SMALL CATECHISM; EXPLAINED IN QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS. I OB TBS DBS OF THE CHURCH, SCHOOL, AND FAMILY. PREPARED AND PUBLISHED IN THE NAME OF THE EVANGELICAL HJTHi^IUN SYNOD OF PENNSYL- VANIA AND THJO ADJACENT STATES. j PHILADELPHIA: G. W. FREDERICK. OF THE U N I VER.S ITY Of ILLINOIS 238.41 L97cEs 1863 The person charging this material is re- sponsible for its return to the library from which it was withdrawn on or before the Latest Date stamped below. Theft, mutilation, and underlining of books are reasons for disciplinary action and may result in dismissal from the University. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS LIBRARY AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN Ms o4 m L161 — O-1096 s PREFACE By direction of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Pennsylvania, the following Explanation of Luther' % Small Catechism is herewith submitted to the minis- tew, teachers, and congregations of our Church, for fcWr friendly examination and use. It was deemed . Lest to postpone the publication of a stereotype edition, anti to send forth this little volume in irs present pri visional form, in order to afford an opportunity for tn* " discovery of any imperfections, which may be panted out by an actual use and trial of the book ; to elicit the expression of wishes in regard to any changes that may be desired , to reach a definite conclusion in refer- ence to its adaptation to the want it was intended to meet; and to render possible the introduction of such changes as may appear necessary. The object, steadily kept in view in its preparation, is sufficiently indicated by the title. It is the aim of t ; s Explanation to render Luther's Small Catechism, peculiar and remarkable for its wealth of matter and condensed form, still more profitable for practical use. It was our constant endeavor not to lead the mind ^ay from Luther's master-piece, but into a better (iii) i Qooo3 S iv PREFACE. comprehension and appreciation of it. But to erne 1 more deeply into Luther's Catechism is, at the sarn<* time, to enter more deeply into the Holy Scriptures — the Word of God, the rock from which the stones, with which Luther built, were hewn. The careful selection of proof-texts, which are here presented as the Bible's testimony to our confession of faith, and which, to- gether with the text of Luther's Catechism, should, a? far as possible, be impressed upon the memory of the young during their school-years, and before they be- come members of the Catechetical Class, cannot fail to enhance the value of our little book. Those who, as teachers in our Church, have gained some experience in Catechetical instruction, will not fail to observe that the various wants of our Church, and the differences of age, knowledge, and capacity have not been lost sight of in the preparation of this hand-book, so that it may be used profitably by every conscientious minis- ter, teacher, and head of a family, in the religious in- struction of younger and older, more or less advanced pupils, both prior to and during the Catechetical in- struction preparatory to Confirmation. It was not, however, our intention to relieve the teacher from that necessary preparation which he should sAwnjn make before meeting his pupils. This is the proper place to make mention of the helps, which have been used by us with a grateful recogniti u of their merits, but also with a constant regard to their deficiencies and our own peculiar wants. In addition to a number of earlier and later labors of thii tind, we would specially mention Caspan's admirable PREFACE. Explanation of the Catechism, which imorporares the best results of earlier labors in this department. Its vigorous, popular style, and original, independent treatment of the subject are inimitable, and its fulness of thought is in the highest degree instructive and sug- gestive. We have made a grateful use of it, at times even word for word, without, however, surrendering our independence, or forgetting our duty. And so may this little volume go forth into the world, rinding many faithful readers and students, and charitable judges, and accomplish much good, through the blessing of God, and to his glory ! In the name of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Pennsylvania and adjacent States. W. J. MANN. G. F. KROTEL. Philadelphia, Jicne 25, 1863. Note. — The translation of Luther's Small Catechism, .strictly adhered to in this volume, is taken from the edition putlished by the Synod of Pennsylvania (by Lindsay & Blakiston, 1855), and is the work of Rev Prof. C. F. Schaeffer, D. D. 1* ; u (i I .1 LUTHER'S SMALL CATECHISM. PART I. THE TEN COMMAKDMENTS. The First Commandment. I am the Lord thy God. Thou shall have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth be- neath, or that is in the water under the earth : thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them : for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me ; and showing mercy unto thou- sands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. What is meant by this Commandment? We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things. The Second Commandment. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain : for the Lord will not hold him ofu'ltless th&t taketh his name in vain. (7) 8 THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. What is meant by this Commandment? We should so fear and love God as not to curse, swear, conjure, lie, or deceive, by his name, but call upon him in every time of need, and worship him with prayer praise, and thanksgiving. The Third Commandment. Remember the Sabbath-day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work : but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God : in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid- servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates : for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath- day, and hallowed it. What is meant by this Commandment? "We should so fear and love God as not to despise his word and the preaching of the gospel, but deem it holy, and willingly hear and learn it. The Fourth Commandment. Honor thy father and thy mother, thai thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. What is meant by this Commandment? We should so fear and love God as not THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. 9 to despise nor displease our paients and superiors, but honor, serve, obey, love, and esteem them. The Fifth Commandment. Thou shalt not kill. What is meant by this Commandment? We should so fear and love God as not to do our neighbor any bodily harm or in- jury, but rather assist and comfort him in danger and want. The Sixth Commandment. Thou shalt not commit adultery. What is meant by this Commandment? We should so fear and love God as to be chaste and pure in our words and deeds, each one also loving and honoring his wife or her husband. The Seventh Commandment. Thou shalt not steal. What is meant by this Commandment? "W'c should so fear and love God as not to rob our neighbor of his money or pro- perty, nor bring it into our possession by unfair dealing or fraudulent means, but rather assist him to improve and protect it The Eighth Commandment. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor. LO THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. What is meant by this Commandment? We should so fear and love God as not deceitfully to belie, betray, slander, noi raise injurious reports against our neighbor, but apologize for him, speak well of him, and put the most charitable construction on all his actions. The Ninth Commandment. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house. What is meant by this Commandment? We should so fear and love God as not to desire by craftiness to gain possession of our neighbor's inheritance or home, or to obtain it under the pretext of a legal right ; but be ready to assist and serve him in the preservation of his own. The Tenth Commandment. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that ia thy neighbor's. What is meant by this Commandment? We should so fear and love God as not to alienate our neighbor's wife from him, entice away his servants, nor let loose his cattle, but use our endeavors that they may remain and discharge their duty to him. What does God declare concerning all these Com- mandments ? He says : " I the Lcrd thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the chil* THE CREED. 11 dren unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me : and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments/ Exod. 20 : 5, 6. What is meant by this Declaration? God threatens to punish all those who transgress Jiese commandments; we should, therefore, dread his displeasure, and not act contrarily to these com- mandments. But he promises grace and every bless- ing to all who keep them ; we should, therefore, love and trust in him, and cheerfully do what he has commanded us. PART II. THE CREED. THE FIRST ARTICLE. Of Creation. I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. What is meant by this Article? I believe that God hath created me and all that exists ; that he hath given and still preserves to me my body and soul with all my limbs and senses, my reason and all the faculties of my mind, together with my raiment, food, home and family, and all my property ; that he daily provides me abundantly with all the necessaries of life, protects me from all danger, and preserves me and guards me against all evil ; all which he does out of pure, paternal, and divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or 12 THE CREED. worthiness in me, for all which I am in duty bound fco thank, praise, serve, and obey him This is most certainly true. THE SECOND ARTICLE. Of Redemption. And in Jesus Christ his only Sou, oM Lord : who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried: he descended into hell: the third day he rose again from the dead : he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty : from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. What is meant by this Article? 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 hath redeemed me, a lost and condemned creature, secured and delivered me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil, not with silver and gold, but with his holy and precious blood, and with his innocent sufferings and death, in order that I might be his, live under him in his kingdom, and serve him in everlasting righteousness, innocence t and blessedness, even as he is risen from the dead and lives and reigns to all eternity. This is most certainly true. THE THIRD ARTICLE. Of Sanctification. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the hoJj Christian Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resur- THE LORD'S PRAYLR. reetion of the body; and the life eveilast .ng. Amen. What is meant by this Article? I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ my Lord, or come to him ; but the Holy Spirit hath called me through - the gospel, enlightened me by his gifts, and sancti- fied and preserved me in the true faith; in like manner as he calls, gathers, enlightens, and sancti- fies the whole Christian church on earth, and pre- serves it in union with Jesus Christ in the true faith ; in which Christian church he daily forgives abundantly all my sins, and the sins of all believers, and will raise up me and all the dead at the last day, and will grant everlasting life to me and to all who believe in Christ. This is most certainly true. Our Father who art in heaven. What is meant by this Introduction? God would thereby affectionately encourage ~ia i, believe that he is truly our Father, and that we aie his children indeed, so that we may call upon him with all cheerfulness and confidence, even as be- loved children entreat their affectionate parent. THE LORD'S PRAYER. The Introduction. PART III. The first Petition. Hallowed be thy name. 2 14 THE LORD'S PRAYER What is meant by this Petition? The name of God is indeed holy in itself ; bu* we pray in this petition that it may be hallowed also by us. How is this effected? When the word of God is taught in its truth and purity, and we, as the children of God, lead holy lives, in accordance with it; to this may our blessed Father in heaven help us. But whoever teaches and lives otherwise than as God's word prescribes, profanes the name of God among us ; from this pre- serve us, Heavenly Father. The Second Petition. Thy kingdom come. What is meant by this Petition? The kingdom of God comes indeed of itself, with- out our prayer ; but we pray in this petition that it may come unto us also. When is this effected? When our heavenly Father gives us his Holy Spirit, so that by his grace we believe his holy word, and live a godly life here on earth, and in heaven forever. The third Petition. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in iieaven. What is meant by this Petition? The good and gracious will of God is done indeed without our prayer ; but we pray in this petition that it may be done by us also. When is this effected? When God frustrates and brings to nought every evil counsel and purpose, which would hindei us THE LCRD S PRAYER If from hallowing the name of God, and prevent hi? kingdom from coming to us, such as the will of the devil, of the world, and of our own flesh ; and when he strengthens us, and keeps us steadfast in his word and in the faith, even unto our end. This ig Lis gracious and good will. # The fourth Petition. Give us this day our daily bread. What is meant by this Petition ? God gives indeed without our prayer even to the wicked also their daily bread ; but we pray in this petition that he would make us sensible of his benefits, and enable us to receive our daily bread with thanksgiving. What is implied in the words: " our daily bread?" All things that pertain to the wants and the sup- port of this present life; such as food, raiment, money, goods, house and land, and other property ; a believing spouse and good children ; trustworthy servants and faithful magistrates ; favorable seasons, peace and health ; education and honor ; true friends, good neighbors, and the like. The fifth Petition. And forgive us our trespasses, as we foj> e*ive those who trespass against us. What is meant by this Petition ? We pray in this petition, that our heavenly Father would not regard our sins, nor deny us our requests on account of them ; for we are not worthy of any- thing for which we pray, and we have not merited it; but that he would grant us all things through grace, although daily commit much sin, and 16 THE LORD S PRAYER. de&erve chastisement alone. We will therefore, on our part, both heartily forgive, and also readily do good to those who may injure or offend us. The Sixth Petition. And leacl us not into temptation. What is meant by this Petition? God indeed tempts no one to sin ; but we pray in this petition that God would so guard and preserve us, that the devil, the world, and our own flesh, may not deceive us, nor lead us into error and un- belief, despair, and other great and shameful sins ) and that, though we may be thus tempted, we may nevertheless finally prevail and gain the victory. The Seventh Petition. But deliver us from evil. What is meant by this Petition ? We pray in this petition, as in a summary, that our heavenly Father would deliver us from all manner of evil, whether it affect the body or soul, property or character, and, at last, when the hour of death shall arrive, grant us a happy end, and graciously take us from this world of sorrow to him- self in heaven. The Conclusion. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory for ever and ever. Amen. What is meant by the word "Amen?" That I should be assured that such petitions aie acceptable to our heavenly Father, and are heard of him ; for he himself has commanded us to pray in this manner, and has promised that he will hear us. Amen, amen ; that is, Yea, }ea, it shall be so THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM 17 PART IV. THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM. I. What is Baptism? Baptism is not simply water, but it is the watei comprehended in God's command, and 2onnected with God's word. What is that word of God? It is that which our Lord Jesus Christ spake, as it is recorded in the last chapter of Matthew, verse 19 : " Go ye and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." II. What gifts or benefits does Baptism convey ? It worketh forgiveness of sins, delivers from death and the devil, and confers everlasting salvation on all who believe as the word and promise of God declare What are these words and promises of God? Those which our Lord Jesus Christ spake, as tlwy are recorded in the last chapter of Mark, verse 16: " He that believeth and .is baptized, shall be saved ) but he that believeth not, shall be damned." III. How can water produce such great effects ? It is not the water, indeed, that produces these effects, but the word of God which accompanies and is connected with the water, and our faith which relies on the word of God connected with the water For the water, without the word of God, is simply Water and no baptism. But when connected with the word of God, it is a baptism, that is, a gracious water of life and a "washing of regeneration" in the Holy Ghost ; as St Paul says to Titus, in the 2* 18 THE LORD'S SUPPER. third chapter, verse 5-8 : "According to his 1 srcj he saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost ; which he shed « j us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; that being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life ; this is a faithful saying." IV. What does such baptizing with water signify? It signifies that the old Adam in us is to be drowned and destroyed by daily sorrow and repent- ance, together with all sins and evil lusts ; and that again the new man should daily come forth and rise, that shall live in the presence of God in righteous- ness and purity forever. Where is it so written? St. Paul, in the epistle to the Romans, chap. 6, verse 4, says : " We are buried with Christ by bap- tism into death ; that like as he was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." PART V. THE SACRAMENT OF THE ALTAR; (or, the lord's supper.) What is the Sacrament of the Altar? It is the true body and blood of our Lord J esus Christ, under the bread and wine, given unto us Christians to eat and to drink, as it was instituted by Christ himself. Wheie is it so written? The holy evangelists, Matthew, Mark, and Luke ; together with St. Paul, write thus : ( ' Our Lord THE LORD'S SUPPER. 19 Jesus Christ, the same night in which he was be- trayed, took bread : and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body, which is given for you: this do, in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it : this cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you, for the remission of sins : this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me." What benefits are derived from such eating and drinking? They are pointed out in those words of the in- stitution, " given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins/' namely, through these words, the remission of sins, life and salvation are granted unto us in the Sacrament. For where there is remission of sins, there life and salvation are also. How can the bodily eating and drinking produce such great effects? The eating and the drinking, indeed, do not pro- duce them; but the words which stand here, namely • " given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins ; " which words, besides the bodily eating and drinking, are the chief things in the Sacrament : and he who believes these words, has that which they declare, namely, the remission of sins. Who is it then that receives this Sacrament worthily ? Fasting and bodily preparation are indeed a good external discipline; but he is truly worthy and well- prepared, who believes these words : " given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins." But he who does not believe these words, or who doubts is unworthy and unfit, because the words " for you ' require truly believing hearts. EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. INTRODUCTION. Question 1. What should be every one's chief con- cern in this life ? Answer. To seek the kingdom of God, and his righteousness. (Matt. 6 : 33.) 2. Where do you learn this? In the Bible, which contains everything that I must know in order to be saved. John 5 : 39. Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. 3. What is the Bible? The word of God, recorded in the Old and New Testament, in the Law and in the Gospel, in histo- ries, doctrines, and prophecies. Heb. 1 : 1, 2. God, who at sundry times and in divers man- ners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath if pointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds. 4. Why do you call the Bible the word of Godf Because (a), The Bible calls itself so. 1 Thess. 2 : 13. For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it ia in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in yo\i that believe. (20) INTRODUCTION. 21 2 Pet. 1 : 21. For the prophecy came not in old time by th6 irj'U of man : but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. 2 Tim. 3 : 16, 17. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (&). Because the Bible wonderfully foretells that which is fulfilled, and what no man could have foreseen. (c) . Because the glorious teachings of the Bible never could have originated in the depraved heart of man. (d) . Because the Bible contains a divine power, which all readers or hearers are made to feel, in different ways. Heb. 4 : 12. For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the divid- ing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Rom. 1 : 16. For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth. 5. What, therefore, is justly demanded of us? That we should diligently read and hear this word of God, earnestly take it to heart, and regu- late our whole life by it. Ps. 119 : 105. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. 2 Tim. 3 : 15. And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salva- tion through faith which is in Christ Jesus. G. But what then is the object of our Catechism f It briefly and simply sets forth and explains the principal doctrines of the word of God. 7. Who was the author of our Catechism ? Martin Luther, God's chosen vessel in effect- ing the work of the Reformation. 22 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. 8. What further particulars concerning him caii you mention ? Martin Luther was born on the 10th of Novem- ber, 1483. at Eisleben, in Saxony ; entered the order of Augustinian monks ; became professor and preacher at Wittenberg; began the work of the Reformation in 1517 ; translated the Bible into German; arranged and introduced an evangelical form of worship ; composed spiritual hymns ; wrote this Catechism, and many other books for the peo- ple and the learned ; and contended against false teachers until his happy departure from this world, February 18, 1546. 9. What was the Reformation? That great work by which our fathers, under God, restored to the Christian Church, which had for ages been deceived and disfigured by Romish errors and abuses, — the pure doctrine of the word of God, and the proper use of the holy Sacraments. (The Festival of the Reformation, October 31.) 10. What does the Catechism present to us, as the principal doctrines of the word of God ? It sets forth the following five principal parts : the Law, or the Ten Commandments; the Creed; Prayer ; Baptism; and the Lord's Supper. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. 23 PART I. THE TEN COMMAm>MENT8. ? 1. To whom did God give the ten commandments! To the people of Israel, by the hand of Moses. Exod., Chapters 19 and 20. 12. Did God give them any other commandments? Yes, many others, for the regulation of public worship and civil life. 13. Why then does the Catechism speak only of ten commandments ? Because our Lord Jesus Christ expressly con- firmed these ten commandments, as the moral law which is binding upon all men. (Matt. 22 : 37-40.) 14. Does man need a revealed law in addition to his conscience f Most assuredly, because conscience, although it has not been destroyed, has nevertheless lost its clearness and power, through sin. 15. But why do the commandments occupy thejirst place in our Catechism? Because they reveal to us the holy will of God, our own sinfulness, and the needfulness of salvation Rom. 7:12. Wherefore the law is holy, and the coniman i merit holy, and just, and good. Rom. 3 : 20. For by the law is the knowledge of sin. Gal. 3 : 24. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 16. How are the ten commandments divided ? Into the commandments of the firU table, which teach in our duty to God; and into the command- 24 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. ments of the second table, which teach us our dut} to our neighbor. 17. What must he borne in mind in regard to each one of these commandments ? That in Cach one of them something evil is fct> hidden, and something good is commanded. THE FIRST TABLE. The First Commandment. I am the Lord thy God. Thou shalt have do other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth : thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them : for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth genera- tion of them that hate me ; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. What is meant by this commandment? We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things. 18. Of what does God remind you by the intrnluc ti m prefixed to this and to all the commandments ? That He, who gives me these commandments, is the Lord, and my God, and that I should serve and hve him. 19. What is forbidden by the first commandment? A.11 idolatry. THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. 25 20. When is idolatry committed ? (a) . When man, in gross ignorance and spiritual blindness, offers divine honor to any creature. (The worship of idols, images, pictures and saints ) Isa. 42 : 8 • Koni. 1 : 23 j Rev. 19 : 10. (b) , When man fears, loves, or trusts in any persou or thing more or as much as he does the Lord, his God. (Idolizing self, men, or the world.) 21. What is meant by idolizing self? When man loves himself more than God, and relies upon his own strength, wisdom and virtue, more than upon God. Jer. 9 : 23, 24. Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise loving-kindness, judg- ment, and rightoousness, in the earth : for in these things 1 delight, saith the Lord. 22. What is meant by idolizing men? When we fear, love, or trust in any fellow-mortal more than we do God. Matt. 10 : 28. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Matt. 10 : 37. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me : and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. Jer. 17 : 5. Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. 23. What is it to idolize the world f When we give our heart to the world and the lust thereof, instead of seeking the kingdom of God and his righteousness. 1 John 2 : 15-17. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not 3 26 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. of the Father, but is of the world. And the world asseth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. 24. What, on the other hand, is enjoined by this commandment ? That we should give to the only true God, our Lord, the honor that is due to him ; i. e., that we should fear, love, and t? , ust in him above all things. Matt. 4 : 10. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. 25. When do -we fear God above all things? When the ever-present thought of God effectually deters us from all evil, and prompts us to all that is good, and we would rather have the whole world for our enemy than displease God. Gen. 39 : 9. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? Matt. 10 : 28. 26. What kind of "fear of God," however, is nei- ther asked nor accepted by him ? When man fears punishment, but has no fear of sin, having no delight in God or in his law. {Sla- vish fear.) Rom. 8 : 15. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 1 John 4:18. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that fearetl is not made perfect in love. 27. When do we love God above all things? When our chief delight is in God and the things of God, and we seek to please him only. Ps 73 : 25, 26. Whom have I in heaven but thee ? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth : but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. 28. Why should we love God above all things f Because we cannot lov i anything more excellent THE TEN COMMANDMENTS 27 than God ; we owe more to him than to all others \ and nothing will bring us greater good and bliss than loving God. James 1 : 17. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from atove, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whoir is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 1 John 4 : 19. We love him, because he first loved us. Rom. 8 : 28. And we know that all things work togethoi for good to them that love God. 29. When do we trust in God above all things? When, free from unbelieving care, and vain self- confidence, and faithful in prayer and labor, we con- fidently rely upon the power and faithfulness oi God, in every time of need. Ps. 37 : 5. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him, and he shall bring it to pass. Ps. 42 : 11. Why art thou cast down, 0 my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God ; for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. Philip. 4:6. Be careful for nothing ; but in every thing Dy prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 30. Why is this commandment the first of all ? Because it is the "Great Commandment," and obedience to all the commandments must proceed from the fear and love of God. Of this the Catechism reminds us in the expla nation of each commandment, by the words : " W< should so fear and love God" The Second Commandment. Thou shalt not take the name oi tho Lord thy God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. What is meant by this commandment? "We shaU so fear and love God as not to 28 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM curse, swear, conjure, lie, or deceive, by his /lame, but call upon hirn in every time of ueed, and worship him with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving. 81. What do you mean by the name of God ? First of all, the holy words God, Jehovah, Jesus^ Christ., and the like; and in addition to these, everything which the Bible teaches us to regard as sacred, as a revelation of the nature and will of God. 32. What is it to take God's name in vain ? Every application of the holy names of God, or of divine things, in which the heart is deficient in true fear and love of God. 33. How is it taken in vain? Either thoughtlessly; or intentionally, wantonly, and wickedly, as in cursing, swearing, conjuring, lying, and deceiving. 34. How may we take it in vain thoughtlessly ? When we utter these holy names from mere habit, or in a spirit of levity, and speak or hear God's name or word without devotion or reverence. Matt. 12 : 36. But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 35. What is it to "curse" by God's name? To utter these holy names in passionate excite- ment, and wickedly to invoke evil upon any person or thing. (Luke 9 : 51-55.) 36. What; is it to "swear" by his name? To appeal to God as the witness of truth, and the avenger of falsehood. 37. Ts all swearing forbidden? Ni ! The example of our Lord Jesus Christ and THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. 29 of holy men of God proves that the oath required by the magistrate is not contrary to the will of God. (Christ, Matt. 26 : 63, 64.) Heb. 6 : 16. For men verily swear by the greater: and aii oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. 38. What is required of you whenever you take an oath ? I must, to the best of my knowledge, and with- out regard to friend or foe, advantage or disadvan tage, speak the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. 39. What kind of swearing, however, is forbidden ? . All unnecessary appeals to God, and false swear- ing, or perjury. Matt. 5 : 34-37. But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: nor by the earth: for it is his footstool : neither by Jerusalem ; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, be- cause thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Ye8 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. Matt. 6:13. For thine is the kingdom, and the powei and the glory, for ever. 155. Why do you here call God the " Father?" Because this article speaks of the first person in the Godhead, in distinction from the Son and fioin the Holy Ghost. 156. Why do you call him " Maker of heaven and earth?" Because He, by his almighty word, brought forth the whole world, with all animate and inanimate, visible and invisible creatures, out of nothing, " and it was very good." Rom. 4 : 17. God, who quickeneth the dead, and ealleth those things which be not as though they were. Heb. 11 : 3. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. Gen. 1. 157. Which are the noblest of God's creatures ? The angels in heaven, and men on the earth. 158. What are the angels? Glorious spirits, without flesh and blood, created by God, in order that they may praise him, serve the children of men, and be eternally happy. 159. How are we to conduct ourselves towards them? We are not to worship them, but learn of them how to praise God, and to serve him and our fellow- men. (Rev. 19 : 10; Exod. 20 : 3-5.) 160. Of what other angels does the Bitle alsc speak ? Of bad angels, who, having fallen from the state of holiness and blessedness, blaspheme God, hinder all that is good, and lay snares for the bodies and souls of men, as far as God suffers them to do so (2 Pet. 2:4: Jude 6 ; Ephes. 6:11, 12.) THE APOSTLES' CREED. 59 161. What does the Bible tell us about tieir chief ? It calls him Satan, i. e. the adversary ; Devi\ i. e. the accuser; the god of this world, the de- stroyer, tempter, liar and murderer from the be- ginning. 1 Pet. 5 : 8, 9. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adver §ary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour : whom resist steadfast in the faith. 162. "Why does man occupy the highest place among all the creatures of the earth ? Because God not only gave him a most admirable body, and rational soul, but created him in his own image. Gen. 1 : 27. God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him. 163. In what did this image of God consist? In an undimmed knowledge of the good and true; in holiyiess of heart and freedom of will ; in do- minion over all other creatures; in hajyiiness and immortality. Col. 3 : 10. And have put on the new man, which is re- newed in knowledge after the image of him that created him. Ephes. 4 : 24. And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Gen. 1 : 27. 164. Did man retain this image of God? No ! for yielding to the temptation of the devil, man, of his own will, transgressed the command- ment of God, and thereby fell from his gloriou? fitate. (Gen. 3 : 1-7.) 165. What were the consequences of this fall? That all men, with our first parents, lost the image of God, and have fallen into a state of sinfulne&s and guiltiness in the sight of God. 166. What name do we give to this state into which man has fallen I 60 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. Original sin, or that corruption of our naturt which renders us impotent and indisposed in regard to all that is good, and inclined to all that is evil. 167. Is there nothing to deliver man out of this state ? Yes ! Almighty God, our merciful Father, has' eent into the world the Redeemer, promised already in the garden of Eden, so that through him the image of God might be restored in man. John 3 : 16. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 168. What does Luther's explanation teach you by saying that God " still preserves" what he created? That all that has been called into being by the almighty will of God, also continues to exist by the same ; and abides in the salutary order established by him. 169. In what do you see that God thus preserves all ? In this, " that he daily provides me and all crea- tures abundantly with all the necessaries of life." 170. Does God merely preserve the world? He also governs it; for neither great nor small things happen without his will or permission ; and, in spite of all hindrances, he carries out his great and blessed designs. 171. How do you experience this divine government of the world ? In this, that he " protects me from all danger, and preserves and guards me against all evil." 172. But when misfortunes come upon us should we therefore doubt the providence of God ? By no means ! For although the ways of God are frequently incomprehensible on account of our short- THE APOSTLES' CREED 61 eightedness, we nevertheless confidently believe .hat God doeth all things well. Isa. 55 : 8-9. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are aigher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. John 13 : 7. What I do thou knowest not now ; but thoil shalt know hereafter. Job 1 : 21. The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken a^ay * blessed be the name of the Lord. 173. What does all that Almighty God, your Cr^tor, has done for you reveal ? His " pure, paternal, and divine goodness and mercy," and so much the more, because I receive it all " without any merit or worthiness in me." Gen. 32 : 10. I am not worthy of the least of all the mer- cies, and of all the truth which thou hast showed unto thy servant. Luke 17 : 10. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done ^11 those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofit- able servants : we have done that which was our duty o do. 174. What, therefore, are you in duty bound to re)# der unto him? To thank and praise him with all my heart> af d to serve and obey him with my body and soul. Ps. 103 : 2. Bless the Lord, 0 my soul, and forget not ai' his benefits. Rom. 12 : 1. I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptabe unto God, which is your reasonable service. 1 Cor. 6 : 20. Therefore glorify God in your body, and in vour spirit, which are God's. 175. What do you confirm by the closing words of ihe explanation, "This is most certainly true?" That with all my heart I believe all this as fully in accordance with the word of God, and feel my- self bound to obey it. 6 52 EXPLANATION OF TIIE CATECHISM. THE SECOND ARTICLE. Of Redemption. And in Jesus Christ his only Son, oui Lord : who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried : he descended into hell : the third day he rose again from the dead : he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty : from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. What is meant by this article? I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, be- gotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord : who hath redeemed me, a lost and con- demned creature, secured and delivered me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil, not with silver and gold, but with his holy and precious blood and with his innocent sufferings and death ; in order that I might be his, live under him in his kingdom, and serve him in everlasting right- eousness, innocence and blessedness, even as he is risen from the dead and lives and reigns to all eternity. This is most certainly true. 176. Of what does this article treat? " Of the Redemption" that is in Christ Jesus. Rom. 3 ; 24. Being justified freely by hh grace, through th« redemption that is in Christ Jesus. 177. Whc is Jesus Christ? God, tire Son, "true God, begotten of the Father THE APOSTLES' CREED 6b frcm eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary. 1 ' 178. Why does Luther, in the explanation, say thai Jesus Christ is "true God?" Because the Holy Scriptures expressly ?all him God, and ascribe to him divine attributes, works, and honor. John 20 : 28. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 1 John 5 : 20. Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Rom. 9 : 5. Christ, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. John 8 : 58. Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily I say unto you, before Abraham was, I am. Matt. 28 : 18. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Matt. 28 : 20. Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Col. 1 : 16, 17. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers : all things were created by him, and for him : and he is before all things, and by him all things consist. Heb. 1 : 6. And again, when he bringeth in the first- begotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him. John 5 : 23. That all men should honor the S:>n, even as they honor the Father. 179. And why that Jesus Christ is true man? Because the Holy Scriptures expressly call him the Son of man and man, and ascribe to him a body and soul, such as all men have. 180. How does it appear that he had a body and soid like other men ? Because he could be born, increase in age and stature, suffer hunger, thirst, weariness, pain and death, and mourned and rejoiced, even as we do. Luke 2 : 40, 52; Matt. 4:2: John 19 : 28; Mat*- * ? 24/ John 11 : 33-36; Matt. 26 : 37, 3*; Luke 10 : 21 64 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. 181. But in what respect does Christ, although ht was a man like ourselves, differ from us ? In this, that he alone of all that bore our human mature is without sin. Heb. 4 : 15. (He) was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. John 8 : 46. Which of you eonvinceth me of sin ? 2 Cor. 5 : 21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, wh Knew no sin. 1 Pet. 2 : 22. Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth. Heb. 7 : 26. For such an high-priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undented, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens. 182. If Christ then is true God and true man, what do you learn from this ? That he unites in himself, in one person, the two natures, human and divine; therefore he is the " God-man." 183. Why was it necessary that Christ should be man and God in one person? Had he been God only, he could not have taken my misery upon himself; and had he been Man only, he would have had no glory to bestow upon me. Had he been God only, his merit would not be- long to me ; and if he had been Man only, he could not have acquired any merit to bestow upon me. 184. What does the Apostles' Creed further teach is concerning the Person of Christ ? It speaks of it according to the two states of hu miliation and exaltation. (Philip. 2 : 6—11.) 185. In what did Christ's state of humiliation consist ? In this that he voluntarily denied himself the we of the full divine glory which he had. THE APOSTLES' CREED. 6$ 186. What belongs to the state of humiliation f His whole life in the form of a servant — from the manyer to the grave, as it is presented to is in the Creed, in five grades. 187. What is the first grade in the state »f .zu miliation ? That He, " conceived by the Holy Ghost, and vzrn of the Virgin Mary" entered into human poverty and lowliness, in which he continued unto his end. {Christmas?) 188. What is the second grade? That he, during his whole life, and especially under Pontius Pilate, suffered inexpressibly, in body and soul. 189. What is the third grade? That he " was crucified " and thus endured the most shameful punishment of malefactors, and the most excruciating pain. 190. What is the fourth grade ? That He also, who is the Prince of life, " was dead," and suffered the proper punishment of sin. {Good Friday.) 191. What is the fifth grade? That He too was " buried," so that his holy body lay in the place in which our sinful bodies return to corruption. 192. Was Christ's glory entirely concealed during this state of humiliation? No ; for it manifested itself in his perfect holi- ness, in his miracles, and in his words of eternal We. John 3 : 2. Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God for no man can do these miracles that thou does^ except G )d be with him 6* 66 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECiIISM John 1 : 14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father), full of grace and truth. John 6 : 68. Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast th<} words of eternal life. John 7 : 46. The officers answered, Never man spake Ukj this man. 193. In what does the state of exaltation consist? In this 7 that Christ, after accomplishing the woik of redemption, resumed the full use of divine ma- jesty and power, and thereby glorified human na ture in his person. (Philip. 2 : 9-11.) 194. What is the first grade in the state of ex- altation f Christ's descent into hell, i. e. that Christ, while his body was reposing in the grave, u by the Spirit went and preached unto the spirits in prison." (1 Pet. 3 : 19.) 195. What is the second grade of exaltation ? That Christ, on the third day, "rose again from the dead " with his now glorified body, and thereby manifested himself as the conqueror of sin, death, and hell. (Easter.) 196. What is the third grade? That Christ, on the fortieth day after his resur- rection, and in the presence of his disciples, really ascended into heaven/' that he might fill all things. (Ascension Day.) Ephes. 4 : 10. He that descended is the same alsc that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things. 197. What is the fourth grade, or the sitting on the Hght hand of Godf That Christ, the glorified God -man, reigns with his Almighty Father, being like unto him in eternal power and glory. Ephes. 1 : 20 -23. Which he wrought in Christ, when he rais«d him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand THE APOSTLES' CEEED. 67 m the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and everj r name that is named, no 4 only in this world, but also in that which is to come; and hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head ovel all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. 198. What is the fifth grade? That Christ, as the Son of Man, will return, visibly and in glory, at the last day, and will bring about the grand consummation of his kingdom by a final judgment of the living and the dead. 199. Why was it necessary that the Son of God should thus be humbled and exalted? That he might be the Redeemer of the world, and the Mediator between God and man. Luke 24 : 26. Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory ? Rom. 4 : 25. Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. 1 Tim. 2 : 5, 6. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave him- self a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Rom. 14 : 9. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. 200. What names therefore are given to the Son of God? The name "Jesus" i. e. Saviour, Redeemer, which Was given to him in his circumcision ; and the name " Christ" i. e. the Anointed of God (Messiah), which is already mentioned in the Old Testament as the official name of the promised Deliverer. Matt. 1 : 21. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou lhalt call his name Jesus : for he shall save his people from their sins. Acts 4 : 12. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, thereby we must be saved. Dan. 9 : 26 ; John 1 : 41. 201. What is Christ's office t The mediatorial office, which is threefold, viz: a 68 EXPLANATION OF THE CATEOHIfcM. prophetical, a sacerdotal (priestly), and regal kingly office. 202. What was the office of a prophet ? To proclaim what God wished to have revealed. 203. How did Christ discharge this office? He in the most perfect manner, by teaching and prophesying, has told us all that we must know in order to be saved, and became our pattern in all things. Deut. 18 : 18, 19. I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my worda in his mouth ; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him. John 6 : 68, 69. Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. John 8 : 12. Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. John 14 : 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 15 : 15. For all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. 204. How does Christ still continue to discharge this office? By sending forth his servants to preach his gospel until the end of time. Matt. 28 : 19, 20. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things what- soever I have commanded you. Ephes. 4 : 11, 12. And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets ; and some, evangelists ; and some, pastors and teachers ; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, Cor the edifying of the body of Christ. 2 Cor. 5 : 20. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, ai though God did beseech you by us: we pray you ii Christ' stead, be ye reconciled to God. THE APOSTLES' CREED. 69 205. What was the office of a priest ? The Offering of Sacrifices, Intercession, and Bene- diction. 206. Why did God appoint the offering of sacrifices :n the Old Testament f For the purpose ol constantly reminding the peo- ple : (a) that they were sinful and guilty in the sight of God ) (b) that satisfaction must be rendered to a righteous God ; and (c) that " without shedding (.£ blood is no remission." (Heb. 9 : 22. See also Exodus). 207. For what purpose was the high-priest appointed ? In order that he, as the chief of all the priests, might be a type of him, who, by one all-sufficient offering, has effected a perfect atonement, viz. : Christ. 208. In what does Christ's sacerdotal office consist? In this, that he really offered satisfaction to God r continually maketh intercession for us, and blesses us. 209. How did the Saviour offer satisfaction f (a). By perfectly fulfilling the law; which no typical high-priest, or any other human being could do. (h). By offering the one all-sufficient, holy sacrifice for sin, which had been prefigured by the sacrifices of the Old Testament. Heb. 7 : 26-27. For such a high-priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undented, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens ; who needeth not daily, as those high* priests, to offer up sacrifices first for his own sins, and then for the people's : for this he did once, when he offered up himself. 210. What did he offer as this sacrifice? Himself, upon the cross, as upon the altar of sac- rifice. 1 Pet. 2 . 24. Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness : by whose stripes ye were healed. 70 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM 211. How does Christ still discharge his saeerd 1 Cor. 15 : 42-44. It is sown in corruption ; it is raised in incorruption ; it is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory : it is sown in weakness ; it is raised in power : it is sown a natural body ; it is raised a spiritual body. See also Philip. 3 : 20, 21. Isa. 66 : 24. For their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto ail flesh. 284. When shall this take place ? At the last da/y, when tjie Son of God shall come in his glory. (Matt. 25 : 31-46.) Matt. 24 : 36. Bit of that day and hour knoweth r : man,' mo, not the angels ci heaven, but my Father only. 88 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. Act3 1 : 7. And he said unto them, It is not for you to knon the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 285. What will become of those who shall be alive on earth at the last day? They shall not die, but their bodies shall be changed. 1 Cor. 15 : 51, 52. Behold, I show you a mystery; we shall aot all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump : for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 286. What will follow the resurrection of the dead ? The judgment, which will consign the wicked to everlasting punishment, but the righteous to life eternal. Matt. 25 : 46. And these (on the left, toe wicked, the cursed) shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. 287. What do you mean by life eternal? An eternal freedom f rom all evil, and unspeaka- ble glory and bliss. (1 Cor. 15 : 54, 55. ) Rev. 7 : 16, 17. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more ; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and •hall lead them unto living fountains of waters : and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. 2 Pet. 3 : 13. Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteous • ness. 1 Pet. 1 : 7-9. At the appearing of Jesus Christ, whom hav . ing not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not> yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory : receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of you» louls. 288. But what becomes of believers immediately after death ? The soul immediately enters into u life eternal" but body and soul not until after the resurrection THE LORD'S PRAYER. Luke 23 : 4-V And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say anto Ux i f To-day shalt thou be with me in paradise. Rev. 14 : 13. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto mc Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord front henceforth : Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from thei labors ; and their works do follow them. 289. Of what does this last point in the Creed re mini! you ? That by the work of Redemption and Sanctifica- tion the divine image is restored, and that too in- such a way, that its glory can never more be lost. 290. What do you confirm by the closing words: 14 This is most certainly true?" That the Holy Spirit has done, is now doing, and will continue to do all this in me, and that I am de- termined thankfully and joyously to live, suffer, and die in this faith. 2 Tim. X*. 12. For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him againjt that clay. Philip. 1 : 6. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until th» day of Jesus Chribt. PART III. THE LORD'S PRAYER. 291. Why does the Lord's prayer follow the law and the creed ? That we may thereby be taught 1. that it is necessary for us to implore the assist* •ace of Grod ; and 2. how we are to pray for it, so as to be able to keep his commandments, and remain steadfast in the faith. 8* 90 EXPLANATION OF THE CATEUII1SM 292. What is prayer? Prayer is the conversation of the heart with God, whether in audible words or silent thoughts. Ps. 19 : 14. Let the words of my mouth, and the medi tation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, 0 Lord, mj -Btrength, and my redeemer. 293. To whom should we pray? To no created heing ) but only to the one, living, and true God, who is God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Matt. 4 : 10. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Rev. 19 : 10. And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellow-servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus : worship God. Exod. 20 : 3-5. 294. For whom and for what should we pray ? For ourselves and all men, friends, and enemies, and for everything needful for our welfare in spirit- ual and in temporal things. Ephes. 6 : 18. » Praying always with all prayer and suppli- cation in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perse- verance and supplication for all saints. 1 Tim. 2:1. I exhort, therefore, that, first of all, suppli- cations, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men. Matt. 5 : 44. Pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. 295. How should we pray? Devoutly, humbly, with child-like simplicity, in true faith, and in the name of Jesus. Joan 4 : 24. God is a Spirit: and they that worship hiui must worship him in spirit and in truth. Hsb. 11 : 6. But without faith it is impossible to please him: for hs that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. James 1 : 6. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with tb# •rind an 5 tossed. THE LORD'S PRAYER. 91 James 4 : 6. God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unt« the humble. Matt. 15 : 8. This people draweth nigh unto me with theil mouth, and honoreth me with their lips ; but their heart is fai from me. Luke 18 : 13, 14. 296. When do we pray in the name of Jesus? When we do not pray in our own name, and rely- ing upon our own merit, but in sole reliance upon Christ's icord and merit, in his spirit, and for the, promotion of his kingdom. 297. What promise does the Lord give to such prayer ? That, if it is earnest and persevering, it shall cer- tainly be heard, although the answer may come later, and in a form different from what we ex- pected. John 16 : 23. Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. James 4 : 3. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. Rom. 12 : 12. Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer. Isa. 55 : 8, 9. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as tha heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 298. When should we pray? A Christian should at all times turn his heart to God, but he should also have special times of prayer, in the morning and evening, at table, during public worship, etc. Luke 18 : 1. And he spake a parable unto them to this %n 1, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint. 1 Thess. 5 : 17. Pray without ceasing. P3. 55 : 16, 17. As for me, I will call upon God ; and the Lord shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon, will t pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice. 299. Where are we to pray? 92 EXPLANATION OF THE CA1 ECHISM. Everywhere, but especially in the house of God. in and with the family, and in our closet. John 4 : 21. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Luke 19 : 46. My house is the house of prayer. Josh. 24 : 15. But as for me and my house, we will serv the Lord. Matt. 18 : 20. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matt. 6 : 5, 6. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are : for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. 300. What is the principal thing in all praying? True faith, and a devout and reverent state of heart ; \t matters not whether our words be few or many, our own or those of another. (Taken from the Bible, the prayer- or hymn-book.) 301. What is to be said of outward posture and demeanor in prayer ? Although God looketh only on the heart, and not on the outward appearance, yet the Holy Scriptures, and the example of our Saviour and of many of his saints, teach us to assume a reverent demeanor and posture in our approaches to God., {Kneeling } standing, etc.) Matt, 26 : 39; Acts 20 : 36; Ephes. 3 : 14: Luire 18 : 9-14; 1 Kings 8 : 22. 302. What blessings flow from prayer? Manifold graces and gifts of God, and the main- tenance and strengthening of our communion with God. 303. Why does this part of our Catechism, in whioh we are to be taught to pray, explain tha " Lord's prayer ?" THE LORD'S PRAYER 93 Because it is the most admirable prayer known o Christians, in which our Lord Jesus Christ hiin- jclf teaches us what and how to pray. Matt. 6 : 7-13 ; Luke 11 : 1-4. 304. How does he teach this by this prayer? By showing us ■ (a) . That we must pray in his name; (in the Introduction) for it is only for Christ's sake that we can call God Father. John 14 : 6. No man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (b) . That we should pray also for others, which is pointed out by the words " our" and " us" (c) . That we should seek first the kingdom of God, for but one of the seven petitions refers to bodily things. (d) That we should pray for the bestowal of that which is good (in the first four petitions), and for the removal of that which is evil (in the three last). (e) . That we should always approach God in a penitent spirit (fifth petition). (/). That, "in praying, we should also render praise and thanksgiving (in the conclusion or doxology). The Introduction. Our Father who art in heaven. What is meant by this introduction? God would thereby affectionately encou- rage us to believe that he is truly our Fa- ther, and that we are his children indeed, »o that we may call upon him with all M EXPLANATION OF THE OATECHISX cheerfulness and confidence, even as be- oved children entreat their affectionato parent. 305. "Why do we here address God as our Father? Not merely because lie is our Creator and Pre server, but because he is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and, through him, our Father. John 20 : 17. Go to my brethren, and say unto them, 1 ascend unto my Father, and your Father ; and to my God, and your God. 306. Why do we say "our?" To remind us that we too are the children of God, and that we should not pray for ourselves only, but for all men, especially believers. 307. Why does the Saviour teach us to add, "who art in heaven t" That we may thereby praise the majesty of God, and be reminded that he, to whom we are praying, is the eternal, almighty, omniscient and bountiful Father. 308. Why does God perroU us to address him thus? u God would thereby affectionately encourage us to believe that he is truly our Father, and that we are his children indeed" 309. Do we need such affectionate encouragement ? Yes ! for by nature our hearts secretly fear and shrink from him, instead of feeling filial leve and cheerful confidence towards him. 310. Why dees God wish to remove this fear from our hearts? In order that we may pray aright, i. e. " that we may call upon him with all cheerfulness and confi- dence, even as beloved children entreat their affec- tionate 'parent" THE LORD'S PRAYER. 9o Gal. 4 : 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth 'he Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Rom. 8 : 15. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage igain to fear; but ye have received the spirit of aJ^ptic'j, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The first Petition. Hallowed be thy name. What is meant by this petition? The name of God is indeed holy in itself; but we pray in this petition that it may be hallowed also by us. How is this effected? When the word of God is taught in its truth and purity, and we, as the children of God, lead holy lives, in accordance with it ; to this may our blessed Father in heaven help us. But whoever teaches and Jives otherwise than as God's word pre- scribes, profanes the name of God among us ; from this preserve us, Heavenly Father. 311. What is the name of God? The triune God himself, and everything by which his holy being is designated, or we are re- minded of it. 312. What is meant by hallowing it? To praise him with our words, and honor him by our works, as the most holy object known to us and all men. 313. Why do we say with such emphasis : Hal- lowed be THY name ? To remind us that nothing is holy but God our Lord, and that honor belongs, not to us, but to him only. *)6 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. Ps. 115 : 1. Not unto us, 0 Lord, not unto us, out ur»t*« thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth's ,sakc 314. Why is it of so much importance that God'? nam: whyjh is holy in itself, should be hallowed alst by us f Because the most holy thing will do us no gcod unless we recognize and honor its holiness, and its efficacy for our own salvation. * 315. When is God's name hallowed among us? 1. " When the word of God is taught and be lieved in its truth and purity" i. e. without human adulteration or additions. (1 Tim. 6 : 3, 4). 2. When " we, as the children of God, lead holy lives, in accordance with it," i. e. live as we ought to live, in obedience to the ten commandments, and only can live, by true laith, with the help of God. (" To this may our blessed Father in heaven help us"} 316. But who prof anes the name of God? u Whoever teaches and lives otherwise than as God's word prescribes" 317. Why does the explanation close with the prayer: "from this preserve us, heavenly Father t" Because all will go wrong where we ourselves, oi others " among us" profane the name of God. The Secona Petition. Thy kingdom c*>me. What is meant by this petition? The kingdom of God comes indeed of itself, without our prayer ; but we pray in this petition that it may come unto us also. When is this effected? When our heavenly Father gives us his Holy Spirit, so that by his grace we believe the lord's prayer. 9? his holy word, and live a godly life here on earth, and in heaven forever. 318. To what kingdom does this refer? To God's present kingdom of grace, and the fib- ture kingdom of glory. Mark 1:15. The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom cf God I t« at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. Matt. 25 : 34. Then shall the king say unto them on hia right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 319. But as "the kingdom of God comes indeed of itself without our prayer/' what need is there of thia petition ? (a) . God wishes to be asked for all his gifts, es- pecially for this greatest one. (b) . If this kingdom does not first come to us, it is certain we shall not come to or into it. (c) . There are still many millions of human beings to whom the gospel of the kingdom of God has not yet come. (d) . There are still many others, who indeed have the gospel, but who have not the kingdom of God in their hearts. (e) . Even to those, who have become children of the kingdom, it is to come in ever-increasing mani- festations of its power. (/"). Because all believers wait and long for the of glory. 320. Are we to do nothing but pray for the promo- tion of the kingdom of God ? We should do many things : first, for ourselves, by being earnestly solicitous for the salvation of our «oul; and then also for all others, by sending forth ministers of the g jspel (missionaries) ; by spreading sons of God in the kingdom 9 98 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM the word of God (Bible societies), and devotional books ; by the establishment of Churches, and Chris- tian week-day and Sunday-schools ; by our edifying walk and conversation, and all other means approveo by God. Matt. 9 : 36-3£. But when he saw the multitudes, he wa moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and wei scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few ; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest. Rom 10 : 14, 15. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach, except they be sent? Matt. 5 : 16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 321. How is this coming of the kingdom of God effected? u When our heavenly Father gives us his Holy Spirit, so that by his grace we believe his holy word, and live a godly life here on earth, and in heaven forever." Luke 17 : 20, 21. The kingdom of God cometh not with observation : neither shall they say, Lo, here ! or, lo, there ! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. 322. Why does so much depend upon the coming of the kingdom of God ? Because there is nothing but misery and wretched- ness wherever the kingdom of Satan and of sin prevails ; but wherever the kingdom of God is, there is righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost (Rom. 14 : 17). The third Petition. Thy will be lone on earth, as it is m heaven- THE LORD'S PRAYER 99 What is meant by this petition? The good and gracious will of God is dour indeed without our prayer; but we pray ir this petition that it may be done by us ale 3. When is this effected? When God frustrates and brings to nc ugtt every evil counsel and purpose which would hinder us from hallowing the name of God ? and prevent his kingdom from coming to us, such as the will of the devil, of the world, and of our own flesh ; and when he strengthens us, and keeps us steadfast in his word and in the faith, even unto one end. This is his gracious and good will. 323. What do you mean by the will of God! Whatever, in accordance with his word and counsel, we are to believe, do, and suffer, in order that "his name may be hallowed" (first petition), and " his kingdom come" (second petition). 324. Why does Luther's explanation call the will of God good and gracious? Because it is his will that all men should be holy and happy. 1 Thess. 4 : 3. For this is the will of God, even your sanc- ttfication. John 6 : 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life : and I will raise him up at the last day. 325. Is God's will done only when we pray that it' may be done? No ! " The good and gracious will of God u done indeed without our prayer " in the case of many others, whether we pray for it or not. Matt. 8 : 11, 12. And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, 100 EXPLANATION OV THE CATECHISM. and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. Bat ffc.4 children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness there shall be weeping and gnasbing of teeth. 326. What does Luther mean to teach us by the words : "by us'?" That we all should both obey and submit to this will, here upon earth, for our sanctification and salvation. 327. Why is it to be done on earth, as it is in heaven ? Because the holy angels and the saints in heaven do God's will with all their heart and might ; and so should we. 328. What will opposes this good and gracious will? " The evil counsel and will of the devil, of the world, and of our own flesh," which seeks to pre- vent our sanctification and salvation. 329. What therefore do we ask of God against it? That he would frustrate it and bring it to nought , and that he would strengthen us, and keep us stead- fast in his word and in the faith, even unto our end, 330. Why do we need all this? Because, without the gracious support of God, we can neither obediently fulfil his will, nor suffer patiently, nor successfully resist the devil and the world. 2 Thess. 3 : 3. But the Lord is faithful, who shall establish you, and keep you from evil. John 15:5. For without me ye can do nothing. Philip. 2 : 13. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. 331. What is necessary to enable us to utter tLie petition with all our heart? We must always strive earnestly to do the i,ood will of God, and always submit to it, as unto a will that is as gracious as it ; s good. THE LORD'S PRAYER. 101 The fourth Petition. Give as this day our daily bread. What is meant by this petition ? Cf od gives indeed, without our prayer, oveu tit the wicked also their daily bread; but wo pray in this petition that he would make us sensible of his benefits, and enable us to receive our daily bread with thanksgiving. What is implied in the words: "our daily bread?" All things that pertain to the wants and the support of this present life ; such as food, raiment, money, goods, house and land, and other property ; a believing spouse and good children ; trustworthy servants and faithful magistrates ; favorable seasons, peace, and health; education and honor; true friends, good neighbors, and the like. 332. Why should we pray for our daily bread ? Because it, together with the strength and ability to labor for it, comes to all men, not by fortune or chance, or through other men, but from God alone. Ps. 145 : 15, 16. The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thy hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing. 333. But why do we call it " our " bread ? Because we do not wish to have the bread jf other men, or bread obtained by stealing, fraud, or begging, but that which we have gained with the approbation of God and our own conscience Prov. 20 : 17. Bread of deceit is sweet to a man ; but after- wards his mouth shall be filled with gravel. 334. Why do we say, our " daily " bread ? Because we do not pray for a great supply foi 9* 102 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM many days and years, but for that which we need day by day. Prov. 30 : 8, 9 ; The Manna, Exod. 16 : 14-21. 335. Why do we say, ' 'this day?" Because we have need of it this day, take no anxious thought for the future, and to-morrow we pray again. Matt. 6 : 34. Take therefore no thought for the morrow ; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Suffi- cient unto the day is the evil thereof. 336. Why do we say, " give us" and not give me? Because we, as the children of one Father, pray for one another, and should rejoice in the prosperity of each other. 337. What is included in the expression " daily bread?" Everything mentioned in Luther's explanation, aamely, whatever helps us to procure, retain, and enjoy the " things that pertain to the wants and the support of this present life." 338. How shall we show that we are sensible that our daily bread is the gift of God ? When we do not, like " the wicked," merely ac- cept our daily bread, but u receive it with thanks- giving" enjoy it with contentment and moderation, and cheerfully share it with others. Deut. 8 : 10. When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the Lord thy God for the good land which he hath given thee. 1 Tim. 4 : 4, 5. For every creature of God is good, an J nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: for It is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. 1 Tim. 6 : 6-8. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment, let us be therewith content. Heb. 13 : 16. But to do good and to communicate, forgot not * fQ? w'th such sacrifices God is well pleased. THE LORD S PRAYER. 103 The fifth Petition. And forgive us our trespasses, as we for- give those who trespass against us. What is meant by this petition ? We pray in this petition that our heavenly Father would not regard our sins, nor deny lis our requests on account of them ; for we are not worthy of anything for which we pray, and we have not merited it ; but that he would grant us all things through grace, although we daily commit much sin, and deserve chastisement alone. We will there- fore, on our part, both heartily forgive, and also readily do good to those who may injure or offend us. 339. What do we confess, as often as we utter this petition ? (a). " That we daily commit much sin, and de- serve chastisement alone. " (6). That we are sorry that it is so, and that we long to be freed from this burden. (c). That God alone, and not we ourselves, has the power to remit our sin and punishment. (77). That we cannot expect forgiveness from God, unless " we, on our part, both heartily forgive, and also readily do good to those who may injure or offend us." 340. Do we acquire any merit by forgiving "those who trespass against us ? " By no means ! Our granting forgiveness to others is to be the offering of gratitude which we owe to God for forgiving our trespasses. Matt. 6:14, 15. F)r if ye forgive men their trespasses, your 104 EXPLANATION OF THE CAJFXHISM heavenly Father will also forgive you : but if ye forgive no4 men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Matt. 18 : 28-35. 341. How therefore are we to regard the forgi ve nc$* of our sins ? Like all the other blessings for which we ask in this prayer, as a free gift of God's grace, " for wa are not worthy of anything for which we pray, and we have not merited it." The Sixth Petition. And lead us not into temptation. What is meant by this petition? God indeed tempts no one to sin ; but we pray in this petition that God would so guard and preserve us, that the devil, the world, and our own flesh, may not deceive us. nor lead us into error and unbelief, des- pair, and other great and shameful sins ; and that, though we may be thus tempted, we may nevertheless finally prevail and gain the victory. 342. When are we tempted? As often as we receive a special occasion and in- citement to do that which is goon 7 , and to grow stronger in faith, or to do evil and to fall from faith. 343. From whom does the incitement to do good pro- ceed? From God, by means of his commandments and promises, afflictions and blessings, in order that man may learn to know his own heart. Deut. 8 : 2. 3. And thou shalt remember all the way wmsb the Lord thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderm 'g, to humble tbee, and to prove thee, to know what was \n thy hec i. THE LORD'S PRAYER 105 whether thou wouldst keep his commandments or no. And he Humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know. Ps. 139 : 23, 24. Search me, 0 God, and know my heart: Sry me, and know my thoughts : and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting* 344. Against what kind of temptation do we here pray? Against temptation to evil, which does not pro- ceed from God, but from the devil, the world, and our own flesh. James 1 : 13. Let no man say, when he is tempted, I am tempted of God : for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man. 345. How do these three enemies tempt us? The Devil instils wicked thoughts; the world follows him; and we, enticed by our own flesh, fol- low both. Ephes. 6 : 12. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Matt. 18 : 7. Wo unto the world because of offences ! for it must needs be that offences come ; but wo to that man by whom the offence cometh ! Gal. 5 : 17. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh : and these are contrary the one to the other : so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. Gen. 3 : 1-6 j 1 Kings 11 : 4-6. 346. How do these tempters lead us to do evil ? (a). They " deceive" us by representing our twiV fortune to be our fortune, and our fortune as a mi* fortune. The terpent, Gen. 3 : 4, 5. (h). They " lead us" astray, by representing the right way as the wrong way, and the wrong way as the right way. The Detil, Matt 4 : 1-9. 106 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM (c). They plunge us into error and unbelief \ carnal security, despair, " and other great and shameful sins/' Judas, Matt. 26 : 20-25. 347. But why do we pray God that he would no$ lead us into temptation? We are everywhere surrounded by temptation; and God, on account of our sins, may suffer us to fall into it, and perish in it. 348. What, therefore, do we ask of him, according to Luther's explanation? That God " would guard and preserve us," "and that, though we may be thus tempted, we may nevertheless finally prevail and gain the victory." 1 Cor. 10 : 13* There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will, with the temptation, also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Ps. 17 : 5. Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my foot- steps slip not. 349. But what does God require of us when we present this petition ? 1. That we should realize the dangers to which we are exposed in a world abounding with so many enemies. 2. That we should earnestly avoid every place and occasion in which we are exposed to temptation. 3. That we should faithfully use the means and weapons which he has provided, in order to over- come temptation. 4. That we should beware of ever becoming, by word or deed, a tempter to evil to our neighbor. Matt. 26 : 41. Watch and pray, that ye enter not mU temptation. Ephes. 6 : 12. THE LORD'S PRAYER. 107 1 Cor. 15 : 33. Be not deceived : evil communications cor- rupt good manners. Prov. 1 : 10. My son, if sinners entice thee, consent tho» not. Matt. 4 : 7. Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God, Matt. 18: 7; Ephes. 6 : 14-18. The Seventh Petition. But deliver us from evil. What is meant by this petition ? We pray in this petition, as in a sum- mary, that our heavenly Father would de- liver us from all manner of evil, whether it affect the body or soul, property or cha- racter, and, at last, when the hour of death shall arrive, grant us a happy end, and gra- ciously take us from this world of sorrow to himself in heaven. 2^0. What is meant here by "evil?" Whatever injures body or soul, property or cha- racrer, and gives us pain. CI. Why do we ask God to deliver us? Because we cannot deliver ourselves from such evils, but all things are possible with God. 352. In what manner does God deliver us from evil? Here already he removes our burden, or makes it lighter, or makes us stronger, (t and, at last, when fclie hour of death arrives, he grants us a happy end, and graciously takes us from this world of sorrow to himself in heaven." Ps. 68 : 19, 20. Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. He that la our God is the God of salvation; and unto God the Lord belong the ismes from death. 108 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM Ps. 43 : 5. Why art thou cast down, 0 my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God, 2 Tim. 4 : 18. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 353. Should we expect to be delivered from all evi In this world ? No ! For God finds it necessary to chasten us with manifold temporal afflictions, in order that he may be able to comfort us for ever in the world to come. Heb. 12 : 5-7, 11. My son* despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him : for whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? Now no chastening for the present seemetb to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exer- cised thereby. 2 Cor. 4 : 17, 18. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen : for the things which are seen are temporal ; but the things which are not seen are eternal. 354. How, therefore, should we bear that cross from which God does not deliver us ? With patient resignation to God's holy will, and for our own exercise unto godliness. 1 Sam. 3 : 18. It is the Lord : let him do what seemetb him good. , Job 1 : 21. The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away ; blessed be the name of the Lord. 2 Cor. 12 : 9, 10. And he said unto me, My grace is suffi- cient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in perse- cutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak then am I str< ng. THE LORD'S PRAYER. 109 « v 18 deliverance and redempticn perfect only iL fiea^n t because there we shall no longer feel, fear, or look upon any evil whatever. Rev. 7 : 13-15. What are these which are arrayed in white robot ? and whence came they ? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowect. And he said unto me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and inadte them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night, in his temple. Rev. 21 : 4. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain : for the former things are passed away. The Conclusion. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen. What is meant by the word "Amen?" That I should he assured that such peti- tions are acceptable to our heavenly Father, and are heard of him ; for he himself has commanded us to pray in this manner, and has promised that he will hear us. Amen, amen ; that is, Yea, yea, it shall be so. 356. What do we wish to express by this " conclu- sion?" First of all, the praise of God, to whom alone all honor and thanks belong; and then, the (/round of our faith, that God can and will hear our prayers. Rom. 11 : 36. For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things : to whom be glory forever. Amen. Heb. 4 : 16. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Ps. 90 : 1, 2. Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the w*r!4 f eve* *"*m everlast- ing to everlasting, thou art God. 10 110 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. 357. Why do we add the little word "Amen" to thia and all other prayers ? As a seal upon all our petitions, and as an expres- Eion of the assurance of our faith : " yea, yea, it shall be so!" OF THE HOLY SACRAMENTS. 358. What is a sacrament? A holy ordinance in the church of Christ, instituted by Christ himself, in the administration of which, invisible, heavenly gifts of the New Testament are communicated to us, in, with, and under earthly, visi- ble elements. 359. How many sacraments are there? Only two : Holy Baptism, and the Lord's Supper ; for these two alone present the three essential points of a sacrament, namely : 1. The express institution of Christ. 2. The earthly elements; and 3. The invisible, heavenly gifts of the New Testa- ment. 360. Wherein do other holy rites in the Christian church differ from the sacraments? In this, that however solemn and important they may be, there is not one in which all the three es- sential points, before spoken of, meet. Therefore the Roman Catholic church erroneously teaches that then are seven sacraments. 361. What two holy ordinances of the Old Testament typified the two sacraments of the New Testament? Circumcision, which prefigured Baptism, and the Paswver, which prefigured the Lord's Suj: per. (Gen 17 Exodus 12.) THE HOLY SACRAMENTS. Ill 362. For what purpose were the holy sacraments instituted? That they, (together with the Word op God), might be to us means of grace. 3G3. Why do we call the word of God, and the hol$ sacraments means of grace ? Because God employs them as means or instru- merits, by which he makes known and communicates his grace to us. 364. In what respects do the holy sacraments, as means of grace, differ from the word of God ? That grace, which the word of God makes known and offers to all, the holy sacraments confirm, seal, and communicate to each individual in particular. 365. Will the sacraments benefit any one without faith f No ! for although the sacraments in themselves are holy and full of blessings, they cannot possibly bestow a blessing upon any on-e who does not seek and receive them in faith. 366. As the holy sacraments, therefore, are means of grace, what follows ? 1. That, with grateful and believing hearts, we should highly esteem and use them. 2. That those who lightly esteem or neglect them, disobey the injunctions of Christ, deprive themselves of a great blessing, and set a bad example to others. 3. That those who desecrate and abuse them, incut great guilt, and change the blessing into a ^,urse. 112 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. PART IV. THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM. I. What is Baptism? Baptism is not simply water, but it is the water comprehended in God's command, and connected with God's word. What is that word of God? It is that which our Lord Jesus Christ spake, as it is recorded in the last chapter of Matthew, verse 19 : " Go ye and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." Obs. — The following is a correct translation of the passage: "Go ye therefore and make disciples of all nations by baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, and by teaching them to observe all things whatso- ever I have commanded you." 367. What, according to Christ's appointment, is the earthly element in Baptism ? The water which is applied to the person bap- tized, for without water there is no baptism. In regard to the quantity of water, or the manner of its application, whether by immersion or sprinkling \ the Lord has given no commandment. 368. Why does Luther, in the explanation, say it " & not simply water f" Because the water, in holy baptism, is " compre- THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM. 113 hendcd in God's command, and connected with God's word.' 369. What is meant by " comprehended in God't command?" That we use water in holy baptism not arbitrarily, but in obedience to the express command of out Lord Jesus Christ : " Go ye and teach all nations, baptizing them" 370. What is meant by " connected with God's word?" Because there is no administration of baptism, at which the Lord Jesus Christ's words of insti- tution are not repeated : " In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." . 371. What is meant by baptizing in the name of the triune God? It is to baptize in obedience to his command, in his place, and unto fellowship or covenant relation with him. 372. In how far is baptism performed in the place of God? Because the baptism administered in obedience to Christ's command, is as valuable and effective, as if the triune God himself had performed it. 373. In how far is it unto fellowship ? Because by baptism we are introduced into the fellowship and communion of the triune God, and he will henceforth be our God, and we are to Is his children. 1 Pet. 3 : 21. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God). Gal. 3 : 26, 27. For ye are all the children of God by faitb in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized Into Christ have put on Christ. 374. Who was commanded to baptize? 10* 114 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM Those who were also commanded to " teach* aamely, the regularly called ministers of Christ, 375. Who is to be baptized? All nations, i. e. all men, without distinction of •ex, condition, and age, according to the practice t>f the apostles themselves. 376. Is it right to baptize infants also? Most certainly, and that too on account of many and weighty reasons, but especially because : 1. Our Lord Jesus Christ declares : " of such is the kingdom of God." (Mark 10 : 14-16.) There- fore they are also entitled to that by which we enter into the kingdom of God, viz : baptism. 2. He directs us to bring them to him ; therefore we should bring them in the way appointed by him, baptizing and teaching them. (Matt. 19 : 14 ; 28 : 19, 20. 3. As in the Old Testament children were re- ceived (by circumcision) into the covenant of God, so also are we assured in the new covenant, " the promise is unto you, and to your children" (Acts 2 : 39.) 4. The Holy Scriptures inform us that entire families were baptized by the Apostles. (Acts 16 : 15, 33 j 1 Cor. 1 : 16.) 5. Because every baptism, even that of adults, is essentially an infant baptism, for our Lord says : " Yerily, I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not en er into the kingdom of heaven/' (Matt. 18 : 3.) II. What gifts or benefits does Baptism convey? It worketh forgiveness of sins, lei i vers THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM. 115 from death and the devil, and confers ever- lasting salvation on all who believe aa the word and promise of God declare. What are these words and promises of God? Those which our Lord Jesus Christ spake, as they are recorded in the last chapter of Merk, verse 16 : " He that believeth and ia baptized shall be saved; but he that be- lieveth not shall be damned." 377. Why does Luther say, that Baptism conveys these great gifts and benefits ? Because the person baptized is received, through this holy sacrament, into the covenant of the triune God, which covenant contains and communicates all these gifts. 378. In how far does baptism work the forgiveness of sins, etc. ? In so far as it is the divinely-appointed means of grace, by which he ascribes, seals, and appropriates these gifts and benefits of his covenant to each individual. Acts 2 : 38. Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Acts 22 : 16.. And now why tarries! vhou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. 379. Are these great gifts bestowed upon all who are baptized? Undoubtedly, upon children as well as adults. 380. But how then does it come that so many bap- tised persons live and die in their sins f Not because they never received the blessings of holy baptism, but because they have lost them again. 116 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. 381. But who are they that retain these blessings" 1 Only u all who believe" that baptism has sealed such gifts and benefits unto them, and who make a good use of them, as long as they live. 382. Whence do you know this? Because our Lord Jesus Christ says, in the las chapter of Mark, verse 16 : " He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved ; but he that believeth not shall be damned." III. How .can water produce such great effects ? It is not the water indeed that produces these effects, but the word of God which accompanies and is connected with the water, and our faith which relies on the word of God connected with the water. For the water, without the word of God, is simply water and no baptism. But when connected with the word of God, it is a baptism, that is, a gracious water of life and a " washing of regeneration " in the Holy Ghost ; as St. Paul says to Titus, in the third chapter, verses 5-8: " According to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; that be- ing justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying.' ' 383. What, in the sacrament of holy baptism, pro- duces "such great effects?" Not the water in itself, (( but the word of God THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM. 117 which accompanies and is connected with the water." 384. What word of God is here meant? The words of institution and the words of promise, which our Lord Jesus Christ has connected with holy baptism. (Matt. 28; Mark 16.) 385. Why are such effects ascribed to " the word of God which accompanies and is connected with the baptismal water ? Because in the word of God the Holy Ghosc, the power of the Highest, dwelleth and worketh. John 6 : 63. The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. Ephes. 5 : 26. That he might sanctify and cleanee it with the washing of water by the word. James 1 : 18. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first-fruits of his creatures. 386. What, therefore, does Baptism become, by such a sacramental union of water, word, and Holy Spirit f "A gracious water of life and a washing of re- generation in the Holy Ghost/' as St. Paul says to Titus. 387. But what also is indispensably necessary on our part, in order that we may experience the bless- ings of baptism ? u Our faith which relies on the word of God con* necked with the water" in which faith we take hold of the grace of God ; and do not doubt of the promise given by him. 388. Why is baptism called a " washing of regene- ration f Because with it the new spiritual life from Goa has its beginning, as formerly our fleshly life had ite beginning in our natural birth. 118 EXPLANATION OP THE CATECHISM IV. What does such baptizing with water signify ? It signifies that the old Adam in us is to be drowned and destroyed by daily sorrcw and repentance, together with all sins and evil lusts ; and that again the new man should daily come forth and rise, that shall live in the presence of God in righteousness and purity forever. "Where is it so written? St. Paul, in the epistle to the Eomans, chap. 6, verse 4, says : " We are buried with Christ by baptism into death ; that like as he was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." 389. What is meant by the "old Adam?" All the evil that we have inherited, on account of the Fall of Adam, and that is born with us, to- gether with everything that springs from it. 390. To what does the administration of baptism call our attention, as often as we behold it or are re- minded of it ? That this " old Adam in us" " together with all sins and evil lusts" must be destroyed " by daily wrrou and repentance." 391. Why is daily sorrow and repentance required? ^ Because this " old Adam" never dies entirely, in this life, but immediately regains his strength, if we do not, in daily humiliation before God, buUd afresh on the grace given to us in baptism. 392. What further does such baptizing signify! THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM. 11$ 4 That again the new man should daily come forth ana iise, that shall live in the presence of God in righteousness and purity for ever." 393. What is meant by " the new man?" The regenerated or new-born man, who has re- ceived a new heart and a new spirit from God. 394. Why should the new man come forth and rise daily f Just as the old man does not die at once, so also the new man is not completed at once. Just as we daily commit sin, so also must we daily arise from our sins. Ephes. 4 : 22-24. That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts ; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind ; find that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Philip. 3 : 12. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may appre- hend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 395. What does St. Paul mean by the words ad- dressed to the Romans, chap. 6, verse 4 ? Just as Christ is buried, so with him our sins are also buried by baptism, and we are to suffer them to remain buried; and on the other hand, just as he was raised up from the dead, and came forth alive, so we too are to prove that we have arisen, and are living in newness of life. 396. As baptism is a covenant, how can a child as- sume the obligations of such a covenant ? This is done, in the name of the child, by its sponsors, or by its parents, performing the part of sponsors. 397. What is the duty of a sponsor t To pray for tie child, before, during, and after baptism; and afterwards to take care that the child 120 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. is brought up in the nurture and admonition of th* Lord ; to remind it of its baptismal covenant ; and by a good example teach it how the covenant is to be kept. 398. What, therefore, should parents bear in mind in the selection of sponsors? They should never choose any but believing members of the church, who honor the word and sacraments of God, and lead a godly life, for only such will faithfully discharge the duties of a sponsor 399. When do you publicly assume the obligations, entered into for you, by others, at the time of your baptism ? At the time of my Confirmation, when, with my own lips, I renew and confirm my faith and my voids, in the presence of the congregation, and am strengthened and established in the same, amidst the laying on of hands, and the prayers of the people for my increase in the gracious influences of the Holy Spirit. 400. What, however, must necessarily precede conr firmation ? That in addition to the Christian instruction re- ceived at home and in school, I should also be specially and properly prepared for confirmation by the minister of the gospel. 401. Do you enter into a new covenant in confirm a* tion? Just as little as I receive a new name at that time. I only confirm the old covenant, which is to last for ever. Isa. 55 : 3. Incline your ear, and come unto inc: hear, and your soul shall live ; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Eccles. 5 : 4. When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it THE SACRAMENT OF THE ALTAR. 121 PART V. THE SACRAMENT OF THE ALTAR L What is the Sacrament of the Altar ? It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, under the bread and wine, given unto us Christians to eat and to drink, as it was instituted by Christ himself. Where is it so written? The holy evangelists, Matthew, Mark, and Luke, together with St. Paul, write thus: " Our Lord Jesus Christ, the same • night in which he was betrayed, took bread: and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body, which is given for you : this do, in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it : this cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you, for the remission of sins : this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me/' 402. Mention the different names given to this sacra inent ? The Sacrament of the Altar, because, from the most ancient times, it has been celebrated at the altar ; the Lord's Supper, on account of the time when it was instituted; table of the Lord, because 11 122 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. Christ himself here gives us food and drink ; com* munion, because it is a communion between Christ and his believers, and a communion of believers with one another ; the Eucharist, on account of the giving of thanks attending its administration and reception. 103. What earthly elements did our Lord Jesus Chrial institute in this sacrament? Bread and Wine. 404. And what is the heavenly gift of grace in this sacrament ? " It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, under the bread and wine, given unto us Christians, to eat and to drink, as it was instituted by Christ himself/' 405. "Why does Luther say, " It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ?" Because, in the Lord's Supper, we really partake of the body and blood of Christ, and are not merely reminded of the body and blood of Christ by the bread and wine. 406. What, therefore, do we recognize in the Lord's Supper ? Not a change of the earthly elements (transubstan~ tiatiorC), but a union or a communion of the bread and the body of Christ, of the wine and the blood of Christ. 1 3c*. 10 : 16. The cup of blessing, which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread whick we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 407. When does this union take place? Only during the reception and participation of the holy sacrament. 408. How do you prove that " the true body and blocd of our Lord Jesus Christ" is received "under the bread and wine ?" THE SACRAMENT Or THE ALTAR 123 By Christ's own words : " This is my body, which is given for you," and, " this cup is the New Testa- ment in my blood, which is shed for you, for the remission of sins." 409. Are we able to comprehend this mysterioui union ? No ! for our reason is not able to grasp heavenly things ; but faith abides by the words of Christ. 410. But how do we become partakers of the body and blood of Christ by eating and drinking? Not by a carnal eating, for the natural nourishment oi the body, yet in such a way that with the mouth we receive and partake of, not merely bread and wine, but also the body 'and the blood of the Lord, for the spiritual nourishment of our inner man, with which Christ unites himself through this food. 411. Why does Christ, in the words of institution, speak of a "new testament?" To distinguish it from the Old Testament, or Covenant, which God established through the blood of sacrificial animals. (Exod. 24 : 8). 412. What is the blood of the new covenant ? The blood of Jesus Christ, because it " is shed for us, for the remission of sins." 1 John 1 : 7. The blood of Jesus Christ, his Son, cleanseth us from all sin. 413. What are we taught by the words: "this do, in remembrance of me ? " 1. That we should frequently celebrate this holy sacrament, and by no means withdraw ourselves from partaking of it. 2. That both the ministers of the word of God juad the people should ever observe it in strict acc ord- ance with Christ's institution. (Consecration and Celebration). 124 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. 3. That, whenever we celebrate the Lord's Suppei, we should remember the love and atoning death of our Saviour, and render praise and thanksgiving unto him for the same. 1 Cor. 11 : 26. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he come. II. "What benefits are derived from such eating and drinking ? They are pointed out in those words of the institution, " given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins, ,, namely: through these words, the remission of sins, life, and salvation are granted unto us in the sacra- ment. For where there is remission of sins, there life and salvation are also. 414. What blessings are here mentioned as the benefits derived from this sacrament ? u Remission of sins, life, and salvation" 415. Why does Luther add life and salvation to the "remission of sins?" As sin brings death and damnation, the forgive- ness of sins must bring life and salvation. Rom. 6 : 22, 23. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death ; but the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 416. What assurance have we that these benefits are given to us in this sacrament? The words of the Lord: " given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins" are a seal to every communicant, that in this holy sacrament he re- receives, with the body and blood of the Lord, the remissiof of sins. THE SACRAMENT OF THE ALTAR. 12* 417. But have we not already received this precioui gift in our baptism ? Yes! but a troubled conscience longs for a re- newed assurance of the same, and this is soleainly given in the Lord's Supper. III. How can the bodily eating and drinking producf such great effects ? The eating and the drinking, indeed, do not produce them ; but the words which stand here, namely: " given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins ; r 9 which words, besides the bodily eating and drinking, are the chief things in the sacrament : and he who believes these words, has that which they declare, namely, the remission of sins. 418. On what must we not rely in order to receive the blessings of this sacrament ? On the outward reception of it, wherefore Luther says : " the eating and the drinking, indeed, do not produce them." 419. On what does the reception of these blessings depend ? On . the faith of the communicant, by which he applies to himself the words of the Lord in such a way as if Christ were saying to him : " This is my body, which is given for thee, this is my blood, which is shed for thee." 420. But how is it with him who approaches the Lord's table in unbelief f He also receives the body and blood of Christ, uot however for the remission of sins, but " eatetb Rud drinketh damnation to himself." 11* 126 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. 421. What is meant by this? He is not delivered from his sins, but becomes " guilty of the body and blood of the Lord," as one who has profaned his holy body. 1 Cor. 11 : 27. Wherefore, whosoever shall eat this breai, ftnd drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. Who is it that receives this sacrament worthily ? Fasting and bodily preparation are indeed a good external discipline ; but lie is truly worthy and well-prepared, who believes these words : " given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins. ,, But he who does not believe these words, or who doubts, is unworthy and unfit, because the words "for you " require truly believing hearts. 422. What are we taught by this last part of the article on the Lord's Supper ? That the Lord's Supper may be received worthily oi unworthily. 423. What is necessary in order that it may be re- ceived worthily f There should be a suitable internal and external preparation for the reception of such a holy and ^24. What external discipline or preparation is men- tioned by the Catechism ? " Fasting and other bodily preparation." (By outward propriety in word and demeanor, and by abstaining from enjoyments proper at other times iwid distracting worldly engagements.) 425. Is such "good external discipline " sufficient 1 IV. THE SACRAMENT OF THE ALTAR. 127 No ! For one might do all this, and yet te un prepared inwardly. 426. Who "is truli/ worthy and well-prepared" to receive this sacrament? He who believes these words : " given, and shed for you, for the remission of sins." 427. What must you do, in order to ascertain whether you have this faith ? 1 must, according to the word of God, earnestly examine myself, whether I possess those character- istics without which my faith would not be a proper faith. 2 Cor. 13 : 5. Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith ; prove your own selves. 1 Cor. 11 : 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 428. Mention these characteristics? Repentance on account of my sins, confidence in God's gracious promise, and new obedience. 429. What is meant by self-examination? We examine ourselves when we search our own heart and conscience, and diligently inquire into our repentance, faith, and new obedience. 430. How do we inquire into our repentance ? When we search ourselves, whether we seriously perceive and acknowledge our sins, confess them before God, regard them with sincere penitence f abhor them, and mourn on account of them. 43 L How do we inquire into our faith f When in our hearts we carefully search whether we know Jesus Christ aright, depend solely c n his merits and grace, and, in particular, entertain right •entiments respecting the Lord's Supper. 432. How dD we inquire into our new obedience f 128 EXPLANATION OF THE CATECHISM. When we closely investigate whether it is oui 3erious purpose henceforward to hate and avoid sin, to live, on the contrary, in a manner well-pleasing to Grod and to our neighbor. 433. What exercises will greatly aid you in this work of self-examination f 1. The devout contemplation of the bitter suffer ings and death of our Lord J esus Christ, for the sake of my sins I 2. Earnest prayer for the enlightening influence* of the Holy Spirit 3. The conscientious use of the means and op- portunities of self-examination provided for me, by the Church, in her preparatory service. {Con- fession and Absolution.} 434. In what does this preparatory service consist? In this, that all those who intend to appear at the Lord's table, after being exhorted from the word of God, acknowledge their sinfulness, confess the same before God, and receive the comforting decla- ration of the forgiveness of sin (absolution) from the lips of the minister of the word, " as of God himself. 435. In what frame of mind should you approach the table of the Lord ? . With a humble and penitent heart, devoutly and implicitly trusting in the grace bestowed upon me ; then shall I also be able to go away with » blessed, thankful and obedient heart. 436. But who "is unworthy and unfit?" " He who does not believe these words, or who doubts," — " because the words c for yc u ' require truly believing hearts." THE SACRAMENT <3F THE ALTAR, 129 437. What is to be said to Mm " who does not be lieve?" That our Lord J esus Christ has not instituted his Supper for unbelievers. 438. What is to be said to him "who doubts?" That he should carefully examine himself whether lie doubts wilfully and wickedly, having delight in doubting, or whether he doubts from infirmity, and is filled with sorrow on account of his weak faith. Let the former stay away, and the latter approach ! 439. But what is to be said of the openly wicked ? They are not to be admitted to the LordV, Sup- per unless they have first given satisfactory evidence of repentance. 440. What is to be said to hypocrites? That God knows them, and will most assuredly punish them for the profanation of this sacrament. 441. What do the Holy Scriptures say of all who eat and drink unworthily ? 1 Cor. 11 : 29. For he that eateth and drinketh unwor- thily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discern- ing the Lord's body. 442. But what does the same word of God say to all who long to have peace with God ? Luke 14 : 17. Come • for all things are now ready. Matt. 11 : 28. Come unto me, all ye that labor and ARE HEAVY LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST. John 6 : 37. Him that cometh to me I will in no wish cast out. Rev. 3 : 20. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: IF ANY MAN HEAR MY VOICE, AND OPEN THE DOOR, I WILL COME IN TO HIM, AND WILL SUP WITH HIM, AND HE WITH ME. Rev. 19 : 9. Blessed are they which are cailed unto PHE MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE LAMB. Amen. APPENDIX. THE CHRISTIAN CnURCH-YEAR. The Christian church-year (or ecclesiastical year) begins with the fourth Sunday before Christmas, or the first Sunday in the season of Advent The season of Advent includes the four Sundays imme- diately preceding Christmas, and m the period of preparation for the festival of the Redeemer's birth — or Christmas — which is always cc tebrated on the 25th of December. Eight days after Christmas comes the festival of the circumcision of Christ, on the first day of the civil year (Neio-y ear's day). On the 6th of January is the festival of Epiphany, which, in the .Roman Catholic Church, is called the festival of the three kings. This is the festival of the conversion of the heathen, and is founded upon the adoration of the wise men from the east, as the first-fruits of the heathen world. (Matt. 2 : 1-12.) This is followed by 2-6 Sundays after Epiphany, according as Easter comes early or late. The ninth Sunday before Easter is called Sep- tuagesima (in round numbers, the seventieth, but really the 64th day before Easter) ; the eighth Sunday before Easter is called Sexagesima, the 60th day before Easter; the seventh, Quinqua- gesima, or the 50th day before Easter, or Esto Mihi (so called from the beginning of the old church-liturgy, which is taken from Ps. 71 : 3, and is as follows: " Be thou my strong habitation!"), ftfid also the Sunday before Lent, The following (130) THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH-YEAR 131 Tuesday is Shrove Tuesday, because on the evening of this day, in the ancient church, the forty days' fast (Lent), or Quadragesimal fast (they did not fast on Sundays) began. The next day is Ash Wednesday. After this come six Sundays in Lent, which are named after the Latin opening words, or the contents, of the old Sunday Scripture lesson : 1. Invocavit (Ps. 91 : 15, He shall call upon me), also called Quadragesima, and the first Sunday in Lent. 2. Reminiscere (from Ps. 25 : 6, " llemember, 0 Lord, thy tender mercies !"), or the second Sunday in Lent. 3. Oculi (Ps. 25 : 15, " Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord"), or the third Sunday in Lent. 4. Lsetare (Tsa. 66 : 10 : " Rejoice ye with Jeru- salem, and be glad with her"), or the fourth Sunday in Lent. 5. Judica (Ps. 43 : 1, " Judge me, 0 God"), the fifth Sunday. 6. Pahnarum {Palm Sunday), from the contents of the gospel lesson, Matt. 21 : 8, the sixth Sunday in Lent. The six weeks preceding Easter are called the season of Lent, and are devoted to the consideration of the sufferings of the Redeemer. Palm Sunday is the first day of Passion-week, which is the last week of Lent. In this week come Maundy Thursday, observed in commemoration of the institution of the Lord's Supper, and the Sa- viour's agony in Gethsemane; and 'Good Friday, the day on which the death of the Lord on the cross is commemorated. The Sunday after Good Friday is the festival of Easier, which is commemorative of the Saviour's resurrection. Easter is a moveable festival, and is always the first Sunday after the Full Moon, which APPENDIX. happens upon, or next after the twenty-first day of March (the vernal equinox). The first Sunday after Easter is called Quasimo* dogeniti, from 1 Pet. 2 : 2, "As new-horn babes, de- sire the sincere milk of the word;" the second, Misericordias Domini, from Ps. 89 : 1, "I will sing of the mercies of the Lord ; " the third, Jubilate, from Ps. 66 : 1, "Make a joy fid noise unto God, all ye lands;" the fourth, Cantate, from Ps. 98 : 1, " 0 sing unto the Lord a new song;" the fifth, Rogate, from Matt. 7:7, Ask, and it shall be given you." The Thursday after Rogate is the festival of the Ascension, which occurs forty days after Easter. The following Sunday, the sixth after Easter, ia called Exaudi, from Ps. 27 : 7, "Hear, 0 Lord, when I cry with my voice/ On the succeeding Sunday the Church celebrates Whitsunday (Whitsuntide), fifty days after Easter, as the festival of the outpouring of the Holy Ghost, or of the establishment of the Christian Church. The Sunday after Whitsunday is called Trinity Sunday. It is devoted to the solemn consideration of the revelation of God as Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. All the succeeding Sundays (from 23-27) to the first Sunday in Advent, are called Sundays after Trinity. The Church-year may be divided into two parts ; that in which the Church-festivals occur, and that in which there are no festivals. Trinity Sunday forms the dividing line between these two parts. The first half (the historical part) of the Church- year is to be devoted specially to the consideration of the Saviour's life and atoning work ; during the other half (or the doctrinal part), the consideration of Christian life in the congregation is to form the subject of g moral edification, instruction, and ex- ercise. THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH-VEAfc 133 The Church, many ages ago, selected Ibwu portions of Holy Scripture (called Pericopes, or goapels and epistles), one from the Gospels, and the oiner from the Epistles, for every Sunday and festival of the Church-year. The festivals are divided into moveable and im- moveable. The former always occur on the same day of the week, but not on the same day of the year. This is the case with the festival of Easter and all that depend upon it. The immoveable festi- vals always occur on the same day of the year, but on different days of the week. In addition to the principal festivals of the Church, we alsi celebrate the festival of the Reformation, October Slst, and the days of thanksgiving, humiliation, and prayer appointed by the civil authorities. TBS 1HD. Nc. I 3 0112 046493687 JA4 i^Ul Ui UlAtii kJl/1 CiWt, PHILADELPHIA. A General Repository .or Ldiheran Church Publications and Standard Literal h and Offlce of the LUTUrSAH AND MISSIQNABY and the BUS? BEE. PUBLISHES AND OFFERS FOR 8ALfc : THE CHURCH BOOK Fob the isa or Ey angelical Lutheran Congregation > By Authority of the General Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. PRICE LIST. Roan, Arsboaqse J^£*J$ * *0 gilt ed elica Luthfan Church in America. Single copies, 20 c*»nts. I Per hundred, $20.CO