Customer Reviews

The Heidelberg Catechism: A Study Guide

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I am just about finished with Williamson's study guide to the Heidelberg Catechism and it seems I've learned more from that one book, than the volumes of reformed theology I have sitting on my shelf. Williamson makes it clear, that Christianity is an old old story, and so many times we are looking for the new 'mantra' or 'chant' to break us through to the blessed life. When we realize who we are in Christ, and take advantage of what Christ has given us (the church, the sacraments, prayer, the word, etc) we see that we can live the Christian life without want or worry every 5 minutes.
BUT IT NOW!

G. I. WIlliamson writes in a clear manner with a series of questions at the end of each Lord's Day to spur discussion. His writing is easily understood, 3-4 pages per Lord's Day. While Ursinus is the author of the Catechism, his commentary sometimes lack the applicability that Williamson brings. I am using this book to teach my adult Sunday School class.

I have to preface this by saying that I was not raised Reformed and I've only recently discovered the confessions and catechisms of old. I wish that I had had this as a teenager growing it because so many questions I had then were answered!

The Catechism lays out so many basic tenets of the faith in a way that almost anyone can understand. The study guide commentary is typically useful but as one reviewer said it can be a little too much but it is a study guide format and I still enjoyed it. It helps to have some explanation to the catechism because of its age and older style of language.

Whether you are Reformed in theology or not The Heidelberg Catechism lays out some much complex theology but breaks it down for spiritual digestion without watering it down. This Catechism is a needed tool in a day when theology and doctrine are looked down upon as long you're "sincere" because "God knows your heart."

If you are looking for a GUIDE for the Heidelberg Catechism, this is NOT the book to buy. You should go with the commentary by Ursinus who is one of the authors of the catechsim. The Ursinus book, however, comes with a bit of warning: it is very very comprehensive and difficult to read. The chapter on sin alone exceeds 10 pages (font 7ish).

In the student guild by G.I. Williamson, the author often rambles on and on to make a rather insignificant point. Just borrow the book from a pastor if you wish to skim through the catechism.