24 March 2012

Book Review: The Good News We Almost Forgot

I began reading The Good News We Almost Forgot: Rediscovering the Gospel in a 16th Century Catechism by Kevin DeYoung (2010) about a year ago.  In this book, Kevin DeYoung walks readers through the Heidelberg Catechism, which is used by the Reformed tradition.  DeYoung divides the book into 52 chapters, appropriate for 1 year, just as the original catechism was arranged. 

If I remember correctly, we used this catechism for Bible Class when I was young.  I dreaded Wednesday nights and usually spent my time screwing around, not paying attention to what we were learning. I would memorize what I was supposed to memorize, but would quickly forget it.  Much like other topics (e.g., history), I find that as an adult, I have a much deeper appreciation. 

Catechisms provide a systematic way of learning and remembering what the Bible says.  There are some wonderful catechisms available, the Heidelberg among them.  Kevin DeYoung does a very commendable job of clarifying the catechism and contextualizing it for modern Christians.  He points out that it is largely a commentary on 3 things: the Apostle's creed, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord's prayer, each things we should no better.  I have no doubt that neither my children nor my wife know the Apostle's Creed, but I think it would be wise for us to learn it together. 

The Creed:

I believe in God, the Father Almighty,
    the Maker of heaven and earth,
    and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord:
Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost,
    born of the virgin Mary,
    suffered under Pontius Pilate,
    was crucified, dead, and buried;
He descended into hell.
The third day He arose again from the dead;
He ascended into heaven,
    and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty;
    from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Ghost;
    the holy catholic church;
    the communion of saints;
    the forgiveness of sins;
    the resurrection of the body;
    and the life everlasting.
Amen.

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