WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM:
A 2 year course on Bible Doctrine (Organized summary of what the Bible teaches) for jr high and beyond...
OBJECTIVES OF THIS COURSE:
1. Give students a systematic understanding of Christian doctrine; as set forth in the Westminster Shorter Catechism.
2. Help prepare the student for communicant membership in the church.
3. Demonstrate to the student the biblical basis for church doctrine.
4. Show the student that doctrine affects both faith and life, both knowledge and action, and both mind and will.
5. Show the student that doctrinal matters have affected the history of the church.
6. Help the student develop a Christian world-and-life view.
7. Equip the student to use Bible study tools.
8. Encourage student appreciation and memorization of the Shorter Catechism.
1. Give students a systematic understanding of Christian doctrine; as set forth in the Westminster Shorter Catechism.
2. Help prepare the student for communicant membership in the church.
3. Demonstrate to the student the biblical basis for church doctrine.
4. Show the student that doctrine affects both faith and life, both knowledge and action, and both mind and will.
5. Show the student that doctrinal matters have affected the history of the church.
6. Help the student develop a Christian world-and-life view.
7. Equip the student to use Bible study tools.
8. Encourage student appreciation and memorization of the Shorter Catechism.
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Introduction
Since 1648 the standard Presbyterian catechisms have been those compiled by the Westminster Assembly, presented to parliament in 1647, and then authorized by the General Assembly of the church of Scotland (July 1648) and by the Scottish parliament (January 1649). The Larger Catechism proved to be too detailed and minute for memorizing, and has never received anything like the reception accorded to the Shorter Catechism, which is "for such as are of weaker capacity." The work was done by a committee presided over first by Herbert Palmer, master of Queens', Cambridge, and then by Anthony Tuckney, master of Emmanuel. Though not included here, scriptural proof texts were added at the request of the English parliament.
The Shorter Catechism, after a brief introduction on the end, rule and essence of religion, is divided into two parts: -- I. The doctrines we are to (I) concerning the nature of God, (2) concerning the decrees of God and their execution -- (a) in creation and providence, (b) in the covenant of works, (c) in the covenant of grace; II. The duties we are to perform (I) in regard to the moral law, (2) in regard to the gospel -- (a) inward duties, i.e. faith and repentance, (b) outward duties as to the Word, the sacraments and prayer.
Though the Shorter Catechism played a major role in Scottish public elementary education, and has had a great influence in forming and training the character of Presbyterians in Scotland, America and the British colonies, its uses is now generally preceded by something more adapted to the mind of a child. Such is the case with all the great catechisms of the reformation.
The Shorter Catechism, after a brief introduction on the end, rule and essence of religion, is divided into two parts: -- I. The doctrines we are to (I) concerning the nature of God, (2) concerning the decrees of God and their execution -- (a) in creation and providence, (b) in the covenant of works, (c) in the covenant of grace; II. The duties we are to perform (I) in regard to the moral law, (2) in regard to the gospel -- (a) inward duties, i.e. faith and repentance, (b) outward duties as to the Word, the sacraments and prayer.
Though the Shorter Catechism played a major role in Scottish public elementary education, and has had a great influence in forming and training the character of Presbyterians in Scotland, America and the British colonies, its uses is now generally preceded by something more adapted to the mind of a child. Such is the case with all the great catechisms of the reformation.
********************************** For practice, go to www.shortercatechism.com ****************************
Year 1Question 1: What is the chief end of man?
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Year 2
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