Heidelberg Catechism. Lord's Day 36

We love this "little Heidelberger" as we do Luther's "Little Catechism." Many German and Dutch children were nourished by his "hearty" and "warm" instruction. It does not have the legal, closely argued, and tight theological definitions of my "Little Catechism," the Westminster Shorter Catechism, but it comes from the same source, the True and Catholic Church. In any event, it is better than anything, catechetically, in the Anglican Books of Common Prayer--too minimalistic. (The photo to the right is the city of Heidelberg, Germany, home to the German Reformed.)

Heidelberg Catechism, Lord’s Day 36
September 6, 2009

Lord’s Day 36

Q. 99. What is required in the third commandment?

A. That we, not only by cursing [a] or perjury, [b] but also by rash swearing, [c] must not profane or abuse the name of God; nor by silence or connivance be partakers of these horrible sins in others; [d] and, briefly, that we use the holy name of God no otherwise than with fear and reverence; [e] so that he may be rightly confessed [f] and worshipped by us, [g] and be glorified in all our words and works. [h]

Q. 100. Is then the profaning of God’s name, by swearing and cursing, so heinous a sin, that his wrath is kindled against those who do not endeavour, as much as in them lies, to prevent and forbid such cursing and swearing?

A. It undoubtedly is, [a] for there is no sin greater or more provoking to God, than the profaning of his name; and therefore he has commanded this sin to be punished with death. [b]