An Explanation of The Small Catechism An Explanation of The Small Catechism The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod 1991 This material is the property of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. It is for private, non-commercial, educational use by congregations, schools and for the private use of individuals and families. It may not be sold in any format, be it printed or electronic. Any other use of this material is strictly prohibited and permission to use this material in any other way that stipulated above must be secured from The Lutheran Church-MissouriSynod 1333 South Kirkkwood Road Saint Louis, Missouri 63122 www.lcms.org Luther's Small Catechism: With Explanation is printed and sold by Concordia Publishing House. It is a nicely printed hardback book. You may call Concordia Publishing House at 800-325-3040 to order a copy. Introduction 1. What is Christianity? Christianity is the life and salvation God has given in and through Jesus Christ. 1 John 14:6 I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. 2 John 17:3 This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent. 3 Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. 4 Acts 11:26 The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. 5 1 John 5:11-12 God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. Note: Christianity was at first called "the Way" (Acts 9:2; 24:14, 22). 2. Where is God's truth about our Savior Jesus Christ made known? This truth is made known in the Bible, the Old Testament, which promises the coming Savior, and the New Testament, which tells of the Savior who has come. 6 Heb. 1:1-2 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son. 7 Luke 24:27 Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself. 8 John 20:31 These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name. 9 Eph. 2:20 [You are] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone. 10 1 John 1:1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched-this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 3. Why do we call the Bible the "Holy Scripture"? The Bible is the "Holy Scripture" because God the Holy Spirit gave to His chosen writers the thoughts that they expressed and the words that they wrote (verbal inspiration). Therefore, the Bible is God's own Word and truth, without error (inerrancy). 11 John 10:35 The Scripture cannot be broken. 12 Mark 8:38 If anyone is ashamed of Me and of My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He comes in His Father's glory with the holy angels. 13 John 14:26 The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father r will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 14 Acts 24:14 I admit that I worship the God of our fa thers as a follower of the Way, which they call a sect. I believe everything that agrees with the Law and that is written in the Prophets. 15 2 Tim. 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 16 2 Peter 1:21 Prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. Note: God gave the Old Testament in Hebrew and Aramaic and the New Testament in Greek. Errors in copying or translations are not part of the God-breathed (inspired) Scripture. 4. What is the key to the correct understanding of the Bible? Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, is the heart and center of the Scripture and therefore the key to its true meaning. 17 John 5:39 These are the Scriptures that testify about Me. 18 Acts 10:43 All the prophets testify about Him that everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins through His name. 19 John 1:18 No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made Him known. 20 2 Tim. 3:15 From infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Bible narrative: Jesus revealed Himself as the center of Scripture (Luke 24:13-27). 5. How is human reason to be used in understanding Holy Scripture? A. Holy Scripture is given in human language. To determine what it says we need to apply the rules of language, such as grammar and logic. It is right to use reason as a servant of the text, but the guidance of the Holy Spirit is essential for its proper understanding. 21 Ps. 119:73 Give me understanding to learn Your commands. 22 Matt. 13:19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. 23 Matt. 22:37 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 24 Acts 17:11 They received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. B. Unlike all other books, Holy Scripture is God's Word and truth. It is wrong to question or deny the truthfulness of the sacred text (as happens, for example, with historical criticism). 25 Rom. 3:4 Let God be true, and every man a liar. As it is written: "So that you may be proved right when you speak and prevail when you judge." 26 2 Cor. 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God. 27 Col. 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy. 28 2 Peter 3:15-16 Our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to un derstand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction. 6. What basic distinction must we keep in mind in order to understand the Bible? We must sharply distinguish between the Law and the Gospel in the Bible. 29 John 1:17 The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 30 2 Cor. 3:6 The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. 7. What does God teach and do in the Law? In the Law God commands good works of thought, word, and deed and condemns and punishes sin. 31 Mark 12:30-31 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. Love your neighbor as yourself. 32 John 5:45 Your accuser is Moses, on whom your hopes are set. 33 Rom. 3:20 Through the law we become conscious of sin. 8. What does God teach and do in the Gospel? In the Gospel, the good news of our salvation in Jesus Christ, God gives forgiveness, faith, life, and the power to please Him with good works. 34 John 3:16 God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. 35 John 6:63 The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life. 36 Rom. 1:16 1 am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. 37 Col. 1:6 All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God's grace in all its truth. 9. How does the Small Catechism sum up Christian doctrine? The Small Catechism sums up Christian doctrine by dividing it into six chief parts: the Ten Commandments, the Creed, the Lord's Prayer, the Sacrament of Holy Baptism, Confession, and the Sacrament of the Altar. 10. What is a catechism? A catechism in a book of instruction, usually in the form of questions and answers. Note: A related word is catechumen (learner). 11. Who wrote our Small Catechism? Martin Luther, the Reformer of the church, wrote the Small Catechism in 1529. 12. Why are all six chief parts of the Small Catechism taken from the Bible alone? All the chief parts of the Small Catechism are taken from the Bible, because as God's written Word the Bible is the only final authority for Christian faith and life. "We pledge ourselves to the prophetic and apostolic writings of the Old and New Testaments as the pure and clear foundation of Israel, which is the only true norm according to which all teachers and teachings are to be judged and evaluated.... "[We have] a single, universally accepted ... form of doctrine ... from which and according to which, because it is drawn from the Word of God, all other writings are to be approved and accepted, judged and regulated" (Formula of Concord SD Rule and Norm 3, 10). 38 Matt. 15:9 They worship Me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men. 39 Gal. 1:8 Even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned. The Ten Commandments 13. What are the Ten Commandments? The Ten Commandments are the Law of God. Note: God gave them in this order but did not num ber them (Deut. 5:6-21; Ex. 20:1-17). 14. How did God give His Law? When God created people, He wrote the Law on their hearts. Later he arranged the Law in Ten Commandments, wrote it on two tables of stone, and made it known through Moses. 40 Rom. 2:14-15 Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law, since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them. Bible narrative: God wrote His commandments directly for the Israelites (Ex. 19-20; 31:18). There are three kinds of laws in the Old Testament: the moral law, which tells all people their duty toward God and other people; the ceremonial law, which regulated the religious practices in the Old Testament; and the political law, which was the state law of the Israelites. Only the moral law was written into the human heart. 15. What is the summary of commandments 13 (First Table)? Jesus replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" (Matt. 22:37; see Deut. 6:5). 16. What is the summary of commandments 4-10 (Second Table)? "And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matt. 22:39; see Lev. 19:18). 17. What is the summary of all the commandments? Love is the summary of all the commandments. 41 Rom. 13:10 Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. 18. Whom does God mean when in the Ten Commandments He says, "You shall"? He means me and all other human beings. 42 Matt. 5:19 Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 43 Rom. 3:19 Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. Bible narrative: Jesus explained the meaning of these commandments for all people (Matthew 5). The First Commandment [God] You shall have no other gods. What does this mean? We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things. 19. Who is the only true God? The only true God is the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, three distinct persons in one divine being (the Holy Trinity). 44 Num. 6:24-26 The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. 45 Deut. 6:4 Hear, 0 Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 46 Matt. 28:19 Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 47 1 Cor. 8:4 There is no God but one. 48 2 Cor. 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Bible narrative: At His Baptism Jesus stood in the Jordan, the Father spoke from heaven, and the Spirit of God descended upon Jesus in the form of a dove (Matt. 3:16-17). 20. What does God forbid in the First Commandment? God forbids us to have other gods (idolatry). 49 Is. 42:8 1 am the Lord; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another or My praise to idols. 50 Matt. 4:10 Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only. 51 1 Cor. 8:4 We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one. 52 1 John 5:21 Dear children, keep yourselves from idols. 21. When do people have other gods? They have other gods A. when they regard and worship any creature or thing as God; 53 Ps. 115:4 Their idols are silver and gold. 54 Phil. 3:19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their rnind is on earthly things. 55 Rev.. 9:20 They did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood-idols that cannot see or hear or walk. Bible narratives: Israel worshiped the golden calf (Exodus 32). The people worshiped Baal (1 Kings 18:18-29). The Philistines made Dagon their god (Judges 16:23-24). B. when they believe in a god who is not the triune God (see the Apostles' Creed). 56 Matt. 28:19 Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 57 John 5:23 He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent Him. Bible narrative: The Baptism of Jesus (Matt. 3:13-17). C. when they fear, love, or trust in any person or thing as they should fear, love, and trust in God alone; 58 Ps. 14:1 The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good. 59 Prov. 11:28 Whoever trusts in his riches will fall. 60 Prov. 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. 61 Matt. 10:28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 62 Matt. 10:37 Anyone who loves his father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 63 Eph. 5:5 No immoral, impure or greedy person-such a man is an idolater-has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Bible narratives: The rich man thought more of costly clothes and good eating than of God (Luke 16:19-31). The people building the Tower of Babel considered their achievement more important than God (Gen. 11:1-9). Goliath trusted in his size and physical strength (1 Samuel 17). Eli honored his sons more than God (1 Sam. 2:12-34). Peter feared punishment more than he loved God (Matt. 26:69-75). D. when they join in the worship of one who is not the triune God. 64 2 Cor. 6:14-15 Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? 22. What does God require of us in the First Commandment? God requires that we fear, love, and trust in Him above all things. A. We fear God above all things when we revere Him alone as the highest being, honor Him with our lives, and avoid what displeases Him. 65 Gen. 17:1 I am God almighty; walk before Me and be blameless. 66 Ps. 33:8 Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the people of the world revere Him. 67 Ps. 96:4 Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; He is to be feared above all gods. 68 Prov. 8:13 To fear the Lord is to hate evil. 69 Matt. 10:28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Bible narrative: The three men in the fiery furnace feared God more than the king (Daniel 3). B. We love God above all things when we cling to Him alone as our God and gladly devote our lives to His service. 70 Ps. 73:25-26 Whom have I in heaven but You? And earth has nothing I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. 71 Matt. 22:37 Love the Lord. your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Bible narrative: Abraham loved God more than his son (Genesis 22). Joseph resisted the temptation of Potiphar's wife (Genesis 39). C. We trust in God above all things when we commit our lives completely to His keeping and rely on Him for help in every need. 72 Ps. 118:8 It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man. 73 Prov. 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Bible narrative: David trusted in the Lord when he fought against Goliath (I Sam. 17:37, 46-47). Abram left his country and relatives to go where the Lord sent him, trusting that the Lord would take care of him (Gen. 12:1-9). Daniel committed himself to the Lord's keeping (Daniel 6). 23. Who is able to keep this and the other commandments? No person can keep any or all commandments perfectly, except Jesus Christ. All those who have faith in Him by the power of His Spirit willingly strive to keep these commandments. 74 Eccl. 7:20 There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins. 75 1 John 1:8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 76 John 14:15 If you love me, you will obey what I command. 77 Phil. 2:13 It is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose. The Second Commandment [God's Name] You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not curse, swear, use satanic arts, lie, or deceive by His name, but call upon it in every trouble, pray, praise, and give thanks. 24. Why do we say in this and in the following commandments, "We should fear and love God"? The fulfillment of all commandments must flow from the fear and love of God. 78 Ps. 111:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding. To Him belongs eternal praise. 79 John 14:23 If anyone loves Me, he will obey My teaching. Bible narrative: Jesus asked Peter whether he loved Him, then He told Peter to feed His sheep (John 21:15-17). 25. What is God's name? God, as He has revealed Himself to us, His essence and His attributes. 80 Ex. 3:14 God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I Am." This is what you are to say to the Israelites: "I Am has sent me to YOU." 81 Is. 9:6 To us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 82 Jer. 23:6 This is the name by which He will be called: The Lord Our Righteousness. 83 Matt. 1:21 You are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins. 84 Matt. 18:20 Where two or three come together in My name, there am I with them. 85 Matt. 28:19 Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 86 John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Bible narrative: God revealed His name to Moses (Ex. 3:12-15). 26. What does God forbid in the Second Commandment? In the Second Commandment God forbids us to misuse His name. 87 Ex. 20:7 The Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His name. 27. How is God's name misused? God's name is misused when people A. speak God's name uselessly or carelessly (see Ex. 20:7); B. curse, swear, use satanic arts, lie, or deceive by His name. 28. What is cursing by God's name? Cursing by God's name is A. blaspheming God by speaking evil of Him or mocking Him; 88 Lev. 24:15 If anyone curses his God, he will be held responsible. Bible narratives: They mocked Jesus when He was hanging on the cross (Matt. 27:39-43). The Assyrian field commander blasphemed the God of Israel (2 Kings 18:28-35; 19:21-22). Some Jews accused Jesus of being possessed by a demon (John 8:48-59). B. calling down the anger and punishment of God upon oneself or any other person or thing. 89 James 3:9-10 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Bible narratives: The people at Jesus' trial cursed themselves and their children (Matt. 27:25). Peter cursed (Matt. 26:74). James and John asked Jesus if they should ask God to destroy a Samaritan village (Luke 9:51-55). 29. What is swearing by God's name? Swearing by God's name is taking an oath in which we call on God to witness the truth of what we say or promise and to punish us if we lie or break our promise. 30. When are we permitted, and even required, to swear by God's name? We are permitted, and even required, to take an oath by God's name when an oath is necessary for the glory of God or the welfare of our neighbor. Examples include the following: testimony in court, oath of office, wedding vows. 90 Rom. 13:1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities. 91 Num. 30:2 When a man makes a vow to the Lord or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said. 92 Deut. 6:13 Fear the Lord your God, serve Him only and take your oaths in His name. 93 Heb. 6:16 Men swear by someone greater than themselves, and the oath confirms what is said and puts an end to all argument. Bible narratives: Jesus permitted Himself to be put under oath (Matt. 26:63-64). Abraham put his servant under oath (Gen. 24:3). 31. When is swearing forbidden? Swearing is forbidden when it is done falsely, thoughtlessly, or in sinful, uncertain, or unimportant matters. 94 Lev. 19:12 Do not swear falsely by My name and so profane the name of your God. I am the Lord. 95 Matt. 5:33-37 You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, "Do not break your oath but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord." But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne, or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. Simply let your "Yes" be "Yes" and your "No", "No"; anything beyond this comes from the evil one. Bible narratives: Peter swore falsely and thus committed perjury (Matt. 26:72). Certain Jews swore to commit murder (Acts 23:12). Herod swore in an unknown and unimportant matter (Matt. 14:6-9). Jephthah's thoughtless oath (Judges 11:30-40). 32. What is using satanic arts by God's name? Using satanic arts by God's name is A. using God's name in order to perform or claim to perform supernatural things with the help of the devil, such as casting spells, calling up a spirit, fortunetelling, consulting the dead, or other occult practices; 96 Deut. 18:10-12 Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord, and because of these detestable practices the Lord your God will drive out those nations before you Bible narratives: The Egyptian sorcerers performed supernatural things with the help of the devil (Exodus 7-8). The sons of Sceva used Jesus' name to cast out spirits, but they did not have faith (Acts 19:13-29). B. joining with or seeking the aid of people who practice these and similar satanic arts or worship Satan; 97 Lev. 19:31 Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the Lord your God. Bible narrative: King Saul sought the help of the witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28). C. depending on horoscopes or similar ways to foretell the future. 98 Eccl. 7:14 When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, a man cannot discover anything about his future. 33. What is lying and deceiving by God's name? Lying and deceiving by God's name is A. teaching false doctrine and saying that it is God's Word or revelation; 99 Deut. 12:32 See that you do all I command you; do not add to it or take away from it. 100 Jer. 23:31 Yes, declares the Lord, I am against the prophets who wag their own tongues and yet declare, "The Lord declares." 101 Matt. 15:9 They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men. Bible narrative: The lie of a false prophet caused a prophet of God to be deceived and killed (1 Kings 13:11-30). B. covering up an unbelieving heart or a sinful life by pretending to be a Christian. 102 Matt. 7:21 Not everyone who says to Me, "Lord, Lord," will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven. 103 Matt. 15:8 These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Bible narratives: Many scribes and Pharisees were hypocrites (Matt. 23:13-33). Ananias and Sapphira were hypocrites (Acts 5:1-11). 34. What does God require of us in the Second Commandment? We should call upon His name in every trouble, pray, praise, and give thanks. 104 Ps. 50:15 Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor Me. 105 Ps. 103:1 Praise the Lord, 0 my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. 106 Ps. 118:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. 107 John 16:23 My Father will give you whatever you ask in My name. 108 Eph. 5:20 Give thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Bible narratives: The 10 lepers called upon Jesus in their trouble (Luke 17:11-13). The grateful stranger thanked Jesus and glorified God for the healing (Luke 17:15-16). Hannah petitioned and thanked God for the gift of a son (I Samuel 1-2). Mary's Song (Magnificat, Luke 1:46-55). Zechariah's Song (Benedictus, Luke 1:68-79). The Third Commandment [God's Word] Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not despise preaching and His Word, but hold it sacred and gladly hear and learn it. 35. What is the Sabbath day? In the Old Testament God set aside the seventh day (Saturday) as a required day of rest (Sabbath means "rest") and worship. 109 Ex. 35:2 For six days, work is to be done, but the seventh day shall be your holy day, a Sabbath of rest to the Lord. 110 Lev. 23:3 There are six days when you may work, but the seventh day is a holy day, a Sabbath of rest, a day of sacred assembly. 36. Does God require us to observe the Sabbath and other holy days of the Old Testament? The Sabbath was a sign pointing to Jesus, who is our rest. Since Jesus has come as our Savior and Lord, God no longer requires us to observe the Sabbath day and other holy days of the Old Testament. 111 Matt. 11:28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." 112 Matt. 12:8 "The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath." 113 Col.2:16-17 Do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. 114 Heb. 4:9-10 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from His. 37. Does God require the church to worship together on any specific days? A. God requires Christians to worship together. 115 Acts2:42,46 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.... Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts. 116 Heb. 10:25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching. B. He has not specified any particular day. 117 Rom. 14:5-6 One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. 118 Gal. 4:10-11 You are observing special days and months and seasons and years! I fear for you, that some how I have wasted my efforts on you. C. The church worships together especially on Sunday because Christ rose from the dead on Sunday. 119 Luke 24:1-2 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb. 120 Acts 20:7 On the first day of the week we came together to break bread. Paul spoke to the people and, because he intended to leave the next day, kept on talking until midnight. Bible narrative: Jesus appeared to His disciples (John 20:19-31). 38. When do we sin against the Third Commandment? We sin against the Third Commandment when we despise preaching and the Word of God. 39. How is this done? We despise preaching and the Word of God A. when we do not attend public worship; B. when we do not use the Word of God and the Sacraments; C. when we use the Word of God and the Sacraments negligently or carelessly. 121 John 8:47 He who belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God. 122 Luke 10:16 He who listens to you listens to Me; he who rejects you rejects Me; but he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me. Bible narratives: The scribes and the Pharisees despised Baptism (Luke 7:30). Saul rejected the Word of God (1 Sam. 15:10-23). 40. What does God require of us in the Third Commandment? A. We should hold preaching and the Word of God sacred. 123 Is. 66:2 This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at My word. 124 1 Thess. 2:13 When you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe. B. We should gladly hear it, learn it, and meditate on it. 125 Joshua 1:8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. 126 Ps. 26:8 1 love the house where You live, 0 Lord, the place where Your glory dwells. 127 Luke 11:28 Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it. 128 Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 129 Col. 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. Bible narratives: Jesus gladly heard and learned the Word of God (Luke 2:41-52). Mary sat at the feet of Jesus and learned His Word (Luke 10:39). Mary kept and pondered the Word of God in her heart (Luke 2:19). The Bereans searched the Scriptures daily (Acts 17:11). C. We should honor and support the preaching and teaching of the Word of God. 130 Gal. 6:6-7 Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Bible narrative: The poor widow gave money for the upkeep of the temple and for the support of the priests (Mark 12:41-44). Note: See also "What the Hearers Owe Their Pastors" under the Table of Duties. D. We should diligently spread the Word of God. 131 Mark 16:15 He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation." 41. What do the first three commandments (the First Table) show us about ourselves? That we have sinned and deserve God's condemnation. 132 Rom. 3:22-23 There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. 42. Who alone has kept the Law of God perfectly? Only Jesus Christ, the God-man. 133 John 8:46 "Can any of you prove Me guilty of sin?" 134 Heb. 4:15 We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we areyet without sin. 43. How does Christ's perfect keeping of the Law benefit us? Since Christ was our substitute before God, our Savior's perfect keeping of the Law is part of His saving work for us, and because of Him we are considered righteous before God. 135 Gal. 4:4-5 When the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. 44. Besides showing us our sin, what else does God's Law do for us? In the Ten Commandments God shows us what His will is. Christians, by the power of the Holy Spirit, are eager to do God's will. 136 1 Thess. 4:3 It is God's will that you should be sanctified. 45. What is the summary of commandments 4-10 (Second Table)? "Love your neighbor as yourself' (Matt. 22:39). 46. Who is our neighbor? All people are our neighbors. 137 Gal. 6:10 As we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. 138 Matt. 5:44 Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Bible narrative: The good Samaritan showed mercy to his neighbor (Luke 10:25-37). 47. How should we love our neighbor? We should love our neighbor as ourselves and show this love by keeping the commandments of the Second Table. 139 Matt. 7:12 In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. The Fourth Commandment [God's Representatives] Honor your father and your mother. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not despise or anger our parents and other authorities, but honor them, serve and obey them, love and cherish them. 48. Who are parents and other authorities? Parents are fathers, mothers, and guardians; other authorities are all those whom God has placed over us at home, in government, at school, at the place where we work, and in the church. Note: Regarding spiritual authority, see the Table of Duties, "What the Hearers Owe Their Pastors" and also "The Office of the Keys" under Confession. 49. What does God forbid in the Fourth Commandment? God forbids us to despise our parents and other authorities by not respecting them or angering them by our disobedience or by any other kind of sin. 140 Prov. 23:22 Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. 141 Rom. 13:2 He who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. Note: See "To Workers of All Kinds" under the Table of Duties. Bible narratives: The sons of Eli grieved their father by their wickedness (1 Sam. 2:12, 23, 25). Absalom rebelled against his father and king (2 Samuel 15). 50. What does God require of us in the Fourth Commandment? God requires us A. to honor our parents and other authorities by regarding them as God's representatives; 142 Eph. 6:2-3 "Honor your father and mother'!--which is the first commandment with a promise--"that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." Note: See "To Parents" and "To Children" under the Table of Duties. Bible narratives: Joseph honored his father (Gen. 46:29). King Solomon honored his mother U Kings 2:19). Elisha honored his teacher (2 Kings 2:12). B. to serve our parents and other authorities by gladly providing what they need or require; 143 1 Tim. 5:4 If a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God. 144 Rom. 13:7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. Bible narratives: Joseph provided for his father (Gen. 47:11-12). Jesus provided for His mother (John 19:26). C. to obey our parents and other authorities in everything in which God has placed them over us; 145 Col. 3:20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 146 Titus 3:1 Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good. 147 Acts 5:29 We must obey God rather than men! Note: See "To Workers of All Kinds," "To Employers and Supervisors," and "Of Citizens" in the Table of Duties. Bible narratives: Jesus was subject to Mary and Joseph (Luke 2:51). Jonathan disobeyed his father in order to spare David's life and thus obeyed God rather than man (1 Sam. 20:31-33). D. to love and cherish our parents and other authorities as precious gifts of God; 148 Prov. 23:22 Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Bible narrative: Ruth loved and cherished her mother-in-law, Naomi (Ruth). E. to show respect to the aged. 149 Lev. 19:32 Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. 51. What promise does God attach to this commandment? ... that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth. Eph. 6:3 The Fifth Commandment [God's Gift of Life] You shall not murder. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not hurt or harm our neighbor in his body, but help and support him in every physical need. 52. What does God forbid in the Fifth Commandment? A. God forbids us to take the life of another person (murder, abortion, euthanasia) or our own life (suicide). 150 Gen. 9:6 Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made man. 151 Matt. 26:52 All who draw the sword will die by the sword. Bible narratives: Cain murdered his brother Abel (Gen. 4:8). David murdered Uriah through others (2 Sam. 11:15). Killing through carelessness (Ex. 21:29 and Deut. 22:8). Judas killed himself (Matt. 27:5). ABORTION The living but unborn are persons in the sight of God from the time of conception. Since abortion takes a human life, it is not a moral option except to prevent the death of another person, the mother. 152 Jer. 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart. 153 Ps. 139:16 Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be. Bible narrative: John the Baptist leaped for joy while still in his mother's womb. In doing so, John the Baptist and Elizabeth, by the Holy Spirit, acknowledged the unborn Jesus as Lord (Luke 1:41-44). EUTHANASIA The severely handicapped, infirm, helpless, and aged are persons in the sight of God with life given by Him and to be ended only by Him. 154 Prov. 6:16-17 There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood. 155 Prov. 31:8 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. 156 Acts 17:25 He Himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. SUICIDE My own life is a gift of God to be ended only by Him. 157 Jer. 31:3 The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness." 158 Luke 12:22 Jesus said to His disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear." B. God forbids us to hurt or harm our neighbor physically, that is, to do or say anything which may destroy, shorten, or make his or her life bitter. 159 Deut. 32:39 See now that I Myself am He! There is no god besides Me. I put to death and I bring to life, I have wounded and I will heal, and no one can deliver out of My hand. 160 Rom. 12:19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is Mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. Bible narratives: Joseph's brothers harmed Joseph and made the life of their father bitter by their wickedness (Gen. 37:23-35). The Egyptians made the lives of the children of Israel bitter by hard labor (Exodus1). C. God forbids us to keep anger and hatred in our hearts against our neighbor. 161 Matt. 5:22 1 tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. 162 1 John 3:15 Anyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life in him. 163 Matt. 15:19 Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 164 Eph. 4:26 In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. Bible narratives: The Jews showed their anger against Stephen (Acts 7:54). God warned Cain against anger (Gen. 4:5-7). 53. Does anyone have authority to take an other person's life? Yes, lawful government, as God's servant, may execute criminals and fight just wars. 165 Rom. 13:4 He is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 54. What does God require of us in the Fifth Commandment? A. We should help and support our neighbor in every bodily need. 166 Rom. 12:20 If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. Bible narratives: Abraham rescued Lot from his enemies (Gen. 14:12-16). David protected the life of Saul U Sam. 26:1-12). The good Samaritan helped the man who had fallen among thieves (Luke 10:33-35). B. We should be merciful, kind, and forgiving towards our neighbor. 167 Matt. 5:5,7,9 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.... Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.... Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. 168 Matt. 6:15 If you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. 169 Eph. 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Bible narratives: Jesus showed mercy to the 10 lepers (Luke 17:11-19). The centurion was kind to his sick servant (Matt. 8:5-13). Joseph was forgiving toward his brothers (Gen. 45:1-16). C. We should avoid and assist our neighbor in avoiding the abuse of drugs and the use of any substance that harms the body and the mind. 170 2 Cor. 7:1 Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit. The Sixth Commandment [God's Gift of Marriage] You shall not commit adultery. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other. 55. How do we lead a sexually pure and decent life? We lead a sexually pure and decent life when we A. consider sexuality to be a good gift of God; 171 Gen. 1:27, 31 God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. .. . God saw all that He had made, and it was very good. B. honor marriage as God's institution, the lifelong union of one man and one woman; 172 Gen. 2:24-25 For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be~ united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame. 173 Mark 10:6-9 At the beginning of creation God "made them male and female." For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate. C. reserve sexual intercourse for the marriage partner alone; 174 Heb. 13:4 Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. D. control sexual urges in a God-pleasing way. 175 Titus 2:11-12 The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. Note: See also I Thess. 4:1-7. 56. What does God forbid in the Sixth Commandment? A. God forbids divorce except for marital unfaithfulness (adultery or desertion). 176 Matt. 19:6 They are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate. 177 Matt. 19:9 Anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery. 178 1 Cor. 7:15 If the unbeliever leaves, let him do so. A believing man or woman is not bound in such circumstances. Bible narratives: David committed adultery with the wife of Uriah (2 Samuel 11). Herod took his brother's wife (Mark 6:18). B. God forbids sexual intercourse between unmarried persons. 179 1 Cor. 6:18 Flee from sexual immorality. 180 1 Cor. 6:9-10 Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders ... will enter the kingdom of God. C. God forbids sexual sins such as rape, homosexual activity, incest, sexual child abuse, obscenity, and the use of pornographic materials. 181 Rom. 1:24, 26-27 Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another.... Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion. 182 1 Cor. 6:9-10 Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. D. God forbids sexually impure thoughts and 183 Matt. 5:28 1 tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 184 Matt. 15:19 Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 57. What does God require of us in the Sixth Commandment? A. God requires us to avoid all temptations to sexual sin. 185 Gen. 39:9 How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God? 186 1 Cor. 6:18 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. B. God requires us to be clean in what we think and say. 187 Eph. 5:3-4 Among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 188 Phil. 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praise-worthy-think about such things. C. God requires us to use our sexuality in ways pleasing to Him. 189 1 Cor. 6:19-20 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. 58. What does God require especially of married people? God requires married people to love, honor, and respect each other. The wife is the husband's God-given helper, and the husband is the wife's God-given head. 190 Gen. 2:18 The Lord God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." 191 1 Cor. 7:4 The wife's body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife. 192 Eph. 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. 193 Eph. 5:21-23, 25 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior.... Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her. Note: See "To Husbands" and "To Wives" under the Table of Duties. The Seventh Commandment [God's Gift of Possessions] You shall not steal. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not take our neighbor's money or possessions, or get them in any dishonest way, but help him to improve and protect his possessions and income. 59. What does God forbid in the Seventh Commandment? God forbids every kind of robbery, theft, and dishonest way of getting things. 194 Lev. 19:35 Do not use dishonest standards when measuring length, weight or quantity. 195 Ps. 37:21 The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously. 196 Eph. 4:28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. 197 2 Thess. 3:10 If a man will not work, he shall not eat. Bible narratives: Achan stole when he secretly took a garment and silver and gold (Joshua 7:20-22). Judas was a thief (John 12:6). Gehazi obtained a present by lying and trickery (2 Kings 5:20-24). 60. What does God require of us in the Seventh Commandment? A. We should help our neighbor to improve and protect that person's possessions and income. 198 Matt. 7:12 In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you. 199 Phil. 2:4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Bible narratives: Abraham gave Lot the choice of the land (Gen. 13:9). Abraham rescued Lot from the enemy and recovered Lot's property (Gen. 14:12-16). B. We should help our neighbor in every need. 200 Matt. 5:42 Give to one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. 201 Heb. 13:16 Do not forget to do good, and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. 202 1 John 3:17 If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Bible narratives: Zacchaeus promised to give back four times what he had taken dishonestly and to give half of his goods to the poor (Luke 19:8). The good Samaritan helped his neighbor but the priest and Levite did not (Luke 10:29-37). The Eighth Commandment [God's Gift of a Good Reputation] You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way. 61. What does God forbid in the Eighth Commandment? A. God forbids us to tell lies about our neighbor in a court of law or elsewhere, that is, to lie about, lie to, or withhold the truth from our neighbor. 203 Prov. 19:5 A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who pours out lies will not go free. 204 Eph. 4:25 Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. Bible narratives: False witnesses testified against Jesus (Matt. 26:59-61). False witnesses testified against Naboth (1 Kings 21:13). Gehazi lied about Elisha and then lied to him (2 Kings 5:22-25). B. God forbids us to betray our neighbor, that is, to reveal our neighbor's secrets. 205 Prov.11:13 A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trust worthy man keeps a secret. Bible narratives: Doeg betrayed Ahimelech 2 Sam. 22:6-19). Judas betrayed Jesus (Matt. 26:1416). C. God forbids us to slander our neighbor or hurt our neighbor's reputation. 206 Matt. 18:15 If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. 207 Luke 6:37 Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. 208 James 4:11 Brothers, do not slander one another. Bible narrative: Absalom slandered his father (2 Sam. 15:1-6). 62. What does God require of us in the Eighth Commandment? A. We should defend our neighbor, that is, we should speak up for and protect our neighbor from false accusations. 209 Prov. 31:8-9 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. B. We should speak well of our neighbor, that is, we should praise our neighbor's good actions and qualities. Bible narratives: Jonathan spoke well of David (I Sam. 19:4). The people of Capernaum spoke well of the centurion (Luke 7:4-5). Jesus spoke well of the woman who anointed Him (Mark 14:3-9). C. We should put the best meaning on everything, that is, we should explain our neighbor's actions in the best possible way. 210 1 Cor. 13:7 [Love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 211 1 Peter 4:8 Love covers over a multitude of sins. The Ninth Commandment [God's Gift of Contentment] You shall not covet your neighbor's house. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not scheme to get our neighbor's inheritance or house, or get it in a way which only appears right, but help and be of service to him in keeping it. 63. What is coveting? Coveting is having a sinful desire for anyone or anything that belongs to our neighbor. 212 Rom. 7:8 Sin ... produced in me every kind of covetous desire. 213 Matt. 15:19 Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 64. What coveting does God forbid in the Ninth Commandment? God forbids every sinful desire to get our neighbor's possessions openly or by trickery. 214 Micah 2:1-2 Woe to those who plan iniquity.... They covet fields and seize them, and houses, and take them. They defraud a man of his home, a fellowman of his inheritance. 215 1 Tim. 6:8-10 If we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. Bible narrative: Ahab coveted Naboth's vineyard and got it in a way which only seemed right (I Kings 2:11-16). 65. What does God require of us in the Ninth Commandment? We should be content with what God has given us and assist our neighbor in keeping what God has given that person. 216 Phil. 4:11 1 am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 217 1 Tim. 6:6 Godliness with contentment is great gain. 218 Heb. 13:5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Bible narrative: Paul overcame coveting (Acts 20:32-35). The Tenth Commandment [God's Gift of Contentment] You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor. What does this mean? We should fear and love God so that we do not entice or force away our neighbor's wife, workers, or animals, or turn them against him, but urge them to stay and do their duty. 66. What coveting does God forbid in the Tenth Commandment? God forbids every sinful desire to take from our neighbor that person's spouse or workers. 219 Luke 12:15 He said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." 220 Col. 3:5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Bible narratives: David coveted Uriah's wife and took her (2 Sam. 11:2-4). Absalom estranged the hearts of the people from David (2 Sam. 15:1-6). 67. What does God require of us in the Tenth Commandment? We should be content with the helpers God has given us and encourage our neighbor's helpers to be faithful to our neighbor. 221 Phil. 2:4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Bible narrative: Paul returned a runaway slave to his master Philemon (Philemon). 68. What does God particularly impress upon us in the last two commandments? A. In God's sight evil desire, coveting, is indeed sin and deserves condemnation. 222 Gen. 3:6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. 223 James 1:14-15 Each one is tempted when by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. B. God wants us to love Him and to have holy desires. 224 Ps. 37:4 Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. 225 Ps. 119:35-36 Direct me in the path of Your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward Your statutes and not toward selfish gain. 226 Phil. 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. The Close of the Commandments What does God say about all these commandments? He says: 1, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep My commandments." [Ex. 20:5-61 What does this mean? God threatens to punish all who break these commandments. Therefore, we should fear His wrath and not do anything against them. But He promises grace and every blessing to all who keep these commandments. Therefore, we should also love and trust in Him and gladly do what He commands. 69. Why does God call Himself a jealous God? Because God is holy A. He hates sin and insists on strict and perfect obedience; B. He will not share with idols the love and honor we owe Him; C. He will punish those who hate Him. 227 Ps. 5:4-5 You are not a God who takes pleasure in evil; with You the wicked cannot dwell. The arrogant cannot stand in Your presence; You hate all who do wrong. 228 Is. 42:8 1 am the Lord; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another or My praise to idols. 229 Ezek. 6:9 1 have been grieved by their adulterous hearts, which have turned away from Me, and by their eyes, which have lusted after their idols. 230 James 4:12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. 70. What does God threaten to do to all who hate Him and break His commandments? God threatens earthly punishment, physical death, and eternal damnation. 231 Lev. 26:18 If after all this you will not listen to Me, I will punish you for your sins seven times over. 232 Rom. 6:23 The wages of sin is death. 233 Gal. 3:10 Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law. 71. What does God mean when He threatens to punish the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Him? If the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren also hate God and follow in the evil ways of their parents, then God will during their earthly lives punish them for the sins of their ancestors. 234 Ezek. 18:20 The soul who sins is the one who will die. The son will not share the guilt of the father, nor will the father share the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous man will be credited to him, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against him. Bible narratives: The family of wicked Ahab and Jezebel were destroyed (2 Kings 9:7-8; 10:11). Israel was led into captivity for its disobedience and wicked ness (2 Chron. 36:17-21). 72. Why does God threaten such punishment? God threatens such punishment to make us fear His anger, so that we do not act against His commandments. 235 Eccl. 12:13-14 Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. 236 Matt. 10:28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 73. How does God bless those who love Him and keep His commandments? He showers those who believe in Him and their God-fearing descendants with His constant love and good gifts. 237 1 Tim. 4:8 Godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. Bible narrative: God blessed Job for his faithfulness (Job 42:10-17). The Fulfillment of the Law 74. How carefully does God want us to keep His commandments? God wants us to keep His commandments perfectly in thoughts, desires, words, and deeds. 238 Lev. 19:2 Be holy because 1, the Lord your God, am holy. 239 James 2:10 Whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 75. What prevents us from keeping God's commandments perfectly? Our sinful nature makes it impossible. 240 Ps. 14:3 All have turned aside, they have together become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one. 241 Eccl. 7:20 There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins. 242 Is. 64:6 All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags. 243 1 John 1:8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. Bible narrative: The apostle Paul grieved over his failure to keep the Law (Rom. 7:15-20). 76. Can anyone, then, be saved by the Law? No; the Law condemns everyone. 244 Gal. 3:10-11 All who rely on observing the law are under a curse, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law." Clearly no one is justified before God by the law. The Purposes of the Law 77. What purposes does the Law then serve? A. First, the Law helps to control violent outbursts of sin and keeps order in the world (a curb). 245 1 Tim. 1:9 We also know that law is made not for the righteous [good people] but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious; for those who kill their fathers or mothers. 246 Rom. 2:14-15 Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law, since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them. B. Second, the Law accuses us and shows us our sin (a mirror). 247 Rom 3:20 Through the law we become conscious of sin. 248 Rom. 7:7 1 would not have known what coveting really was if the law had not said, "Do not covet." C. Third, the Law teaches us Christians what we should and should not do to lead a God-pleasing life (a guide). The power to live according to the Law comes from the Gospel. 249 Ps. 119:9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to Your word. 250 Ps. 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. 251 1 John 4:9, 11 This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him.... Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. Note: See Luke 10:27. Sin 78. What is sin? Sin is every thought, desire, word, and deed which is contrary to God's Law. 252 1 John 3:4 Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. Note: Other names for sin are disobedience (Rom. 5:19); debts (Matt. 6:12); wickedness, rebellion, (Ex. 34:7); fault (Matt. 18:15); trespass (Rom. 5:17); wickedness (Rom. 6:13); and wrong (Col. 3:25). 79. Who brought sin into the world? The devil brought sin into the world by tempting Adam and Eve, who of their own free will yielded to the temptation. 253 1 John 3:8 He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. 254 Rom. 5:12 Sin entered the world through one man. Bible narrative: The fall of humanity (Gen. 3:1-7). 80. How many kinds of sin are there? There are two kinds of sin: original sin and actual 81. What is original sin? Original sin is that total corruption of our whole human nature which we have inherited from Adam through our parents. 255 Ps. 51:5 I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. 256 John 3:6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 257 Rom. 5:12 Sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned. 258 Eph. 4:22 Put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts (NKJV). 82. What has original sin done to human nature? A. Original sin has brought guilt and condemnation to all people; 259 Rom. 5:19 Through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners. 260 Eph. 2:3 Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. B. has left everyone without true fear and love of God, that is, spiritually blind, dead, and enemies of God; 261 Gen. 8:21 Every inclination of his [man's] heart is evil from childhood. 262 1 Cor. 2:14 The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. 263 Eph. 2:1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins. 264 Rom. 8:7 The sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. C. causes everyone to commit all kinds of actual sins. 265 Matt. 7:17 Every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 266 Gal. 5:19 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. 83. What is actual sin? Actual sin is every act against a commandment of God in thoughts, desires, words, or deeds. 267 Matt. 15:19 Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 268 James 1:15 After desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin. (Sins of commission) 269 James 4:17 Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. (Sins of omission) Law and Gospel 84. Where alone does God offer the forgiveness of sins? God offers the forgiveness of sins only in the Gospel, the good news that we are freed from the guilt, the punishment, and the power of sin, and are saved eternally because of Christ's keeping the Law and His suffering and death for us. 270 John 3:16 God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. 271 Rom. 1:16 1 am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. 272 Rom. 10:4 Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes. 273 Gal. 3:13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." 274 Col. 1:13-14 He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 85. What is the difference between the Law and the Gospel? A. The Law teaches what we are to do and not to do; the Gospel teaches what God has done, and still does, for our salvation. B. The Law shows us our sin and the wrath of God; the Gospel shows us our Savior and the grace of God. C. The Law must be proclaimed to all people, but especially to impenitent sinners; the Gospel must be proclaimed to sinners who are troubled in their minds because of their sins. The Apostles' Creed 86. What is a creed? A creed is a statement of what we believe, teach, and confess. 275 Rom. 10:10 It is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. 87. What is meant by "I believe in God"? It means I trust God and His promises and accept as true all He teaches in the Holy Scriptures. 276 Ps. 31:14 1 trust in You, 0 Lord; I say, "You are my God." 277 Ps. 37:5 Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him. 278 Rom. 10:17 Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. 279 Heb. 11:1 Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 88. Why do we say, q believe," and not, "We believe"? Everyone must believe for himself or herself, no one can be saved by another's faith. 280 Hab. 2:4 The righteous will live by his faith. 281 Luke 7:50 Your faith has saved you; go in peace. Bible narrative: The foolish virgins could not obtain oil from the wise virgins (Matt. 25:1-13). 89. What three creeds are used by the church? The Apostles', the Nicene, and the Athanasian. 90. Which creed is used in Luther's Catechism? The Apostles' Creed. 91. Why is it called the Apostles' Creed? It is called the Apostles' Creed, not because it was written by the apostles themselves, but because it states briefly the doctrine (teaching) which God gave through the apostles in the Bible. The Creed is trinitarian because the Scriptures reveal God as triune. Christians are baptized in the name of the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 282 Matt. 28:19 Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 283 Eph. 4:4-6 There is one body and one Spirit-just as you were called to one hope when you were called-one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. 92. In what ways does the triune God make Himself known? A. Through the existence of the world (natural knowledge of God). 284 Ps. 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies declare the work of His hands. 285 Rom. 1:19-20 What may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-His eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made so that men are without excuse. 286 Heb. 3:4 Every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. B. Through conscience (natural knowledge of God). 287 Rom. 2:15 They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them. C. Especially through the Holy Scriptures in which God clearly reveals Himself and His gift of salvation in Christ (revealed knowledge of God). 288 John 20:31 These [acts of Jesus] are written that You may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name. 289 2 Tim. 3:15 From infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus 290 Heb. 1:1-2 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe. 93. Who is God? In His Word God has told us that He is A. spirit (a personal being without a doby); 291 John 4:24 God is spirit. B. eternal (without beginning and without end); 292 Ps. 90:1-2 Lord, You have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or You brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting You are God. 293 1 Tim. 1:17 To the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. C. unchangeable (immutable); 294 Ps. 102:27 You remain the same, and Your years will never end. 295 Mal. 3:6 1 the Lord do not change. 296 James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. D. almighty, all-powerful (omnipotent); 297 Gen. 17:1 I am God Almighty. 298 Matt. 19:26 With God all things are possible. E. all-knowing (omniscient); 299 Ps. 139:1-4 0 Lord, You have searched me and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You know it com pletely, 0 Lord. 300 John 21:17 Lord, You know all things. F. present everywhere (omnipresent); 301 Jer. 23:24 "Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?" declares the Lord. "Do not I fill heaven and earth?" declares the Lord. 302 Acts 17:27 He is not far from each one of us. G. holy (sinless and hating sin); 303 Lev. 19:2 1, the Lord your God, am holy. 304 Ps. 5:4-5 You are not a God who takes pleasure in evil; with You the wicked cannot dwell. The arrogant cannot stand in Your presence; You hate all who do wrong. 305 Is. 6:3 Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty. H. just (fair and impartial); 306 Deut. 32:4 He is the Rock, His works are perfect, and all His ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is He. I. faithful (keeping His promises); 307 2 Tim. 2:13 If we are faithless, He will remain faithful, for He cannot disown Himself. J. good (kind, desiring our welfare); 308 Ps. 118:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. 309 Ps. 145:9 The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made. K. merciful (full of pity); 310 Jer. 3:12 "1 am merciful," declares the Lord. 311 Titus 3:5 He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy. L. gracious (showing undeserved kindness, forgiving); 312 Ex. 34:6-7 The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. M. love. 313 John 3:16 God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. 314 1 John 4:8 God is love. Note: God's attributes tell us what God is. God is each of these, all of these, and more than these attributes. 94. Who is the only true God? The only true God is the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, three distinct persons in one divine being (the Holy Trinity). 95. How are the three divine persons distinguished from each other? The Father has begotten the Son from eternity; the Son is begotten of the Father from eternity; the Holy Spirit from eternity proceeds from the Father and the Son. To the Father especially is ascribed the work of creation; to the Son, the work of redemption; to the Holy Spirit, the work of sanctification. 315 Ps. 2:7 You are My Son; today I have become Your Father. 316 John 15:26 When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, He will testify about Me. 317 Gal. 4:6 Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." The First Article Creation I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. What does this mean? I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still takes care of them. He also gives me clothing and shoes, food and drink, house and home, wife and children, land, animals, and all I have. He richly and daily pro vides me with all that I need to support this body and life. He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil. All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me. For all this it is my duty to thank and praise, serve and obey Him. This is most certainly true. 96. Why is the first person of the Trinity called "the Father"? A. God is the Father of my Lord Jesus Christ and also my Father through faith in Christ. 318 Matt. 3:17 A voice from heaven said, "This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased." 319 John 20:17 I am returning to My Father and your Father, to My God and your God. 320 Gal. 3:26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. B. He is also the Father of all people because He created them. Strictly speaking, there is only one human race, because all human beings are equally the children of Adam and Eve and are equally redeemed by Christ. 321 Mal. 2:10 Have we not a,ll one Father? Did not one God create us? 322 Acts 17:26 From one man He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth. 323 1 Cor. 15:22 As in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. 324 Eph. 3:14-15 For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom His whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. Bible narrative: The prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). God Made Me and All Creatures 97. Why is God, the Father Almighty called "Maker of heaven and earth"? Because in six days He created all things, out of nothing, simply by His word. 325 Gen. 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 326 Ps. 33:6, 9 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, their starry host by the breath of His mouth . . . For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm. 327 Heb. 11:3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. Bible narrative: Creation (Genesis 1-2). 98. What is meant by "heaven and earth"? All things visible and invisible. 328 Col. 1:16 By Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. The Angels 99. Which invisible beings created by God are especially important to us? The angels. Note: Angel means "messenger." God frequently used angels to announce important events in the history of salvation: the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:1-20): the birth of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38; Matt. 1:1821); the resurrection of Jesus (Luke 24:4-7); the ascension and second coming of Jesus (Acts 1:10-11). 100. What else does the Bible tell us about angels? A. They are spirit beings who were created holy. 329 Gen. 1:31 God saw all that He had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning-the sixth day. B. Some angels rebelled against God. They are the devils or demons. 330 2 Peter 2:4 God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment. C. The good angels are many and powerful. They serve God and help us. 331 Dan. 7:10 Thousands upon thousands attended Him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. 332 Luke 2:13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God. 333 Ps. 103:20-21 Praise the Lord, you His angels, you mighty ones who do His bidding, who obey His word. Praise the Lord, all His heavenly hosts, you His servants who do His will. 334 Ps. 91:11-12 He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. 335 Heb. 1:14 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation? Bible narratives: One angel put to death 185,000 of Sennacherib's army (2 Kings 19:35). Elisha and his servant were protected by the heavenly hosts (2 Kings 6:15-17). An angel set Peter free (Acts 12:511). D. The evil angels are also many and powerful. They hate God and seek to destroy everything that is good, especially faith in Christ. 336 Mark 5:9 Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" "My name is Legion," he replied, "for we are many." 337 Eph. 6:12 Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 338 Mark 4:15 Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes along and takes away the word that was sown in them. 339 John 8:44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 340 1 Peter 5:8-9 Be self-controlled and alert Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. Bible narratives: The serpent led Eve into sin (Gen. 3:1-5). Satan sought the destruction of Job (Job 2). The tempter tried to mislead Jesus (Matt. 4:1-11). Humanity 101. Who are human beings? Human beings are the most important visible creatures. God created Adam and Eve in his own image with authoritv over all the earth. 341 Gen. 2:7 The Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. 342 Gen. 1:26-28 God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, in Our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground." So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground.' 343 Mark 10:6 [Jesus saidj "At the beginning of creation God made them male and female."' 102. Why do we say, "God has made me"? God created the first man and woman, and God has created each one of us. 344 Gen. 1:28 God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground." 345 Ps. 139:13 You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. 346 Jer. 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you. 103. How did God first create life? God created all living things, both plant and animal, by His Word alone, from nothing. He created humanity specially, from dust, then gave us His own breath as life. 347 Gen. 2:7 The Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. 348 Ps. 139:14 1 praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 104. What plan does God use for the reproduction of living things? God created living things to reproduce "according to their kinds." Animals, plants, and people can reproduce only living things like themselves. 349 Gen. 1:21 God created the great creatures of the sea and every living and moving thing with which the water teems, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. 350 Gen. 1:24 God said, "Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind." 105. What is the Christian's proper response to theories of evolution regarding the beginning of the world? By faith Christians believe what the Word of God teaches about creation. Evolutionary theories are not scientifically verifiable. 351 Heb. 11:3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. 352 2 Peter 3:5-6 They deliberately forget that long ago by God's word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. 353 1 Tim. 6:20-21 Guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith. 106. What was the image of God? The image of God was this: A. Adam and Eve truly knew God as He wishes to be known and were perfectly happy in Him. 354 Col. 3:10 Put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him (NKJV). B. They were righteous and holy, doing God's will. 355 Eph. 4:24 Put on the new man which was created according to God, in righteousness and true holiness (NKJV). 107. Do people still have the image of God? No, this image was lost when our first parents disobeyed God and fell into sin. Their will and intellect lost the ability to know and please God. In Christians God has begun to rebuild His image, but only in heaven will it be fully restored. 356 Gen. 3:8-10 The man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as He was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, "Where are you?" He answered, "I heard You in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid." 357 Gen. 5:3 Adam had a son in his own likeness, in his own image. 358 1 Cor. 2:14 The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. 359 Ps. 17:15 In righteousness I will see Your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing Your likeness. God Still Takes Care of Me and All Creatures 108. How does the universe still depend on God? God sustains all things by His wisdom and power. 360 Ps. 36:6 0 Lord, You preserve both man and beast. 361 Ps. 147:4 He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name. 362 Heb. 1:3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. 363 Col. 1:17 [Jesus] is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. 109. Why are there evil and suffering in this world? Evil and suffering are in the world because of sin. But in the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has demonstrated His power over sin and death. God in His almighty power and love causes all things to work together for good to those who love Him. 364 Rom. 6:23 The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. 365 Rom. 8:28 We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. 366 Rom. 8:37 In all these things we are more than con querors through Him who loved us. 110. What does God do to take care of me? A. He gives me food and clothing, home and family, work and play, and all that I need from day to day. 367 Ps. 145:15-16 The eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food at the proper time. You open Your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. 368 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. Bible narratives: God took care of Noah and his descendants (Gen. 9:1-3). God took care of Israel in the wilderness (Deut. 8:3-4). God took care of Elijah, the widow, and her son during the famine (1 Kings 17). See Psalms 37 and Quest. 104. B. "He defends me against all danger and guards and protects me from all evil." 369 Gen. 50:20 You intended to harm me, but God in tended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 370 Ps. 31:15 My times are in Your hands. 371 Matt. 10:29-30 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Bible narratives: God directed Lot to flee to the mountains before the destruction of Sodom (Genesis 19). God delivered Israel from slavery and guided and protected them on their way (Ex. 13:14). See also Psalms 37 and 73. 111. Why does God do this for us? "All this He does only out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me." 372 Gen. 32:10 1 am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness You have shown Your servant. 373 Ps. 103:13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. Bible narrative: The centurion of Capernaurn confessed that he did not deserve to have the Lord come under his roof (Luke 7:6-7). 112. What do we owe our heavenly Father for all His goodness? It is our duty to A. "Thank and praise, serve and obey Him"; 374 Ps. 116:12 How can I repay the Lord for all His good ness to me? 375 Ps. 118:1 Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. B. be good stewards of His creation. 376 Gen. 2:15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Note: We are good stewards when we avoid polluting air, land, and water; carefully dispose of waste; use rather than waste natural resources; conserve rather than waste energy; recycle or reuse materials whenever possible; and value and take care of all God's creation. 113. Why do we close the explanation of the First Article with the words, "This is most certainly true"? Everything I confess in this article is plainly taught in God's Word, Holy Scripture. Therefore, I firmly believe it. The Second Article Redemption [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 descended into hell. 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 thence He will come to judge the living and the dead. What does this mean? I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord, who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death, that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity. This is most certainly true. 114. Of whom does this article speak? It speaks about Jesus Christ-His person and His work. 115. Why is He named Jesus? The name Jesus means "the Lord saves." Jesus is His personal name. 377 Matt. 1:21 She will give birth to a son ` and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins. 378 John 4:42 We know that this man really is the Savior of the world. 379 Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. 116. Why is He called Christ? The title Christ (Greek) or Messiah (Hebrew) means "the Anointed." Jesus has been anointed with the Holy Spirit without limit to be our Prophet, Priest, and King. Note: Anointing was the way prophets, priests, and kings were set apart for special work. 380 Ps. 45:7 God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy. 381 John 3:34 The one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. 382 Acts 10:38 God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. Note: The following are other titles for Jesus: Angel of God (Ex. 14:19); Redeemer (Is. 59:20); Immanuel (Matt. 1:23); Son of the living God (Matt. 16:16); Son of Man (Matt. 25:31); the Word (John 1:14); Lord (John 20:28). His names are the Gospel simply stated. 117. What does it mean when you confess, "I believe in Jesus Christ"? It means that I know and trust in Jesus Christ as my only Savior from sin, death, and the devil and believe that He gives me eternal life. 383 John 17:3 This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent. 384 John 3:36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him. 385 2 Tim. 1:12 1 know whom I have believed, and am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him for that day. 386 Rom. 10:10 It is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. 118. Who is Jesus Christ? Jesus Christ is "true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary." 119. How do you know that Jesus Christ is true God? Because the Scriptures clearly call Him God, teaching the following: A. Jesus has divine names. 387 John 20:28 Thomas said to Him, "My Lord and my God!" 388 Rom. 9:5 From them is traced the human ancestry of Christ, who is God over all, forever praised! 389 1 John 5:20 He is the true God and eternal life. Note: These names are not mere honorary titles but tell exactly who Jesus is, and they can be true only of God. B. Jesus possesses divine attributes (qualities or characteristics). He is 1. eternal (without beginning and without end); 390 John 1:1-2. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. 2. unchangeable; 391 Heb. 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and to day and forever. 3. almighty (omnipotent); 392 Matt. 28:18 All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. 4. all-knowing (omniscient); 393 John 21:17 Lord, You know all things. 5. present everywhere (omnipresent). 394 Matt. 28:20 Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Bible narratives: Miraculous catch of fish (Luke 5:4-6; John 21:6). Jesus knows the name and character of Nathanael (John 1:48). Jesus and the woman at Jacob's well (John 4:17-18). Note: See also Matt. 21:1-7; 26:20-25; Luke 18:31-33; 22:8-13. C. Jesus does divine works (which only God can do). 1. He forgives. 395 Matt. 9:6 The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins. 2. He created. 396 John 1:3 Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made. 3. He will judge. 397 John 5:27 [The Father] has given Him authority to judge. 4. He preserves. 398 Heb. 1:3 [He sustains] all things by His powerful word. Bible narratives: At the wedding feast in Cana, Jesus revealed His glory by turning water into wine (John 2:1-11). He rebuked the storm (Luke 8:22-25). He healed the paralytic (Matt. 9:1-8). He called Lazarus back to life (John 11:38-44). He rose from the dead (Matt. 28:6-7). D. Jesus receives divine honor and glory. 399 John 5:22-23 The Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent Him. 400 Heb. 1:6 Let all God's angels worship Him. Note: See Phil. 2:10; Rev. 5:12-13. 120. How do you know that Jesus Christ is also true man? Because the Scriptures A. clearly call Him man; 401 1 Tim. 2:5 There is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. B. say that He has a human body and soul; 402 Luke 24:39 Look at My hands and My feet. It is I Myself. Touch Me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have. 403 Matt. 26:38 My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. C. speak of His human, but sinless, feelings and actions. 404 Matt. 4:2 He was hungry. 405 John 11:35 Jesus wept. 406 John 19:28 Jesus said, "I am thirsty." 407 Heb. 4:14-16 Since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are-yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Bible narratives: Jesus suffered and died (Matthew 26-27). Jesus slept (Mark 4:38). Jesus was born (Luke 2). 121. What two natures, therefore, are united in the one person of Jesus Christ? The divine and the human natures are united in Jesus Christ. This personal union began when He became man (incarnation) and continues forever. 408 John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 409 1 Tim. 3:16 Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in a body. 410 Col. 2:9 In Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form. 411 Is. 9:6 To us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 412 Matt. 28:18 All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. 413 Matt. 28:20 Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. 414 Acts 3:15 You killed the author of life. 415 1 John 1:7 The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, purifies us from every sin. 416 Acts 20:28 Be shepherds of the church of God, which He bought with His own blood. 255 Why was it necessary for our Savior to be true man? Christ had to be true man in order to A. act in our place under the Law and fulfill it for us (active obedience); 417 Gal. 4:4-5 When the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. 418 Rom. 5:19 Just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. B. be able to suffer and die for our guilt because we failed to keep the Law (passive obedience). 419 Col. 1:22 He has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to present you holy in His sight, without blemish and free from accusation. 420 Heb. 2:14 Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might destroy him who holds the power of death-that is, the devil. 123. Why was it necessary for our Savior to be true God? Christ had to be true God in order that A. His fulfilling of the Law, His life, suffering, and death might be a sufficient ransom for all people; 421 Ps. 49:7 No man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for him. 422 Mark 10:45 The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. 423 Rom. 3:22-24 There is no difference, for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 424 Gal. 3:13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. 425 Gal. 4:4-5 When the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. 426 1 Peter 1:18-19 You know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. A. He might be able to overcome death and the devil for us. 427 1 Cor. 15:57-29 Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 428 2 Tim. 1:10 Our Savior, Christ Jesus ... has destroyed death. 429 Heb. 2:14 Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might destroy him who holds the power of death-that is, the devil. 124. What do you therefore confess about Jesus Christ, the God-man? I believe that Jesus Christ is my Lord and my Redeemer, whom I love and serve with my whole life. 430 1 Cor. 6:20 You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. Bible narrative: Thomas' confession (John 20:24). 125. For what threefold office was Christ anointed? Christ was anointed to be our Prophet, Priest, and King. A. As Prophet, Christ 1. preached personally during His life on earth, validating His word with miracles, especially His own resurrection; 431 Deut. 18:15 The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to Him. 432 Matt. 17:5 "This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" 433 Mark 1:38 Let us go somewhere else-to the nearby villages-so I can preach there also. That is why I have come. 434 John 1:17-18 The law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made Him known. 435 John 6:68 Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life." 2. through the preached Gospel today still proclaims Himself to be the Son of God and Redeemer of the world. 180 Mark 16:15 He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation." 437 Luke 10:16 He who listens to you listens to Me; he who rejects you rejects Me; but he who rejects Me rejects Him who sent Me. 438 2 Cor. 5:20 We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf. Be reconciled to God. 2. through the preached Gospel today still proclaims Himself to be the Son of God and Redeemer of the world. B. As Priest, Christ 1. fulfilled the Law perfectly in our stead (active obedience); 439 Gal. 4:4-5 When the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. 2. sacrificed Himself for our sins (passive obedience); 440 1 Cor. 15:3 Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures. 441 Heb. 7:26-27 Such a high priest meets our need-one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. Unlike the other high priests, He does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for His own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when He offered Himself. 442 1 John 2:2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. 3. still pleads for us with His heavenly Father (intercession). 443 1 John 2:1 We have one who speaks to the Father in our defense-Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. C. As King, Christ 1. rules with His almighty power over all creation (the kingdom of power-all creatures); 444 Matt. 28:18 All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. 2. governs and protects especially His church (the kingdom of grace-the church on earth); 445 John 18:36-37 Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, My servants would fight to prevent My arrest by the Jews. But now My kingdom is from another place." "You are a king, then!" said Pilate - Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to Me." 3. finally leads His church to kingdom of glory-the church in heaven). 446 2 Tim. 4:18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 126. What two states do the Scriptures distinguish in Christ's work of salvation? A. The state of humiliation B. The state of exaltation 127. What was Christ's humiliation? Christ's humiliation was that as man He did not always or fully use His divine powers. 447 Phil. 2:5-8 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross (NKJV). Bible narratives: Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11). Raising of Lazarus (John 11:38-44). Rays of hidden glory (John 18:1-6). 128. Which words of the Apostles' Creed describe the stages of Christ's humiliation? "Conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried." 129. What do the Scriptures teach about Christ's conception? They teach that Christ, the Son of God, received a true human body and soul in the Virgin Mary through the miraculous power of the Holy Spirit, not through a human father. 448 Luke 1:35 The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. 449 Matt. 1:20 Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 130. What do the Scriptures teach of the birth of Christ? They teach that Jesus Christ, the God-man, was born of the Virgin Mary. 450 Is. 7:14 The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel. (See also Matt. 1:23.) 451 Luke 2:7 She gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Bible narrative: The virgin birth (Matt. 1:18-25). 131. What do the Scriptures teach about Christ's life, suffering, and death? They teach that Christ A. endured poverty, contempt, and persecution in His earthly life; 452 2 Cor. 8:9 Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich. 453 Matt. 8:20 Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head. 454 Is. 53:3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces He was despised, and we esteemed Him not. 455 John 8:40 You are determined to kill Me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Bible narratives: At His birth Jesus had only strips of cloth and a manger (Luke 2:7). Herod tried to murder Him, but He escaped to Egypt (Matt. 2:13). In Nazareth the people tried to throw Him down from the brow of the hill (Luke 4:29). In the temple they picked up stones to stone Him (John 8:59). B. suffered great agony of body and soul under Pontius Pilate; 456 John 19:1-3 Pilate took Jesus and had Him flogged. The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on His head. They clothed Him in a purple robe and went up to Him again and again, saying, "Hail, king of the Jews!" And they struck Him in the face. Bible narrative: The suffering of Christ (Mark 15:1-20). C. died in excruciating agony on the cross. 457 John 19:16-18 Finally Pilate handed Him over to them to be crucified. So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. Carrying His own cross, He went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). Here they crucified Him. 458 Matt. 27:46 About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice . . . "My God, My God, why have You for saken Me?" (He suffered the tortures of the damned in hell.) 459 John 19:30 He bowed His head and gave up His spirit. Bible narrative: The death of Christ (Mark 15:42-47). 132. What do the Scriptures teach about Christ's burial? They teach that Christ's body was buried in the tomb and remained there until the third day, without decaying in any way. 460 Acts 13:37 The one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay. Bible narrative: The burial of Christ (Mark 15:42). Christ's Work of Redemption, or Atonement 133. Why did Christ humble Himself Christ voluntarily humbled Himself in order to "redeem me, a lost and condemned person." 461 Is. 53:4-5 Surely He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered Him stricken by God, smitten by Him, and afflicted. But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed. 462 John 10:17-18 1 lay down My life-only to take it up again. No one takes it fi-om Me, but I lay it down of My own accord. 134. From what has Christ redeemed you? He has redeemed me "from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil." 463 John 1:29 Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 464 Heb. 2:14-15, 17 Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might destroy him who holds the power of death-that is, the devil-and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.... For this reason He had to be made like His brothers in every way, in order that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of the people. 135. How has Christ redeemed you from all sins? A. He took my guilt and punishment upon Himself 465 Rom. 5:19 Through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. 466 2 Cor. 5:21 God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 467 Gal. 3:13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." B. He freed me from the slavery of sin. 468 John 8:34, 36 1 tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.... So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. 469 1 Peter 2:24 He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds you have been healed. 136. How has Christ rescued you from death? Through His suffering, death, and resurrection, Christ has triumphed over death. Since He now gives me eternal life I need not fear death. 470 1 Cor. 15:55-57 "Where, 0 death, is your victory? Where, 0 death, is your sting?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 471 2 Tim. 1:10 Our Savior, Christ Jesus has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 472 1 Peter 1:3 In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 137. How has Christ rescued you from the power of the devil? Christ has completely conquered the devil. Therefore the devil can no longer accuse me of my sins, and I can resist his temptations. 473 Gen. 3:15 1 will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; He will crush your head, and you will strike His heel. 474 1 John 3:8 The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. 475 James 4:7 Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Note: See also Rom. 8:31-34; Col. 2:15; Heb. 2:14-15; 1 Peter 5:8-9; Rev. 12:10. 138. With what has Christ redeemed you? Christ has redeemed me, "not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death." 476 Is. 53:5 By His wounds we are healed. 477 1 Peter 1:18-19 You know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 478 1 John 1:7 The blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin. 139. How does this work of redemption benefit you? Christ was my substitute. He took my place under God's judgment against sin. By paying the penalty of my guilt, Christ atoned, or made satisfaction, for my sins (vicarious atonement). 479 Is. 53:4-5 Surely He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered Him stricken by God, smitten by Him, and afflicted. But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed. 480 2 Cor. 5:21 God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteous ness of God. 481 Heb. 2:17 For this reason He had to be made like His brothers in every way, in order that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of the people. 140. Has Christ redeemed only you? No, Christ has redeemed me and all people (universal atonement). 482 2 Cor. 5:15 He died for all. 483 2 Cor. 5:19 God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. 484 1 Tim. 1:15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of whom I am the worst. 485 1 John 2:2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. 486 2 Peter 2:1 [They deny the] Lord who bought them bringing swift destruction on themselves. 141. What is Christ's exaltation? Christ's exaltation is that as man He now fully and always uses His divine powers. 487 Phil. 2:9-11 God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 142. Which words of the Apostles' Creed describe the stages of Christ's exaltation? "He descended into hell. 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 thence He will come to judge the living and the dead." 143. Why is Christ's descent into hell part of His exaltation? The Scriptures teach that Christ, after He was made alive in His grave, descended into hell, not to suffer punishment, but to proclaim His victory over His enemies in hell. 488 1 Peter 3:18-19 [Christ] was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison. 489 Col. 2:15 Having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. 144. What do the Scriptures teach about Christ's resurrection? They teach that on the third day Christ victoriously rose from the grave and showed Himself alive to His disciples. 490 Acts 10:40-41 God raised Him from the dead on the third day and caused Him to be seen. He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen-by us who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead. 491 1 Cor. 15:4-8 He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and ... He appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve. After that, He appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all He appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. 492 Acts 1:3 After His suffering, He showed Himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. Bible narrative: Christ's resurrection (Matt. 27:62-28:20; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20-21). 145. Why is Christ's resurrection so important and comforting? Christ's resurrection proves that A. Christ is the Son of God; 493 Rom. 1:4 [He was] declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead. B. His doctrine is the truth; 494 John 2:19 Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days. 495 John 8:28 When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am the one I claim to be and that I do nothing on My own but speak just what the Father has taught Me. C. God the Father accepted Christ's sacrifice for the reconciliation of the world; 496 Rom. 4:25 [Christ] was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. 497 Rom. 5:10 If, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life! 498 1 Cor. 15:17 If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. A. all believers in Christ will rise to eternal life 499 John 11:25-26 I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in Me will never die. rc John 14:19 Because I live, you also will live. rc 1 Cor. 15:20 Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. 146. What do the Scriptures teach about Christ's ascension? They teach that 40 days after His resurrection, Christ, in the presence of His disciples, ascended bodily into the glory of His Father, to prepare a place for us in heaven. 502 Luke 24:51 While He was blessing them, He left them and was taken up into heaven. 503 Eph. 4:10 He who descended is the very one who as cended higher than all the heavens. 504 John 14:2-3 In My Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am. 505 John 17:24 Father, I want those You have given Me to be with Me where I am, and to see My glory. Bible narrative: Christ's ascension (Acts 1:9-11). 147. What does it mean that Christ sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty? With this expression Scripture teaches that Christ, as true man, is not only present everywhere, but also now fully exercises His divine power over the whole universe. 506 Eph. 1:20-23 [God] seated Him [Christ] at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under His feet and appointed Him to be head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way. 148. What comfort do we get from Christ's ascension to the right hand of God? We know that the exalted God-man, Christ A. as our Prophet sends people to proclaim the saving Gospel by the power of the Holy Spirit; 507 Eph. 4:10-12 [He] ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe. It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. 508 Luke 10:16 He who listens to you listens to Me. 509 John 16:7 It is for your good that I [Jesus] am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. B. as our Priest pleads and prays for us before the Father; 510 Rom. 8:34 [Christ] is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 511 1 John 2:1 If anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense-Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. C. as our King rules and protects His church and governs over all the world especially for the benefit of His church. 512 Ps. 110:1 The Lord says to my Lord: "Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet. " Note: See Eph. 1:20-23. 149. What do the Scriptures teach about Christ's second coming? A. Christ will return visibly and with great glory on the Last Day. 513 Matt. 24:27 As lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 514 Luke 21:27 At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 515 Acts 1:11 "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven." 516 2 Peter 3:10 The dayof the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. 517 Rev. 1:7 Look, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the peoples of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen. B. Christ will return to judge the world, not to set up an earthly government. 518 Matt. 25:31-32 When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 519 John 12:48 There is a judge for the one who rejects Me and does not accept My words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day. 520 John 18:36 Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world." 521 2 Cor. 5:10 We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. Bible narrative: The final judgment (Matt. 25:31 Note: Millennialists teach the unscriptural doctrinethat either before or after the return of Christ the church will experience a literal period of 1,000 years (a millennium) of peace and prosperity. Revelation 20 speaks in picture language of Christ's spiritual rule on the earth through the Gospel and does not refer to earthly government. C. Christ will return on a specific day known by God alone. 522 Matt. 24:44 You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him. 523 Mark 13:32 No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 524 Acts 17:31 He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice by the man He has appointed. Bible narrative: The parable of the 10 virgins (Matt. 25:1-13). D. Before Christ returns, there will be increasing turmoil and distress for the church and the world. 525 Matt. 24:7 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 526 Matt. 24:22 If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. 527 1 Tim. 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Bible narrative: Signs preceding Christ's coming (Matthew 24). E. The return of Christ is a source of hope and joy for the Christian. 528 Luke 21:28 When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. 529 Heb. 9:28 Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him. 530 Titus 2:13 We wait for the blessed hope-the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. 531 Rev. 22:20 He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. Bible narrative: Encouraging words (1 Thess. 4:13-18). 150. In conclusion, then, why has Christ redeemed you? The Scriptures teach that Christ's purpose was A. "that I may be