6 Benefits of Using a Catechism
While they should not replace the direct study of Scripture, catechisms are tools that support and enhance spiritual formation in Christ,
From the introduction to the New City Catechism:
”Throughout the history of the church, Christians have used catechisms—collections of questions and answers designed for memorization and recitation—to teach others the core doctrines of the faith. The New City Catechism is a modern-day resource aimed at reintroducing this ancient method of teaching to Christians today.”
For years I’ve used the questions found in the New City Catechism as a discussion prompt with my kids. I haven’t always been consistent week-over-week, but there’s usually been a stretch of 3-5 months a year where I try to move through most of the questions in a conversational way. It’s proven to be a simple but deeply instructive practice for all of us!
I didn’t grow up in the church, so I may approach catechism differently than someone who did. For those exposed to a catechism early and often, catechisms can be experienced a series of irrelevant and dry “right answers” that must be memorized for “church homework.” But for someone who didn’t have a foundational grounding in the Christian faith for almost two decades of my life, catechisms became a great way to “catch up” and ensure I’m consistently contending with the core ideas of the Christian faith. While there are many catechisms that have been created, I appreciate the New City Catechism for its compact and minimalist approach.
Here are six ways using a catechism with my kids has helped me strengthen my faith:
Doctrinal Foundation: Catechisms are structured and comprehensive summaries of Christian doctrine (i.e. teaching). They provide a systematic and organized approach to understanding essential beliefs and teachings of the Christian faith. Studying, reflecting upon, and discussion catechism question and answers has helped me develop a stronger doctrinal foundation for my faith.
Education and Instruction: Catechisms are instructional tools designed to teach believers about their faith. The New City Catechism has 52 questions, which offers a question-per-week curriculum covering a wide range of theological topics, including God, creation, sin, salvation, the Church, sacraments, and Christian ethics. Reading, memorizing, and discussion a catechism question per week is a simple way I can teach my children about the Christian faith and build their theological scaffolding at the same time. We often quickly review our “God question” before school drop-off and it’s become a small but significant touchpoint in our day.
Clarity and Precision: Catechisms are often written in a question-and-answer format, which promotes clear and concise explanations of complex theological concepts. They provide straightforward answers to important questions of faith, making it easier for believers to understand and articulate their beliefs with precision. Think of them as the tl;dr version of the Christian faith. This can be especially helpful in conversations with others about the Christian faith. The New City Catechism even includes a “children’s mode” where the answer to each question is further shortened and simplified so that younger children can memorize and engage with it.
Historical and Communal Tradition: Catechisms have a rich history within Christianity, with many catechisms dating back centuries. By utilizing a catechism, Christians benefit from the collective wisdom and insights of faithful believers throughout history. Catechisms serve as a bridge between past and present, challenging me to embrace a global vision for my faith.
Discipleship and Formation: Catechisms provide a structured framework for discipleship and spiritual formation. They offer a systematic approach to learning and applying biblical truths, enabling believers to grow in their faith and understanding over time. Whether someone is new to faith or a seasoned veteran, regular engagement with a catechism can foster deep formation and maturity if its done with a heart to know and love God more faithfully and thoughtfully.
Apologetics and Evangelism: Catechisms equip Christians to articulate and defend their faith. Many catechisms provide concise answers to common questions and objections, helping believers become more confident in defending their faith and sharing it with others. As our culture becomes increasingly post-Christian, catechism can provide clarity and confidence for sharing the Christian faith with others and addressing intellectual and spiritual challenges.
I hope it goes without saying that while catechisms can be beneficial, they cannot and should not replace the direct study of Scripture. Catechisms are tools that support and enhance spiritual formation in Christ, but only when used in conjunction with prayer, Bible reading, personal obedience, and participation in a local church.