What is the Westminster Shorter Catechism?
The catechism was intended to be a summary of the main teachings of the Bible and a tool for teaching Christian doctrine to both children and adults.
The Westminster Assembly of Divines was a council of theologians (or “divines”) appointed by the English Parliament to restructure the Church of England which met from 1643 to 1653. Several Scots also attended, and the Assembly’s work was adopted by the Church of Scotland. As many as 121 ministers were called to the Assembly, with nineteen others added later to replace those who did not attend or could no longer attend. Throughout this time they worked hard to notice the errors found in the church at the time, such as the lack of Biblical training for Ministers and even the lay people (including Children).
Documents written by the Westminster Assembly.
The Westminster Confession of Faith
A theological document of 33 chapters outlining the Christian faith.
The Westminster Larger Catechism
A detailed catechism with 196 questions and answers for teaching Christian doctrine.
The Westminster Shorter Catechism
A concise catechism with 107 questions and answers for foundational instruction.
The Directory of Public Worship
A guide to ensure uniformity and Biblical fidelity in worship practices.
The Form of Church Government
A document outlining the Presbyterian system of governance based on Scripture.
The Directory for Family Worship
A guide encouraging worship within households, focusing on family prayer and Scripture reading.
Westminster Annotations and Commentary on the Bible
A detailed commentary providing explanations and notes on Scripture for ministers and laypeople.
The Shorter Catechism
The catechism was intended to be a summary of the main teachings of the Bible and a tool for teaching Christian doctrine to both children and adults. It is composed of 107 questions and answers, which cover topics such as the nature of God, the purpose of man, the nature of sin, and the way of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The first 12 questions concern God as Creator. Questions 13-20 deal with original sin and the fallen state of man’s nature. Questions 21-38 concern Christ the Redeemer and the benefits that flow from redemption. The next set of questions, 39-84, discuss the Ten Commandments. Questions 85-97 teach about the Sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. The final set of questions, 98-107, teach and explain the Lord’s prayer.
These questions help teach us about God and ourselves. Moving us to worship him and see our only hope found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
