When Elector Frederick III commissioned the production of a new catechism for his palatine realm, he could not have imagined the enduring effect it would have on future generations of Christians. In his 1563 Preface, Frederick explains the purpose for compiling the catechism'
'This was done so that in the future not only will young people be instructed in the Christian doctrine in a godly manner and admonished in unanimity, but also so that pastors and schoolteachers themselves have a reliable model and a solid standard.'
The essays gathered here in A Faith Worth teaching: The Heidelberg Catechism's Enduring Heritage examine closely the enduring message of this 'reliable model' and 'solid standard' in celebration of its 450th anniversary.
Part 1 considers the history and background of the Heidelberg Catechism. 'Part 2' argues for the ongoing relevance of the Catechism in the contemporary world, while 'part 3' elaborates on its doctrinal expression and 'part 4' examines its ongoing usefulness as a catechetical tool.
