FAQs Mondays an Introduction

Several years ago, I read The Reformed Pastor by Richard Baxter, and it really got me to thinking.  Baxter went from house to house in his church field teaching the families doctrine.  He did this with the help of a catechism.  A catechism is basically a systematic way of teaching biblical doctrine through a series of questions and answers. Around the same time, I discovered Tom Nettles' work, Teaching Truth, Training Hearts, which contained several Baptist catechisms.  These two books have convinced me of the practicality and usefulness of catechisms.

Nettles' book lists three reasons Baptists (among others) should return to use of catechisms in the instruction of new believers (as well as others).  He states that history commends their usefulness, the Bible encourages their use, and  that it is practical.  The early church was noted for being devoted to the "apostles' doctrine."  Paul and other New Testament writers passionately taught the necessity of sound doctrine and its instruction.  A catechism serves as a tool to instruct believers in what the Bible teaches, in a simple question and answer format.

Catechisms can aid devotional times, as well as inform.  As we learn the answers to the questions, it permits the mind to meditate upon these important truths.  Catechisms help believers form clearer understanding of biblical teaching.  They also enable believers to speak the same doctrinal language.  It also enables church members to recognize errant thought and teaching.  A theologically informed congregation will be more apt to spot false teachers.  They will also reap greater benefits from sound preaching, in that they will better understanding.

I have been trying to figure out a way to make use of a catechism in my ministry for years now.  I have also been struggling with writing quality content to post on my blog.  So I have decided to combine the two problems into one solution: FAQs Monday.  For the foreseeable future, I will post articles on questions and answers put forth from an adaptation of the Baptist Catechism.  I look forward to exploring these timeless truths with you.