Nathan W. Bingham

We'll discover why that historical fact is so important as we continue this series next Saturday here on Renewing Your Mind.

That was part of Sinclair Ferguson's answer when I asked him if he had a favorite question from the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

And he selected a question on justification.

Have you read the Westminster Shorter Catechism or used a catechism before?

That will be our topic today on this special edition of Renewing Your Mind.

Well, I am glad that you're joining us today because just before Ligonier's first ever conference in Southeast Asia earlier this year, I was able to sit down with Sinclair Ferguson, the vice chairman of Ligonier Ministries and one of our teaching fellows, to help introduce us to both the brilliance and the beauty of the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

Why?

Because this year we have published a newly typeset and designed edition of this enduring catechism.

It remains a valuable tool for every generation.

And if you'd like a copy, we'll send you one when you donate before midnight tonight at renewingyourmind.org.

Well, here's that conversation with Sinclair Ferguson that was recorded in Malaysia.

Well, Dr. Ferguson, we're here in Malaysia, and our conference is about to get underway, so I'm grateful that you're able to dedicate some time to talk about the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

And I just wanted to begin by asking, what is the Westminster Shorter Catechism?

Because I imagine that many of our listeners, when they hear that, they may be unfamiliar, or if they hear catechism, they might think of something childish, a Q&A format.

but not really understand how it's being used in the church.

So could you explain to our listeners what is a catechism, firstly, and the significance of the Westminster Shorter Catechism?

You mentioned the first question, which the first question and answer is perhaps the most well-known.

What is the chief end of man?

Why did they begin there?

Many people think of a catechism as a tool for children, but can catechisms be used even for lifelong discipleship?