Study Your Catechism

Sunday was confirmation at Epiphany. The six confirmands did very well in the examination between services. They really studied their Bibles and catechisms throughout the two years of confirmation classes so they were prepared for their big day.

But what about the rest of us? Do we still have our catechisms? Do we still read them? Or have we put them up on a shelf since we “graduated” from confirmation class and now we are done with them?

Here are some wonderful quotes from Martin Luther, the author of the Small and Large Catechisms. He speaks of the importance for all of us, youth, adults, parents, pastors, etc., all making regular and constant of use of not only the Scriptures, but also the Catechism which explains the Scriptures.

The author of the Catechism amazingly wrote: “I must remain a child and pupil of the catechism, and am glad to remain so.”

“Catechism study is a most effective help against the devil, the world, the flesh, and all evil thoughts. It helps to be occupied with God’s Word, to speak it, and meditate on it, just as the first Psalm declares people blessed who meditate on God’s Law day and night (Psalm 1:2). Certainly you will not release a stronger incense or other repellant against the devil than to be engaged by God’s commandments and words, and speak, sing, or think them (Colossians 3:16). For this is indeed the true ‘holy water’ and ‘holy sign’ from which the devil runs and by which he may be driven away (James 4:7).”

“St. Paul says in Romans 1:16, it is the ‘power of God.’ Yes indeed, it is the power of God that gives the devil burning pain and strengthens, comforts, and helps us beyond measure.”

“[God] knows our danger and need, as well as the constant and furious assaults and temptations of devils. He wants to warn, equip, and preserve us against them, as with a good armor against their fiery darts (Ephesians 6:10-17) and with good medicine against their evil infection and temptation.”

“Oh, what mad, senseless fools are we! While we must ever live and dwell among such mighty enemies as the devils, we still despise our weapons and defense (2 Corinthians 10:4), and we are too lazy to look at or think of them!”

“They should not stop until they have tested and are sure that they have taught the devil to death, and have become more learned than God Himself and all His saints.”

And my favorite: “Can we finish learning in one hour what God Himself cannot finish teaching?”

- Preface of Luther’s Large Catechism

If you want to get your own Small Catechism, you can purchase one at Northwestern Publishing House for only $1.75. The booklet features: The Ten Commandments; The Creed; The Lord's Prayer; The Sacrament of Holy Baptism; The Use of the Keys and Confession; The Sacrament of Holy Communion; Daily Prayers; and Table of Duties. Papercover. 24 pages. Catalog Item Number: OL-070767

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