The question is often asked. What is catechism? Well let’s start with the term itself. The actual term “catechism” is one that may well bring up images for some of a weird, and some would offer outdated form of teaching or method of instruction. I would have to readily agree that there is a rich history when we speak of this idea of catechizing so yes it is old in design. But old does not mean ineffective. I love what one author says, “catechizing has been a time-honored and effective practice throughout Protestant as well as church history.” Now, there are some a ton of great reasons to reconsider using a catechism in teaching your children, both at home, church, family devotion. But let’s make a quick case for it use and consider little history and a simple explanation of what a catechism is and what it is suppose to do.
So I would say the most convincing component for me (a part from having a ton of kids) is the word Catechism itself. The term comes from a Greek word used in the Holy Bible, katacheo, that simply means “instructed” (Luke 1:4). Catechism is a question and answer method of instruction in basic Christian doctrines; it creates a solid framework for personal interaction with the Scriptures. The series of questions and answers develops a fundamental understanding of God, sin, salvation, prayer, the Bible, the church, and heaven and hell; each answer in the catechism is supported by Scripture references.
The great reformer Martin Luther of the Protestant Reformation dealt with the terrible ignorance of Scripture and doctrine in his day and catechizing became a sure method for drawing closer to not only the knowledge of God but the love of God. Pastor Charles Spurgeon ‘urged and promoted’ the use of catechisms, saying that “if we could revive, more and more, the use of a good catechism…we should be doing a world of good. The way to secure the masses would be to secure them when young.”
HERE IS THE A, B, C OF CATECHIZING OUR CHILDREN…
A) A catechism encourages the unity of essential beliefs among God’s children. Many people want to know what constitutes a true Christian essential teaching. What are the primary teachings of the Christian faith? Catechical instruction can help promote unity among Christians by helping establish the fundamentals of the faith.
B) Catechism promotes a faster, deeper understanding as verses are tied to appropriate questions. Children are helped to tie verses to meaning through the use of questions and answers. Children begin to understand the usefulness of God’s Word as they see how clearly it answers important questions.
C) Catechism stimulates and motivates learning, because most children, especially younger ones, love to answer questions. Questions are a teacher’s most useful ally, because through them one gains access to precious minds. As Jesus showed, questions are invaluable when teaching truth!
Click to see the CATECHISM FOR YOUNG CHILDREN