will love you, Lord, my strength.
Ps. 73:25, 26. Whom have I in heaven but Thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside Thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.
Ps. 73:25, 26. Who do I have in heaven but You? And there’s no one on earth that I want besides You. My body and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my everlasting portion.
32. Can we love God and the world at the same time?
32. Can we love God and the world at the same time?
By no means.
Not at all.
Matt. 6:24. No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Matt. 6:24. No one can serve two masters: either they will hate one and love the other, or they will be loyal to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.
1 John. 2:15. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
1 John. 2:15. Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in them.
33. Why must we love God?
33. Why should we love God?
We must love God because of His goodness toward us.
We should love God because of His kindness to us.
Matt. 19:17. There is none good but one, that is God.
Matt. 19:17. There is only one who is good, and that is God.
1 John 4:19. We love him, because He first loved us.
1 John 4:19. We love Him because He loved us first.
34. Whereby is it seen that we love God?
34. How can we see that we love God?
By a holy life.
Through a holy life.
John 14:21. He that hath my commandments and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me.
John 14:21. Whoever has my commandments and follows them is the one who loves me.
35. When do we trust in God above all things?
35. When do we trust in God more than anything else?
We trust in God above all things when we have confidence in Him as in a loving father, and when we look to Him for every blessing, and put all our affairs into His hands.
We place our trust in God above everything else when we have faith in Him as a loving father, when we seek His blessings, and when we surrender all our concerns to Him.
1 Pet. 5:7. Casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you.
1 Pet. 5:7. Throw all your worries on him, because he cares about you.
Ps. 37:5. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass.
Psalm 37:5. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will make it happen.
36. Why must we trust in God alone?
36. Why should we trust only in God?
Because He is our almighty and faithful Friend.
Because He is our all-powerful and trustworthy Friend.
37. Name some virtues that follow upon true fear, love, and trust in God.
37. Name some virtues that come from having true fear, love, and trust in God.
Humility, patience, and self-denial.
Humility, patience, and self-control.
1 Pet. 5:5, 6. God resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.
1 Pet. 5:5, 6. God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble. So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that He may lift you up at the right time.
Job 1:21. The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord!
Job 1:21. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord!
Matt. 26:39. Not as I will, but as Thou wilt.
Matt. 26:39. Not as I want, but as You want.
THE SECOND 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.
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who takes His name in vain.
That is,
That’s
We should fear and love God, and not curse, swear, conjure, lie, or deceive by His name, but call upon His name in every time of need, and worship Him with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.
We should have a healthy respect and love for God, and not use His name to curse, swear, conjure, lie, or deceive. Instead, we should call on His name in every situation where we need help, and worship Him through prayer, praise, and gratitude.
38. What is meant by the "name" of God?
38. What does the "name" of God mean?
1. The usual names given to Him in the Bible.
1. The common names used for Him in the Bible.
2. His nature and attributes and all that by which He is especially known, such as His Word, sacraments, and works.
2. His nature and attributes and everything that makes Him particularly known, like His Word, sacraments, and actions.
39. When is the name of God taken in vain?
39. When is God's name used disrespectfully?
When it is used in a thoughtless and mocking manner and without devotion and reverence.
When it's used in a careless and mocking way, without any devotion or respect.
40. How is this done?
40. How is this done?
1. When we use God's name or Word in jesting or as a by-word.
1. When we use God's name or Word in a joking manner or as a casual reference.
2. When we find fault with anything God has done.
2. When we criticize anything God has done.
3. When we use the name of God in cursing, swearing, conjuring, lying, or deceiving.
3. When we use the name of God in cursing, swearing, summoning, lying, or deceiving.
41. What is it to curse by the name of God?
41. What does it mean to curse by the name of God?
It is to call down evil upon ourselves, our neighbor, or any other created thing, by the name of God.
It is to bring harm upon ourselves, our neighbors, or anything else created, by the name of God.
42. What is it to swear by the name of God?
42. What does it mean to swear by the name of God?
It is to bear witness to anything by the holy name of God.
It is to bear witness to anything in the holy name of God.
43. Are we never permitted to swear?
43. Are we never allowed to swear?
Yes; when the proper authorities demand it in God's stead.
Yes; when the appropriate authorities request it on behalf of God.
44. Why is it a great sin to commit perjury?
44. Why is lying under oath such a serious offense?
Because the perjurer shows open disregard for God and the salvation of his own soul, and frankly calls down the judgment of God upon himself.
Because the liar openly neglects God and the salvation of his own soul, and openly invites God's judgment upon himself.
45. Are cursing and swearing sinful when the name of God is not used?
45. Is cursing and swearing a sin when God's name isn't used?
Yes, indeed; for whatever we curse or swear by, we really do so by God who is the Lord of all things.
Yes, that's right; because when we curse or swear by anything, we're actually doing it by God, who is the Lord of everything.
Matt. 5:34–37. Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:
Matt. 5:34–37. Don’t make any oaths; not by heaven, as it is God's throne:
Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.
Not by the earth; because it's his footrest: nor by Jerusalem; because it's the city of the great King.
Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.
Don't swear by your head, because you can't change one hair to white or black.
But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
But let your communication be, Yes, yes; No, no: for whatever is more than these comes from evil.
46. Are cursing and swearing sinful when they have become a habit?
46. Are cursing and swearing wrong when they've become a habit?
Most certainly; for a sinful habit proves that sin is our master.
Most definitely; because a sinful habit shows that sin controls us.
47. What is it to conjure by the name of God?
47. What does it mean to summon by the name of God?
It is trying to cure diseases, or to practice any other kind of superstition, by the name of God or a passage from the Bible.
It is attempting to heal diseases or engage in any other type of superstition under the name of God or a verse from the Bible.
48. How do we lie and deceive by the name of God?
48. How do we lie and deceive in the name of God?
By perjury, false teaching, and hypocrisy.
By lying under oath, spreading false information, and being insincere.
Matt. 15:9. In vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
Matt. 15:9. They worship me uselessly, teaching man-made rules as if they were doctrines.
Titus 1:16. They profess that they know God; but by their works they deny Him.
Titus 1:16. They claim to know God, but their actions show otherwise.
49. What must he expect who takes the name of God in vain?
49. What should he expect who uses God's name carelessly?
Great punishment, both in time and eternity; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His name in vain.
Great punishment, both in this life and the next; for the Lord will not let anyone go unpunished who takes His name in vain.
50. How do we use the name of God properly?
50. How should we use God's name appropriately?
When we sincerely call upon the name of God in every time of need, and worship Him with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.
When we genuinely call on the name of God in every time of need and worship Him with prayer, praise, and gratitude.
THE THIRD COMMANDMENT.
Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.
Remember the Sabbath and keep it special.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and not despise or neglect His Word, but deem it holy and gladly hear and learn it.
We should both respect and love God, and not ignore or overlook His Word, but consider it sacred and happily listen to and learn from it.
51. Which day is the day of rest among Christians?
51. Which day is the day of rest for Christians?
Sunday, the first day of the week, on which Christ arose from the dead.
Sunday, the first day of the week, when Christ rose from the dead.
52. How should we keep the day of rest holy?
52. How should we keep the day of rest sacred?
1. We must rest from our daily labor, that the time may be used for our instruction in the fear of the Lord.
1. We need to take a break from our daily work, so that we can use the time to learn about respecting the Lord.
2. We must earnestly hear and study the Word of God, both in our homes and in church.
2. We need to seriously listen to and study the Word of God, both at home and in church.
Luke 11:28. Blessed are they that hear the Word of God, and keep it.
Luke 11:28. Blessed are those who hear the Word of God and follow it.
James 1:27. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
James 1:27. True religion that is pure and genuine in the eyes of God the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
53. Has the Lord appointed these resting-days to be used only in reading and studying the Word of God?
53. Did the Lord set aside these days of rest just for reading and studying the Word of God?
No; He has appointed such days also for the needed rest of mind and body.
No; He has set aside certain days for the necessary rest of both mind and body.
54. How do we misuse the day of rest?
54. How do we misuse our day off?
1. When we neglect and despise the Word of God.
1. When we ignore and undervalue the Word of God.
Eccl. 5:1. Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God.
Eccl. 5:1. Watch your step when you go to the house of God.
2. When we do work or take part in amusements that either are actually sinful or turn our minds away from God.
2. When we engage in activities or entertainments that are either truly sinful or distract us from God.
55. Is no work permitted on Sunday?
55. Is any work allowed on Sunday?
Yes; any work of necessity that cannot be delayed, and any loving kindness we may show our neighbor who is in need. Luk. 14:1–6.
Yes; any essential work that cannot be postponed, and any acts of kindness we offer to our neighbor who is in need. Luk. 14:1–6.
THE SECOND TABLE OF THE LAW.
56. What is the substance of the second table?
56. What is the content of the second table?
Love to ourselves and our neighbor.
Love for ourselves and our neighbors.
Matt. 22:39. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.
Matt. 22:39. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
57. May we love ourselves?
57. Can we love ourselves?
Yes, for God has made us, but we must beware of selfishness.
Yes, for God created us, but we need to be careful of selfishness.
58. What should a man care for most of all?
58. What should a man prioritize above everything else?
For his soul, the immortal part of himself.
For his soul, the eternal part of himself.
Matt. 16:26. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
Matt. 16:26. What does it benefit a person if they gain the whole world but lose their own soul?
59. What does the second table teach us about our relation to our neighbor?
59. What does the second table teach us about our relationship with our neighbor?
We must feel and act toward him, as we would have him feel and act toward us.
We should feel and act towards him the way we want him to feel and act towards us.
Matt. 7:12. All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.
Matt. 7:12. Everything you want people to do for you, do the same for them.
1 John 3:18. Let us not love in word, neither with the tongue: but in deed and truth.
1 John 3:18. Let’s not just say we love each other or just talk about it; let’s show our love through our actions and genuine care.
60. Who is our neighbor?
60. Who's our neighbor?
Every human being is our neighbor. Read Luke 10:29–37.
Every person is our neighbor. Read Luke 10:29–37.
61. Must we love also our enemies?
61. Should we love our enemies too?
Yes; for even our enemy is our neighbor.
Yes; because even our enemy is our neighbor.
Matt. 5:44, 45. Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Matt. 5:44, 45. Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who misuse you and persecute you;
That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven.
So that you can be the children of your Father who is in heaven.
THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT.
Honor thy father and thy mother, that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.
Respect your father and mother so that things go well for you and you may live a long life on the earth.
That is,
That’s
We should fear and love God, and not despise or give offense to our parents or superiors; but honor, serve, obey, love, and esteem them.
We should fear and love God, and not disrespect or offend our parents or those in authority; instead, we should honor, serve, obey, love, and respect them.
62. Why must we honor father and mother?
62. Why should we honor our parents?
Because God has placed them over us to care for us.
Because God has put them in charge of us to take care of us.
Lev. 19:3. Ye shall fear every man his mother and his father: I am the Lord your God.
Lev. 19:3. You should respect every man his mother and his father: I am the Lord your God.
63. How are children to show that they honor father and mother?
63. How should kids show that they respect their parents?
By respectful, loving, and willing obedience and by good behavior to their parents, both in their presence and in their absence.
By showing respect, love, and a willing attitude, along with behaving well towards their parents, both when they are around and when they are not.
Prov. 1:8. My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.
Prov. 1:8. My son, listen to your father's teaching and do not ignore your mother's guidance.
Eph. 6:1. Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Eph. 6:1. Kids, obey your parents in the Lord, because it's the right thing to do.
64. Whom must we honor and obey besides our parents?
64. Who else must we honor and obey besides our parents?
All those whom God has placed over us, such as guardians, employers, teachers, and the government.
All the people whom God has put in charge of us, including guardians, employers, teachers, and the government.
65. Must we obey parents and superiors when they ask us to do what is sinful?
65. Do we have to obey our parents and superiors when they ask us to do something wrong?
No; we ought to obey God rather than men. Acts 5:29.
No; we should obey God instead of people. Acts 5:29.
66. What is the duty of parents toward their children?
66. What is the responsibility of parents toward their children?
They must love them, pray for them, bring them up in the fear of the Lord, and in everything seek their temporal and spiritual good.
They should love them, pray for them, raise them to respect the Lord, and in all things, look out for their physical and spiritual well-being.
Prov. 13:24. He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
Prov. 13:24. Whoever does not discipline their child hates them, but the one who loves their child disciplines them early.
Eph. 6:4.
Eph. 6:4.
67. What is God's promise to those who honor father and mother?
67. What is God's promise to those who respect their father and mother?
It shall be well with them, and they shall live long on the earth.
It will be good for them, and they will live a long time on the earth.
68. Is this promise yet effective?
68. Is this promise now in effect?
Yes; in this sense, that special blessings rest upon obedient children, and upon every nation honoring father and mother.
Yes; in this sense, that special blessings are given to obedient children, and to every nation that honors their father and mother.
69. Has God given us also a land?
69. Has God also given us land?
Yes; He has given us our native land, that we may love it and help it to prosper.
Yes; He has given us our homeland, so that we can cherish it and help it thrive.
70. What does the fourth commandment forbid?
70. What does the fourth commandment prohibit?
To despise and give offense to father and mother.
To disrespect and hurt your father and mother.
Prov. 17:25. A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him.
Prov. 17:25. A foolish son brings sorrow to his father and bitterness to his mother.
71. What does he bring upon himself who transgresses this commandment?
71. What does he bring upon himself when he breaks this commandment?
Condemnation and punishment from God.
God's wrath and punishment.
Deut. 27:16. Cursed be he that setteth light by his father or his mother.
Deut. 27:16. Cursed is anyone who disregards their father or mother.
THE FIFTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not kill.
You shall not kill.
That is,
That’s
We should fear and love God, and not hurt or harm our neighbor in his body, but help and befriend him in all bodily distress.
We should respect and love God, and not hurt or harm our neighbors in any way, but help and support them in all physical hardships.
72. How is this commandment transgressed?
72. How is this commandment broken?
1. By taking our neighbor's life, or by doing him any bodily harm.
1. By taking our neighbor's life or causing him any physical harm.
Gen. 9:6. Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.
Gen. 9:6. Anyone who takes a person's life must have their life taken by another person, because God made humans in His image.
2. By hatred, anger, abusive words, and all offensive behavior toward our neighbor.
2. Through hatred, anger, hurtful words, and all kinds of disrespectful behavior towards our neighbor.
1 John 3:15. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
1 John 3:15. Anyone who hates their brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life in them.
Eph. 4:31. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.
Eph. 4:31. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, loud quarreling, and slander, along with every form of malice.
73. Can we kill also our neighbor's soul?
73. Can we also destroy our neighbor's soul?
Yes; when we cause him to sin, either by purposely leading him astray, or by bad example, thus helping to destroy his soul.
Yes; when we make him sin, either by intentionally leading him off track, or by being a bad example, we contribute to the destruction of his soul.
Rom. 16:18. By good words and fair speeches they deceive the hearts of the simple.
Rom. 16:18. With sweet words and smooth talk, they trick the hearts of the naive.
Matt. 18:7. Woe to that man by whom the offense cometh.
Matt. 18:7. How terrible for the person who brings about the offense.
74. May we take our own life?
74. Can we end our own life?
No; God has given us life, and He alone has the right to take it.
No; God has given us life, and only He has the right to take it.
75. What does God require of us in the fifth commandment?
75. What does God expect from us in the fifth commandment?
That we help our neighbor in all bodily distress, and associate with him in love and gentleness.
That we help our neighbor in any physical suffering, and engage with him in love and kindness.
Luke 10:33–35.
Luke 10:33–35.
Eph. 4:32. And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
Eph. 4:32. Be kind to each other, compassionate, and forgive one another, just as God has forgiven you because of Christ.
Matt. 25:35, 36. I was hungry, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in;
Matt. 25:35, 36. I was hungry, and you fed me; I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink; I was a stranger, and you welcomed me;
Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
Naked, and you clothed me: I was sick, and you visited me: I was in prison, and you came to me.
THE SIXTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
You shall not commit adultery.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and live a chaste and pure life, in words and deeds, husband and wife loving and honoring each other.
We should respect and love God, and live a clean and pure life, in our words and actions, with husband and wife loving and honoring each other.
76. How is this commandment transgressed?
76. How is this command violated?
1. When husband and wife are unfaithful to each other.
1. When a husband and wife are unfaithful to one another.
Heb. 13:4. [R. V.] Let marriage be had in honor among all.
Heb. 13:4. [R. V.] Let marriage be respected by everyone.
[Pg 19] 2. By all impure thoughts, desires, words, and acts, in married as well as in unmarried persons.
[Pg 19] 2. Through all unclean thoughts, desires, words, and actions, in both married and unmarried people.
Eph. 5:3. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints.
Eph. 5:3. But sexual immorality, and all impurity, or greed, should not even be mentioned among you, as is proper for saints.
77. Who has instituted marriage?
77. Who established marriage?
God Himself instituted it in Paradise.
God Himself established it in Paradise.
Gen. 2:21–24, 1:27–28. Matt. 19:4–6.
Gen. 2:21–24, 1:27–28. Matt. 19:4–6.
78. How do unfaithful husbands and wives treat this holy institution?
78. How do unfaithful husbands and wives treat this holy institution?
They despise it, and thus bring down upon themselves the judgment of God.
They hate it, and as a result, they bring upon themselves God's judgment.
Heb. 13:4. Whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Heb. 13:4. God will judge those who engage in sexual immorality and adultery.
79. Repeat some passages from Scripture in which impurity is forbidden?
79. Can you repeat some passages from the Bible that prohibit impurity?
Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Cor. 6:9, 10.
Be not deceived: neither those who engage in sexual immorality, nor adulterers, nor those who are effeminate, nor those who abuse themselves with others, will inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Cor. 6:9, 10.
Jesus says: I say unto you, that whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Matt. 5:28.
Jesus says: I tell you, that anyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Matt. 5:28.
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth! Eph. 4:29.
Let no harmful words come out of your mouth! Eph. 4:29.
80. Why is this sin so fearful?
80. Why is this sin so frightening?
Because it affects both soul and body more than any other sin.
Because it impacts both the mind and body more than any other sin.
81. How can we be kept pure?
81. How can we stay pure?
We must watch and pray, and avoid everything that awakens impure desires.
We need to stay alert and pray, and steer clear of anything that stirs up impure desires.
Matt. 26:41. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.
Matt. 26:41. Stay alert and pray so that you don't fall into temptation.
82. What things awaken impure desires?
82. What things trigger impure desires?
Gluttony and drunkenness, immoral and exciting amusements, bad company, the reading of improper books, and everything that excites carnal and impure thoughts.
Gluttony and excessive drinking, immoral and thrilling activities, negative influences, reading inappropriate books, and anything that stirs up lustful and unclean thoughts.
83. Are not gluttony and drunkenness alone dangerous sins?
83. Aren't gluttony and drunkenness dangerous sins on their own?
Yes, indeed; they are a shameful abuse of God's gifts, by which we ruin soul and body and shut ourselves out from the kingdom of God.
Yes, they are a disgraceful misuse of God’s gifts, through which we damage our souls and bodies and exclude ourselves from the kingdom of God.
Luk. 21:34. And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with gluttony, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.
Luk. 21:34. Be careful, so that your hearts aren’t weighed down with excess, drunkenness, and the worries of this life, and that day doesn’t unexpectedly surprise you.
84. What does God require of us in the sixth commandment?
84. What does God expect from us in the sixth commandment?
We must live a chaste and pure life, whether we are married or unmarried, husband and wife loving and honoring each other.
We should live a pure and virtuous life, whether we are married or single, with husbands and wives loving and respecting one another.
THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not steal.
You shall not steal.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and not take our neighbor's money or property, nor get it by unfair dealing or other dishonesty, but help him to improve and protect his property and living.
We should respect and love God, and not take our neighbor's money or belongings, nor acquire them through unfair practices or dishonesty, but help him to improve and safeguard his property and well-being.
85. What is it to steal?
85. What does it mean to steal?
To steal is to take from our neighbor even the smallest part of his property against his will.
To steal is to take even the smallest piece of someone else's property without their permission.
86. How is stealing done?
86. How does stealing happen?
In a coarse or in an artful manner.
In a rough or skillful way.
87. Who steal in a coarse manner?
87. Who steals in a rude way?
Those who, without any right or permission whatever, take their neighbor's money or property.
Those who take their neighbor's money or property without any right or permission.
Eph. 4:28. Let him that stole steal no more.
Eph. 4:28. Anyone who has been stealing must stop stealing.
88. Who steal in an artful manner?
88. Who steals in a clever way?
Those who take or withhold the property of others by any kind of fraud.
Those who take or withhold someone else's property through any form of deception.
89. Is it wrong to be a partner with a thief?
89. Is it wrong to partner with a thief?
Yes; the partner of a thief is no better than the thief.
Yes, the partner of a thief is just as bad as the thief.
Prov. 29:24. Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul.
Prov. 29:24. Whoever is in cahoots with a thief hates their own soul.
90. What judgment does the Word of God pass upon thieves and robbers?
90. What does the Word of God say about thieves and robbers?
They shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
They will not inherit the kingdom of God.
1 Cor. 6:10. Neither thieves nor extortioners shall inherit the kingdom of God.
1 Cor. 6:10. Neither thieves nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.
91. May we not do with our property what we please?
91. Can't we do whatever we want with our property?
No; we are but keepers of God's gifts, and we must once give an account of how we have used them.
No; we are just stewards of God's gifts, and we will eventually have to report on how we've used them.
Luke 16:2; Matt. 25:14–30.
Luke 16:2; Matt. 25:14–30.
92. What does God require of us in the seventh commandment?
92. What does God expect from us in the seventh commandment?
We must be honest and unselfish in all our dealings, and help our neighbor to improve and protect his property and living.
We need to be honest and selfless in everything we do, and support our neighbors in enhancing and safeguarding their property and well-being.
1 John 3:17. [R. V.] But whoso hath the world's goods, and beholdeth his brother in need, and shutteth up his compassion from him, how doth the love of God abide in him?
1 John 3:17. [R. V.] If someone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need but closes his heart against him, how can the love of God be in him?
James 2:13. For he shall have judgment without mercy that hath showed no mercy.
James 2:13. Because judgment will be without mercy to anyone who has shown no mercy.
THE EIGHTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
You shall not lie about your neighbor.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and not tell lies about our neighbor, nor betray, slander, or defame him; but excuse him, speak well of him, and look upon all his acts as well-meant.
We should both fear and love God, and not lie about our neighbor, nor betray, slander, or defame them; instead, we should excuse them, speak positively about them, and consider all their actions as well-intentioned.
93. What is "false witness"?
93. What does "false witness" mean?
All untruthful speaking about our neighbor, in or out of court.
All dishonest talk about our neighbor, whether in court or out.
94. How does one bear false witness in court?
94. How does someone give false testimony in court?
When a witness swears to a lie, and when a judge decides wrong to be right, and right to be wrong.
When a witness lies under oath, and when a judge mistakenly considers wrong to be right and right to be wrong.
95. How do we bear false witness out of court?
95. How do we falsely testify outside of court?
When we tell lies about our neighbor and slander or defame him in our conversation.
When we lie about our neighbor and talk trash or spread rumors about him in our conversations.
Eph. 4:25. Wherefore, putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor.
Eph. 4:25. So, stop lying and speak the truth to your neighbor.
96. Do we sin when we speak truthfully of our neighbor's faults?
96. Do we wrong ourselves when we talk honestly about our neighbor's faults?
Yes; when we do so with an unloving heart, either because we wish to hurt our neighbor, or thoughtlessly and in gossiping.
Yes; when we do this with a heart that lacks love, either because we want to hurt our neighbor, or carelessly and through gossip.
Matt. 12:36. Every idle word that man shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
Matt. 12:36. Everyone will have to account for every careless word they say on the day of judgment.
97. What does God require of us in the eighth commandment?
97. What does God expect from us in the eighth commandment?
We must always be truthful, excuse, and speak well of our neighbor, as far as truth permits, and look upon all his acts as well-meant.
We should always be honest, forgiving, and speak positively about our neighbor, as long as the truth allows, and consider all their actions as well-intentioned.
1 Cor. 13:5–7. Love thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
1 Cor. 13:5–7. Love doesn't hold onto anger; it doesn't take joy in wrongdoing, but celebrates the truth; it puts up with everything, believes in everything, hopes for everything, and endures everything.
THE NINTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house.
You shall not desire your neighbor's house.
That is,
That is
We should fear and love God, and not by deceit or craft seek to gain our neighbor's inheritance or home, nor try to get it though we seem to have some right thereto, but help him to keep his own.
We should fear and love God, and not through deceit or trickery try to take our neighbor's inheritance or home, nor attempt to obtain it even if we seem to have some right to it, but instead help him keep what is his.
THE TENTH COMMANDMENT.
Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his cattle, nor anything that is his.
You shall not desire your neighbor's wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his cattle, nor anything that belongs to him.
That is,
That's
We should fear and love God, and not estrange, force, or entice away from our neighbor, his wife, servants, or cattle, but urge them to stay and do their duty.
We should fear and love God, and not alienate, coerce, or lure away our neighbor's wife, servants, or livestock, but encourage them to stay and fulfill their responsibilities.
98. What do the ninth and tenth commandments forbid?
98. What do the ninth and tenth commandments prohibit?
All sinful desire to get what belongs to our neighbor.
All sinful desire is about wanting what belongs to our neighbor.
99. What does God require of us in the ninth and tenth commandments?
99. What does God expect from us in the ninth and tenth commandments?
We must heartily wish our neighbor all good, rejoice in his success, and help him to keep what he owns.
We should genuinely wish our neighbor well, celebrate his successes, and help him preserve what he has.
100. What, then, does God require of us in His holy Law?
100. So, what does God expect from us in His holy Law?
Perfect purity and holiness in all our thoughts and desires, words and acts.
Perfect purity and holiness in all our thoughts, desires, words, and actions.
James 2:10. Whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
James 2:10. Anyone who follows the whole law but breaks even one part is guilty of breaking all of it.
Matt 5:48. Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
Matt 5:48. So you should be perfect, just like your Father in heaven is perfect.
101. What does God say of all his commandment?
101. What does God say about all his commandments?
I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the [Pg 26] third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the wrongdoing of the parents on their children to the [Pg 26] third and fourth generation of those who hate me; but I show mercy to thousands of those who love me and follow my commandments.
That is,
That’s
God threatens to punish all who transgress these commandments; we should therefore fear His wrath, and do nothing against them.
God warns that He will punish everyone who breaks these commandments; we should therefore fear His anger and not go against them.
On the other hand He promises grace and every blessing to all who keep these commandments; we should therefore love Him and trust in Him, and gladly do according to His commandments.
On the other hand, He promises grace and every blessing to everyone who follows these commandments; we should, therefore, love Him, trust Him, and gladly follow His commandments.
102. Of what does God remind us by these words?
102. What does God remind us of with these words?
He reminds us of the fact that He is a just God, who in His holy wrath punishes every sin.
He reminds us that He is a just God who, in His holy anger, punishes every sin.
103. What is sin?
103. What is sin?
Sin is any thought or feeling, word or act, which is contrary to God's holy Law.
Sin is any thought or feeling, word, or action that goes against God's holy Law.
104. What is meant by original sin?
104. What does original sin mean?
Original sin is the inborn wickedness, deep corruption, and evil disposition, of the human heart.
Original sin is the innate wickedness, deep corruption, and evil nature of the human heart.
Ps. 51:5. Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Ps. 51:5. Look, I was formed in wrongness; and in sin, my mother conceived me.
Rom. 5:12. By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.
Rom. 5:12. Sin entered the world through one man, and death came through sin; and so death spread to all people because all have sinned.
105. What is actual sin?
105. What is real sin?
Actual sin is all evil thoughts and desires, words and acts, springing from original sin.
Actual sin encompasses all evil thoughts and desires, words and actions, that arise from original sin.
106. Is neglecting to do good as sinful as doing wrong?
106. Is failing to do good just as sinful as doing something wrong?
Yes, indeed; to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
Yes, indeed; for anyone who knows what is good and doesn't do it, that is sin.
James 4:17.
James 4:17.
107. Do the children of God always live according to the will of their heavenly Father?
107. Do the children of God always live according to the wishes of their heavenly Father?
They hate sin, and heartily strive to keep the law of God; but it is their experience that they sin every day, and that the new life within them is weak.
They hate sin and genuinely try to follow God's law; however, they find that they sin every day and that the new life inside them is weak.
Ps. 19:12. Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults?
Ps. 19:12. Who can understand their mistakes? Cleanse me from hidden faults.
Rom. 7:19. The good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Rom. 7:19. The good that I want to do, I don’t do; but the wrong that I don’t want to do, I end up doing.
108. How do the children of God feel and act when they find that they have sinned?
108. How do God's children feel and act when they realize they have sinned?
They are deeply grieved, they ask their heavenly Father to forgive them, and earnestly strive to put off sin.
They are very sad, they ask their heavenly Father to forgive them, and they actively work to stop sinning.
109. What do the children of the world think of sin?
109. What do the kids today think about sin?
They love sin, and do not ask to be forgiven.
They love sin and don't seek forgiveness.
110. How does God threaten those who transgress His commandments?
110. How does God warn those who break His commandments?
He will visit, that is, punish, their wickedness.
He will come to confront their evil.
111. How does God punish sin?
111. How does God punish sin?
In soul and body; now and forever.
In spirit and body; now and always.
Gal. 3:10. Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
Gal. 3:10. Anyone who doesn't continue to follow everything written in the book of the law is under a curse.
112. What does God promise all who keep His commandments?
112. What does God promise everyone who follows His commandments?
He will have mercy upon them in a thousand generations.
He will show them mercy for a thousand generations.
113. What is here understood by mercy?
113. What do we mean by mercy?
Every blessing for soul and body, now and forever.
Every blessing for your mind and body, now and always.
1 Tim. 4:8. Godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
1 Tim. 4:8. Living a godly life brings benefits in every area, promising both the life we have now and the one to come.
114. What way of salvation does the Law then point out to us?
114. What way to salvation does the Law show us?
It says, Keep the commandments and you shall be saved.
It says, Follow the commandments and you will be saved.
Luke 10:28. This do, and thou shalt live.
Luke 10:28. Do this, and you will live.
115. Can any man, then, keep God's commandments so perfectly that he thereby is justified and saved?
115. Can anyone, then, follow God's commandments so perfectly that they are justified and saved?
No; every man is a sinner, and he lacks that perfect love which is the fulfillment of the law.
No; every person is a sinner, and they lack that perfect love which fulfills the law.
Rom. 10:3. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
Rom. 10:3. For being unaware of God's righteousness and trying to create their own, they have not surrendered to the righteousness of God.
116. But does the Word of God point out a way to us in which a sinner may be justified and saved?
116. But does the Word of God show us a way for a sinner to be justified and saved?
Yes; in the blessed Gospel.
Yes; in the good news.
Rom. 1:16. I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.
Rom. 1:16. I am not embarrassed by the gospel of Christ, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.
117. What parts of the catechism treat about the gospel?
117. Which sections of the catechism talk about the gospel?
The four last parts.
The last four parts.
PART TWO.
THE THREE ARTICLES OF THE CREED.
118. Of what do the three articles treat?
118. What do the three articles discuss?
Of the nature, will, and works of the triune God.
Of the nature, will, and actions of the three-in-one God.
119. How do you know there is a God?
119. How can you be sure that God exists?
1. From the world's creation, its preservation and government.
1. From the creation of the world, its preservation and governance.
Rom. 1:19, 20. That which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them.
Rom. 1:19, 20. What can be known about God is evident within them; for God has revealed it to them.
For the invisible things of him since the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and divinity; so that they are without excuse.
Because the invisible qualities of God since the creation of the world have been clearly seen, understood through what has been made, including his eternal power and divine nature; therefore, they have no excuse.
2. From my conscience, which is troubled when I do evil and rejoices when I do good.
2. From my conscience, which feels uneasy when I do something wrong and feels happy when I do something right.
Rom. 2:15. They (the Gentiles) show the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the meanwhile accusing or else excusing one another.
Rom. 2:15. They (the Gentiles) reveal the law written in their hearts, their conscience also testifying, and their thoughts at the same time either accusing or justifying one another.
3. From the holy Scriptures wherein He still more clearly reveals Himself.
3. From the holy Scriptures where He continues to reveal Himself even more clearly.
John 1:18. No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.
John 1:18. No one has ever seen God; the only Son, who is closest to the Father, has made him known.
120. What is God?
120. Who is God?
God is a spirit, who is eternal and almighty; all-knowing and everywhere present; wise, good, and merciful; holy, true, and just.
God is a spirit who is eternal and all-powerful; all-knowing and present everywhere; wise, good, and merciful; holy, truthful, and just.
John 4:24. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
John 4:24. God is a Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.
Ps. 90:2. Before the mountains were brought forth, or even thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting thou art God.
Ps. 90:2. Before the mountains were created, or before you shaped the earth and the world, from eternity to eternity you are God.
Luke 1:37. With God nothing shall be impossible.
Luke 1:37. With God, nothing is impossible.
1 John 3:20. God knoweth all things.
1 John 3:20. God knows everything.
Ps. 139:7. Whither shall I go from thy spirit! or thither shall I flee from thy presence?
Ps. 139:7. Where can I go from your Spirit? Or where can I run from your presence?
Ps. 104:24. O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all.
Ps. 104:24. O Lord, how great are your works! In wisdom, you have made them all.
1 John 4:16. God is love.
1 John 4:16. God is love.
Ps. 106:1. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever.
Ps. 106:1. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love lasts forever.
Ps. 103:13. Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.
Psalm 103:13. Just as a father has compassion for his children, so the Lord has compassion for those who respect Him.
Isa. 6:3. Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: all the earth is full of his glory.
Isa. 6:3. Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is filled with his glory.
Num. 23:19. God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent; hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Num. 23:19. God is not human, so he doesn't lie; he’s not a human being, so he doesn’t change his mind. Has he said something and not done it? Has he spoken and not carried it out?
Rom. 2:6. God will render to every man according to his deeds.
Rom. 2:6. God will give each person what they deserve based on their actions.
121. Are there more Gods than one?
121. Are there many gods?
No; there is but one God, and there is none else besides Him.
No; there is only one God, and there is no one else besides Him.
Deut. 6:4. Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God is one Lord.
Deut. 6:4. Listen, Israel: the Lord our God is one Lord.
122. How many persons are there in the Godhead?
122. How many people are there in the Godhead?
Three; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are perfectly alike in character, and equal in greatness.
Three: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are completely similar in character and equal in greatness.
Matt. 28:19. 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. So go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
THE FIRST ARTICLE.
CONCERNING CREATION.
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
That is,
That’s
I believe that God has made me and all other creatures; that He has given me body and soul, eyes, ears, and all other members, my reason, and all my senses.
I believe that God created me and all other living beings; that He has given me a body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my other parts, my reason, and all my senses.
I also believe that He preserves all He has made, and that He daily provides me with all I need; giving me clothing and food, home and family, and every good thing.
I also believe that He takes care of everything He has made and that He provides me with everything I need every day; giving me clothes and food, a place to live, family, and every good thing.
I further believe that He protects me from all danger, and keeps me from all evil; not because I have deserved it, but because He is a loving and merciful Father.
I also believe that He protects me from all danger and keeps me from all evil; not because I’ve earned it, but because He is a loving and merciful Father.
For all these blessings it is my duty to serve Him thankfully and obediently all the days of my life.
For all these blessings, it's my responsibility to serve Him with gratitude and obedience every day of my life.
All this is certainly true.
This is definitely true.
123. What do you mean when you say, "I believe in God the Father"?
123. What do you mean when you say, "I believe in God the Father"?
I believe that God is the Father of Jesus Christ, and my Father; and I surrender myself to Him, trusting with all my heart in His grace and love.
I believe that God is the Father of Jesus Christ and my Father; I give myself to Him, trusting fully in His grace and love.
124. Why do we call God the Maker of heaven and earth?
124. Why do we call God the Creator of heaven and earth?
Because He has made heaven and earth to come forth by His almighty Word.
Because He created heaven and earth with His powerful Word.
Ps. 33:9. He spoke, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.
Ps. 33:9. He said it, and it happened; he commanded, and it was established.
125. Does God yet care for what He has made?
125. Does God still care about what He has created?
Yes; by His watchful care He preserves and governs all things.
Yes; through His attentive care, He protects and oversees everything.
126. How does God preserve all things?
126. How does God keep everything safe?
He lets all things continue as long as He thinks well, and He cares like a father for all His creatures.
He allows everything to go on as long as He believes it's good, and He looks after all His creatures like a caring father.
Gen. 8:22. While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night, shall not cease.
Gen. 8:22. As long as the earth exists, planting and harvesting, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night will not stop.
Acts 17:25. He giveth to all life, and breath, and all things.
Acts 17:25. He gives life, breath, and everything to all.
Ps. 104:27. These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season.
Ps. 104:27. All of them depend on you to provide their food at the right time.
127. For whom does God care most?
127. Who does God care about the most?
For man; and especially for His believing children.
For humanity, and especially for His faithful children.
Matt. 6:26, 27, 28, 30. Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
Matt. 6:26, 27, 28, 30. Look at the birds in the sky: they don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you worth much more than they are?
Which of you by taking thought, can add one cubit to his stature?
Which of you by worrying can add even a moment to your life?
And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin.
And why worry about clothing? Look at the lilies in the field, how they grow; they don't work or weave.
Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to-day is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?
So, if God takes care of the grass in the field, which is here today and gone tomorrow, won't he take care of you even more, you of little faith?
128. How does God govern men with regard to their sins?
128. How does God guide people when it comes to their sins?
He suffers them to sin, sets limits to their sinning, and so guides the result that everything will be for their good who love Him.
He allows them to sin, sets boundaries for their sinning, and makes sure that everything results in good for those who love Him.
Gen. 50:20. [R. V.] Ye meant evil against me; but God meant it for good.
Gen. 50:20. [R. V.] You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good.
129. Do we always understand the ways of God's providence?
129. Do we always understand how God's providence works?
No; His ways are often hidden from our eyes; but even then they are the kindest and best.
No; His ways are often hidden from us; but even then they are the kindest and best.
Isa. 55:8, 9. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
Isa. 55:8, 9. My thoughts aren’t your thoughts, and your ways aren’t my ways, says the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Just as the skies are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.
130. In whose care may you therefore safely leave yourself?
130. In whose care can you safely leave yourself?
In God's care, who protects me from all danger, and keeps me from all evil.
In God's care, who protects me from all danger and keeps me safe from all harm.
1 Pet. 5:7. Casting all your care upon him: for he careth for you.
1 Pet. 5:7. Give all your worries to him, because he cares about you.
131. Have you deserved all this?
131. Do you really deserve all of this?
Not in the least; He does all this, not because I have deserved it, but because He is a loving and merciful Father.
Not at all; He does all this, not because I have earned it, but because He is a loving and compassionate Father.
Gen. 32:10. I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast showed unto thy servant.
Gen. 32:10. I am not worthy of even the smallest of all the kindnesses and all the truth that you have shown to your servant.
132. What do you owe God for all his goodness?
132. What do you owe God for all His goodness?
It is my duty to serve Him thankfully and obediently all the days of my life.
It’s my responsibility to serve Him with gratitude and obedience every day of my life.
Ps. 103:2. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.
Ps. 103:2. Praise the Lord, my soul, and don't forget all his blessings.
133. Which are the most excellent of the heavenly creatures?
133. Which are the best of the heavenly beings?
The holy angels.
The sacred angels.
134. What is the work of the holy angels?
134. What do the holy angels do?
They praise God, and serve him, especially by ministering to His children.
They praise God and serve Him, especially by helping His children.
Heb. 1:14. Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation.
Heb. 1:14. Aren't they all ministering spirits, sent out to serve those who will inherit salvation?
135. Are there not also evil angels?
135. Aren't there also evil angels?
Yes; there are evil angels who have fallen away from God through pride and disobedience, and are forever excluded from fellowship with Him. The devil is their king.
Yes; there are evil angels who have turned away from God because of pride and disobedience, and they are permanently cut off from a relationship with Him. The devil is their leader.
136. Which is the most excellent of the earthly creatures?
136. What is the greatest of all living creatures on earth?
Man, to whom God gave power to rule over the earth.
Man, whom God gave the power to govern the earth.
137. What was the character of man as he was made by God?
137. What was the nature of man as created by God?
Adam and Eve were innocent, without sin, and like God.
Adam and Eve were innocent, without sin, and like God.
Gen. 1:27. [R. V.] God made man in his own image, in the image of God made he him: male and female made he them.
Gen. 1:27. [R. V.] God created humanity in His own likeness; in the likeness of God, He created them: male and female, He created them.
138. In what did the image of God in man consist?
138. What does the image of God in humans consist of?
In true wisdom, righteousness and holiness, peace and joy.
In real wisdom, doing what’s right and being pure, finding peace and joy.
Eph. 4:24. Put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and holiness.
Eph. 4:24. Embrace your new self, created by God to be righteous and holy.
139. What benefit did the human body have from the image of God?
139. What advantage did the human body receive from being made in the image of God?
Perfect health, immortality, and a life free from care in Paradise.
Perfect health, eternal life, and a worry-free existence in Paradise.
140. Did our first parents remain innocent and without sin?
140. Did our first parents stay innocent and sinless?
No; they sinned and lost the image of God, and thus sin and death entered into the world.
No; they sinned and lost the image of God, and as a result, sin and death came into the world.
Gen. 2:17. In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
Gen. 2:17. The day you eat from it, you will definitely die.
Rom. 6:23. The wages of sin is death.
Rom. 6:23. The consequences of sin is death.
141. In what did their sin consist?
141. What was their mistake?
It consisted especially in the unbelief of their hearts and in their selfishness and disobedience.
It was primarily due to their lack of faith, selfishness, and disobedience.
142. Who led them astray?
142. Who misled them?
They permitted the devil to lead them astray.
They allowed the devil to mislead them.
Gen. 3:1–5.
Gen. 3:1–5.
John 8:44. The devil was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. For he is a liar, and the father of it.
John 8:44. The devil has been a murderer from the start, and he doesn’t hold onto the truth, because there’s no truth in him. He’s a liar and the origin of all lies.
143. How has sin injured the human soul?
143. How has sin harmed the human soul?
1. It has darkened the understanding.
1. It has clouded the understanding.
See 1 Cor. 2:14.
See 1 Cor. 2:14.
2. It has made the will incapable of what is good, and desirous of all that is evil.
2. It has made the will unable to do good and eager for everything that is evil.
Rom. 8:7. The carnal mind is enmity against God.
Rom. 8:7. The sinful nature is hostile to God.
3. It has disturbed the peace and joy of conscience.
3. It has disrupted the peace and joy of the mind.
Gen. 3:8, 10.
Gen. 3:8, 10.
144. How has sin injured the human body?
144. How has sin harmed the human body?
Sin has made the body a tool of every evil passion, and has brought upon it disease, distress, countless pains, and finally death.
Sin has turned the body into a tool for every evil desire, bringing disease, sorrow, endless pain, and ultimately death.
Job 14:1, 2. Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.
Job 14:1, 2. A person born of a woman lives for only a few days and is filled with struggles.
He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not.
He comes out like a flower and is cut down; he also flees like a shadow and doesn’t last.
145. Have all men become sinners through the fall of our first parents?
145. Have all people become sinners because of the fall of our first parents?
Yes; sin and death have spread from our first parents to the whole human race.
Yes; sin and death have passed from our first ancestors to all of humanity.
Rom. 5:18. By the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation.
Rom. 5:18. Because of one person's offense, judgment came upon all people, leading to condemnation.
146. Will God, then, leave all men to perish?
146. Will God really allow everyone to perish?
No; God has in love sent His Son Jesus Christ to save man.
No; God has lovingly sent His Son Jesus Christ to save humanity.
John 3:16. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 3:16. For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that anyone who believes in him will not die but have eternal life.
147. When was this Savior first promised to the world?
147. When was this Savior first promised to the world?
Immediately after the fall.
Right after the fall.
Gen. 3:15. The seed of the woman shall bruise the serpent's head.
Gen. 3:15. The woman's offspring will crush the serpent's head.
148. When was Christ sent to the world?
148. When was Christ sent to the world?
In the fulness of time; that is, the time appointed and prepared by God Himself.
In due time; that is, the time set and prepared by God Himself.
Gal. 4:4. [R. V.] When the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son born of a woman.
Gal. 4:4. [R. V.] When the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman.
THE SECOND ARTICLE.
CONCERNING REDEMPTION.
I believe in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary; suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into hell; the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from whence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary; suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; He went to hell; on the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from there He will come to judge the living and the dead.
That is,
That’s
I believe that Jesus Christ is true God, begotten of the Father from eternity; I also believe that He is true man, born of the Virgin Mary; that He is my Lord, who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned sinner; who has freed me from sin, from death, and from the power [Pg 39] of Satan, not with gold or silver, but with His holy and precious blood and His innocent death.
I believe that Jesus Christ is truly God, made by the Father from eternity; I also believe that He is truly human, born of the Virgin Mary; that He is my Lord, who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned sinner; who has freed me from sin, from death, and from the power [Pg 39] of Satan, not with gold or silver, but with His holy and precious blood and His innocent death.
All this He has done that I might be His own, and that I might serve Him in righteousness, innocence, and happiness, and live and reign with Him in His kingdom forever, even as He arose from the dead, lives and reigns through all eternity.
All this He has done so that I can be His own, that I can serve Him in righteousness, innocence, and happiness, and live and reign with Him in His kingdom forever, just as He rose from the dead, lives, and reigns for all eternity.
All this is certainly true.
This is definitely true.
149. What do you mean when you say "I believe in Jesus Christ?"
149. What do you mean when you say "I believe in Jesus Christ?"
Trusting in Jesus Christ with all my heart, I surrender myself to Him as my only Savior from sin, and death, and the power of Satan.
Trusting in Jesus Christ with all my heart, I give myself to Him as my only Savior from sin, death, and the power of Satan.
Acts 4:12. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Acts 4:12. There is no salvation in anyone else, for there is no other name under heaven given to humanity by which we must be saved.
150. Who is Jesus Christ?
150. Who is Jesus?
The Son of God and the Son of Mary, true God and true man.
The Son of God and the Son of Mary, truly God and truly human.
151. How does Christ have divine nature?
151. How does Christ possess divine nature?
He is begotten of the Father from eternity.
He is eternally generated by the Father.
152. How does Christ have human nature?
152. How does Christ have human nature?
He is conceived by the Holy Ghost, and born of the Virgin Mary.
He is conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary.
153. What does the Bible say about Christ being true God?
153. What does the Bible say about Christ being truly God?
The Bible calls Him the only begotten Son of God, and one with the Father.
The Bible refers to Him as the only Son of God and one with the Father.
The Bible also expressly calls Him God.
The Bible also clearly refers to Him as God.
John 10:30. I and my Father are one.
John 10:30. My Father and I are one.
John 5:23. All men should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He that honoreth not the Son honoreth not the Father which hath sent Him.
John 5:23. Everyone should honor the Son just like they honor the Father. Whoever doesn’t honor the Son doesn’t honor the Father who sent Him.
1 John 5:20. This is the true God, and eternal life.
1 John 5:20. This is the true God and eternal life.
John 1:1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1. In the beginning, there was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 3:16.
John 3:16.
154. What does the Bible say about Christ being both God and man?
154. What does the Bible say about Christ being both God and human?
It says, The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us. John 1:14.
It says, The Word became human and lived among us. John 1:14.
And,
And,
When the fulness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman. [R. V.] Gal. 4:4.
When the right time came, God sent His Son, born of a woman. [R. V.] Gal. 4:4.
155. Why must the Son of God become true man?
155. Why does the Son of God have to become a true human?
In order that He might suffer and die for us.
In order for Him to suffer and die for us.
156. Why must our Savior be true God?
156. Why does our Savior need to be truly God?
In order that His death and His blood might have everlasting power to atone for sin.
In order for His death and His blood to have eternal power to atone for sin.
157. Is Jesus conceived and born with sin?
157. Was Jesus conceived and born with sin?
No; He is conceived by the Holy Ghost and therefore without sin.
No; He is conceived by the Holy Spirit and therefore is without sin.
Luke 1:35. The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
Luke 1:35. The Holy Spirit will come over you, and the power of the Most High will cover you: so the child born from you will be called the Son of God.
158. What does the name Jesus signify?
158. What does the name Jesus mean?
A Savior.
A Savior.
Matt. 1:21. Thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins.
Matt. 1:21. You will call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.
159. What does the name Christ signify?
159. What does the name Christ mean?
The same as Messiah; that is, the Anointed or the Consecrated.
The same as Messiah; that is, the Anointed or the Dedicated.
160. How was Jesus anointed?
160. How was Jesus anointed?
He was anointed with the Holy Ghost and with power. Acts 10:38.
He was filled with the Holy Spirit and with power. Acts 10:38.
161. For what offices was Jesus anointed and consecrated?
161. For what roles was Jesus anointed and dedicated?
The offices of High Priest, Prophet, and King.
The roles of High Priest, Prophet, and King.
162. What is Christ's work as High Priest?
162. What does Christ do as High Priest?
He offered up Himself a sacrifice for our sins, and ever prays for us.
He offered Himself as a sacrifice for our sins and always prays for us.
Heb. 7:26, 27. [R. V.] For such a high priest became us,—who needeth not daily as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people: for this He did once for all, when he offered up himself.
Heb. 7:26, 27. [R. V.] For this type of high priest is what we need—who doesn’t have to daily offer sacrifices like the other high priests, first for his own sins and then for the sins of the people; because he did this once and for all when he offered himself up.
Rom. 8:34. Jesus Christ, who also maketh intercession for us.
Rom. 8:34. Jesus Christ, who also intercedes for us.
163. What is Christ's work as Prophet?
163. What is Christ's role as a Prophet?
He teaches us the will of God concerning our salvation.
He shows us what God wants regarding our salvation.
Luke 24: 19. Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people.
Luke 24: 19. Jesus of Nazareth, who was a powerful prophet in action and speech in the eyes of God and everyone.
164. What is Christ's work as King?
164. What does Christ do as King?
He governs and keeps His children, and defends them against their enemies.
He watches over and protects His children, defending them from their enemies.
Luke 1:33. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
Luke 1:33. He will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and his kingdom will never end.
Rev. 17:14. He is the Lord of lords, and the King of kings.
Rev. 17:14. He is the Lord of lords and the King of kings.
165. How are the believers named after Christ?
165. How are the followers of Christ called?
They are called Christians; meaning, "the anointed".
They are called Christians, which means "the anointed."
1 John 2:20. Ye have an anointing from the Holy One, and ye know all things.
1 John 2:20. You have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know everything.
166. With what means has Christ redeemed us?
166. How has Christ redeemed us?
He has paid for our sins with His holy and precious blood and His innocent death, and He has fulfilled the law in our stead with His holy life and His perfect obedience.
He has paid for our sins with His holy and precious blood and His innocent death, and He has fulfilled the law for us with His holy life and perfect obedience.
1 Pet. 1:18, 19. [R. V.] Ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain manner of life; but with precious blood, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot, even the blood of Christ.
1 Pet. 1:18, 19. [R. V.] You know that you weren’t saved with things that can perish, like silver and gold, from your empty way of living; but with the precious blood of Christ, a Lamb without blemish or defect.
167. Whom has Christ redeemed?
167. Who has Christ redeemed?
He has redeemed me, a lost and condemned sinner.
He has saved me, a lost and condemned sinner.
168. Has not Christ redeemed all mankind?
168. Hasn't Christ saved everyone?
Yes, He has; He gave Himself a ransom for all. 1 Tim. 2:6.
Yes, He has; He gave Himself as a ransom for everyone. 1 Tim. 2:6.
1 John 2:2. He is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 2:2. He is the atonement for our sins; and not just for ours, but also for the sins of the entire world.
169. But are not many, thus redeemed, yet lost?
169. But aren't many, who are redeemed, still lost?
Yes, indeed; many reject Him because of their unbelief and love of sin.
Yes, many reject Him due to their lack of belief and their love for sin.
2 Pet. 2:1. Denying the Lord who bought them.
2 Pet. 2:1. Rejecting the Lord who redeemed them.
John 3:18. He that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
John 3:18. Whoever does not believe is already condemned, because they have not believed in the name of the one and only Son of God.
170. Who get a share in the redemption of Christ?
170. Who gets a share in the redemption of Christ?
Those who repent their sins and believe in Him.
Those who regret their sins and believe in Him.
171. What benefit does the believer have from the redemption of Christ?
171. What benefit does a believer gain from Christ's redemption?
By this redemption he is freed from sin, from death, and from the power of Satan.
By this redemption, he is freed from sin, death, and the power of Satan.
172. In what way is the believer freed from sin by the redemption of Christ?
172. How is a believer freed from sin through Christ's redemption?
1. The guilt and punishment of sin are removed from him.
1. The guilt and punishment of sin are taken away from him.
Col. 1:14. We have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins.
Col. 1:14. We have been redeemed through His blood, which brings the forgiveness of our sins.
Rom. 6:14. Sin shall not have dominion over you.
Rom. 6:14. Sin will not control you.
3. When he dies, sin is entirely rooted out from him.
3. When he dies, sin is completely eliminated from him.
173. In what way is the believer freed from death by the redemption of Christ?
173. How is the believer freed from death by Christ's redemption?
Spiritual death has lost its power over him, temporal death is but an entrance into perfect life, and eternal death he no longer fears.
Spiritual death no longer affects him, temporary death is just a doorway to a perfect life, and he no longer fears eternal death.
John 11:25, 26. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.
John 11:25, 26. Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life: anyone who believes in me, even if they die, will live; and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.
174. In what way is the believer freed from the power of Satan by the redemption of Christ?
174. How is the believer set free from Satan's influence through Christ's redemption?
Satan has no power over the believer, unless the believer yield himself into his service.
Satan has no power over a believer unless the believer submits to him.
Heb. 2:14. [R. V.] Since then the children are sharers in flesh and blood, he also himself in like manner partook of the same; that through death he might bring to nought him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.
Heb. 2:14. [R. V.] Since the children share in flesh and blood, he also shared in the same; so that through death, he could eliminate the one who had the power of death, that is, the devil.
175. For what purpose has Christ redeemed you?
175. Why has Christ saved you?
He has redeemed me in order that I might be His own, live with Him in His kingdom, and serve Him in righteousness, innocence, and happiness.
He has rescued me so that I can be His, live with Him in His kingdom, and serve Him with righteousness, purity, and joy.
1 Cor. 6:20. [R. V.] Ye are not your own, for ye were bought with a price; glorify God therefore in your body.
1 Cor. 6:20. [R. V.] You are not your own, for you were bought at a price; therefore honor God with your body.
Titus 2:14. [R. V.] He gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a people for his own possession, zealous of good works.
Titus 2:14. [R. V.] He gave himself for us so that he could rescue us from all wrongdoing and create for himself a people who are eager to do good.
176. What did Christ do in order to become our Savior and Redeemer?
176. What did Christ do to become our Savior and Redeemer?
He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Phil. 2:8.
He lowered Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Phil. 2:8.
177. How many steps do you notice in the humiliation of Christ?
177. How many steps do you see in the humiliation of Christ?
Five: the birth in poverty; the suffering; the crucifixion; the death; the burial.
Five: the birth in poverty; the suffering; the crucifixion; the death; the burial.
178. Why did Christ begin His life on earth with the birth in poverty?
178. Why did Christ start His life on earth with a birth in poverty?
He began His life in poverty to show that His kingdom is not of this world, and that we might be made rich through His poverty.
He started His life in poverty to demonstrate that His kingdom isn't of this world, and so we could be made wealthy through His poverty.
179. When was the suffering of Christ greatest?
179. When was Christ's suffering at its worst?
In the night before His death, and on Good Friday, when He was delivered into the hands of His enemies, and was bound, beaten, scourged, crowned with thorns, and finally nailed to the cross.
In the night before His death, and on Good Friday, when He was handed over to His enemies, and was tied up, beaten, whipped, crowned with thorns, and ultimately nailed to the cross.
180. Did Christ suffer bodily pain only?
180. Did Christ only experience physical pain?
No; His greatest suffering was a fearful anguish of soul on account of our sins.
No; His greatest suffering was a deep anguish of the soul because of our sins.
181. When in particular did he suffer this anguish?
181. When exactly did he experience this pain?
In the garden, when His sweat was as drops of blood and He said, "My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death"; and on the cross, when He cried, "My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me?"
In the garden, when His sweat was like drops of blood and He said, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death"; and on the cross, when He cried, "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?"
Isa. 53:4, 5. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows:
Isa. 53:4, 5. Surely he has taken on our griefs and carried our sorrows:
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
But he was hurt for our wrongdoings, he was beaten for our sins: the punishment that brought us peace was on him; and by his wounds we are healed.
182. How did Christ act through all this suffering?
182. How did Christ respond to all this suffering?
He was patient as a lamb that is lead to the slaughter. Isa. 53:7.
He was as patient as a lamb being led to slaughter. Isa. 53:7.
183. What did Christ accomplish for us by His death on the cross?
183. What did Christ achieve for us through His death on the cross?
By His death He has paid the wages of sin, which is death.
By His death, He has paid the penalty for sin, which is death.
Rom. 5:10. When we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son.
Rom. 5:10. When we were enemies, we were brought back to God through the death of his Son.
184. What comfort do we have from the burial of Christ?
184. What comfort do we get from Christ's burial?
He has buried our sins, hallowed our graves, and taken away their horror.
He has buried our sins, honored our graves, and removed their fear.
185. How should we look upon the life and suffering of Christ in His humiliation?
185. How should we view the life and suffering of Christ during His time of humiliation?
We should look upon His life and His suffering as an atonement for our sins, and as an [Pg 47] example to the believer of holiness in life and patience in suffering.
We should view His life and suffering as a way to make up for our sins and as an [Pg 47] example for believers of how to live a holy life and remain patient in suffering.
1 Pet. 2:21. Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.
1 Pet. 2:21. Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps.
186. Did Christ remain in humiliation and death?
186. Did Christ stay in humiliation and death?
No; God exalted Him and gave Him a name which is above every name. Phil. 2:9.
No; God lifted Him up and gave Him a name that is greater than all names. Phil. 2:9.
187. How many steps do you notice in the exaltation of Christ?
187. How many steps do you see in the celebration of Christ?
Five: His descent into hell; His resurrection; His ascension; His session at the right hand of the Father; His coming to judge the quick and the dead.
Five: His descent into hell; His resurrection; His ascension; His sitting at the right hand of the Father; His coming to judge the living and the dead.
188. What did Christ accomplish when he descended into hell?
188. What did Christ achieve when he went down to hell?
He made known the victory which He had won over the devil, and preached to the spirits in prison. 1 Pet. 3:18, 19.
He revealed the victory He had achieved over the devil and preached to the spirits in prison. 1 Pet. 3:18, 19.
189. What benefit do we have from the resurrection of Christ?
189. What do we gain from the resurrection of Christ?
1. The resurrection assures us that Christ is the Son of God, and that He has conquered death and fully satisfied for our sins.
1. The resurrection assures us that Christ is the Son of God and that He has defeated death and completely atoned for our sins.
Rom. 1:4. Declared to be the Son of God by the resurrection from the dead.
Rom. 1:4. Proven to be the Son of God through His resurrection from the dead.
1 Cor. 15:14. If Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.
1 Cor. 15:14. If Christ hasn’t risen, then our preaching is worthless, and your faith is also pointless.
[Pg 48] 2. The resurrection gives us power to arise from spiritual death, and to live a new and holy life.
[Pg 48] 2. The resurrection empowers us to rise from spiritual death and to live a fresh and holy life.
Rom. 6:4. As Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Rom. 6:4. Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too should live a new life.
3. The resurrection assures us that our bodies shall arise in glory on the last day.
3. The resurrection guarantees that our bodies will rise in glory on the last day.
190. What command did Christ give His disciples before His ascension?
190. What command did Christ give to His disciples before He ascended?
He commanded them to go out into the whole world and preach the gospel to all nations. [Missions.]
He instructed them to go out into the entire world and share the good news with everyone. [Missions.]
Matt. 28:19; Mark. 16:15.
Matt. 28:19; Mark. 16:15.
191. What is meant by the ascension of Christ?
191. What does the ascension of Christ mean?
He left the earth, so that He is no longer visibly present, and He entered into His Father's glory to prepare a place for us in the heavenly mansions.
He left the earth, so He is no longer visibly present, and He entered into His Father's glory to prepare a place for us in the heavenly homes.
John 14:2. In my Father's house are many mansions; I go to prepare a place for you.
John 14:2. In my Father's house, there are many rooms; I am going to prepare a place for you.
192. What does the ascension of Christ teach us?
192. What does Christ's ascension teach us?
It teaches us to be heavenly-minded, and to have a desire to depart and be with Christ.
It encourages us to focus on spiritual things and to long to be with Christ.
Col. 3:1. If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Col. 3:1. Since you have been raised with Christ, set your minds on the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
193. What does Christ's session on the right hand of the Father signify?
193. What does Christ being seated at the right hand of the Father mean?
It signifies that He shares also as true man in the power and glory of God, and rules over all things.
It means that He, as a true human, also shares in the power and glory of God and has authority over everything.
1 Pet. 3:22. [R. V.] He is on the right hand of God, having gone into heaven; angels and authorities and powers being made subject to Him.
1 Pet. 3:22. [R. V.] He is at the right hand of God, after going to heaven; angels and authorities and powers have been made subject to Him.
194. What benefit do we have from Christ's session on the right hand of the Father?
194. What advantage do we gain from Christ sitting at the right hand of the Father?
He protects His kingdom from its enemies, prays for us, and sends us His Holy Spirit.
He protects His kingdom from its enemies, prays for us, and sends us His Holy Spirit.
195. Is Christ no longer present on earth?
195. Is Christ not present on earth anymore?
Yes; He is present in a real, though invisible, manner.
Yes; He is present in a real, although unseen, way.
Matt. 28:20. And lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.
Matt. 28:20. And look, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.
196. When will He again come to earth in a visible manner?
196. When will He return to earth in a visible way?
On the last day, when He comes to judge the quick and the dead.
On the final day, when He comes to judge the living and the dead.
Luke 21:27. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
Luke 21:27. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
2 Cor. 5:10. We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in the body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
2 Cor. 5:10. We all have to stand before the judgment seat of Christ; so that everyone can receive what they did while in the body, based on their actions, whether good or bad.
197. By what rule will Christ judge us?
197. How will Christ judge us?
He will judge us by His Word.
He will judge us by His Word.
John 12:48. The Word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.
John 12:48. The words I’ve spoken will be the ones that judge him on the last day.
198. Is it sufficient that you know all these things about Christ and hold them to be true?
198. Is it enough for you to know all these things about Christ and believe they are true?
No; the Holy Spirit must teach me to know Christ in a true and living faith.
No; the Holy Spirit has to teach me to truly and actively know Christ through faith.
THE THIRD ARTICLE.
CONCERNING SANCTIFICATION.
I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy Christian church, the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and life everlasting. Amen.
I believe in the Holy Spirit; the holy Christian church, the community of believers; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and eternal life. Amen.
That is,
That’s
I believe that I cannot through my own strength believe in Jesus Christ my Lord, or come to Him. This is the work of the Holy Spirit alone, who has called me through the gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, and sanctified and preserved me in the true faith;
I believe that I can't, by my own strength, believe in Jesus Christ my Lord or come to Him. This is the work of the Holy Spirit alone, who has called me through the gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, and kept me in true faith;
Even as He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and preserves it in fellowship with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.
Even as He calls, gathers, enlightens, and makes holy the entire Christian church on earth, and keeps it in community with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.
In this Christian church He daily forgives me and all believers all our sins, and He will raise up me and all the dead on the last day, and will give me and all believers everlasting life.
In this Christian church, He forgives me and all believers for our sins every day, and He will bring me and all the dead back to life on the last day, giving me and all believers eternal life.
All this is certainly true.
This is definitely true.
199. What do you mean when you say, "I believe in the Holy Ghost"?
199. What do you mean when you say, "I believe in the Holy Spirit"?
I trust with all my heart in the Holy Ghost as my guide and my sanctifier, who gives me strength to believe in Jesus and to live according to His will.
I completely trust the Holy Spirit as my guide and my source of holiness, who gives me the strength to believe in Jesus and to live according to His will.
1 Cor. 12:3. No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
1 Cor. 12:3. No one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.
200. Who is the Holy Ghost?
200. Who is the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Ghost is true God together with the Father and the Son.
The Holy Spirit is fully God along with the Father and the Son.
1 Cor. 2:10. The Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
1 Cor. 2:10. The Spirit searches everything, even the deep things of God.
1 Cor. 3:16. Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you.
1 Cor. 3:16. Don't you know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God lives in you?
201. What is the work of the Holy Spirit?
201. What does the Holy Spirit do?
To call, enlighten, sanctify, and preserve.
To call, enlighten, sanctify, and preserve.
202. How does the Holy Spirit call us?
202. How does the Holy Spirit reach out to us?
The Holy Spirit calls us by awakening in our hearts a deep sense of sin, and by inviting us to accept the grace of God in Christ.
The Holy Spirit calls us by stirring up a profound awareness of our sins in our hearts and encouraging us to accept God's grace in Christ.
Eph. 5:14. Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.
Eph. 5:14. Wake up, you who are sleeping, and get up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.
203. By what means does the Holy Spirit call us?
203. How does the Holy Spirit call us?
By the Word of God; using the law to awaken our hearts, and the gospel to invite us to Christ.
By the Word of God; using the law to stir our hearts, and the gospel to draw us to Christ.
Rom. 3:20. By the law is the knowledge of sin.
Rom. 3:20. The law makes us aware of sin.
2 Thess. 2:14. He called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thess. 2:14. He called you through our gospel, so you could receive the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Matt. 22:1–14.
Matthew 22:1–14.
204. What means does God use to make us heed the call of the Holy Spirit?
204. What methods does God use to encourage us to listen to the call of the Holy Spirit?
To this end He often uses suffering, often blessings, often the example of others, and such other means as may lead us to reflect.
To achieve this, He frequently uses suffering, often blessings, often the example of others, and other means that may encourage us to reflect.
205. Do all obey the call of the Holy Spirit?
205. Does everyone respond to the call of the Holy Spirit?
No; many resist the Holy Spirit, and will not repent and come to Christ.
No; many resist the Holy Spirit and refuse to repent and turn to Christ.
Acts 7:51. Ye do always resist the Holy Ghost.
Acts 7:51. You always resist the Holy Spirit.
Isa. 65:2. I have spread out my hands all the day to a rebellious people.
Isa. 65:2. I have extended my hands all day to a rebellious people.
206. When does a person harden his heart?
206. When does someone harden their heart?
A person hardens his heart when he persistently despises and opposes the voice of the Holy Spirit in his conscience.
A person hardens their heart when they continually ignore and resist the voice of the Holy Spirit in their conscience.
207. Who obey the call of the Holy Spirit?
207. Who answers the call of the Holy Spirit?
They who repent their sins and believe the Gospel.
They who regret their sins and believe in the Gospel.
Mark. 1:15. The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
Mark. 1:15. The time has come, and the kingdom of God is near: turn away from your sins and believe the good news.
208. What is it to repent?
208. What does it mean to repent?
He who truly repents, feels his sins with shame and sorrow, he freely confesses his sins to God, and earnestly seeks the grace of God in Christ.
He who truly repents feels shame and sorrow for his sins, openly confesses them to God, and sincerely seeks God's grace through Christ.
Isa. 55:7. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.
Isa. 55:7. Let the wicked abandon their ways, and the unjust their thoughts; and let them return to the Lord, and He will show them mercy; and to our God, for He will generously forgive.
2 Cor. 7:10. [R. V.] Godly sorrow worketh repentance unto salvation, a repentance which bringeth no regret: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
2 Cor. 7:10. [R. V.] True sorrow for sin leads to a change of heart that results in salvation, a change that brings no regret: but worldly sorrow leads to death.
Ps. 32:5. I acknowledged my sin unto thee; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.
Ps. 32:5. I confessed my sin to you; and you forgave the wrong I did.
209. How do we learn that the grace of God is found in Christ?
209. How do we understand that the grace of God is found in Christ?
We learn this through the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit.
We learn this through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
210. What is meant by the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit?
210. What does the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit mean?
Through the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit our knowledge of the Gospel truths becomes a living and saving knowledge to our hearts.
Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, our understanding of the Gospel truths becomes a vibrant and transformative knowledge for our hearts.
John 14:26. But the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 14:26. But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and help you remember all that I have said to you.
John 16:13. When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.
John 16:13. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth.
211. Of what nature is our knowledge of these truths before the Holy Spirit has enlightened our hearts?
211. What is our understanding of these truths before the Holy Spirit has opened our hearts?
It is a dead knowledge only, which does not lead to repentance and faith, but leaves us in our sins.
It’s just empty knowledge that doesn’t lead to repentance and faith, but keeps us stuck in our sins.
212. What is the true and living faith in Jesus Christ?
212. What is the genuine and active faith in Jesus Christ?
This is faith, that a repentant sinner lays hold of Christ as his only Savior from sin, and death, and the power of Satan;
This is faith: a repentant sinner grabs hold of Christ as their only Savior from sin, death, and the power of Satan;
That he takes refuge with Christ and His righteousness, and builds thereon with the confidence of his whole heart.
That he finds shelter in Christ and His righteousness, and builds on that with complete confidence.
213. Can only a repentant sinner have this faith in Christ?
213. Can only a person who has repented be able to have faith in Christ?
Yes; the faith which lays hold of Christ and His righteousness, can be wrought in that heart only which bitterly feels the pain and misery of living in sin.
Yes; the faith that embraces Christ and His righteousness can only exist in a heart that truly feels the pain and suffering of living in sin.
Matt. 9:12. They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.
Matt. 9:12. Those who are healthy don't need a doctor, but those who are sick do.
214. Is the true and living faith always and in all persons equally strong?
214. Is the true and living faith always strong and equally present in all people?
No; it is often very weak and scarcely able to avail itself of the grace of God.
No; it's often very weak and barely able to take advantage of God's grace.
Mark 9:24. Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.
Mark 9:24. Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.
215. Whereby may we know whether this weak faith is true and living?
215. How can we tell if this weak faith is genuine and alive?
The true and living faith is known by an earnest hatred of sin, and an eager longing for grace.
The true and living faith is recognized by a sincere hatred of sin and a strong desire for grace.
216. Does God accept this weak faith?
216. Does God accept this weak faith?
Yes, indeed; only it be true and sincere.
Yes, that's true; as long as it's genuine and honest.
Isa. 42:3. A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench.
Isa. 42:3. He won’t break a bent reed, and he won’t put out a smoldering wick.
217. What benefit do we have from the true and living faith in Jesus Christ?
217. What advantage do we gain from having a genuine and active faith in Jesus Christ?
By faith we are justified, born anew, sanctified, and finally saved forever.
By faith, we are made right, reborn, set apart, and ultimately saved for good.
218. What is Justification?
218. What's Justification?
Justification is the gracious act of God whereby He for Christ's sake acquits a repentant and believing sinner of his sin and guilt, and looks upon him, in Christ, as though he had never sinned.
Justification is the generous act of God through which He, for Christ's sake, frees a repentant and believing sinner from sin and guilt, and sees him, in Christ, as if he had never sinned.
2 Cor. 5:21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
2 Cor. 5:21. For he made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in him.
Rom. 3:24. (They are) justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.
Rom. 3:24. They are declared righteous freely by his grace through the redemption that is found in Christ Jesus.
219. What, then, does the believer receive through justification?
219. So, what does a believer gain from being justified?
He receives the forgiveness of sins, and is adopted as a child of God.
He receives forgiveness for his sins and is adopted as a child of God.
Eph. 1:7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.
Eph. 1:7. In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our sins, in line with the richness of His grace.
Gal. 3:26. For ye are the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
Gal. 3:26. For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus.
Acts 10:43. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
Acts 10:43. All the prophets testify about him, that everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name.
220. What moves God to forgive sin so freely?
220. What makes God forgive sins so easily?
His everlasting love and mercy alone.
His eternal love and mercy alone.
221. For whose sake does God forgive us our sins?
221. Why does God forgive us our sins?
For Christ's sake, who has satisfied for the sins of the whole world by His death on the cross.
For Christ's sake, who paid for the sins of the whole world by dying on the cross.
John 1:29. Behold the lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
John 1:29. Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.
222. To what does the forgiveness of sins necessarily lead?
222. What does the forgiveness of sins inevitably lead to?
The forgiveness of sins leads to the full enjoyment of the blessed rights which belong to a child of God; it also gives free access to the Father's fellowship and blessing, and to the glorious inheritance of eternal life.
The forgiveness of sins allows for the complete enjoyment of the blessed rights that belong to a child of God; it also provides free access to the Father's fellowship and blessing, as well as the glorious inheritance of eternal life.
Ps. 32:1, 2. Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Ps. 32:1, 2. Happy is the one whose wrongdoing is forgiven, whose sin is hidden.
Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.
Blessed is the person whom the Lord does not charge with wrongdoing, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
Rom. 8:17. And if [we are] children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.
Rom. 8:17. If we are children, then we are heirs; heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.
223. What is the New Birth?
223. What is the New Birth?
The New Birth is the gracious work of the Holy Spirit whereby He, through His indwelling in our hearts, renews the image of God in us, and thus creates a new spiritual man.
The New Birth is the kind work of the Holy Spirit, who, by living in our hearts, renews God's image within us and creates a new spiritual being.
2 Cor. 5:17. If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things have passed away; behold, all things are new.
2 Cor. 5:17. If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation: the old has gone; look, everything is new.
John 1:12, 13. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
John 1:12, 13. But to those who accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in his name:
Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
They were born, not from blood, nor from human desire, nor from anyone's decision, but from God.
224. What change is wrought in us in the New Birth?
224. What change happens in us during the New Birth?
We get a new heart or a new spiritual life; namely,
We receive a new heart or a new spiritual life; that is,
In the understanding, a new spiritual light;
In the conscience, real peace and joy;
In the will, a holy desire and a steadfast purpose.
In understanding, a new spiritual insight;
In good conscience, true peace and happiness;
In will, a sacred wish and a strong goal.
Ezek. 36:26. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh.
Ezek. 36:26. I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will remove your old, stubborn heart and replace it with a tender, responsive heart.
Eph. 4:24. Put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Eph. 4:24. Embrace your new self, which is created by God in righteousness and genuine holiness.
Gal. 5:22. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace.
Gal. 5:22. The result of the Spirit is love, joy, and peace.
225. In what does this new life really consist?
225. What does this new life actually involve?
In consists in love to God who first loved us.
It consists of loving God, who loved us first.
226. By what means is the New Birth accomplished?
226. How is the New Birth achieved?
In little children it is accomplished by water and the Spirit in baptism; but in those who have fallen from the grace of their baptism, also by the Word of God.
In young kids, it's done through water and the Spirit in baptism; but for those who have strayed from the grace of their baptism, it's also done by the Word of God.
John 3:5. Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
John 3:5. Jesus answered, Truly, I tell you, unless someone is born of water and the Spirit, they cannot enter the kingdom of God.
1 Peter 1:23. Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.
1 Peter 1:23. Having been born again, not from perishable seed, but from imperishable, through the word of God, which lives and remains forever.
227. Is the New Birth necessary to our salvation?
227. Is being born again necessary for our salvation?
Yes, indeed; except a man be born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3: 3. [R. V.]
Yes, truly; unless someone is born again, they cannot see the kingdom of God. John 3:3. [R. V.]
John 3:6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit, is spirit.
John 3:6. What is born of the flesh is flesh; and what is born of the Spirit is spirit.
228. What does the Holy Spirit further work in the believer?
228. What else does the Holy Spirit do in the believer?
He sanctifies and preserves him.
He blesses and protects him.
229. What is Sanctification?
229. What is Sanctification?
Sanctification is the gracious work of the Holy Spirit whereby He day by day renews the believer more and more after the image of God.
Sanctification is the generous work of the Holy Spirit, through which He continuously renews the believer more and more into the image of God, day by day.
230. How is the daily renewal accomplished?
230. How is the daily renewal achieved?
The old man, or sin, is put away more and more, and the new man, or the new spiritual life, appears more and more in all our conduct.
The old self, or sin, is being pushed aside more and more, and the new self, or the new spiritual life, becomes more evident in everything we do.
Eph. 4:22–24. [R. V.] Put away, as concerning your former manner of life, the old man, which waxeth corrupt after the lusts of deceit;
Eph. 4:22–24. [R. V.] Get rid of your old way of life, the old self, which is being corrupted by deceitful desires;
And be ye renewed in the spirit of your mind,
And be renewed in the way you think,
And put on the new man, which after God hath been created in righteousness and holiness of truth.
And put on the new self, which has been created in the image of God, with true righteousness and holiness.
231. How does this new conduct appear in the daily life of a Christian?
231. How does this new behavior show up in the everyday life of a Christian?
A Christian denies himself, strives against the devil, the world, and his own flesh; he grows in love toward God and man, and seeks to do the will of God in all things.
A Christian practices self-denial, fights against the devil, the world, and his own desires; he grows in love for God and others, and aims to do God's will in everything.
Matt. 16:24. If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
Matt. 16:24. If anyone wants to follow me, they must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow me.
1 Cor. 16:13. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
1 Cor. 16:13. Stay alert, stand firm in your faith, act like men, be strong.
1 Tim. 6:12. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
1 Tim. 6:12. Fight the good fight of faith, hold on to eternal life, to which you were called and have made a good confession in front of many witnesses.
232. Is the believer, then, justified and saved by his own good works?
232. So is the believer justified and saved by their own good works?
No; our best works avail nothing to this end: we must build our hope of salvation on Christ alone and His righteousness.
No; our best efforts mean nothing for this purpose: we must base our hope for salvation solely on Christ and His righteousness.
Luk. 17:10. When ye shall have done all these things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.
Luke 17:10. When you have done everything that was commanded of you, say, We are unworthy servants: we have only done what was our duty.
233. What is the work of Preservation done by the Holy Spirit?
233. What does the Holy Spirit do in terms of Preservation?
Preservation is the gracious work of the Holy Spirit whereby He keeps us, through all temptations, in the true and living faith in Jesus, until the end.
Preservation is the kind act of the Holy Spirit that keeps us, through all temptations, in the true and living faith in Jesus, until the very end.
Phil. 1:6. [R. V.] He which began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ.
Phil. 1:6. [R. V.] The one who started a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.
234. By what means does the Holy Spirit sanctify and preserve the believer?
234. How does the Holy Spirit make the believer holy and keep them safe?
By the Word of God and the Lord's Supper.
By God's Word and the Lord's Supper.
235. How does the Holy Spirit preserve the believer?
235. How does the Holy Spirit protect the believer?
He teaches and guides, corrects and comforts him.
He teaches and guides him, corrects him, and offers comfort.
236. What are they called whom the Holy Spirit thus sanctifies and preserves in faith?
236. What do we call those whom the Holy Spirit sanctifies and keeps in faith?
They are called the children of God; the Elect of God; Holy and Beloved; Members of the Body of Christ. In a body they make up the holy Christian church.
They are referred to as the children of God; the Elect of God; Holy and Beloved; Members of the Body of Christ. Together, they form the holy Christian church.
237. What is the holy Christian church?
237. What is the holy Christian church?
The holy Christian Church is the congregation of saints or true believers, where the Word of God is preached and the sacraments are administered according to the ordinance of God.
The holy Christian Church is the gathering of saints or true believers, where the Word of God is shared and the sacraments are given according to God's command.
238. Why is the church called holy?
238. Why is the church referred to as holy?
The church is called holy because of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who performs His sanctifying work in all its members. For this reason the church is called holy, in spite of its sins and shortcomings.
The church is called holy because of the presence of the Holy Spirit, who works to sanctify all its members. This is why the church is considered holy, even with its sins and imperfections.
1 Peter 2:9. Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
1 Peter 2:9. You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God; that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
239. Why is the church called universal?
239. Why is the church referred to as universal?
The church is called universal because its object is to gather all nations, and because it includes all true believers of all times and all places.
The church is called universal because its purpose is to bring together all nations, and because it encompasses all true believers from all times and all places.
240. What is the state of the church on earth?
240. What is the condition of the church on earth?
The church of God on earth is militant.
The church of God on earth is actively fighting.
241. Who are the enemies of the church?
241. Who are the enemies of the church?
The enemies of the church are the devil, the world, and our own flesh. Its last enemy is death.
The enemies of the church are the devil, the world, and our own desires. Its ultimate enemy is death.
242. What will be the state of the church in heaven?
242. What will the church be like in heaven?
It will be triumphant, because all its enemies are conquered.
It will be victorious because all its enemies have been defeated.
Rev. 7:9, 10. After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;
Rev. 7:9, 10. After this, I saw a huge crowd that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and the Lamb, wearing white robes and holding palm branches in their hands;
And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.
And shouted loudly, saying, Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.
243. Is the holy Christian church found in this place?
243. Is the holy Christian church located here?
Yes; in the congregation, which in the Scriptures is called "the body of Jesus Christ", and "the house of God."
Yes; in the congregation, which in the Scriptures is referred to as "the body of Jesus Christ" and "the house of God."
Eph. 1:22, 23. 1 Tim. 3:15.
Eph. 1:22, 23. 1 Tim. 3:15.
244. Are all the members of the organized body, called a congregation, true Christians?
244. Are all the members of the organized group called a congregation true Christians?
No; in this organized body both hypocrites and true Christians are found.
No; within this organized group, you'll find both hypocrites and genuine Christians.
Matt. 13:24–30; 47–50.
Matthew 13:24–30; 47–50.
245. Who are hypocrites?
245. Who are the fakes?
Hypocrites are they who indeed make outward confession of Christ, but who inwardly and in their conduct deny Him.
Hypocrites are those who outwardly confess Christ but internally and in their actions deny Him.
2 Tim. 3:5. Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.
2 Tim. 3:5. They appear to be religious, but they reject the power that comes from true godliness.
246. Should not the congregation remove these hypocrites from its midst?
246. Shouldn't the congregation get rid of these hypocrites from among them?
Yes; the congregation should expel the openly [Pg 62] ungodly and unbelieving; but it cannot judge concerning the secret thoughts of the heart.
Yes; the congregation should remove the openly [Pg 62] ungodly and non-believers; but it cannot judge regarding the hidden thoughts of the heart.
1 Cor. 5:13. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
1 Cor. 5:13. So, remove that evil person from your group.
Matt. 18:15–17.
Matt. 18:15–17.
247. Who, then, are true Christians and the real members of the congregation?
247. So, who are the real Christians and the genuine members of the congregation?
They who believe in Christ with all their heart, and confess Him both in word and deed.
Those who have faith in Christ with all their hearts and acknowledge Him through their words and actions.
Rom. 10:10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness: and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Rom. 10:10. For with the heart, a person believes and is made right with God, and with the mouth, they confess and are saved.
248. What is the intimate fellowship called in which all true Christians live with one another?
248. What do we call the close community that all true Christians share with one another?
The Communion of Saints.
The Community of Saints.
Eph. 4:4–6. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;
Eph. 4:4–6. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling;
One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
One God and Father of everyone, who is above everyone, through everyone, and in all of you.
249. What precious gift does the Holy Spirit bestow upon us in this Christian church?
249. What valuable gift does the Holy Spirit give us in this Christian church?
In this Christian church He daily forgives me and all believers all our sins.
In this Christian church, He forgives me and all believers for our sins every day.
250. But does a sanctified person need the forgiveness of sins every day?
250. But does a holy person need to ask for forgiveness for their sins every day?
Yes; because sanctification is never perfected in this life, and sin cleaves to a Christian as long as he is in the world.
Yes; because sanctification is never fully achieved in this life, and sin sticks to a Christian for as long as they are in the world.
251. Whom has God given power to declare the forgiveness of sins?
251. Who has God given the authority to announce the forgiveness of sins?
The congregation, through its ministers. [Absolution.]
The congregation, through its ministers. [Absolution.]
Matt. 18:18. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
Matt. 18:18. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loosen on earth will be loosened in heaven.
252. What is required that a Christian may receive the forgiveness of sins every day?
252. What does a Christian need to do to receive forgiveness for their sins every day?
That he repents every day, or that he daily feels his sins with deep shame and sorrow, confesses his sins to God, and earnestly seeks the grace of God in Christ.
That he regrets every day, or that he feels his wrongdoings with profound shame and sadness each day, admits his sins to God, and sincerely looks for God's grace in Christ.
253. To whom should a repentant Christian confess his sins?
253. Who should a remorseful Christian confess their sins to?
First of all to God; then, if he feels the need of it, to his pastor; finally to his neighbor, if he feels that he has wronged him in any way.
First of all to God; then, if he feels the need for it, to his pastor; finally to his neighbor, if he thinks he has wronged him in any way.
Jas. 5:16. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.
James 5:16. Share your mistakes with each other and pray for one another so that you may be healed.
1 John 1:9. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:9. If we admit our mistakes, he is reliable and fair to forgive us our wrongs, and to purify us from all unrighteousness.
254. What does the daily forgiveness of sins work in the Christian?
254. What does the daily forgiveness of sins mean for the Christian?
The daily renewal, or that he day by day becomes more and more thankful to God, and increases in child-like obedience and faithfulness.
The daily renewal, or that he becomes more and more grateful to God each day, and grows in child-like obedience and faithfulness.
255. What becomes of the soul of the believer when he dies?
255. What happens to the believer's soul when they die?
His soul goes home to God, where it rests from all strife and sorrow, in blessed fellowship with Him, until the resurrection of the body.
His soul returns to God, where it finds peace from all struggle and pain, in blessed companionship with Him, until the resurrection of the body.
Luke 23:43. Verily I say unto thee, To-day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
Luke 23:43. Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.
Rev. 14:13. Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.
Rev. 14:13. Blessed are those who die in the Lord.
256. What is the resurrection of the body?
256. What does the resurrection of the body mean?
On the last day, when the Lord Jesus returns to earth, the bodies of the dead shall be made alive and shall be reunited with their souls.
On the last day, when the Lord Jesus comes back to earth, the bodies of the dead will be brought back to life and reunited with their souls.
John 5:28, 29. The hour is coming, in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of judgment.
John 5:28, 29. The time is coming when everyone in their graves will hear his voice and come out; those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to face judgment.
257. What change shall then take place in the bodies of the believers?
257. What changes will happen to the bodies of the believers?
Their bodies shall arise glorified and incorruptible, like unto the body of the risen Lord Jesus Christ.
Their bodies will rise glorified and imperishable, just like the body of the risen Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Cor. 15:42, 43. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption:
1 Cor. 15:42, 43. It is planted in a state of decay; it is raised in a state of perfection:
It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power.
It’s planted in shame; it’s raised in glory: it’s planted in weakness; it’s raised in strength.
258. Where do all the risen go after the day of judgment?
258. Where does everyone who rises go after the day of judgment?
The chosen enter into life everlasting; the condemned, into eternal death.
The chosen go into eternal life; the condemned, into eternal death.
Matt. 25:46. These shall go away into everlasting punishment; but the righteous into eternal life.
Matt. 25:46. These will go away to eternal punishment; but the righteous will go to eternal life.
259. What is life everlasting?
What is eternal life?
Life everlasting is the blessed state in which the chosen are free from all evil, and live forever in fellowship with their God and Savior, praising God in the company of the holy angels, in everlasting peace and joy.
Life everlasting is the blessed state where the chosen are free from all evil and live forever in fellowship with their God and Savior, praising God alongside the holy angels, in eternal peace and joy.
Matt. 25:34. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
Matt. 25:34. Then the King will say to those on his right, Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom that has been prepared for you since the foundation of the world.
260. What is eternal death?
What is eternal death?
Eternal death is a dreadful state of separation from God, and everlasting anguish and suffering in hell.
Eternal death is a terrifying condition of being separated from God, leading to endless pain and suffering in hell.
Matt. 25:41. Then shall he also say unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.
Matt. 25:41. Then he will also say to those on his left, Depart from me, you cursed ones, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.
261. Who are thus condemned?
261. Who is condemned?
All who continue in impenitence and unbelief until death.
All who remain unrepentant and in disbelief until death.
John 3:36. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
John 3:36. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; but whoever does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.
262. Who, on the other hand, obtain life everlasting?
262. Who, on the other hand, obtains eternal life?
All who continue steadfast in faith until death.
All who stay strong in faith until death.
Rev. 2:10. [R. V.] Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life.
Rev. 2:10. [R. V.] Stay faithful even to death, and I will give you the crown of life.
263. Why do you end your confession of faith with the word Amen?
263. Why do you finish your statement of faith with the word Amen?
Because I know that what I here confess is certainly true.
Because I know that what I'm confessing here is definitely true.
264. What must you do that you may continue steadfast in faith and also increase therein?
264. What do you need to do to stay strong in your faith and also grow in it?
I will pray God every day graciously to help and strengthen me.
I will pray to God every day to kindly help and support me.
PART THREE.
THE LORD'S PRAYER.
265. What is prayer?
What is prayer?
Prayer is the child-like communion of our hearts with God, in which we tell Him all our needs, and earnestly seek some gift from Him.
Prayer is the innocent connection of our hearts with God, where we share all our needs and genuinely ask for something from Him.
266. Who should pray?
Who needs to pray?
All should pray; even little children.
All should pray; even young kids.
267. But can all pray in this manner?
267. But can everyone pray like this?
No, not the impenitent; their hearts are not right with God, and they do not seek Him earnestly.
No, not the unrepentant; their hearts aren't right with God, and they don't seek Him sincerely.
268. In whose name must we pray?
268. In whose name should we pray?
We must pray in the name of Jesus.
We must pray in the name of Jesus.
John 16:23. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.
John 16:23. Truly, I tell you, whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give it to you.
269. What is meant by praying in the name of Jesus?
269. What does it mean to pray in Jesus' name?
To pray in the name of Jesus is to ask on the strength of what He has done for us, and His intercession with the Father.
To pray in the name of Jesus means to ask based on what He has done for us and His advocacy with the Father.
270. How should we pray?
270. How do we pray?
We should pray humbly, confidently as a child, and reverently.
We should pray humbly, confidently like a child, and with respect.
271. When should we pray?
271. When are we supposed to pray?
The attitude of our hearts should be one of constant prayer, and our communion with God should not be confined to certain times and places, but we should speak with Him whenever we feel the need of it.
The attitude of our hearts should be one of constant prayer, and our connection with God shouldn't be limited to specific times and places; we should talk to Him whenever we feel the need.
1 Thess. 5:17. Pray without ceasing.
1 Thess. 5:17. Keep praying all the time.
Eph. 6: 18. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.
Eph. 6: 18. Always pray with all kinds of prayer and requests in the Spirit.
272. For whom should we pray?
272. Who should we pray for?
We should pray not only for ourselves, but also for others,—even our enemies.
We should pray not just for ourselves, but also for others— including our enemies.
1 Tim. 2:1–3. Matt. 5:44.
1 Tim. 2:1–3. Matt. 5:44.
273. For what should we pray?
273. What should we pray for?
First of all we should pray for the spiritual gifts necessary to our salvation; but we may also pray for other gifts, both spiritual and temporal.
First of all, we should pray for the spiritual gifts needed for our salvation; but we can also pray for other gifts, both spiritual and material.
Matt. 6:33. Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Matt. 6:33. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you.
1 Cor. 12:31. Covet earnestly the best gifts.
1 Cor. 12:31. Desire the best gifts sincerely.
274. What must we always remember when we pray for things not necessary to our salvation?
274. What should we always keep in mind when we pray for things that aren't essential for our salvation?
We must always remember that God alone [Pg 69] knows whether such a prayer answered would truly benefit us.
We must always remember that only God [Pg 69] knows if an answered prayer would really help us.
When asking such gifts we should always add, "Lord, if Thou wilt".
When asking for such gifts, we should always add, "Lord, if you will."
Matt. 26:39. Not as I will, but as thou wilt.
Matt. 26:39. Not as I want, but as you want.
275. Who teaches us to pray well?
275. Who teaches us how to pray well?
The Holy Spirit, who is also called the Spirit of prayer.
The Holy Spirit, also known as the Spirit of prayer.
Rom. 8:26. We know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Rom. 8:26. We don’t know what we should pray for as we should, but the Spirit itself intercedes for us with groans that can’t be expressed.
276. Which is the most perfect prayer?
276. What is the most perfect prayer?
The most perfect prayer is the Lord's Prayer, which Christ taught His own disciples.
The best prayer is the Lord's Prayer, which Christ taught His disciples.
277. Repeat this prayer.
277. Say this prayer again.
Our Father, who art in heaven; hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil; for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Our Father in heaven, may your name be honored. May your kingdom come. May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread, and forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
278. Why would God have us speak to Him as "Our Father"?
278. Why does God want us to address Him as "Our Father"?
God would hereby tenderly invite us to believe that He is truly our Father, and we are [Pg 70] truly His children, so that we may ask of Him with all cheerfulness and confidence, as dear children ask of their dear father.
God now lovingly invites us to believe that He is truly our Father, and we are [Pg 70] truly His children, so that we can ask Him with all cheerfulness and confidence, just like beloved children ask their loving father.
279. Who alone can confidently call God Father?
279. Who can confidently call God Father on their own?
God's children alone can call God their Father.
God's children are the only ones who can call God their Father.
280. Why would God have us say "our Father" and not only "my Father"?
280. Why does God want us to say "our Father" instead of just "my Father"?
Because He would have us pray with one another and for one another, in spiritual fellowship.
Because He wants us to pray with each other and for each other, in spiritual community.
281. What is the importance of the words "who art in heaven"?
281. What do the words "who art in heaven" mean?
By these words we are reminded of the exalted love and power of our heavenly Father, far above that of any earthly father.
By these words, we are reminded of the amazing love and power of our heavenly Father, far greater than that of any earthly father.
Matt. 7:11. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
Matt. 7:11. If you, despite being flawed, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him?
THE FIRST PETITION.
Hallowed be Thy name.
Hallowed be Your name.
That is,
That's
The name of God is indeed holy in itself; but we pray in this petition that it may be hallowed also among us.
The name of God is definitely holy in itself; but we pray in this request that it may be honored among us as well.
[Pg 71] This is done when the Word of God is rightly taught, and when we as the children of God live holy lives in obedience to the Word. This grant us, heavenly Father!
[Pg 71] This happens when God's Word is taught correctly, and when we, as children of God, live holy lives in obedience to that Word. Grant us this, heavenly Father!
But he that teaches and lives otherwise than the Word of God teaches, profanes the name of God among us. From this preserve us, heavenly Father!
But the person who teaches and lives differently than what the Word of God teaches disrespects God's name among us. Keep us safe from this, heavenly Father!
282. What do you pray for in the first petition?
282. What do you ask for in the first request?
I pray that the name of God may be hallowed among us.
I hope that God's name will be respected among us.
Ps. 72:19. Blessed be his glorious name forever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory.
Psalm 72:19. May his glorious name be praised forever, and let the entire earth be filled with his glory.
283. When is the name of God hallowed among us?
283. When do we honor the name of God among us?
When the Word of God is rightly taught and is received into our hearts.
When the Word of God is properly taught and welcomed into our hearts.
284. When do we hallow the name of God among our fellow men?
284. When do we honor the name of God among our peers?
We hallow the name of God when we freely confess it before men in accordance with the Word, and when we as God's children live holy lives in obedience to the Word.
We honor the name of God when we openly acknowledge it to others, following the Word, and when we, as God's children, lead holy lives in obedience to the Word.
Matt. 5:16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Matt. 5:16. Let your light shine before others, so they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Matt. 10:32. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
Matt. 10:32. So everyone who acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven.
285. Who profanes the name of God?
285. Who disrespects the name of God?
He that teaches and lives otherwise than the Word of God teaches, profanes the name of God.
He who teaches and lives in a way that contradicts the Word of God disrespects God's name.
Rom. 2:24. [R. V.] The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.
Rom. 2:24. [R. V.] God's name is disrespected among the Gentiles because of you.
THE SECOND PETITION.
Thy kingdom come.
Your kingdom come.
That is,
That’s
The kingdom of God comes indeed of itself, without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it may come also to us.
The kingdom of God will come on its own, even without our prayers, but in this request, we pray for it to come to us as well.
This is done when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by His grace we believe the Word of God, and live holy and Christ-like lives here in time, and in heaven forever.
This happens when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that through His grace we believe in the Word of God and live holy, Christ-like lives here on earth, and in heaven forever.
286. What do you pray for in the second petition?
286. What do you ask for in the second petition?
I pray that the kingdom of God may come.
I hope that the kingdom of God will come.
287. What is meant, in a particular sense, by the kingdom of God which you pray for in this petition?
287. What does the kingdom of God mean in a specific way when you pray for it in this petition?
1. The kingdom of grace, in which Christ makes every believer a partaker of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit; and
1. The kingdom of grace, where Christ allows every believer to share in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit; and
2. The kingdom of glory in heaven, where the chosen live with Christ in perfect happiness.
2. The kingdom of glory in heaven, where the chosen ones live with Christ in complete happiness.
288. What is meant by saying that the kingdom of God comes to us?
288. What does it mean when we say that the kingdom of God is coming to us?
It means that we become partakers in it.
It means that we take part in it.
289. When does the kingdom of God come to us?
289. When does the kingdom of God come to us?
The kingdom of God comes to us when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by His grace we believe the Word of God.
The kingdom of God comes to us when our heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that through His grace we can believe the Word of God.
290. What does the Holy Spirit work in them who thus by faith have become partakers in the kingdom of God?
290. What does the Holy Spirit do in those who, through faith, have become part of the kingdom of God?
They live holy and Christ-like lives here in time, and in heaven forever.
They live holy and Christ-like lives here on Earth and in heaven for eternity.
THE THIRD PETITION.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
That is,
That's it,
The good and gracious will of God is done indeed without our prayer; but we pray in this petition that it may be done also among us.
The good and gracious will of God is done indeed without our prayer; but we pray in this request that it may be done also among us.
This is done when God brings to nothing all evil plans and purposes of the devil, the world, and our own flesh, that would hinder the hallowing of His name and the coming of His kingdom.
This happens when God nullifies all the evil plans and intentions of the devil, the world, and our own desires that would obstruct the honoring of His name and the arrival of His kingdom.
On the other hand, it is the good and gracious [Pg 74] will of God to strengthen us and keep us steadfast in His Word and in faith, until death.
On the other hand, it is the good and gracious [Pg 74] will of God to strengthen us and keep us steady in His Word and in faith, until death.
291. What do you pray for in the third petition?
291. What do you ask for in the third petition?
I pray that the will of God may be done among us on earth, as it is in heaven.
I pray that God's will is done here on earth, just like it is in heaven.
292. What is the will of God?
What does God want?
It is the will of God that all His rational creatures should praise Him forever in perfect holiness and happiness.
It is God's will that all His rational beings should praise Him forever in complete holiness and happiness.
293. Where is the will of God done in this manner?
293. Where is God's will carried out in this way?
In heaven, where the holy angels praise God in undisturbed peace and joy.
In heaven, where the holy angels worship God in complete peace and joy.
Ps. 103:20, 21. Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.
Ps. 103:20, 21. Praise the Lord, you angels who are strong and powerful, who carry out his commands and listen to the sound of his words.
Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.
Praise the Lord, all you who serve him; you ministers who do his will.
294. When is the will of God done among us, as it is in heaven?
294. When do we carry out God's will here on earth, just like it is done in heaven?
When God brings to nothing all evil plans and purposes that would hinder the hallowing of His name and the coming of His kingdom, and when God strengthens us and keeps us steadfast in His Word and in faith, until death.
When God wipes out all evil schemes and intentions that would prevent the sanctification of His name and the arrival of His kingdom, and when God supports us and keeps us strong in His Word and in our faith until we die.
295. Who seek to prevent the will of God from being done among us?
295. Who tries to stop the will of God from being carried out among us?
The devil, the world, and our own flesh.
The devil, the world, and our own desires.
296. Who, on the other hand, will help us to do the will of God?
296. Who will help us do God's will?
God, who is merciful and faithful, will Himself help us to do His will.
God, who is kind and loyal, will help us to do what He wants.
1 Thess. 5:24. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
1 Thess. 5:24. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will make it happen.
THE FOURTH PETITION.
Give us this day our daily bread.
Give us today our daily bread.
That is,
That's
God gives daily bread indeed without our prayer even to the wicked; but we pray in this petition that He would help us to appreciate His benefits, that we may receive our daily bread with thanksgiving.
God provides daily bread even to the wicked, without our prayers. However, in this request, we are asking Him to help us appreciate His blessings, so we can receive our daily bread with gratitude.
By daily bread is meant all those things which are needed for our support and well-being in life, as food and clothing, home and property, happy family relations, a good government, favorable weather, peace and health, faithful friends, good neighbors, and the like.
By "daily bread," we mean everything we need for our support and well-being in life, such as food and clothing, a home and belongings, good family relationships, effective government, decent weather, peace and health, loyal friends, good neighbors, and similar things.
297. What do you pray for in the fourth petition?
297. What do you ask for in the fourth petition?
I pray God to give me daily bread.
I ask God to provide me with what I need each day.
298. What is meant by daily bread?
298. What does daily bread mean?
By daily bread is meant all those things which are needed for our support and well-being [Pg 76] in life, as food and clothing, home and property, etc.
By daily bread is meant all those things that we need for our support and well-being in life, like food, clothing, a home, and our possessions, etc. [Pg 76]
299. Of what does the word "daily" remind you?
299. What does the word "daily" make you think of?
I must be content with that which God gives me.
I have to be satisfied with what God gives me.
Prov. 30:8. Give me neither poverty nor riches: feed me with food convenient for me.
Prov. 30:8. Don't give me poverty or wealth; just give me the food I need.
1 Tim. 6:6. Godliness with contentment is great gain.
1 Tim. 6:6. Being godly and satisfied is a huge benefit.
300. Why are the words "this day" added?
300. Why are the words "this day" included?
They are added that I should not be anxious for the morrow, but let each day bear its own burdens.
They say that I shouldn't worry about tomorrow, but let each day handle its own challenges.
Matt. 6:34.
Matt. 6:34.
301. Does God give daily bread to those only who pray for it?
301. Does God provide daily bread only to those who ask for it?
No; He gives daily bread also to the wicked, but they receive it without thanksgiving, and miss His blessing.
No; He also provides daily bread to the wicked, but they accept it without gratitude and miss out on His blessing.
Matt. 5:45. He maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
Matt. 5:45. He makes his sun rise on both the evil and the good, and sends rain on both the just and the unjust.
302. How should the children of God receive their daily bread?
302. How should the children of God get their daily bread?
They should ask God to bless their daily bread, and return Him thanks for it.
They should ask God to bless their daily bread and thank Him for it.
Prov. 10: 22. The blessing of the Lord maketh rich.
Prov. 10: 22. The Lord's blessing makes you wealthy.
303. Need we not work for our daily bread when we pray for it every day?
303. Shouldn't we work for our daily bread if we're asking for it every day?
Yes; God wants us to be diligent, each in our calling, trusting in His help.
Yes; God wants us to be dedicated, each in our roles, relying on His support.
Gen. 3:19. In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread.
Gen. 3:19. You will eat bread by the sweat of your brow.
2 Thess. 3: 10. If any would not work, neither should he eat.
2 Thess. 3:10. If anyone doesn’t work, they shouldn’t eat.
THE FIFTH PETITION.
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And forgive us our wrongdoings, just as we forgive those who wrong us.
That is,
That’s
We pray in this petition that our Father in heaven would not look upon our sins, nor, on account of them, deny our prayer; for we are not worthy of anything we ask, neither have we deserved it; but we pray that He would give it to us out of His mercy; for we sin every day, and deserve nothing but punishment.
We ask in this prayer that our Father in heaven would overlook our sins and not reject our requests because of them; we know we don’t deserve anything we ask for and haven’t earned it; but we pray that He would give it to us out of His mercy, because we sin every day and deserve nothing but punishment.
And we on our part will heartily forgive those who have sinned against us, and return good for evil.
And we will gladly forgive those who have wronged us and respond to evil with kindness.
304. What do you pray for in the fifth petition?
304. What do you ask for in the fifth petition?
I pray God to forgive us our trespasses.
I pray that God forgives us for our wrongdoings.
305. What is implied by the word "trespasses"?
305. What does the word "trespasses" mean?
Thereby is implied our guilt or debt to God, which we have brought upon ourselves by our sins.
This implies our guilt or debt to God, which we have created for ourselves through our sins.
306. Can we feel assured that God will forgive us this debt?
306. Can we be sure that God will forgive us this debt?
Yes; Jesus Christ has paid for all our sins.
Yes; Jesus Christ has paid for all our sins.
307. Why must the believer ask the forgiveness of sins every day?
307. Why should a believer ask for forgiveness of sins every day?
Because he sins every day, and is always in need of forgiveness.
Because he sins every day and constantly needs forgiveness.
308. What do we confess to God in this petition?
308. What do we confess to God in this request?
We confess that we are not worthy of the least of that which we ask, neither have we deserved it; but we pray that He would give it to us out of His mercy.
We admit that we don't deserve even the smallest bit of what we ask for, nor have we earned it; but we pray that He would grant it to us out of His mercy.
309. What do we promise God in this petition, while asking His forgiveness?
309. What do we promise God in this request when we ask for His forgiveness?
We promise to forgive those who trespass against us, and return good for evil.
We promise to forgive those who wrong us and return kindness for negativity.
Luke 6:37. Condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.
Luke 6:37. Don’t judge others, and you won’t be judged: forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Matt. 18:23–35.
Matt. 18:23–35.
THE SIXTH PETITION.
And lead us not into temptation.
And don't let us fall into temptation.
That is,
That's
God indeed tempts no one, but we pray in this petition that He would guard and keep us from the devil, the world, and our own flesh, that we fall not, through their deceit, into unbelief, despair, or other sins; but we pray that although we be thus tempted, we may overcome the temptation, and remain victorious.
God truly doesn't tempt anyone, but in this request, we ask Him to protect us from the devil, the world, and our own desires, so we don’t fall into disbelief, despair, or other sins because of their trickery. We also pray that even when we are tempted, we can overcome those temptations and stay strong.
310. What do you pray for in this petition?
310. What are you asking for in this request?
I pray God not to lead us into temptation.
I ask God not to lead us into temptation.
311. What is meant by temptation?
311. What is temptation?
By temptation is meant opportunities that invite to sin.
By temptation, we mean situations that encourage us to sin.
312. Does God give us such opportunities in order that we may sin?
312. Does God give us these opportunities so that we can sin?
By no means; God, who is holy and loving, does not tempt any one to sin.
By no means; God, who is holy and loving, does not lead anyone to sin.
James 1:13. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man.
James 1:13. Let no one say when they are tempted, "I am tempted by God," because God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone.
313. Why then does God permit us to be tempted?
313. So, why does God allow us to be tempted?
God permits us to be tempted in order to [Pg 80] try us, and in order that it may be seen whether we have true faith, love, and patience.
God allows us to be tempted to [Pg 80] test us, and to show whether we have genuine faith, love, and patience.
Read Gen. 22:1–19.
Read Genesis 22:1-19.
314. Who, on the other hand, tempt us to sin?
314. Who, on the other hand, tempts us to sin?
The devil, the world, and our own flesh, tempt us to sin.
The devil, the world, and our own desires, tempt us to sin.
315. How does the devil tempt us?
315. How does the devil tempt us?
The devil tempts us by putting evil thoughts into our minds.
The devil tempts us by filling our minds with evil thoughts.
316. How does the world tempt us?
316. How does the world tempt us?
The world tempts us by threats, attractive invitations, and bad example.
The world tries to lure us with threats, enticing invitations, and poor examples.
Prov. 1:10. My son if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.
Prov. 1:10. My son, if sinners try to lure you in, don’t go along with them.
317. How does our flesh tempt us?
317. How does our flesh tempt us?
Our own flesh tempts by its evil desires.
Our own bodies tempt us with their wicked desires.
James 1:14. Every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
James 1:14. Everyone is tempted when they are lured away by their own desires and attracted.
318. Can we ever be free from temptations in this world?
318. Can we ever be free from temptations in this world?
No; the conditions of this present life are such that temptations must follow, and we need them for our bringing up in the kingdom of God.
No; the conditions of life today are such that temptations will come, and we need them for our growth in the kingdom of God.
Matt. 18:7. It must needs be that offences come.
Matt. 18:7. It's inevitable that offenses will happen.
319. What, then, do we mean when we ask God not to lead us into temptation?
319. So, what do we really mean when we ask God not to lead us into temptation?
We pray that when He finds it good for us to be tempted, He will guard and keep us, so that we may in the end be victorious.
We hope that when it's beneficial for us to face challenges, He will protect and support us, so that we can ultimately succeed.
1 Cor. 10:13. God is faithful who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able.
1 Cor. 10:13. God is faithful and will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can handle.
320. What are our weapons against temptation?
320. What are our tools to fight temptation?
We must use the Word of God, watch and pray, and take care not to invite temptation.
We need to use the Word of God, stay alert, pray, and be careful not to invite temptation.
Matt. 26:41. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.
Matt. 26:41. Stay alert and pray, so you don’t fall into temptation.
Eph. 6:13. Take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Eph. 6:13. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand firm on the evil day, and after you have done everything, to stand your ground.
THE SEVENTH PETITION.
But deliver us from evil.
But save us from evil.
That is,
That’s
We pray in this petition, in general, that our Father in heaven would deliver us from all evil, affecting body and soul, property and honor, and at last grant us a blessed end, and graciously take us from this world of sorrow to Himself in heaven.
We pray in this request, generally, that our Father in heaven would free us from all evil that affects our body and soul, our possessions and our reputation, and ultimately grant us a peaceful end, and kindly take us from this sorrowful world to Himself in heaven.
321. What do you pray for in the seventh petition?
321. What do you pray for in the seventh request?
I pray God to deliver us from evil.
I pray that God saves us from evil.
322. From what evil do you pray God to deliver us in this petition?
322. What harm are you asking God to save us from in this request?
I pray God to deliver us from all sin that still clings to us, and from all the destructive effects of sin upon soul and body, property and honor.
I pray that God frees us from all sin that still holds onto us, and from all the harmful impacts of sin on our soul and body, possessions, and reputation.
323. Can we expect to be entirely free from all evil while in this world?
323. Can we expect to be completely free from all evil while we're in this world?
No, we cannot; but we pray God in this petition to deliver us more and more from all evil, and at last grant us a blessed end, and graciously take us from this world of sorrow to Himself in heaven.
No, we can't; but we ask God in this prayer to save us more and more from all evil, and finally give us a blessed end, and kindly take us from this world of sorrow to Himself in heaven.
Phil. 1:23. I have a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.
Phil. 1:23. I want to leave this life and be with Christ; that is so much better.
324. What are the closing words of the Lord's Prayer?
324. What are the final words of the Lord's Prayer?
For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
For Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
325. Of what do these words remind us?
325. What do these words remind us of?
We should remember that God is able to answer our prayer, and that the glory belongs to Him alone, when we get according to our prayer.
We should remember that God can answer our prayers, and that the glory belongs to Him alone when we receive what we ask for.
326. What is the meaning of the word "Amen"?
326. What does the word "Amen" mean?
Its meaning is, Surely; so be it.
Its meaning is, Definitely; so be it.
327. Why is this word added?
327. Why is this word included?
It is added in order that I may be fully assured that these petitions are acceptable to our Father in heaven, and are heard by Him.
It is added so that I can be completely sure that these requests are pleasing to our Father in heaven and that He hears them.
328. How can I feel assured of this?
328. How can I be sure of this?
God Himself has commanded us to pray, and has added this promise to hear us: Amen, Amen; that is, Surely; so be it.
God Himself has commanded us to pray, and has added this promise to hear us: Amen, Amen; that is, Certainly; so be it.
329. Does this promise hold good only when we use the Lord's Prayer?
329. Does this promise apply only when we use the Lord's Prayer?
No; God hears every prayer offered up according to His will.
No; God hears every prayer that’s made according to His will.
Matt. 7:7. Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Matt. 7:7. Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you.
330. Does God always answer our prayer as we desire?
330. Does God always respond to our prayers the way we want?
No; He often answers our prayer by giving us something else and something better than we ask or think.
No; He often responds to our prayers by giving us something else and something better than we ask for or even think.
Eph. 3:20. God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.
Eph. 3:20. God can do far more than we ask or think.
331. Does God answer our prayer at once?
331. Does God answer our prayers right away?
Sometimes; but He often delays His answer in order to strengthen our faith and our hope.
Sometimes; but He often takes His time to respond to strengthen our faith and our hope.
332. In speaking with God, should we only ask for the good things which we like to get?
332. When talking to God, should we only ask for the good things we want to receive?
No; we must also return Him thanks for the blessings which we have received.
No; we should also thank Him for the blessings we've received.
Eph. 5: 20. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Eph. 5: 20. Always giving thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
THE SACRAMENTS.
333. What is a sacrament?
333. What’s a sacrament?
A sacrament is a holy ordinance made by God Himself, in which He gives and confirms His invisible grace through outward and visible means.
A sacrament is a sacred ceremony established by God Himself, where He provides and affirms His unseen grace through tangible and visible signs.
334. Which are the sacraments of the Christian church?
334. What are the sacraments of the Christian church?
They are Baptism and the Lord's Supper.
They are Baptism and Communion.
PART FOUR.
THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM.
335. What is Baptism?
335. What is baptism?
Baptism is not water alone, but it is water comprehended in God's command, and united with His Word.
Baptism isn't just water; it's water understood through God's command and combined with His Word.
336. What is God's command concerning Baptism?
336. What does God say about Baptism?
It is given in the words of Christ in the last chapter of Matthew:
It is stated in the words of Christ in the last chapter of Matthew:
[Pg 86] "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."
[Pg 86] "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. So go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
337. In whose name then are you baptized?
337. In whose name are you baptized?
I am baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
I am baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
338. Explain this further.
338. Elaborate on this.
In Baptism I have entered into fellowship with the triune God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; I have become His own, and have been made heir of all His gracious gifts.
In Baptism, I have joined in fellowship with the triune God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I have become His own and have inherited all of His gracious gifts.
339. Is the baptism of little children in agreement with Christ's command?
339. Is the baptism of young children in line with Christ's command?
Yes; Christ Himself has said: "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God."
Yes; Christ Himself has said: "Let the little children come to me, and don't stop them: for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."
Mark 10:14. John 3:5.
Mark 10:14. John 3:5.
340. Who should administer Baptism?
340. Who should perform Baptism?
Baptism should be administered by the minister of the church, but when necessary it may be administered by any Christian.
Baptism should be performed by the church minister, but if needed, any Christian can carry it out.
341. What benefit do we have from Baptism?
341. What benefit do we gain from Baptism?
Baptism works the forgiveness of sins, delivers from death and the devil, and gives everlasting life to all who believe what the Word and promise of God declare.
Baptism offers forgiveness for sins, frees us from death and the devil, and grants eternal life to everyone who believes in what God’s word and promise say.
342. What is God's promise concerning Baptism?
342. What is God's promise about Baptism?
It is given in the words of Christ in the sixteenth chapter of Mark:
It is stated in the words of Christ in the sixteenth chapter of Mark:
"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be condemned."
"Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; but whoever does not believe will be condemned."
343. How does Baptism save us from sin, death, and the devil?
343. How does Baptism save us from sin, death, and the devil?
In Baptism we come into fellowship with Christ, and are made partakers in His redemption.
In baptism, we join in fellowship with Christ and share in His redemption.
Gal. 3:27. As many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Gal. 3:27. Everyone who has been baptized into Christ has clothed themselves with Christ.
Rom. 6:3, 4.
Rom. 6:3, 4.
344. How can water do such great things?
344. How can water do such amazing things?
It is not water indeed that does it, but the Word of God, which is in and with the water, and faith which trusts this Word of God in the water.
It isn't just the water that does this; it's the Word of God that is with and in the water, along with the faith that believes in this Word of God in the water.
For without the Word of God, the water is water alone, and no Baptism. But with the Word of God it is a Baptism, that is, a gracious [Pg 88] water of life and a washing of regeneration in the Holy Ghost.
For without the Word of God, water is just water and not Baptism. But with the Word of God, it becomes a Baptism, meaning it's a gracious [Pg 88] water of life and a wash of regeneration through the Holy Spirit.
Titus 3:5–7. According to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
Titus 3:5–7. He saved us because of His mercy, through the washing that brings new life and the renewing of the Holy Spirit;
Which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior;
Which He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior;
That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Since we are justified by his grace, we should become heirs based on the hope of eternal life.
345. Why is Baptism called the "washing of regeneration"?
345. Why is Baptism referred to as the "washing of rebirth"?
Because the Holy Spirit in Baptism cleanses us from sin, and gives us a new spiritual life.
Because the Holy Spirit in Baptism cleanses us from sin and gives us a new spiritual life.
1 Pet. 3:21. Baptism is not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
1 Pet. 3:21. Baptism isn’t about washing away physical dirt, but about having a clear conscience before God, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
346. Is not Baptism also called a covenant?
346. Isn't Baptism also called a covenant?
Yes; Baptism is a covenant; in Baptism God gives us a new life and His grace, and we promise Him to renounce the devil, and all His works, and all his ways, and to believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Yes; Baptism is a covenant; in Baptism, God gives us a new life and His grace, and we promise to renounce the devil, all his works, and all his ways, and to believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
347. Who enjoy the blessings that God promises in Baptism?
347. Who receives the blessings that God promises in Baptism?
All who remain in the covenant of their Baptism.
All who stay true to the covenant of their Baptism.
348. When does he who was baptized as a child confirm the covenant of his Baptism?
348. When does someone who was baptized as a child confirm the covenant of their Baptism?
At his confirmation, when he renews the covenant of his Baptism in the midst of the assembled congregation, having first been instructed in God's Word.
At his confirmation, when he reaffirms the promise of his Baptism in front of the gathered congregation, after having been taught about God's Word.
349. Is it possible to remain in the covenant of Baptism?
349. Can one stay in the covenant of Baptism?
Yes; by the grace of God it is possible.
Yes, with God's grace, it is possible.
Phil. 4:13. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Phil. 4:13. I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.
350. What must we do to remain in the grace of our Baptism?
350. What do we need to do to stay in the grace of our Baptism?
We must watch and pray, and make diligent use of the Word of God and the Lord's Supper.
We need to stay alert and pray, and make good use of the Word of God and Communion.
351. In what ways may we break the covenant of our Baptism?
351. How can we break the covenant of our Baptism?
1. When we little by little forget our covenant, resist the Holy Spirit, and neglect prayer, so that we become more and more worldly-minded.
1. When we gradually forget our agreement, resist the Holy Spirit, and neglect prayer, we become increasingly focused on worldly things.
2. When we fall in coarse and open sins.
2. When we engage in blatant and obvious sins.
352. Will not God again receive us when we have broken the covenant of our Baptism?
352. Will God receive us again after we have broken the covenant of our Baptism?
Yes; God has not broken His part of the covenant, and when we again turn to Him, He is always glad to receive us.
Yes; God has not broken His part of the agreement, and when we turn back to Him, He is always happy to welcome us.
Luke 15:20. He arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
Luke 15:20. He got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him, felt compassion, ran to him, embraced him, and kissed him.
353. How does a repentant sinner get courage to return to God?
353. How does a remorseful sinner find the courage to return to God?
He gets courage from considering the tender Gospel invitation of Christ, and from seeking God in prayer.
He finds courage in reflecting on the loving invitation of Christ in the Gospel and in searching for God through prayer.
Matt. 11:28. Come unto me, all that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Matt. 11:28. Come to me, all you who are tired and burdened, and I will give you rest.
354. Does not also he who remains true to the covenant of his Baptism need repentance?
354. Doesn’t the person who stays true to their Baptism covenant also need to repent?
Yes; he needs daily repentance and daily renewal. See 250.
Yes; he needs to repent daily and renew himself every day. See 250.
355. What does the baptizing with water signify?
355. What does being baptized with water represent?
It signifies that the old man in us should, by daily sorrow and repentance, be drowned and die, with all sins and evil desires; and again a new man daily appear more and more, who shall live before God in righteousness and purity forever.
It means that the old man in us should, through daily sadness and regret, be drowned and die, along with all sins and bad desires; and again a new person should appear more and more each day, who will live before God in righteousness and purity forever.
356. What is meant by saying that the old man in us should die, and the new man appear more and more?
356. What does it mean when we say that the old version of ourselves should fade away, and the new version should emerge more and more?
Sin should be rooted out from us through daily sorrow and repentance, and our love to God and man should grow up within us more and more, so that it may appear in all our conduct that we have the mind of Christ.
Sin should be eliminated from our lives through daily sorrow and repentance, and our love for God and others should increase within us, so that it becomes evident in all our actions that we have the mindset of Christ.
Rom. 6:4. We are buried with Christ by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Rom. 6:4. We are buried with Christ through baptism into death, so that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too can live a new life.
357. What are the duties of sponsors?
357. What are the responsibilities of sponsors?
They should pray for the child whose baptism they have witnessed, they should remember the covenant of their own Baptism, and afterwards, as far as possible, see that the child is brought up in the fear of God.
They should pray for the child whose baptism they have witnessed, remember the promise of their own Baptism, and afterwards, as much as possible, ensure that the child is raised with respect for God.
PART FIVE.
THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD'S SUPPER.
358. What is the Lord's Supper?
358. What is the Lord's Supper?
It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, under bread and wine, instituted by Christ Himself for Christians to eat and to drink.
It is the actual body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, present in bread and wine, established by Christ Himself for Christians to eat and drink.
359. Repeat the Words of Institution.
359. Repeat the Words of Institution.
"Our Lord Jesus Christ, in the night in which He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He brake it and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat; this is my body, which is given for you; this do in remembrance of me.
Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, and after giving thanks, He broke it and gave it to His disciples, saying, Take, eat; this is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.
"After the same manner, also, when He had supped, He took the cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; this cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you, and for many, for the remission of sins; this do, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me."
"In the same way, after He had dinner, He took the cup, and after giving thanks, He gave it to them, saying, Drink from it, all of you; this cup is the New Covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me."
360. When did Jesus institute the Lord's Supper?
360. When did Jesus establish the Lord's Supper?
In the night in which He was betrayed to death; it is therefore called the Lord's Supper.
In the night when He was betrayed to death; it is therefore referred to as the Lord's Supper.
361. Is it important to note the time when Jesus instituted the Lord's Supper?
361. Is it important to note when Jesus established the Lord's Supper?
Yes; for it shows the loving care of our Savior, who just before His suffering and death thought more of us than of Himself.
Yes; it shows the loving care of our Savior, who just before His suffering and death thought more about us than about Himself.
362. What do we receive in the Lord's Supper?
362. What do we get in the Lord's Supper?
In and with the bread and the wine we receive the body and blood of Christ, which He gave up in death for us.
In the bread and wine, we receive the body and blood of Christ, which He sacrificed in death for us.
363. How do you know this?
363. How do you know this?
Christ says concerning the bread: "Take, eat; this is my body."
Christ says about the bread: "Take, eat; this is my body."
Concerning the wine He says: "Drink ye all of it; this cup is the New Testament in my blood."
Concerning the wine, He says: "Drink all of it; this cup is the New Testament in my blood."
364. What is meant by "New Testament" in this connection?
364. What does "New Testament" mean in this context?
Thereby is meant the new covenant which God has made and sealed with the blood of Jesus.
This refers to the new covenant that God established and confirmed with the blood of Jesus.
1 Cor. 10:16. 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?
1 Cor. 10:16. Is not the cup of blessing we give thanks for the sharing in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread we break the sharing in the body of Christ?
365. What, therefore, makes the bread and the wine a sacrament of the body and blood of Christ?
365. So, what makes the bread and the wine a sacrament of the body and blood of Christ?
God's own Word which is added to the bread and the wine; for as Luther says, "Bread and wine alone are but bread and wine; but being united with the Word of God, they are [Pg 93] truly the body and blood of Christ. For as the mouth of Christ speaks, so it is; He can neither lie nor deceive."
God's own Word is added to the bread and wine; as Luther says, "Bread and wine alone are just bread and wine; but when united with the Word of God, they are truly the body and blood of Christ. For as the mouth of Christ speaks, so it is; He can neither lie nor deceive." [Pg 93]
366. For whom is the Lord's Supper intended?
366. Who is the Lord's Supper for?
The Lord's Supper is intended for true Christians, who are of age and understanding to prove themselves.
The Lord's Supper is meant for genuine Christians who are mature enough and understand enough to evaluate themselves.
1 Cor. 11: 28. [R. V.] Let a man prove himself, and so let him eat of the bread, and drink of the cup.
1 Cor. 11: 28. [R. V.] Each person should examine themselves, and then let them eat the bread and drink from the cup.
367. What benefit do we have from the Lord's Supper?
367. What benefit do we get from the Lord's Supper?
It is shown by these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins;" namely, that in the sacrament forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation are given us through these words. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.
It is shown by these words: "Given and shed for you, for the forgiveness of sins;" meaning that in the sacrament, we receive forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation through these words. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.
368. But does not the believer have the forgiveness of sins before he partakes of the Lord's Supper?
368. But doesn’t the believer have forgiveness of sins before taking part in the Lord's Supper?
Yes; the believer has the forgiveness of sins through Baptism and the Word.
Yes, believers receive forgiveness of sins through baptism and the Word.
369. How, then, can the forgiveness of sins in a particular sense be connected with this sacrament?
369. So, how can the forgiveness of sins in a specific sense be linked to this sacrament?
Because in the Lord's Supper we receive the body and blood of Christ, which were offered up for us, as a sure pledge of the forgiveness of sins.
Because in the Lord's Supper we receive the body and blood of Christ, which were given for us, as a guaranteed sign of the forgiveness of sins.
370. In what way does the believer get life and salvation through this sacrament?
370. How does a believer receive life and salvation through this sacrament?
Through this sacrament the believer is brought into spiritual fellowship with his Lord and Savior, who imparts Himself to him and thus preserves and strengthens him in faith, hope, and love unto eternal life.
Through this sacrament, the believer connects spiritually with his Lord and Savior, who shares Himself with him and, in doing so, maintains and strengthens him in faith, hope, and love for eternal life.
John 6: 56. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.
John 6: 56. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them.
371. Does not the sacrament of the Lord's Supper also bring about a more intimate fellowship between believers?
371. Doesn't the sacrament of the Lord's Supper also create a closer bond between believers?
Yes; believers are united in a closer fellowship through partaking in common of the Lord Jesus and eternal life in Him.
Yes; believers are connected in a deeper fellowship by sharing in the Lord Jesus and the eternal life found in Him.
1 Cor. 10:17. For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.
1 Cor. 10:17. Because we are many, we are one bread and one body: for we all share in that one bread.
372. How can bodily eating and drinking do such great things?
372. How can eating and drinking have such a powerful impact?
It is not the eating and drinking, indeed, that does it, but the words which stand here: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins." These words, together with the bodily eating and drinking, are the chief thing in the sacrament; and He that believes these words, has what they say and mean, namely, the forgiveness of sins.
It’s not the eating and drinking that matter, but the words here: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins." These words, along with the physical act of eating and drinking, are the most important part of the sacrament; and whoever believes these words has what they promise and signify, specifically, the forgiveness of sins.
373. Is it of little importance how we receive the Lord's Supper?
373. Does it really matter how we participate in the Lord's Supper?
By no means; we must be prepared when [Pg 95] we go to partake of these gifts. It is much worse to go to the Lord's Supper unprepared and unworthily than not to go at all.
By no means; we must be ready when [Pg 95] we go to receive these gifts. It is much worse to attend the Lord's Supper unprepared and unworthy than to not go at all.
374. Who, then, receive this sacrament worthily?
374. Who, then, receives this sacrament in a worthy manner?
Fasting and bodily preparation are indeed a good outward practise;
Fasting and preparing the body are definitely a good external practice;
But he alone is truly worthy and well prepared, who believes these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins."
But only he is truly worthy and ready, who believes these words: "Given and shed for you, for the forgiveness of sins."
But he who believes not these words is unworthy and unprepared. The words, "for you" require truly believing hearts.
But anyone who doesn’t believe these words is unworthy and unprepared. The words, "for you" require genuinely believing hearts.
375. Who, then, is rightly prepared to partake of the Lord's Supper?
375. So, who is truly ready to take part in the Lord's Supper?
He who believes these words: "Given and shed for you, for the remission of sins."
He who believes these words: "Given and poured out for you, for the forgiveness of sins."
376. What is meant by "believing" these words?
376. What does it mean to "believe" these words?
Thereby is meant that we heartily feel our sin and unworthiness before God, but also that we confidently accept for ourselves the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
This means that we sincerely recognize our sin and unworthiness before God, but we also confidently embrace the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
377. Who partake of the Lord's Supper unworthily?
377. Who participates in the Lord's Supper unworthily?
They who do not feel nor repent their sins, and who do not from their heart believe in Jesus.
They who do not feel or regret their sins, and who do not truly believe in Jesus from their heart.
1 Cor. 11:29. He that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.
1 Cor. 11:29. Anyone who eats and drinks unworthily eats and drinks judgment on themselves, not recognizing the Lord's body.
378. Why do such unconverted persons partake of the Lord's Supper?
378. Why do unconverted individuals participate in the Lord's Supper?
They do so either from custom or habit, or because they are ashamed to neglect the Lord's Supper, or again because they mean to please God by this outward obedience.
They do this either out of tradition or routine, or because they feel embarrassed to skip the Lord's Supper, or again because they intend to honor God through this outward obedience.
379. Should such persons be admitted to the Lord's Supper?
379. Should these people be allowed to take part in the Lord's Supper?
No.
No.
Matt 7:6. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine.
Matt 7:6. Don't give what is sacred to dogs, and don't throw your pearls in front of pigs.
380. What must we do in order that we may not partake of the Lord's Supper unworthily?
380. What should we do to avoid taking the Lord's Supper unworthily?
We must prayerfully search our own hearts as in the presence of God, whether we repent our sins and believe in Jesus Christ, and whether we have an honest purpose to abstain from even our bosom sins.
We need to thoughtfully reflect on our own hearts in the presence of God to see if we truly repent for our sins and believe in Jesus Christ, and if we genuinely intend to avoid even our deepest sins.
1 Cor. 11:28.
1 Cor. 11:28.
381. How often should we partake of the Lord's Supper?
381. How often should we take part in the Lord's Supper?
Christ has not told us how often we should partake, but He has said, "This do, as often as ye drink it, in remembrance of me".
Christ hasn't specified how often we should take part, but He has said, "Do this as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me."
382. What should move us to partake of the Lord's Supper often?
382. What should encourage us to take part in the Lord's Supper frequently?
First of all, the command and promise of our Lord and Savior; then, our own great need, [Pg 97] which is the reason for our Father's tender invitation and promise of grace.
First of all, the command and promise of our Lord and Savior; then, our own great need, [Pg 97] which is the reason for our Father's gentle invitation and promise of grace.
383. What are the common causes for the neglect of the Lord's Supper?
383. What are the common reasons for neglecting the Lord's Supper?
Spiritual dullness and indifference, a worldly mind, pride, and disregard for God's grace and ordinance.
Spiritual apathy and indifference, a focused mindset on worldly matters, arrogance, and a lack of respect for God's grace and commands.
384. Should the feeling of our own unworthiness keep us away from the Lord's Supper?
384. Should our feelings of unworthiness prevent us from participating in the Lord's Supper?
No; the more we feel our own unworthiness, and the more we sincerely long for God's forgiveness, the more worthy are we to receive His grace.
No; the more we recognize our own unworthiness, and the more we genuinely desire God's forgiveness, the more deserving we are of His grace.
Matt. 5:3. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matt. 5:3. Blessed are those who are humble in spirit, for they will inherit the kingdom of heaven.
1 Pet. 5:5. God giveth grace to the humble.
1 Pet. 5:5. God gives grace to the humble.
385. What must we do when we receive the Lord's Supper?
385. What should we do when we take the Lord's Supper?
We must remember our Savior and His death.
We need to remember our Savior and His sacrifice.
Luke 22:19. This do in remembrance of me.
Luke 22:19. Do this to remember me.
386. How should we remember Christ's death?
386. How should we remember Christ's death?
We should earnestly fix our mind upon the suffering and death of Christ, so that we may be strengthened in faith and in love to Him, who loved us unto death.
We should seriously focus our minds on the suffering and death of Christ, so that we can be strengthened in our faith and love for Him, who loved us to the point of death.
1 Cor. 11:26. As often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till He come.
1 Cor. 11:26. Whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes.
387. What should be our conduct when we have received the Lord's Supper?
387. How should we behave after receiving the Lord's Supper?
We should quietly think of the great love which God has shown us, and heartily thank Him for it; not only for a few days, but always, keep near to Jesus, show His death in word and act, and in a sanctified life prove that the body and blood of Christ have power to cleanse from sin.
We should take a moment to reflect on the immense love that God has shown us and genuinely thank Him for it; not just for a few days, but always. Stay close to Jesus, express His death through our words and actions, and live a righteous life that demonstrates the power of Christ's body and blood to wash away our sins.
1 Pet. 2:24. Who his own self bore our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto rigtheousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
1 Pet. 2:24. He carried our sins in his own body on the cross so that we, free from sin, could live righteously; by his wounds, you have been healed.
388. Is he who thus believes and lives in fellowship with Christ sure to be saved?
388. Is someone who believes this way and lives in community with Christ guaranteed to be saved?
Yes; when he continues steadfast in faith until death.
Yes; when he remains firm in his faith until death.
Matt. 24:13. He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Matt. 24:13. Whoever holds on until the end will be saved.
Rev. 2:10. Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.
Rev. 2:10. Stay faithful until the end, and I will give you a crown of life.
Transcriber's Note
- Obvious punctuation and spelling errors repaired.
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