In the introduction to his Large Catechism, Martin Luther wrote, “But for myself I say this: I am also a doctor and preacher, yea, as learned and experienced as all those may be who have such presumption and security; yet I do as a child who is being taught the Catechism, and every morning, and whenever I have time, I read and say, word for word, the Ten Commandments, the Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, the Psalms, etc. And I must still read and study daily, and yet I cannot master it as I wish, but must remain a child and pupil of the Catechism, and am glad so to remain.”

What a remarkable statement of humility. Though Martin Luther was the leader of the Reformation, a Doctor of Theology, and a magnificent preacher, he felt it necessary to read and study the Catechism every day— and he was the author!

In a few short days we will begin the Confirmation classes for 2025-2026. But remembering Luther’s words, I began to consider how well do we know our Catechism. Can we recite the Ten Commandments, the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer? Do we remember the answers to “what does this mean?” Can we ask and answer the questions about the Sacraments?

If not, it might be time to look at the Catechism again. Luther did not place such importance upon his Catechisms because he was the author, but because the Catechisms teach what the Bible teaches. The Small Catechism uses the simple question and answer format to present the essential truths. The Large Catechism reads like a series of sermons on each subject, so that it is more robust than the Small Catechism in explaining Scripture as well as applying Scripture to our lives. To study the Catechisms is to study Scripture.

Both Catechisms can be found online with a google search, but here is a web address for each.

• Luther’s Small Catechism:
  https://bookofconcord.org/small-catechism/
  
  
• Luther’s Large Catechism:
  https://bookofconcord.org/large-catechism/

I also have a couple copies of Luther’s Large and Small Catechisms I can loan out.

The church quickly recognized the value of the Catechisms. So much so that they were included in The Book of Concord, the defining documents of our faith. The Small Catechism, in particular, has served as a guide for Christians as they prepare to receive Holy Communion ever since it was first published in 1529.

As Reformation Day approaches, may I encourage you all to take some time to reacquaint yourself with these great gifts which Martin Luther gave to the church.

✝️ Pastor Deming

The full newsletter can be found here:
https://www.faithmoorpark.com/files/pdf/2025/2025-10-Newsletter.pdf