As we looked toward a new year I wanted to go through a catechism with my family. I reviewed several of the popular ones and was greatly encouraged with each. However, one in particular drew me in. I knew it was the one that I wanted to use. That catechism was the famed Heidelberg Catechism.
I was struck by the rich emphasis upon joy that comes from the grace of the gospel. It seemed like the best fit for our family.
As I read through it I realized that I would need a helper. I was looking for a guide who was familiar with the terrain and could help me to make digestable points for my family. Out of everyone I found, Kevin DeYoung was the most helpful.
In his book The Truth We Almost Forgot: Rediscovering the Gospel in a 16th Century Catechism DeYoung is to the point, applicational, and clear. What’s more, he is bent on emphasizing the gospel. He beats that drum over and over again. I am thankful.
The book is divided up like the catechism, by Lord’s Day. There are a series of questions and answers that correspond with every Lord’s Day (Sunday). DeYoung writes a few pages for each week. He is very helpful here.
The catechism is helping me as well as our family. The questions and answers are so rich and relevant to our hearts. And Kevin DeYoung is serving as the faithful friend and guide along the way for me.
Awhile back I wrote something that said we were going through the Hiedelberg as a family. Since then I received several questions about resources. This is the one I keep recommending. It’s affordable and understandable.
Discounted copies are available at Westminster Books or Amazon.com. I read this one on my Kindle, so I can speak to its availability and usefulness.
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