Our Confessional Standards

The original text of 1646, from the manuscript of Cornelius Burges, Assessor to the Westminster Assembly, with the Assembly’s proof texts, as published in the modern critical edition of 1937 by S. W. Carruthers.

The Westminster Larger Catechism was intended "to be a directory for catechising such as have made some proficiency in the knowledge of the grounds of religion with the proofs from the scripture". A step up in terms of depth and breadth as regards theology, but also contains very helpful pastoral advice.

Study the Full Document Here

A catechism is an old teaching tool, using a question and answer format, to instill into the mind and heart, the truths of God and the Gospel. This Westminster Shorter Catechism was produced by the Westminster Divines (Theologians) during the Westminster Assembly (1643-1653). It consists of 107 questions, carefully posed and just as carefully and exactly answered, with Scripture proofs to undergird the doctrines taught. It was originally intended for children and the unlearned, but has proved itself to be valuable to a wider audience.

The original text of 1647, with the Assembly’s proof texts.

Short Study Guide on the Shorter Catechism

Excerpts from William Symington, “Historical Sketch of the Westminster Assembly of Divines,” in Commemoration of the Bicentenary of the Westminster Assembly of Divines, by the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Scotland, Glasgow, 1843.

 

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