Reformation Week Devotions #2

No Creed But Christ

Christians have often recited the mantra, "no creed but Christ." The intent of such a statement may be well motivated, but the reality is that a creed, confession or catechism is simply a means of communicating biblical truth. Christians throughout history have recognized the need to clarify their understanding of Scripture, to summarize key doctrines in the face of error and to find ways of communicating the faith to their children. It has often been stated that one of the most effective ways of cultivating a biblical and theological reformation is in training children in the truths of the Christian faith. The usage of catechisms is one tool that many parents have used to train their children to learn the doctrines of the Bible. In using a catechism a parent will call out a question and await a response from their student. Historically, catechisms have been used in the church, the school and in the home. The Reformation has been called the golden age of catechisms and confessions.

Certainly all of these man-made documents must be measured by Scripture to see if they are reliable. The Reformation-era catechisms have stood the test of time and the scrutiny of faithful Bible students. They are helpful in passing the faith onward to future generations. As you use catechisms and confessions of faith make sure that you are clear that the Bible is the authority and the catechism or confession is merely a tool.

Get to know some of the key documents of the Reformation such as: The Belgic Confession (1561), The Heidelberg Catechism (1563) and The Canons of Dordt (1610). These three are often referred to as the "Three Forms of Unity." Even later statements such as the Westminster Confession of Faith (1646), the First (1644) and Second (1689) London Baptist Confessions of Faith all carry with them the smell of the Reformation and are built upon a solid Reformation foundation.

FAMILY ACTIVITY

Survey a variety of catechisms and discuss differences in their teachings. Make a commitment to commit one to memory and introduce a new question every week on a family bulletin board. A family favorite of ours is the Heidelberg Catechism which will be discussed in tomorrow's lesson.

The material above is from the best-selling book, "Family Worship for the Reformation Season" by Ray Rhodes. Leave a comment with email and we will get back with you if you are interested in purchasing this book.