Lord’s Day 1
Q2. How many things do you need to know to live and die happily in this comfort?
Three things: First, how great my sin and misery are. Second, how I am saved from all my sin and misery. Third, how I should be thankful to God for saving me.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Luke 24:46–47
“And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.”
1 Corinthians 6:11
“And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
John 9:41
“Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.”
Romans 3:10
“As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one.”
John 17:3
“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”
Acts 4:12
“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”
Acts 10:43
“To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.”
Ephesians 5:8–10
“For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.”
1 Peter 2:9–10
“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What are the three things you need to know to live and die in this comfort?
- 2
Why do you think knowing about your sin comes first, before knowing about being saved?
- 3
Which of these three things is hardest for you to understand right now?
Illustration
When you go to the doctor because you feel sick, the doctor first figures out what is wrong. Then the doctor gives you the medicine. Then you feel grateful and want to stay healthy. The catechism works the same way: it shows you the problem (sin), the cure (Jesus), and the thankful life that follows.
Application
This Lord's Day, as you learn the catechism, try to notice which part you are in: guilt, grace, or gratitude. Ask God to help you understand all three.