On each Lord’s Day this year, we will display the 52 devotionals taken from the Heidelberg Catechism which are structured in the form of questions posed and answers given.
The Heidelberg Catechism was originally written in 1563. It originated in one of the few pockets of Calvinistic faith in the Lutheran and Catholic territories of Germany. Conceived originally as a teaching instrument to promote religious unity, the catechism soon became a guide for preaching as well.
Along with the Belgic Confession and the Canons of Dordt, it forms what is collectively referred to as the Three Forms of Unity.
The devotional for LORD’S DAY 11 is as follows. Please take note of the biblical references given in each answer. The theme for the next several weeks concerns the subject of God the Son.
Q. Why is the Son of God called “Jesus,” meaning “savior”?
A. Because he saves us from our sins,1 and because salvation should not be sought
and cannot be found in anyone else.2
1 Matt. 1:21; Heb. 7:25.
2 Isa. 43:11; John 15:5; Acts 4:11-12; 1 Tim. 2:5.
Q. Do those who look for their salvation in saints, in themselves, or elsewhere. really believe in the only savior Jesus?
A. No! Although they boast of being his, by their actions they deny the only savior, Jesus.1
Either Jesus is not a perfect savior, or those who in true faith accept this savior have in him all they need for their salvation.2
1 1 Cor. 1:12-13; Gal. 5:4.
2 Col. 1:19-20; 2:10; 1 John 1:7.
May truth and grace reside here.
Soli deo Gloria!
