As Paul shows in Romans 8:31–39, asking good questions can play an important part in the practice of our faith. Questions cause us to be curious and go deeper into the truths of our theology.
There are several well-known catechisms that Christians have used for centuries—the Westminster Shorter Catechism and the Heidelberg Catechism are great examples—and a more contemporary option that has grown popular is the New City Catechism.
The following is an excerpt from the Westminster Shorter Catechism:
Question 1: What is the chief end of man?
Answer: Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.
Question 2: What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him?
Answer: The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.
Question 3: What do the Scriptures principally teach?
A. The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God and what duty God requires of man.
The Westminster Shorter Catechism consists of 107 total questions and answers, which walk people through the major doctrines and beliefs of the Christian faith.
Whether we know it or not, we are all being catechized—discipled—by something all the time. We must consider who or what is discipling us, and what kind of person is it forming us to be. With Christian catechism, we can be sure that we’re being discipled in the faith and formed into the image of Christ. Consider today how you might integrate the New City Catechism (or some other option) into your regular routine. Whether you use a formal catechism or not, how could you be intentional about asking and answering thoughtful questions as a discipleship practice?
