There still are Reformed Confessional Churches that will preach this at the evening service. And they still require the lads and lasses to memorize it. Most suitable to Anglican (historical) Prayer Book theology.
http://reformed-renegade.blogspot.com/2009/11/lords-day-44-heidelberg-catechism.html
Lord's Day 44
Heidelberg Catechism
Lord's Day 44Scripture Readings: Colossians 2:20-3:17; 1 John 5:1-4
Q. 113.What does the tenth commandment require of us?
A.That even the smallest inclination or thought, contrary to any of God's commandments, never rise in our hearts; but that at all times we hate all sin with our whole heart,and delight in all righteousness.
Q. 114.But can those who are converted to God perfectly keep these commandments?
A. No: but even the holiest men, while in this life, have only a small beginning of this obedience; yet so, that with a sincere resolution they begin to live, not only according to some, but all the commandments of God.
Q. 115.Why will God then have the ten commandments so strictly preached, since no man in this life can keep them?
A.First, that all our lifetime we may learn more and more to know our sinful nature, and thus become the more earnest in seeking the remission of sin,and righteousness in Christ; likewise, that we constantly endeavour and pray to God for the grace of the Holy Spirit, that we may become more and more conformable to the image of God, till we arrive at the perfection proposed to us, in a life to come.
For reflection:
What is different about this commandment from the other nine?
2 comments:
The Lord's Day 44 undercuts Arminianism and all other views placing man at the center of his own salvation and making his own efforts the deciding factor.
Yes, it does do that. It's an excellent catechism. Memory of it should be required for a deacon upon entrance to ministry. It won't happen in America, unless an American leader--with influence--was influenced by the "government of biblical exegesis." Rather, what we see is the "government of go-along-to-get-along-to-all-be-one-in-Jesus," while the unabashed Anglo-Romewardizers grab the levers of power. Or, the "government of Newman, Pusey, and Keble."
Upon continuing to work, e.g. Philpott, am amazed and several simple points. One--allegiance to the biblical text in its unvarnished perspicuity. Second, sheer courage and integrity. "The numbers" game does not "govern biblical exegesis," as was frequently argued by the Papists.
This little catechism is also excellent and Reformed on the Table.
I, for one, am no following these leaders. Can't. Have read too much and know just a little too much to accomodate these "muddling meddlers of mindless mediocrity." Not alliterative exaggeration.
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