As the next generation grows and matures, they will no doubt bump up against the “catechisms” of the world: Q. Who should you live for? A. I should be true to myself. Q. What is the meaning of life? A. To be happy. How can we help people develop a biblical worldview—the worldview of Jesus? Shorter Catechism provides a deep roadmap into the Kingdom vision of the Bible.

Shorter Catechism is an excellent tool that has been used for centuries. Luke begins his Gospel, “It seemed good to me … to write an orderly account … that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.” That last phrase is a translation of a single Greek word from which we get our English word for catechize. Luke’s reader, a new Christian, was first taught—or catechized—by others. He then tested and confirmed his catechism by studying the inspired Scripture.

Consider this illustration: The catechism is to the Bible what a map is to the surface of the earth. But why bother with maps? Why not rather go and study the earth for ourselves? The answer, of course, is that one is wise to begin with maps because many people, over many years, have made a study of the earth’s surface. And while maps are not perfect, they are much more complete and accurate than if each of us tried to make our own. It is like that with our understanding of the Scriptures. The catechism is a spiritual map of the Bible—worked out and proved by others who have gone before us.

The first question and answer in Shorter Catechism states a profound truth about life: Q. What is the chief end of man? A. Man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever. Through the study of catechism, we can engage with God’s Word together. We are reminded of Jesus, who asked his listeners questions to reveal the innermost depths of their hearts and to see their need for him. By using the framework set out by godly saints now in the “cloud of witnesses,” we can disciple teens and adults into a deeper relationship with our triune God.

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