The Heidelberg Catechism

I. LORD'S DAY.

THE FIRST PART--OF THE MISERY OF MAN

II. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 3.
    Whence knowest thou thy misery?
    Answer. Out of the law of God. [a]
  • Question 4.
    What doth the law of God require of us? Answer. Christ teaches us that briefly, Matt. 22:37-40, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. [b] This is the first and the great commandment; and the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."
  • Question 5.
    Canst thou keep all these things perfectly?
    Answer. In no wise; [c] for I am prone by nature to hate God and my neighbor. [d]
    • [a]: Rom. 3:20
    [b]: Luke 10:27
    [c]: Rom. 3:10; 1John 1:8
    [d]: Rom. 8:7, Tit. 3:3

III. LORD'S DAY.

IV. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 9.
    Doth not God then do injustice to man, by requiring from him in his low, that which he cannot perform?
    Answer. Not at all; [a] for God made man capable [b] of performing it; but man, by the instigation [c] of the devil, and his own willful disobedience, [d] deprived himself and all his posterity of those divine gifts.
  • Question 10.
    Will God suffer such disobedience and rebellion to go unpunished?
    Answer. By no means; [e] but is terribly displeased [f] with our original was well as actual sins; and will punish them in his just judgment temporally and eternally, and he hath declared, [g] "Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things, which are written in the book of the law, to do them."
  • Question 11.
    Is not God then also merciful?
    Answer. God is indeed merciful, [h] but also just; [i] therefore his justice requires, [j] that sin which is committed against the most high majesty of God, be also punished with extreme, that is, with everlasting [k] punishment of body and soul.
  • [a]: Eccl. 7:29
    [b]: John 8:44; 2Cor. 11:3
    [c]: Gen. 3:4,7
    [d]: Rom. 5:12
    [e]: Psa. 5:5
    [f]: Rom. 1:18; Deut. 28:15; Heb. 9:27
    [g]: Deut 27:27; Gal. 3:10
    [h]: Ex. 24:6
    [i]: Ex 20:5; Job 34:10,11
    [j]: Psa. 5:5,6
    [k]: Gen. 2:17; Rom. 6:23

THE SECOND PART--OF MAN'S DELIVERANCE

V. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 12.
    Since then, by the righteous judgment of God, we deserved temporal and eternal punishment, is there no way by which we may escape that punishment, and be again received into favor?
    Answer. God will have his justice [a] satisfied; and therefore we must make this full [b] satisfaction, either by ourselves, or by another.
  • Question 13.
    Can we ourselves then make this satisfaction?
    Answer. By no means; [c] but on the contrary we [d] daily increase our debt.
  • Question 14.
    Can there be found anywhere, one, who is a mere creature, able to satisfy for us?
    Answer. None; for, first, God will not [e] punish any other creature for the sin which man hath committed; and further, no mere creature can sustain the burden of God's eternal wrath against sin, so as to [f] deliver others from it.
  • Question 15.
    What sort of a mediator and deliverer then must we seek for?
    Answer. For one who is very man, [g] and perfectly righteous; and yet more powerful than all creatures; that is, one who is also very [h] God.
  • [a]: Ex. 20:5
    [b]: Deut. 24:16; 2Cor. 5:14,15
    [c]: Job 9:2,3; Job 15:14,15,16
    [d]: Mat. 6:12; Isa. 64:6
    [e]: Ezek. 18:20
    [f]: Rev. 5:3; Psa. 49:8,9
    [g]: 1Cor. 15:21; Rom. 8:3
    [h]: Rom. 9:5; Isa. 7:14

VI. LORD'S DAY.

VII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 20.
    Are all men then, as they perished in Adam, saved by Christ?
    Answer. No; only [a] those who are ingrafted into him, [b] and receive all his benefits, by a true faith.
  • Question 21.
    What is true faith?
    Answer. True faith is not only a certain knowledge, [c] whereby I hold for truth all that God has revealed to us in his word, but also an assured [d] confidence, which the Holy [e] Ghost works by the gospel, [f] in my heart; that not only the others, but to me also, [g] remission of sin, everlasting righteousness [h] and salvation, are freely given by God, [i] merely of grace, only for the sake of Christ's merits.
  • Question 22.
    What is then necessary for a christian to believe?
    Answer. All things [j] promised us in the gospel, which the articles of our catholic undoubted christian faith briefly teach us.
  • Question 23.
    What are these articles?
    Answer.
    I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth:
    And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten 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 at the right hand of God the Father Almighty:
    From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead:
    I believe in the Holy Ghost:
    I believe an holy catholic church: the communion of saints:
    The forgiveness of sins:
    The resurrection of the body:
    And the life everlasting. AMEN.
    [a]: Mat. 1:21; Isa. 53:11
    [b]: John 1:12,13; Rom. 11:20; Heb. 10:39
    [c]: John 6:69; John 17:3; Heb. 11:3,6
    [d]: Eph. 3:12
    [e]: Rom. 4:16,20,21; Heb. 11:1; Eph. 3:12; Rom. 1:16; 1Cor 1:21; Acts 16:14; Mat. 16:17; John 3:5
    [f]: Rom. 10:14,17; Mat. 9:2
    [g]: Rom. 5:1
    [h]: Gal. 2:20
    [i]: Rom. 3:24,25,26
    [j]: John 20:31; Mat. 28:19,20

VIII. LORD'S DAY.

OF GOD THE FATHER

IX. LORD'S DAY.

X. LORD'S DAY.

OF GOD THE SON

XI. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 29.
    Why is the Son of God called Jesus, that is a Savior?
    Answer. Because he saveth us, and delivereth us from our [a] sins; and likewise, because we ought not to seek, neither can find [b] salvation in any other.
  • Question 30.
    Do such then believe in Jesus the only Savior, who seek their salvation and welfare of saints, of themselves, or anywhere else?
    Answer. They do not; for though they boast of him in words, yet in deeds they deny [c] Jesus the only deliverer and Savior; for one of these two things must be true, that either Jesus is not a complete Savior; or that they, who by a true faith receive this Savior, must find all things in him [d] necessary to their salvation.
    [a]: Mat. 1:21
    [b]: Acts 4:12
    [c]: 1Cor. 1:13,31; Gal. 5:4
    [d]: Col. 2:20; Isa 9:6,7; Col. 1:19,20

XII. LORD'S DAY.

XIII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 33.
    Why is Christ called the only begotten Son of God, since we are also the children of God?
    Answer. Because Christ alone is the eternal and natural Son of [a] God; but we are children [b] adopted of God, by grace, for his sake.
  • Question 34.
    Wherefore callest thou him our Lord?
    Answer. Because he hath redeemed us, both soul and body, from all our sins, not with gold or silver, [c] but with his precious blood, and hath delivered us from all the power of the devil; and thus hath made us his own property.
    [a]: John 1:1; Heb. 1:2
    [b]: Rom. 8:15,16,17; Eph. 1:5,6
    [c]: 1Pet. 1:18,19; 1Cor. 6:20

XIV. LORD'S DAY.

XV. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 37.
    What dost thou understand by the words, "He suffered"?
    Answer. That he, all the time that he lived on earth, but especially at the end of his life, [a] sustained in body and soul, the wrath of God against the sins of all mankind: that so by his passion, as the only [b] propitiatory sacrifice, he might redeem our body and soul from everlasting damnation, and obtain for us the favor of God, righteousness and eternal life.
  • Question 38.
    Why did he suffer under Pontius Pilate, as judge?
    Answer. That he, being innocent, and yet condemned [c] by a temporal judge, might thereby free us from the severe judgment of God to which we were exposed. [d]
  • Question 39.
    Is there anything more in his being crucified, than if he had died some other death?
    Answer. Yes [there is]; for thereby I am assured, that he took on him the curse which lay upon me; for the death of the cross was [e] accursed of God.
    [a]: 1Pet. 2:24; Isa. 53:12
    [b]: 1John 2:2; Rom. 3:25
    [c]: Luke 23:14; John 19:4; Psa. 69:4
    [d]: Gal. 3:13,14
    [e]: Deut. 21:23; Gal. 3:13

XVI. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 40.
    Why was it necessary for Christ to humble himself even unto death?
    Answer. Because with respect to the justice and truth of God, satisfaction for our sins could be made [a] no otherwise, than by the death of the Son [b] of God.
  • Question 41.
    Why was he also "buried"?
    Answer. Thereby to prove that he [c] was really dead.
  • Question 42.
    Since then Christ died for us, why must we also die?
    Answer. Our death is not a satisfaction for our sins, but only an abolishing of sin, and a passage into [d] eternal life.
  • Question 43.
    What further benefit do we receive from the sacrifice and death of Christ on the cross?
    Answer. That by virtue thereof, our old man is crucified, dead and [e] buried with him; that so the corrupt inclinations of the flesh may no more [f] reign in us; but that we may [g] offer ourselves unto him a sacrifice of thanksgiving.
  • Question 44.
    Why is there added, "he descended into hell"?
    Answer. That in my greatest temptations, I may be assured, and wholly comfort myself in this, that my Lord Jesus Christ, by his inexpressible anguish, pains, terrors, and hellish agonies, in which he was plunged during all his sufferings, but especially on the cross, hath [h] delivered me from the anguish and torments of hell.
    [a]: Gen. 2:17
    [b]: Heb. 2:9,10; Phil. 2:8
    [c]: Acts 13:29; Mark 15:43,46
    [d]: John 5:24; Phil. 1:23
    [e]: Rom. 6:6ff
    [f]: Rom. 6:12
    [g]: Rom. 12:1
    [h]: Isa. 53:10; Mat. 7:46

XVII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 45.
    What doth the resurrection of Christ profit us?
    Answer. First, by his resurrection he has overcome death, that he might [a] make us partakers of that righteousness which he had purchased for us by his death; secondly, we are also by his power [b] raised up to a new life; an lastly, the resurrection of Christ is a [c] sure pledge of our blessed resurrection.
    [a]: 1Cor. 15:16
    [b]: Rom. 6:4; Col. 3:1ff
    [c]: 1Cor. 15; Rom. 8:11

XVIII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 46.
    How dost thou understand these words, "he ascended into heaven"?
    Answer. That Christ, in sight of his disciples, was [a] taken up from earth into heaven; and that he continues [b] there for our interest, until he comes again to judge the quick and the dead.
  • Question 47.
    Is not Christ then with us even to the end of the world, as he hath promised?
    Answer. Christ is very man and very God; with respect to his [c] human nature, he is no more on earth; but with respect to his Godhead, majesty, grace and spirit, he is at no time absent from us.
  • Question 48.
    But if his human nature is not present wherever his Godhead is, are not then these two natures in Christ separated from one another?
    Answer. Not at all, for since the Godhead is illimitable and [d] omnipresent, it must necessarily follow that [e] the same is beyond the limits of the human nature he assumed, and yet is nevertheless in this human nature, and remains personally united to it.
  • Question 49.
    Of what advantage to us is Christ's ascension into heaven?
    Answer. First, that he is our [g] advocate in the presence of his Father in heaven; secondly, that we have our flesh in heaven as a sure pledge that he, as the head, will also [h] take up to himself, us, his members; thirdly, that he [i] sends us his Spirit as an earnest, by whose power we "seek the things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God, [j] and not things on earth."
    [a]: Acts 1:9; Mark 16:19
    [b]: Heb. 4:14; Rom 8:34; Eph. 4:10
    [c]: Acts 3:21; John 3:13; John 16:28; Mat. 28:20
    [d]: Acts 7:49; Mat. 24:30
    [e]: Mat. 28:20; John 16:28; John 17:11; John 3:13
    [g]: Heb. 9:25; 1John 2:2; Rom. 8:34
    [h]: John 14:2; Eph. 2:6
    [i]: John 14:16; 2Cor. 1:22; 2Cor. 5:5
    [j]: Col. 3:1; Phil. 3:20

XIX. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 50.
    Why is it added, "and sitteth at the right hand of God"?
    Answer. Because Christ is ascended into heaven for this end, that he might [a] appear as head of his church, by whom the Father [b] governs all things.
  • Question 51.
    What profit is this glory of Christ, our head, unto us?
    Answer. First, that by his Holy Spirit he [c] pours our heavenly graces upon us his members; and then that by his power he defends [d] and preserves us against all enemies.
  • Question 52.
    What comfort is it to thee that "Christ shall come again to judge the quick and the dead"?
    Answer. That in all my sorrows and persecutions, with uplifted head [e] I look for the very same person, who before offered himself for my sake, to the tribunal of God, and has removed all curse from me, to come as judge from heaven: who shall cast all his [f] and my enemies into everlasting condemnation, but shall translate [g] me with all his chosen ones to himself, into heavenly joys and glory.
    [a]: Eph. 1:20,21,22; Col. 1:18
    [b]: Mat 28:18; John 5:22
    [c]: Eph. 4:8
    [d]: Psa. 2:9; John 10:28
    [e]: Luke 21:28; Rom. 8:23,24; 1Thes. 4:16
    [f]: 2Thes. 1:6,7,8,9; Mat. 25:41
    [g]: Mat. 25:34

OF GOD THE HOLY GHOST

XX. LORD'S DAY.

XXI. LORD'S DAY.

XXII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 57.
    What comfort doth the "resurrection of the body" afford thee?
    Answer. That not only my soul after this life shall be immediately taken [a] up to Christ its head; but also, that this my body, being raised by the power of Christ, shall be reunited with my soul, and [b] made like unto the glorious body of Christ.
  • Question 58.
    What comfort takest thou from the article of "life everlasting"?
    Answer. That [c] since I now feel in my heart the beginning of eternal joy, after this life, [d] I shall inherit perfect salvation, which [e] "eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered into the heart of man" to conceive, and that, to praise God therein for ever.
    [a]: Luke 23:43; Phil. 1:23
    [b]: 1Cor. 15:53; Job 19:25,26
    [c]: 2Cor. 5:2,3,6; Rom. 14:17
    [d]: Psa. 10:11
    [e]: 1Cor. 2:9

XXIII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 59.
    But what doth is profit thee now that thou believest all this?
    Answer. That I am righteous in Christ, before God, and an heir of eternal life. [a]
  • Question 60.
    How are thou righteous before God?
    Answer. Only [b] by a true faith in Jesus Christ; so that though my conscience accuse me, that I have grossly transgressed all the commandments of God, and [c] kept none of them, and am still [d] inclined to all evil; notwithstanding, God, without any [e] merit of mine, but only of mere [f] grace, grants [g] and [h] imputes to me, the perfect [i] satisfaction, righteousness and holiness of Christ; even so, as if I never had had, nor committed any sin: yea, as if I had fully [j] accomplished all that obedience which Christ has accomplished for me; [k] inasmuch as I embrace such benefit with a believing heart.
  • Question 61.
    Why sayest thou, that thou art righteous by faith only?
    Answer. Not that I am acceptable to God, on account of the [l] worthiness of my faith; but because only the satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ, is my righteousness before [m] God; and that I cannot receive [n] and apply the same to myself any other way than by faith only.
    [a]: Rom. 5:1; Rom. 1:17; John 3:36
    [b]: Rom. 3:22ff; Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2:8,9
    [c]: Rom. 3:9ff
    [d]: Rom. 7:23
    [e]: Rom. 3:24
    [f]: Tit. 3:5; Eph 2:8,9
    [g]: Rom. 4:4,5; 2Cor. 5:19
    [h]: 1John 2:1
    [i]: Rom. 3:24,25
    [j]: 2Cor. 5:21
    [k]: Rom. 3:28; John 3:18
    [l]: Psa. 16:2; Eph. 2:8,9
    [m]: 1Cor. 1:30; 1Cor. 2:2
    [n]: 1John 5:10

XXIV. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 62.
    But why cannot our good works be the whole, or part of our righteousness before God?
    Answer. Because, that the righteousness, which can be approved of before the tribunal of God, must be absolutely perfect, and in all respects [a] conformable to the divine law; and also, that our best works in this life are all imperfect and [b] defiled with sin.
  • Question 63.
    What! do not our good works merit, which yet God will reward in this and in a future life?
    Answer. This reward is not of merit, but of grace. [c]
  • Question 64.
    But doth not this doctrine make men careless and profane?
    Answer. By no means: for it is impossible that those, who are implanted into Christ by a true faith, should not bring forth fruits of [d] thankfulness.
    [a]: Gal. 3:10; Deut. 17:26
    [b]: Isa. 64:6
    [c]: Luke 17:10
    [d]: Mat. 7:17,18; John 15:5

OF THE SACRAMENTS

XXV. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 65.
    Since then we are made partakers of Christ and all his benefits by faith only, whence doth this faith proceed?
    Answer. From the Holy Ghost, who works [a] faith in our hearts by the preaching of the gospel, and [b] confirms it by the use of the sacraments.
  • Question 66.
    What are the sacraments?
    Answer. The sacraments are holy visible signs and seals, appointed of God for this end, that by the use thereof, he may the more fully declare and seal to us the promise of the gospel, vis., that he grants us freely the remission of sin, and [c] life eternal, for the sake of that one sacrifice of Christ, accomplished on the cross.
  • Question 67.
    Are both word and sacraments, then, ordained and appointed for this end, that they may direct our faith to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, as the only ground of our salvation?
    Answer. Yes, indeed: for the Holy Ghost teaches us in the gospel, and assures us by the sacraments, [d] that the whole of our salvation depends upon that one sacrifice of Christ which he offered for us on the cross.
  • Question 68.
    How many sacraments has Christ instituted in the new covenant, or testament?
    Answer. [e] Two: namely, holy baptism, and the holy supper.
    [a]: Eph. 2:8; Eph. 6:23; Phil. 1:29
    [b]: Mat. 28:19; Rom. 4:11
    [c]: Gen. 17:11; Rom. 4:11; Ex. 12; Lev. 6:25; Acts 22:16; Acts 2:38; Mat. 26:28
    [d]: Rom. 6:3; Gal. 3:27
    [e]: 1Cor. 10:2,3,4

OF HOLY BAPTISM

XXVI. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 69.
    How art thou admonished and assured by holy baptism, that the one sacrifice of Christ upon the cross is of real advantage to thee?
    Answer. Thus: That Christ appointed [a] this external washing with water, adding thereto this [b] promise, that I am as certainly washed by his blood and Spirit from all the pollution of my soul, that is, form all my sins, as I am [c] washed externally with water, by which the filthiness of the body is commonly washed away.
  • Question 70.
    What is it to be washed with the blood and Spirit of Christ?
    Answer. It is to receive of God the remission of sins, freely, for the sake of Christ's blood, which he [d] shed for us by his sacrifice upon the cross; and also to be renewed by the Holy Ghost, and sanctified to be members of Christ, that so we may more and more die unto sin, and [e] lead holy and unblamable lives.
  • Question 71.
    Where has Christ promised us, that he will as certainly wash us by his blood and Spirit, as we are washed with the water of baptism?
    Answer. In the institution of baptism, which is thus expressed: [f] "Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost [g]," "he that believeth, and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not, shall be damned." This promise is also repeated, where the scripture calls baptism the [h] washing of regeneration, and the washing [i] away of sins.
    [a]: Mat. 28:19; Acts 2:38
    [b]: Mark 16:16; Mat. 3:11; Rom. 6:3
    [c]: Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3
    [d]: Heb. 12:24; 1Pet. 1:2
    [e]: John 1:33; Rom. 6:4; Col. 2:11
    [f]: Mat. 28:19
    [g]: Mark 16:16
    [h]: Tit. 3:5
    [i]: Acts 22:16

XXVII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 72.
    Is then the external baptism with water the washing away of sin itself?
    Answer. Not at all: for the [a] blood of Jesus Christ only, and the Holy Ghost cleanse us from all [b] sin.
  • Question 73.
    Why then doth the Holy Ghost call baptism "the washing of regeneration," and "the washing away of sins"?
    Answer. God speaks thus not without great cause, to-wit, not only thereby to teach us, that as the filth of the body is purged away by water, so our sins are [c] removed by the blood and Spirit of Jesus Christ; but especially that by [d] this divine pledge and sign he may assure us, that we are spiritually cleansed from our sins as really, as we are externally washed with water.
  • Question 74.
    Are infants also to be baptized?
    Answer. Yes: for since they, as well as the adult, are included in the [e] covenant and [f] church of God; and since [g] redemption from sin by the blood of Christ, and the [h] Holy Ghost, the author of faith, is promised to them no less than to the adult; they must therefore by baptism, as a sign of the covenant, be also admitted into the christian church; and be distinguished [i] from the children of unbelievers as was done in the old covenant or testament by [j] circumcision, instead of which [k] baptism is instituted in the new covenant.
    [a]: Mat. 3:11; 1Pet. 3:11
    [b]: 1John 1:7; 1Cor. 6:11
    [c]: Rev. 1:5; 1Cor 6:11
    [d]: Mark 16:16; Gal. 3:27
    [e]: Gen. 17:7; Acts 2:39
    [f]: 1Cor. 7:14; Joel 2:16
    [g]: Mat. 19:14
    [h]: Luke 1:14,15; Psa. 22:10; Acts 2:39
    [i]: Acts 10:47; 1Cor. 12:13; 1Cor 7:14
    [j]: Gen. 17:14
    [k]: Col. 2:11,12,13

OF THE HOLY SUPPER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST

XXVIII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 75.
    How are thou admonished and assured in the Lord's Supper, that thou are a partaker of that one sacrifice of Christ, accomplished on the cross, and of all his benefits?
    Answer. Thus: That Christ has commanded me and all believers, to eat of this broken bread, and to drink of this cup, in remembrance of him, [a] adding these promises: first, that his body was offered and broken on the cross for me, and his blood shed for me, as certainly as I see with my eyes, the bread of the Lord broken for me, and the cup communicated to me; and further, that he feeds and nourishes my soul to everlasting life, with his crucified body and shed blood, as assuredly as I receive from the hands of the minister, and taste with my mouth the bread and cup of the Lord, as certain signs of the body and blood of Christ.
  • Question 76.
    What is it then to eat the crucified body, and drink the shed blood of Christ?
    Answer. It is only to embrace with a believing heart all the sufferings and death of Christ, and thereby to [b] obtain the pardon of sin, and life eternal; but also, besides that, to become more and more [c] united to his sacred body, by the Holy Ghost, who dwells both in Christ and in us; [d] so that we, though Christ is in heaven and we on earth, are notwithstanding "Flesh of his flesh, and bone [e] of his bone"; and that we live, [f] and are governed forever by one spirit, as members of the same body are by one soul.
  • Question 77.
    Where has Christ promised that he will as certainly feed and nourish believers with his body and blood, as they eat of this broken bread, and drink of this cup?
    Answer. In the institution of the supper, which is thus expressed: [g] "The Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said: eat, this is my body, which is broken for you; this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying: this [h] cup is the new testament in my blood; [i] this do ye, as often as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For, as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come." This promise is repeated by the holy apostle Paul, where he says: [j] "The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we, being many, are one bread and one body; because we are all partakers of that one bread."
    [a]: Mat. 26:26,27,28; Mark 14:22,23,24; Luke 22:19,20; 1Cor. 10:16,17; 1Cor 11:23,24,25
    [b]: John 6:35,40,47,48,50,51,53,54
    [c]: John 6:55,56
    [d]: Acts 3:21; Acts 1:9,10,11; 1Cor 11:26
    [e]: Eph. 5:29,30,31,32; 1Cor. 6:15,17,19; 1John 3:24
    [f]: John 6:56,57,58; Eph. 4:15,16
    [g]: 1Cor. 11:23; Mat. 26:26; Mark 14:22; Luke 22:19
    [h]: Ex. 24:8; Heb. 9:20
    [i]: Ex. 13:9; 1Cor. 11:26
    [j]: 1Cor. 10:16,17

XXIX. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 78.
    Do then the bread and wine become the very body and blood of Christ?
    Answer. Not at all: [a] but as the water in baptism is not changed into the blood of Christ, neither is the washing away of sin itself, being only the sign and confirmation thereof appointed of God; so the bread in the Lord's supper is not changed into the very [b] body of Christ; though agreeable to the [c] nature and properties of sacraments, it is called the body of Christ Jesus.
  • Question 79.
    Why then doth Christ call the bread his body, and the cup his blood, or the new covenant in his blood; and Paul the "communion of the body and blood of Christ"?
    Answer. Christ speaks thus, not without great reason, namely, not only thereby to teach us, that as bread and wine support this temporal life, so his crucified body and shed blood are the true meat and drink, whereby our souls are [d] fed to eternal life; but more especially by these visible signs and pledges to assure us, that we are as really partakers of his true body and blood (by the operation of the Holy Ghost) as we [e] receive by the mouths of our bodies these holy signs in remembrance of him; and that all his sufferings [f] and obedience are as certainly ours, as if we had in our own persons suffered and made satisfaction for our sins to God.
    [a]: 1Cor. 10:1,2,3,4; 1Pet. 3:21; John 6:35,62,63
    [b]: 1Cor. 10:16ff; 1Cor. 11:20ff
    [c]: Gen. 17:10,11,14; Ex. 12:26,27,43,48; Acts 7:8; Mat. 26:26; Mark 14:24
    [d]: John 6:51,55,56
    [e]: 1Cor. 10:16,17; 1Cor 11:26,27,28; Eph. 5:30
    [f]: Rom. 5:9,18,19; Rom. 8:4

XXX. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 80.
    What difference is there between the Lord's supper and the popish mass?
    Answer. The Lord's supper testifies to us, that we have a full pardon of all sin [a] by the only sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which he himself has once accomplished on the cross; and, that we by the Holy Ghost are ingrafted [b] into Christ, who, according to his human nature is now not on earth, but in [c] heaven, at the right hand of God his Father, and will there [d] be worshipped by us: - but the mass teaches, that the living and dead have not the pardon of sins though the sufferings of Christ, unless Christ is also daily offered for them by the priests; and further, that Christ is bodily under the form of bread and wine, and therefore is to be worshipped in them; so that the mass, as bottom, is nothing else than a [e] denial of the one sacrifice and sufferings of Jesus Christ, and an accursed idolatry.
  • Question 81.
    For whom is the Lord's supper instituted?
    Answer. For those who are truly sorrowful [g] for their sins, and yet that these are forgiven them for the sake of Christ; and that their remaining infirmities [h] are covered by his passion and death; and who also earnestly [i] desire to have their faith more and more strengthened, and their lives more holy; but hypocrites, and such as turn not to God with sincere hearts, eat and [j] drink judgment to themselves.
  • Question 82.
    Are they also to be admitted to this supper, who, by confession and life, declare themselves unbelieving and ungodly?
    Answer. No; for by this, the covenant of God would be profaned, and his wrath [k] kindled against the whole congregation; therefore it is the duty of the christian church, according to the appointment of [l] Christ and his apostles, to exclude such persons, by the keys of the kingdom of heaven, till they show amendment of life.
    [a]: Heb. 7:27; Heb. 9:12,26; mat. 26:28; Luke 22:19,20; 2Cor. 5:21
    [b]: 1Cor. 6; 1Cor 17; 1Cor 12:13
    [c]: Heb. 1:3; Heb 8:1ff
    [d]: John 4:21,22,23; Col. 3:1; Phil. 3:20; Luke 24:52,53; Acts 7:55
    [e]: Isa. 1:11,14; Mat. 15:9; Col. 2:22,23; Jer. 2:13
    [g]: Mat. 5:3,6; Luke 7:37,38; Luke 15:18,19
    [h]: Psa. 103:3
    [i]: Psa. 116:12,13,14; 1Pet. 2:11,12
    [j]: 1Cor. 10:20ff; 1Cor. 11:28ff; Tit. 1:16; Psa. 50:15,16
    [k]: 1Cor. 10:21; 1Cor. 11:30,31; Isa. 1:11,13; Jer. 7:21; Psa. 50:16,22
    [l]: Mat. 18:17,18

XXXI. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 83.
    What are [a] the keys of the kingdom of heaven?
    Answer. The preaching [b] of the holy gospel, and christian discipline, [c] or excommunication out of the christian church; by these two, the kingdom of heaven is opened to believers, and shut against unbelievers.
  • Question 84.
    How is the kingdom of heaven opened and shut by the preaching of the holy gospel?
    Answer. Thus: when according to the command of [d] Christ, it is declared and publicly testified to all and every believer, that, whenever they [e] receive the promise of the gospel by a true faith, all their sins are really forgiven them of God, for the sake of Christ's merits; and on the contrary, when it is declared and testified to all unbelievers, and such as do not sincerely repent, that they stand exposed to the wrath of God, and eternal [f] condemnation, so long as they are [g] unconverted: according to which testimony of the gospel, God will judge them, both in this, and in the life to come.
  • Question 85.
    How is the kingdom of heaven shut and opened by christian discipline?
    Answer. Thus: when according [h] to the command of Christ, those, who under the name of christians, maintain doctrines, or practices [i] inconsistent therewith, and will not, after having been often brotherly admonished, renounce their errors and wicked course of life, are complained of to the church, [j] or to those, who are thereunto [k] appointed by the church; and if they despise their admonition, [l] are by them forbidden the use of the sacraments; whereby they are excluded from the christian church, and by God himself from the kingdom of Christ; and when they promise and show real amendment, are again [m] received as members of Christ and his church.
    [a]: Mat. 16:19
    [b]: John 20:23
    [c]: Mat. 18:15,16,17,18
    [d]: Mat. 28:19
    [e]: John 3:18,36; Mark 16:16
    [f]: 2Thes. 1:7,8,9
    [g]: John 20:21,22,23; Mat. 16:19; Rom. 2:2,13-17
    [h]: Mat. 18:15
    [i]: Cor. 5:12
    [j]: Mat. 18:15-18
    [k]: Rom. 12:7,8,9; 1Cor. 12:28; 1Tim. 5:17; 2Thes. 3:14
    [l]: Mat. 18:17; 1Cor. 5:3,4,5
    [m]: 2Cor. 2:6,7,8,10,11; Luke 15:18

THE THIRD PART--OF THANKFULNESS

XXXII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 86.
    Since then we are delivered from our misery, merely of grace, through Christ, without any merit of ours, why must we still do good works?
    Answer. Because Christ, having redeemed and delivered us by his blood, also renews us by his Holy Spirit, after his own image; that so we may testify, by the whole of our conduct, our gratitude [a] to God for his blessings, and that he may be [b] praised by us; also, that every one may be [c] assured in himself of his faith, by the fruits thereof; and that, by our godly conversation, others may be [d] gained to Christ.
  • Question 87.
    Cannot they then be saved, who, continuing in their wicked and ungrateful lives, are not converted to God?
    Answer. By no means; for the holy scripture declares [e] that no unchaste person, idolater, adulterer, thief, covetous man, drunkard, slanderer, robber, or any such like, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
    [a]: 1Cor. 6:19,20; Rom. 6:13; Rom. 12:1,2; 1Pet. 2:5,9,10
    [b]: Mat. 5:16; 1Pet. 2:12
    [c]: 2Pet. 1:10; Gal. 5:6,24
    [d]: 1Pet. 3:1,2; Mat. 5:16; Rom. 14:19
    [e]: 1Cor. 6:9,10; Eph. 5:5,6; 1John 3:14,15; Gal. 5:21

XXXIII. LORD'S DAY.

XXXIV. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 92.
    What is the law of God? Answer. God spake all these words, Exodus 20; Deut. 5, saying: I am the Lord thy God, which hath brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.
    Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
    Thou shalt not make unto thyself any graven image, nor the likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or in the earth beneath, or in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down to them, nor serve them; for I, the Lord thy God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me, and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.
    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.
    Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy; six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt do no manner of work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man servant, nor thy maid servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.
    Honor thy father and they mother, that thy days may be long in the land which the Lord they God giveth thee.
    Thou shalt not kill.
    Thou shalt not commit adultery.
    Thou shalt not steal.
    Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
    Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house; thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man servant, nor his maid servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.
  • Question 93.
    How are these commandments divided?
    Answer. Into two [a] tables; the [b] first of which teaches us how we must behave towards God; the second, what duties we owe to our neighbor.
  • Question 94.
    What doth God enjoin in the first commandment?
    Answer. That I, as sincerely as I desire the salvation of my own soul, avoid and flee from all idolatry, [c] sorcery, [d] soothsaying, superstition, [e] invocation of saints, or any other creatures; and learn [f] rightly to know the only true God; [g] trust in him alone, with humility [h] and patience [i] submit to him; [j] expect all good things from him only; [k] love, [l] fear, and [m] glorify him with my whole heart; so that I renounce [n] and forsake all creatures, rather than [o] commit even the least thing contrary to his will.
  • Question 95.
    What is idolatry?
    Answer. Idolatry is, instead of, or besides that one true God, who has manifested himself in his word, to contrive, or have any other object, in which men place their trust. [p]
    [a]: Ex. 34:28,29
    [b]: Deut. 4:13; Deut. 10:3,4
    [c]: 1Cor. 6:9,10; 1Cor 10:7,14
    [d]: Lev. 18:21; Deut. 18:10,11,12
    [e]: Mat. 4:10; Rev. 19:10
    [f]: John 17:3
    [g]: Jer. 17:5,7
    [h]: Heb. 10:36; Col. 1:11; Rom. 5:3,4; Phil. 2:14
    [i]: 1Pet. 5:5,6
    [j]: Psa. 104:27; Isa. 45:7; James 1:17
    [k]: Deut. 6:5; Mat. 22:37
    [l]: Deut. 6:5; Mat. 10:28
    [m]: Mat. 4:10
    [n]: Mat. 5:29,30; Acts 5:29; Mat. 10:37
    [o]: Mat. 5:19
    [p]: 2Chron. 16:12; Phil. 3:18,19; Gal. 4:8; Eph. 2:12

XXXV. LORD'S DAY.

XXXVI. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 99.
    What is required in the third commandment?
    Answer. That we, not only by cursing or [a] perjury, but also by [b] rash swearing, must not profane or abuse the name of [c] God; nor by silence or connivance be partakers of these horrible sins in others; and, briefly, that we use the holy name of God no otherwise than with fear and reverence; so that he may be rightly [d] confessed and [e] worshipped by us, and be glorified in all our words and works.
  • Question 100.
    Is then the profaning of God's name, by swearing and cursing, so heinous a sin, that his wrath is kindled against those who do not endeavor, as much as in them lies, to prevent and forbid such cursing and swearing?
    Answer. It undoubtedly is, [f] for there is no sin greater or more provoking to God, than the profaning of his name; and therefore he has commanded this [g] sin to be punished with death.
    [a]: Lev. 24:11; Lev. 19:12; Mat. 5:37; Lev. 5:4
    [b]: Isa. 45:23,24
    [c]: Mat. 10:32
    [d]: 1Tim. 2:8
    [e]: 1Cor. 3:16,17
    [f]: Lev. 5:1
    [g]: Lev. 24:15

XXXVII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 101.
    May we then swear religiously by the name of God?
    Answer. Yes: either when the magistrates demand it of the subjects; or when necessity requires us thereby to confirm [a] fidelity and truth to the glory of God, and the safety of our neighbor: for such an oath is [b] founded on God's word, and therefore was justly [c] used by the saints, both in the Old and New Testament.
  • Question 102.
    May we also swear by saints or any other creatures?
    Answer. No; for a lawful oath is calling upon God, as the only one who knows the heart, that he will bear witness to the truth, and punish me if I swear [d] falsely; which honor is [e] due to no creature.
    [a]: Ex. 22:11; Neh. 13:25
    [b]: Deut. 6:13; Heb. 6:16
    [c]: Gen. 21:24; Jos. 9:15,19; 1Sam. 24:22; 2Cor. 1:23; Rom. 1:9
    [d]: 2Cor. 1:23
    [e]: Mat. 5:34,35

XXXVIII. LORD'S DAY.

XXXIX. LORD'S DAY.

XL. LORD'S DAY.

XLI. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 108.
    What doth the seventh commandment teach us?
    Answer. That all uncleanness is accursed [a] of God: and that therefore we must with all our hearts [b] detest the same, and live [c] chastely and temperately, whether in [d] holy wedlock, or in single life.
  • Question 109.
    Doth God forbid in this commandment, only adultery, and such like gross sins?
    Answer. Since both our body and soul are temples of the Holy Ghost, he commands us to preserve them pure and holy: therefore he forbids all unchaste actions, [e] gestures, words, thoughts, [f] desires, and whatever [g] can entice men thereto.
    [a]: Lev. 18:27
    [b]: Deut. 29:20-23
    [c]: 1Thes. 4:3,4
    [d]: Heb. 13:4; 1Cor. 7:4-9
    [e]: Eph. 5:3; 1Cor. 6:18
    [f]: Mat. 5:28
    [g]: Eph. 5:18; 1Cor. 15:33

XLII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 110.
    What doth God forbid in the eighth commandment?
    Answer. God forbids not only those [a] thefts, and [b] robberies, which are punishable by the magistrate; but he comprehends under the name of theft all wicked tricks and devices, whereby we design to [c] appropriate to ourselves the goods which belong to our neighbor: whether it be by force, or under the appearance of right, as by unjust [d] weights, ells, [e] measures, fraudulent merchandise, false coins, [f] usury, or by any other way forbidden by God; as also all [g] covetousness, all abuse and waste of his gifts.
  • Question 111.
    But what doth God require in this commandment?
    Answer. That I promote the advantage of my neighbor in every instance I can or may; and deal with him as I [h] desire to be dealt with by others: further also that I faithfully labor, so that I [i] may be able to relieve the needy.
    [a]: 1Cor. 6:10
    [b]: 1Cor. 5:10
    [c]: Luke 3:14; 1Thes. 4:6
    [d]: Prov. 11:1
    [e]: Ezek. 45:9,10,11; Deut. 25:13
    [f]: Psa. 15:5; Luke 6:35
    [g]: 1Cor. 6:10
    [h]: Mat. 7:12
    [i]: Prov. 5:16; Eph. 4:28

XLIII. LORD'S DAY.

XLIV. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 113.
    What doth the tenth commandment require of us?
    Answer. That even the smallest inclination or thought, contrary to any of God's commandments, never rise in our hearts; but that at all times we hate all sin with our whole heart, [a] and delight in all righteousness.
  • Question 114.
    But can those who are converted to God perfectly keep these commandments?
    Answer. No: but even the holiest men, while in this life, have only a small beginning of this [b] obedience; yet so, that with a [c] sincere resolution they begin to live, not only according to some, but all of the commandments of God.
  • Question 115.
    Why will God then have the ten commandments so strictly preached, since no man in this life can keep them?
    Answer. First, that all our lifetime we may learn [d] more and more to know our sinful nature, and thus become the more earnest in seeking the remission of sin, [e] and righteousness in Christ; likewise, that we constantly endeavor and pray to God for the grace of the Holy Spirit, that we may become more and more conformable to the image of God, till we arrive at the perfection proposed to us, in a life to come. [f]
    [a]: Rom. 7:7ff
    [b]: Rom. 7:14
    [c]: Rom. 7:15ff; James 3:2
    [d]: 1John 1:9; Rom. 3:20; Rom. 5:13; Rom. 7:7
    [e]: Rom. 7:24
    [f]: 1Cor. 9:24; Phil. 3:12,13,14

OF PRAYER

XLV. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 116.
    Why is prayer necessary for christians?
    Answer. Because it is the chief part of [a] thankfulness which God requires of us: and also, because God will give his grace and Holy Spirit to those only, who with sincere desires continually ask them of him, and [b] are thankful for them.
  • Question 117.
    What are the requisites of that prayer, which is acceptable to God, and which he will hear?
    Answer. First, that we from the heart pray to the one true God only, who hath [c] manifested himself in his word, for all things, he hath commanded us to ask of him; [d] secondly, that we rightly and thoroughly know our need and misery, that so we may [e] deeply humble ourselves in the presence of his divine majesty; thirdly, that we be fully persuaded that he, notwithstanding that we are [f] unworthy of it, will, for the sake of Christ our Lord, certainly [g] hear our prayer, as he has [h] promised us in his word.
  • Question 118.
    What hath God commanded us to ask of him?
    Answer. All [i] things necessary for soul and body; which Christ our Lord has comprised in that prayer he himself [j] has taught us.
  • Question 119.
    What are the words of that prayer?
    Answer. Our Father which 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 debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
    [a]: Psa. 50:14,15
    [b]: Mat. 7:7,8; Luke 11:9,13; Mat. 13:12; Psa. 50:15
    [c]: John 4:22,23
    [d]: Rom. 8:26; 1John 5:14
    [e]: John 4:23,24; Psa. 145:18
    [f]: 2Chron. 20:12
    [g]: Psa. 2:11; Psa. 34:18,19; Isa. 66:2
    [h]: Rom. 10:13; Rom. 8:15,16; James 1:6ff; John 14:13; Dan. 9:17,18; Mat. 7:8; Psa. 143:1
    [i]: James 1:17; Mat. 6:33
    [j]: Mat. 6:9ff; Luke 11:2ff

XLVI. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 120.
    Why hath Christ commanded us to address God thus: "Our Father"?
    Answer. That immediately, in the very beginning of our prayer, he might excite in us a childlike reverence for, and confidence in God, which are the foundation of our prayer: namely, that God is become our Father in Christ, [a] and will much less deny us what we ask of him in true faith, than our parents [b] will refuse us earthly things.
  • Question 121.
    Why is it here added, "Which art in heaven"?
    Answer. Lest we should form any [c] earthly conceptions of God's heavenly majesty, and that we [d] may expect from his almighty power all things necessary for soul and body.
    [a]: Mat. 6:9
    [b]: Mat. 7:9,10,11; Luke 11:11; Isa. 49:15
    [c]: Jer. 23:24
    [d]: Acts 17:24; Rom. 10:12

XLVII. LORD'S DAY.

XLVIII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 123.
    Which is the second petition?
    Answer. [a] "Thy kingdom come"; that is, rule us so by thy word and Spirit, that we may [b] submit ourselves more and more to thee; preserve and [c] increase thy church; destroy the [d] works of the devil, and all violence which would exalt itself against thee; and also, all wicked counsels devised against thy holy word; till the full [e] perfection of thy kingdom take place, [f] wherein thou shalt be all in all.
    [a]: Mat. 6:10
    [b]: Psa. 119:5
    [c]: Psa. 51:18
    [d]: 1John 3:8; Rom. 16:20
    [e]: Rev. 22:17,20
    [f]: 1Cor. 15:15,28

XLIX. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 124.
    Which is the third petition?
    Answer. [a] "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven"; that is, grant that we and all men may renounce [b] our own will, and without murmuring [c] obey thy will, which is only good; that so every one may attend to, and [d] perform the duties of his station and calling, as willingly and faithfully as the [e] angels do in heaven.
    [a]: Mat. 6:10
    [b]: mat. 16:24; Tit. 2:12
    [c]: Luke 22:42
    [d]: 1Cor. 7:24; Eph. 4:1
    [e]: Psa. 103:20

L. LORD'S DAY.

LI. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 126.
    What is the fifth petition?
    Answer. [a] "And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors"; that is, be pleased for the sake of Christ's blood, [b] not to impute to us poor sinners, our transgressions, nor that depravity, which always cleaves to us; even as we feel this evidence of thy grace in us, that it is our firm resolution from the heart to [c] forgive our neighbor.
    [a]: Mat. 6:12
    [b]: Psa. 51:1; 1John 2:1,2
    [c]: Mat. 6:14,15

LII. LORD'S DAY.

  • Question 127.
    Which is the sixth petition?
    Answer. [a] "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil"; that is, since we are so weak in ourselves, that we cannot stand [b] a moment; and besides this, since our mortal enemies, [c] the devil, the [d] world, and our own [e] flesh, cease not to assault us, do thou therefore preserve and strength us by the power of the Holy Spirit, that we may not be overcome in this spiritual warfare, [f] but constantly and strenuously may resist our foes, till at last we [g] obtain a complete victory.
  • Question 128.
    How dost thou conclude thy prayer?
    Answer. [h] "For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever"; that is, all these we ask of thee, because thou, being our King and almighty, art willing and able to [i] give us all good; and all this we pray for, that thereby not we, but thy holy name, [j] may be glorified for ever.
  • Question 129.
    What doth the word "Amen" signify?
    Answer. [k] "Amen" signifies, it shall truly and certainly be: for my prayer is more assuredly heard of God, than I feel in my heart that I desire these things of him.
    [a]: Mat. 6:13
    [b]: Rom. 8:26; Psa. 103:14
    [c]: 1Pet. 5:8
    [d]: Eph. 6:12; John 15:19; Rom. 7:23; Gal. 5:17
    [f]: Mat. 26:41; Mark 13:33
    [g]: 1Thes. 3:13; 1Thes. 5:23
    [h]: Mat. 6:13
    [i]: Rom. 10:12; 2Pet. 2:9
    [j]: John 14:13; Psa. 115:1; Phil. 4:20
    [k]: 2Cor. 1:20; 2Tim. 2:13