Feb 14
10
If you are paying attention, you’ve probably noticed a theme in the catechism questions that we have been memorizing over the past few weeks. All of the questions are centered upon the means of grace.
Q: What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption?
A: The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption are His ordinances, especially the Word, Baptism, the Lord’s Supper and Prayer; all which are made effectual to the elect for salvation.
Q: What makes the word effective for salvation?
A: The spirit of God causes the reading and especially the preaching of the word to convince and convert sinners and to build them up in holiness and comfort through faith to salvation.
Q: How is the word to be read and heard in order to become effective for salvation?
A: For the word to become effective for salvation, we must pay careful attention to it, prepare ourselves, and pray for understanding. We must also receive it with faith and love, treasure it in our hearts, and practice it in our lives.
Q: How do Baptism and the Lord’s Supper become effectual means of salvation?
A: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper become effectual means of salvation, not from any virtue in them or in him that administers them, but only by the blessing of Christ and the working of His Spirit in them that by faith receive them.
