While Christians are bombarded with competing messages about the Christian faith, the Heidelberg Catechism speaks clearly. Its teaching on the gospel and Christian life is biblical, accessible, and pastoral. Its three-part structure of guilt (law), grace (gospel), and gratitude (sanctification) is framed by the comfort the Christian has in God alone.
In The Heidelberg Catechism, R. Scott Clark reflects on the catechism’s theology, piety, and practice. This thorough yet accessible guide to the catechism comments on each of its 129 questions. Clark keeps the catechism’s historical and theological context in view while highlighting its ongoing relevance. Clark shows how the catechism enlivens the Reformed Christian.
R. Scott Clark has studied the Heidelberg Catechism for decades and has blessed the church by documenting his labors in this monumental study of one of the Reformed church’s greatest testimonies to the gospel.
—J. V. Fesko, The Harriett Barbour Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, MI
This is a full banquet with all the courses: robust history and doctrine, rich piety and pastoral care, served with profound insight at every turn.
—Zachary Purvis, professor of church history and theology, Edinburgh Theological Seminary
With clarity and depth, Clark unpacks the catechism’s historical roots, theological richness, and enduring pastoral relevance. This book is an invaluable resource for pastors, teachers, seminarians, and church members seeking a deeper understanding of the Reformed faith.
—Ligon Duncan, Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson
Clark’s commentary on the Heidelberg is a generation-defining exploration into one of the Reformation’s most enduring explanations of the Christian faith.
—Harrison Perkins, Oakland Hills Community Church (OPC)
Do not be fooled. This commentary is no mere regurgitation of the catechism but a historical theology and systematic theology in one! With great care, Clark brings his whole career in Reformed theology to bear on each Lord’s Day, so that under each rock we discover a jewel. May Clark’s commentary serve as a ready guide for every church and family looking to Christ as their only comfort.
—Matthew Barrett, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
R. Scott Clark is professor of church history and historical theology at Westminster Seminary California and author of Recovering the Reformed Confession: Our Theology, Piety, and Practice.