KategismusCatechism

Inleiding tot die Heidelbergse Kategismus

Die Heidelbergse Kategismus is in 1563 in Heidelberg, Duitsland, saamgestel op versoek van keurvors Frederik III van die Palts. Die doel was om ‘n helder, Bybelgefundeerde uiteensetting van die Christelike geloof te bied wat eenheid en onderrig in sy land kon bevorder. Dit het gou oor grense heen bekend geword en is sedertdien in talle tale vertaal en in kerke regoor die wêreld gebruik.

Die Kategismus is gestruktureer in 129 vrae en antwoorde, verdeel in 52 Sondagsafdelings om weeklikse behandeling deur die jaar moontlik te maak. Dit kombineer leerstellige diepte met ‘n pastorale en persoonlike toon, en beklemtoon hoe Bybelse leer nie net ‘n saak van verstand is nie, maar van troos, vertroue en lewende geloof in Jesus Christus.

Hoofindeling

  1. Ons Ellende (Sondag 2–4) Hier leer ons uit die wet van God ons sonde en ellende ken, en ons behoefte aan verlossing.

  2. Ons Verlossing (Sondag 5–31) Hierdie gedeelte ontvou die evangelie van Jesus Christus: sy persoon, sy werk, en hoe ons deur die geloof alleen aan Hom deel kry. Dit sluit die Apostoliese Geloofsbelydenis, die sakramente, en die sleutels van die koninkryk in.

  3. Ons Dankbaarheid (Sondag 32–52) Hier word geleer hoe gelowiges as verloste mense leef — in gehoorsaamheid aan God se wet en in volhardende gebed. Die Tien Gebooie en die Ons Vader word vers vir vers verklaar.

Kenmerke

  • Skrifgefundeerd – Elke antwoord is deurdrenk met Bybelse verwysings wat die leer steun en verduidelik.
  • Persoonlik – Die vrae en antwoorde gebruik dikwels die ek-vorm, wat die belydenis van geloof ‘n persoonlike aangeleentheid maak.
  • Pastoraal – Die toon is troostend en bemoedigend, bedoel om gelowiges te versterk in geloof en lewe.
  • Didakties – Die vraag-en-antwoord-vorm help met memorisering en sistematiese onderrig.

Doel en Gebruik

Die Heidelbergse Kategismus is nie bloot ‘n historiese dokument nie, maar ‘n lewende hulpmiddel vir geloofsvorming. Dit word gebruik in:

  • Kerkonderrig – vir kategese van jongmense en nuwe gelowiges.
  • Prediking – as preekrooster in kerke wat deur die jaar die Sondagsafdelings behandel.
  • Persoonlike en gesinsbybelstudie – vir weeklikse besinning en gesprek.
  • Troos in geloof – om gelowiges te herinner aan die vaste sekerheid van ons verlossing in Christus.

Met hierdie Kategismus word ons, eeue na sy ontstaan, steeds ingenooi om saam te bely met Vraag 1:

“Wat is jou enigste troos in lewe en in sterwe?” “Dat ek met liggaam en siel, in lewe en in sterwe, nie aan myself nie, maar aan my getroue Verlosser Jesus Christus behoort…”

Introduction to the Heidelberg Catechism

The Heidelberg Catechism was composed in 1563 in Heidelberg, Germany, at the request of Elector Frederick III of the Palatinate. Its purpose was to provide a clear, Bible-based exposition of the Christian faith that could promote unity and instruction in his territory. It quickly became known beyond its borders and has since been translated into many languages and used in churches around the world.

The Catechism is structured in 129 questions and answers, divided into 52 Lord’s Day sections to allow for weekly treatment throughout the year. It combines doctrinal depth with a pastoral and personal tone, emphasising how biblical teaching is not merely a matter of intellect, but of comfort, trust, and living faith in Jesus Christ.

Main Divisions

  1. Our Misery (Lord’s Day 2–4) Here we learn from the law of God to know our sin and misery, and our need for redemption.

  2. Our Deliverance (Lord’s Day 5–31) This section unfolds the gospel of Jesus Christ: his person, his work, and how we share in him through faith alone. It includes the Apostles’ Creed, the sacraments, and the keys of the kingdom.

  3. Our Gratitude (Lord’s Day 32–52) Here we learn how believers live as redeemed people — in obedience to God’s law and in persevering prayer. The Ten Commandments and the Lord’s Prayer are explained verse by verse.

Characteristics

  • Scripture-based – Every answer is saturated with biblical references that support and explain the teaching.
  • Personal – The questions and answers often use the first person, making the confession of faith a personal matter.
  • Pastoral – The tone is comforting and encouraging, intended to strengthen believers in faith and life.
  • Didactic – The question-and-answer format aids memorisation and systematic instruction.

Purpose and Use

The Heidelberg Catechism is not merely a historical document, but a living tool for faith formation. It is used in:

  • Church instruction – for catechesis of young people and new believers.
  • Preaching – as a preaching schedule in churches that treat the Lord’s Day sections throughout the year.
  • Personal and family Bible study – for weekly reflection and discussion.
  • Comfort in faith – to remind believers of the firm assurance of our redemption in Christ.

With this Catechism, centuries after its origin, we are still invited to confess together with Question 1:

“What is your only comfort in life and in death?” “That I, with body and soul, both in life and in death, am not my own, but belong to my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ…”

Sondag 1Lord's Day 1

Sondag 1

Vraag 1: Wat is jou enigste troos in lewe en in sterwe? Antwoord: Dat ek met liggaam en siel, in lewe en in sterwe, nie aan myself nie, maar aan my getroue Saligmaker, Jesus Christus, behoort¹. Hy het met sy kosbare bloed vir al my sondes volkome betaal² en my uit alle heerskappy van die duiwel verlos³ en so bewaar Hy my, dat sonder die wil van my hemelse Vader nie een haar van my hoof kan val nie⁴, ja, dat alle dinge tot my saligheid moet meewerk⁵. Daarom maak Hy my ook deur sy Heilige Gees van die ewige lewe seker⁶ en Hy maak my van harte gewillig en bereid om voortaan vir Hom te lewe⁷.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 14:7-9; 1 Korintiërs 6:19-20 2: 1 Petrus 1:18-19 3: 1 Johannes 3:8; Johannes 8:34-36 4: Matteus 10:29-31; Lukas 21:18 5: Romeine 8:28 6: 2 Korintiërs 1:21-22; Romeine 8:16-17 7: Romeine 12:1; Lukas 1:74-75

Vraag 2: Hoeveel dinge moet jy weet om in hierdie troos salig te kan lewe en sterwe? Antwoord: Drie:

  1. Eerstens, hoe groot my sonde en ellende is¹;
  2. Tweedens, hoe ek van al my sondes en ellende verlos word²;
  3. Derdens, hoe ek God vir so ‘n verlossing dankbaar moet wees³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 3:9-10; Romeine 7:24 2: Johannes 17:3; Romeine 6:23 3: Efesiërs 5:8-10; Romeine 6:1-2

Lord’s Day 1

Question 1: What is your only comfort in life and in death? Answer: That I, with body and soul, both in life and in death, am not my own, but belong to my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ¹. He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood², and has set me free from all the power of the devil³. He also preserves me in such a way that without the will of my heavenly Father not a hair can fall from my head⁴; indeed, all things must work together for my salvation⁵. Therefore, by his Holy Spirit he also assures me of eternal life⁶ and makes me heartily willing and ready from now on to live for him⁷.

Scripture references: 1: Romans 14:7-9; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 2: 1 Peter 1:18-19 3: 1 John 3:8; John 8:34-36 4: Matthew 10:29-31; Luke 21:18 5: Romans 8:28 6: 2 Corinthians 1:21-22; Romans 8:16-17 7: Romans 12:1; Luke 1:74-75

Question 2: How many things must you know to live and die in the blessedness of this comfort? Answer: Three:

  1. First, how great my sin and misery are¹;
  2. Second, how I am delivered from all my sins and misery²;
  3. Third, how I am to be thankful to God for such deliverance³.

Scripture references: 1: Romans 3:9-10; Romans 7:24 2: John 17:3; Romans 6:23 3: Ephesians 5:8-10; Romans 6:1-2

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Sondag 2Lord's Day 2

Sondag 2

Vraag 3: Waaruit ken jy jou ellende? Antwoord: Uit die wet van God¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 3:20; 7:7

Vraag 4: Wat eis die wet van God van ons? Antwoord: Dit leer ons Christus in ‘n opsomming: “Jy moet die Here jou God liefhê met jou hele hart en met jou hele siel en met jou hele verstand en met al jou krag¹. Dit is die eerste gebod. En die tweede, wat hiermee gelykstaan, is: Jy moet jou naaste liefhê soos jouself².”

Skrifverwysings: 1: Deuteronomium 6:5; Matteus 22:37-40 2: Levitikus 19:18

Vraag 5: Kan jy dit alles ten volle hou? Antwoord: Nee¹, want ek is van nature geneig om God en my naaste te haat².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 3:10, 23; 1 Johannes 1:8, 10 2: Romeine 8:7; Efesiërs 2:3

Lord’s Day 2

Question 3: From where do you know your misery? Answer: From the law of God¹.

Scripture references: 1: Romans 3:20; 7:7

Question 4: What does the law of God require of us? Answer: Christ teaches us this in summary: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength¹. This is the first commandment. And the second, which is like it, is: You shall love your neighbour as yourself².”

Scripture references: 1: Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37-40 2: Leviticus 19:18

Question 5: Can you keep all this perfectly? Answer: No¹, for I am by nature inclined to hate God and my neighbour².

Scripture references: 1: Romans 3:10, 23; 1 John 1:8, 10 2: Romans 8:7; Ephesians 2:3

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Sondag 3Lord's Day 3

Sondag 3

Vraag 6: Het God die mens dan so boos en verkeerd geskape? Antwoord: Nee, God het die mens goed en na sy ewebeeld geskape¹, dit is in ware geregtigheid en heiligheid, sodat hy God sy Skepper reg sou ken², Hom van harte sou liefhê en saam met Hom in die ewige saligheid sou lewe om Hom te prys en te eer³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Genesis 1:31 2: Genesis 1:26-27; Kolossense 3:10; Efesiërs 4:24 3: 2 Korintiërs 3:18

Vraag 7: Waar kom hierdie verdorwe natuur van die mens dan vandaan? Antwoord: Uit die geval en die ongehoorsaamheid van ons eerste ouers, Adam en Eva, in die paradys¹. Daar het ons natuur so verdorwe geraak dat ons almal in sonde ontvang en gebore word².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Genesis 3:6; Romeine 5:12, 18-19 2: Psalm 51:7; Johannes 3:6

Vraag 8: Maar is ons so verdorwe dat ons heeltemal onbekwaam is tot enige goeie en geneig is tot alle kwaad? Antwoord: Ja¹, behalwe as ons deur die Gees van God wedergebore word².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Genesis 6:5; Job 14:4; Jesaja 53:6 2: Johannes 3:3-5

Lord’s Day 3

Question 6: Did God, then, create man so wicked and perverse? Answer: No, God created man good and in his own image¹, that is, in true righteousness and holiness, so that he might rightly know God his Creator², love him with all his heart, and live with him in eternal blessedness to praise and glorify him³.

Scripture references: 1: Genesis 1:31 2: Genesis 1:26-27; Colossians 3:10; Ephesians 4:24 3: 2 Corinthians 3:18

Question 7: From where, then, does this corrupt nature of man come? Answer: From the fall and disobedience of our first parents, Adam and Eve, in Paradise¹. There our nature became so corrupt that we are all conceived and born in sin².

Scripture references: 1: Genesis 3:6; Romans 5:12, 18-19 2: Psalm 51:5; John 3:6

Question 8: But are we so corrupt that we are wholly incapable of any good and inclined to all evil? Answer: Yes¹, unless we are regenerated by the Spirit of God².

Scripture references: 1: Genesis 6:5; Job 14:4; Isaiah 53:6 2: John 3:3-5

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Sondag 4Lord's Day 4

Sondag 4

Vraag 9: Doen God dan die mens nie onreg aan deur in sy wet van hom te eis wat hy nie kan doen nie? Antwoord: Nee¹, want God het die mens so geskape dat hy dit kon doen², maar die mens het homself en al sy nageslag deur die aanhitsing van die duiwel³ en deur opsetlike ongehoorsaamheid van hierdie gawes beroof⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Efesiërs 4:24 2: Prediker 7:29 3: Genesis 3:4-5 4: Romeine 5:12

Vraag 10: Wil God hierdie ongehoorsaamheid en afval ongestraf laat bly? Antwoord: Beslis nie¹. Inteendeel, Hy is baie toornig oor sowel die aangebore as die werklike sondes en wil dit deur ‘n regverdige oordeel tydelik en ewig straf², soos Hy gesê het: “Vervloek is elkeen wat nie bly in alles wat geskryf is in die boek van die wet, om dit te doen nie.”³

Skrifverwysings: 1: Hebreërs 9:27 2: Romeine 1:18; Deuteronomium 27:26 3: Galasiërs 3:10

Vraag 11: Is God dan nie ook barmhartig nie? Antwoord: God is wel barmhartig¹, maar Hy is ook regverdig². Daarom vereis sy geregtigheid dat die sonde wat teen die allerhoogste majesteit van God gedoen is, ook met die allerhoogste, dit is die ewige straf aan liggaam en siel gestraf word³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Eksodus 34:6-7 2: Psalm 7:12 3: Matteus 25:46

Lord’s Day 4

Question 9: But does God not do man an injustice by requiring in his law what man cannot do? Answer: No¹, for God so created man that he could do it², but man, at the instigation of the devil³, by wilful disobedience robbed himself and all his descendants of these gifts⁴.

Scripture references: 1: Ephesians 4:24 2: Ecclesiastes 7:29 3: Genesis 3:4-5 4: Romans 5:12

Question 10: Will God allow such disobedience and apostasy to go unpunished? Answer: Certainly not¹. He is terribly displeased with both our original and actual sins and will punish them by a just judgment both temporally and eternally², as he has declared: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the book of the law.”³

Scripture references: 1: Hebrews 9:27 2: Romans 1:18; Deuteronomy 27:26 3: Galatians 3:10

Question 11: But is God not also merciful? Answer: God is indeed merciful¹, but he is also just². His justice requires that sin committed against the most high majesty of God be also punished with the most severe, that is, with eternal punishment of body and soul³.

Scripture references: 1: Exodus 34:6-7 2: Psalm 7:11 3: Matthew 25:46

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Sondag 5Lord's Day 5

Sondag 5

Vraag 12: Aangesien ons volgens die regverdige oordeel van God tydelik en ewig gestraf verdien, hoe kan ons van hierdie straf vrykom en weer in genade kom? Antwoord: God wil hê dat aan sy geregtigheid voldoen word¹. Daarom moet ons aan hierdie geregtigheid óf deur onsself óf deur ‘n ander volkome betaal².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Eksodus 23:7; Romeine 2:1-11 2: Jesaja 53:11; Romeine 8:3-4

Vraag 13: Kan ons self daaraan voldoen? Antwoord: Beslis nie¹. Inteendeel, ons maak ons skuld elke dag groter².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Job 9:2-3; 15:15-16 2: Matteus 6:12; Romeine 2:4-5

Vraag 14: Kan ook ‘n blote skepsel vir ons betaal? Antwoord: Nee¹, want ten eerste wil God nie ‘n ander skepsel straf vir die skuld wat die mens gemaak het nie², en ten tweede kan ook geen blote skepsel die las van die ewige toorn van God teen die sonde dra en ander daaruit verlos nie³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Hebreërs 2:14-18 2: Esegiël 18:4, 20 3: Nahum 1:6

Vraag 15: Watter middelaar en verlosser moet ons dan soek? Antwoord: Een wat ‘n ware en regverdige mens is¹, en tog ook sterker as alle skepsels, dit wil sê wat tegelyk ware God is².

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Korintiërs 15:21-22 2: Jesaja 7:14; Johannes 1:1

Lord’s Day 5

Question 12: Since, according to God’s righteous judgment, we deserve temporal and eternal punishment, how can we escape this punishment and be restored to favour? Answer: God requires that his justice be satisfied¹. Therefore we must make full payment either by ourselves or through another².

Scripture references: 1: Exodus 23:7; Romans 2:1-11 2: Isaiah 53:11; Romans 8:3-4

Question 13: Can we ourselves make this payment? Answer: Certainly not¹. On the contrary, we daily increase our debt².

Scripture references: 1: Job 9:2-3; 15:15-16 2: Matthew 6:12; Romans 2:4-5

Question 14: Can any mere creature pay for us? Answer: No¹. In the first place, God will not punish another creature for the debt which man has incurred². In the second place, no mere creature can sustain the burden of God’s eternal wrath against sin and deliver others from it³.

Scripture references: 1: Hebrews 2:14-18 2: Ezekiel 18:4, 20 3: Nahum 1:6

Question 15: What kind of mediator and deliverer must we then seek? Answer: One who is a true and righteous man¹, and yet more powerful than all creatures; that is, one who is at the same time true God².

Scripture references: 1: 1 Corinthians 15:21-22 2: Isaiah 7:14; John 1:1

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Sondag 6Lord's Day 6

Sondag 6

Vraag 16: Waarom moet Hy ‘n ware en regverdige mens wees? Antwoord: Omdat die geregtigheid van God vereis dat dieselfde menslike natuur wat gesondig het, vir die sonde betaal¹, maar ‘n mens wat self sondaar is, kan nie vir ander betaal nie².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 5:12, 18-19; 1 Korintiërs 15:21 2: Hebreërs 7:26-27; 1 Petrus 3:18

Lord’s Day 6

Question 16: Why must he be a true and righteous man? Answer: Because the justice of God requires that the same human nature which has sinned should pay for sin¹, but a man who is himself a sinner cannot pay for others².

Scripture references: 1: Romans 5:12, 18-19; 1 Corinthians 15:21 2: Hebrews 7:26-27; 1 Peter 3:18

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Sondag 7Lord's Day 7

Sondag 7

Vraag 20: Word al die mense dan deur Christus net so verlos as wat hulle deur Adam verlore gegaan het? Antwoord: Nee¹, net diegene wat Hom deur ‘n ware geloof as hulle Verlosser aanneem².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 7:14; Johannes 3:16, 36 2: Romeine 3:22; Hebreërs 4:2-3

Vraag 21: Wat is ‘n ware geloof? Antwoord: Dit is nie alleen ‘n vasstaande kennis waardeur ek alles vir waar hou wat God in sy Woord aan ons geopenbaar het nie¹, maar ook ‘n vaste vertroue² wat die Heilige Gees deur die evangelie in my hart werk³, dat nie alleen aan ander nie, maar ook aan my vergewing van sondes, ewige geregtigheid en saligheid uit loutere genade, slegs ter wille van die verdienste van Christus, geskenk is⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Jakobus 2:19 2: Hebreërs 11:1-2 3: Johannes 3:5; Matteus 16:17 4: Romeine 1:16-17; Galasiërs 2:20

Vraag 22: Wat moet ‘n Christen glo? Antwoord: Alles wat ons in die evangelie belowe word¹ en wat die artikels van ons algemeen-vasgestelde en ongetwyfelde Christelike geloof ons leer, naamlik:

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 20:31; Matteus 28:20

Vraag 23: Wat is dit? Antwoord: Ek glo in God die Vader, die Almagtige, Skepper van hemel en aarde. En in Jesus Christus, sy eniggebore Seun, ons Here; wat ontvang is van die Heilige Gees, gebore is uit die maagd Maria; wat gely het onder Pontius Pilatus, gekruisig is, gesterf het en begrawe is, en neergedaal het na die hel; op die derde dag weer opgestaan het uit die dood; opgevaar het na die hemel en sit aan die regterhand van God, die almagtige Vader; van waar Hy sal kom om te oordeel die lewendes en die dooies. Ek glo in die Heilige Gees. Ek glo ‘n heilige, algemene, Christelike kerk, die gemeenskap van die heiliges; die vergewing van sondes; die opstanding van die vlees en ‘n ewige lewe. Amen.

Lord’s Day 7

Question 20: Are all men, then, saved through Christ just as they perished through Adam? Answer: No¹. Only those who by true faith are grafted into him and accept all his benefits².

Scripture references: 1: Matthew 7:14; John 3:16, 36 2: Romans 3:22; Hebrews 4:2-3

Question 21: What is true faith? Answer: It is not only a sure knowledge whereby I hold for truth all that God has revealed to us in his Word¹, but also a firm confidence² which the Holy Spirit works in my heart by the gospel³, that not only to others but to me also, forgiveness of sins, everlasting righteousness, and salvation are freely given by God, merely of grace, only for the sake of Christ’s merits⁴.

Scripture references: 1: James 2:19 2: Hebrews 11:1-2 3: John 3:5; Matthew 16:17 4: Romans 1:16-17; Galatians 2:20

Question 22: What, then, must a Christian believe? Answer: All that is promised us in the gospel¹, which the articles of our catholic and undoubted Christian faith teach us in summary.

Scripture references: 1: John 20:31; Matthew 28:20

Question 23: What are these articles? Answer: I believe in God the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ, his only-begotten Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary; suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried, and descended into hell; on the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father almighty; from there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit. I believe a holy catholic Christian church, the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen.

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Sondag 8Lord's Day 8

Sondag 8

Vraag 24: Hoe word hierdie artikels verdeel? Antwoord: In drie dele: die eerste is van God die Vader en ons skepping; die tweede van God die Seun en ons verlossing; die derde van God die Heilige Gees en ons heiligmaking.

Vraag 25: Aangesien daar net een God is¹, waarom praat jy van drie Persone: die Vader, die Seun en die Heilige Gees? Antwoord: Omdat God Hom so in sy Woord geopenbaar het², dat hierdie drie verskillende Persone die een, waaragtige en ewige God is³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Deuteronomium 6:4; 1 Korintiërs 8:4 2: Matteus 3:16-17 3: Matteus 28:19; 2 Korintiërs 13:13

Lord’s Day 8

Question 24: How are these articles divided? Answer: Into three parts: the first is about God the Father and our creation; the second about God the Son and our redemption; the third about God the Holy Spirit and our sanctification.

Question 25: Since there is only one God¹, why do you speak of three Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit? Answer: Because God has so revealed himself in his Word² that these three distinct Persons are the one, true, and eternal God³.

Scripture references: 1: Deuteronomy 6:4; 1 Corinthians 8:4 2: Matthew 3:16-17 3: Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:13

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Sondag 9Lord's Day 9

Sondag 9

Vraag 26: Wat glo jy as jy sê: “Ek glo in God die Vader, die Almagtige, Skepper van hemel en aarde”? Antwoord: Dat die ewige Vader van ons Here Jesus Christus, wat hemel en aarde met alles wat daarin is, uit niks geskape het¹, dit deur sy ewige raad en voorsienigheid in stand hou en regeer², om sy Seun Christus ontwil my God en my Vader is³. Op Hom vertrou ek so, dat ek nie daaraan twyfel dat Hy my van alles wat vir liggaam en siel nodig is, sal versorg nie⁴, en ook al die kwaad wat Hy in hierdie jammerdal oor my beskik, vir my ten goede sal verander⁵, omdat Hy dit as ‘n almagtige God kan doen en as ‘n getroue Vader dit ook wil doen⁶.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Genesis 1; Psalm 33:6 2: Psalm 104:27-30; Matteus 10:29-31 3: Johannes 1:12-13; Romeine 8:15-16 4: Matteus 6:25-34 5: Romeine 8:28 6: Lukas 12:22-24

Lord’s Day 9

Question 26: What do you believe when you say: “I believe in God the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth”? Answer: That the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who out of nothing created heaven and earth and all that is in them¹, who also upholds and governs them by his eternal counsel and providence², is for the sake of Christ his Son my God and my Father³. I trust in him so completely that I have no doubt that he will provide me with all things necessary for body and soul⁴, and will also turn to my good whatever adversity he sends me in this life of sorrow⁵, for he is able to do so as almighty God, and willing to do so as a faithful Father⁶.

Scripture references: 1: Genesis 1; Psalm 33:6 2: Psalm 104:27-30; Matthew 10:29-31 3: John 1:12-13; Romans 8:15-16 4: Matthew 6:25-34 5: Romans 8:28 6: Luke 12:22-24

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Sondag 10Lord's Day 10

Sondag 10

Vraag 27: Wat verstaan jy onder die voorsienigheid van God? Antwoord: Die almagtige en oralteenwoordige krag van God¹, deur welke Hy hemel en aarde met al die skepsels soos met sy hand nog onderhou² en so regeer dat loof en gras, reën en droogte, vrugbare en onvrugbare jare, voedsel en drank, gesondheid en siekte, rykdom en armoede en alles nie by geval nie, maar uit sy Vaderhand ons toekom³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Jeremia 23:23-24; Handelinge 17:24-28 2: Hebreërs 1:3 3: Spreuke 16:33; Matteus 10:29

Vraag 28: Watter nut het dit vir ons om te weet dat God alles deur sy voorsienigheid geskape het en onderhou? Antwoord: Dat ons in alle teëspoed geduldig¹, in voorspoed dankbaar² en vir die toekoms in ons getroue God en Vader volkome vertrouend sal wees³, dat geen skepsel ons van sy liefde kan skei nie, aangesien alle skepsels só in sy hand is dat hulle sonder sy wil nie kan roer of beweeg nie⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 5:3; Jakobus 1:3 2: Deuteronomium 8:10 3: Romeine 8:38-39 4: Job 1:12; Matteus 10:29

Lord’s Day 10

Question 27: What do you understand by the providence of God? Answer: The almighty and ever-present power of God¹, by which he still upholds, as it were with his hand, heaven and earth and all creatures², and so governs them that leaf and blade, rain and drought, fruitful and barren years, food and drink, health and sickness, riches and poverty, and all things, in fact, come to us not by chance but by his fatherly hand³.

Scripture references: 1: Jeremiah 23:23-24; Acts 17:24-28 2: Hebrews 1:3 3: Proverbs 16:33; Matthew 10:29

Question 28: What advantage is it to us to know that God has created and by his providence still upholds all things? Answer: That we may be patient in adversity¹, thankful in prosperity², and for the future have good confidence in our faithful God and Father³, that no creature shall separate us from his love, since all creatures are so completely in his hand that without his will they cannot so much as move⁴.

Scripture references: 1: Romans 5:3; James 1:3 2: Deuteronomy 8:10 3: Romans 8:38-39 4: Job 1:12; Matthew 10:29

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Sondag 11Lord's Day 11

Sondag 11

Vraag 29: Waarom word die Seun van God “Jesus”, dit is Verlosser, genoem? Antwoord: Omdat Hy ons van al ons sondes verlos¹, en omdat daar by niemand anders enige saligheid te soek of te vind is nie².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 1:21; Hebreërs 7:25 2: Handelinge 4:12; 1 Johannes 5:11-12

Vraag 30: Glo dié ook in die enigste Verlosser Jesus wat hulle saligheid en welstand by die heiliges, by hulleself of elders soek? Antwoord: Nee, want alhoewel hulle Hom met die mond roem, verloën hulle Hom in die werklikheid¹. Daar is net een van twee: Óf Jesus is nie ‘n volkome Verlosser nie, óf diegene wat hierdie Verlosser met ‘n ware geloof aanneem, moet alles in Hom hê wat vir hulle saligheid nodig is².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 23:28; Galasiërs 5:4 2: Kolossense 2:10; Johannes 1:16

Lord’s Day 11

Question 29: Why is the Son of God called “Jesus,” that is, Saviour? Answer: Because he saves us from all our sins¹, and because salvation is not to be sought or found in anyone else².

Scripture references: 1: Matthew 1:21; Hebrews 7:25 2: Acts 4:12; 1 John 5:11-12

Question 30: Do those also believe in the only Saviour Jesus who seek their salvation and well-being from saints, from themselves, or from any other source? Answer: No. Though they boast of him in words, they in reality deny the only Saviour Jesus¹. For one of two things must be true: either Jesus is not a complete Saviour, or those who by true faith accept this Saviour must find in him all that is necessary for their salvation².

Scripture references: 1: Matthew 23:28; Galatians 5:4 2: Colossians 2:10; John 1:16

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Sondag 12Lord's Day 12

Sondag 12

Vraag 31: Waarom word Hy “Christus”, dit is Gesalfde, genoem? Antwoord: Omdat Hy deur God die Vader verordineer is¹ en met die Heilige Gees gesalf is² om ons hoogste Profeet en Leraar³, ons enigste Hoëpriester⁴ en ons ewige Koning⁵ te wees, daarom: as Profeet en Leraar het Hy aan ons die hele raad en wil van God oor ons verlossing volkome bekend gemaak⁶; as Hoëpriester het Hy Homself as ‘n eenmalige offer vir ons gegee en ons met die Vader versoen⁷; en as Koning regeer Hy ons deur sy Woord en Gees, en beskerm en bewaar ons in die saligheid wat Hy vir ons verwerf het⁸.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Hebreërs 1:9; Lukas 4:18 2: Jesaja 61:1 3: Deuteronomium 18:15; Handelinge 3:22 4: Psalm 110:4; Hebreërs 7:17 5: Psalm 2:6; Lukas 1:33 6: Johannes 15:15 7: Hebreërs 9:12, 14 8: Matteus 28:18-20; Johannes 10:28

Vraag 32: Waarom word jy ‘n Christen genoem? Antwoord: Omdat ek deur die geloof ‘n lid van Christus is¹ en so deel het aan sy salwing², sodat ek sy Naam kan bely³, myself as ‘n lewende dankoffer aan Hom kan toewy⁴, en in hierdie lewe teen die sonde en die duiwel met ‘n vrye en goeie gewete kan stry⁵ en hierna in ewigheid saam met Hom oor al die skepsels kan regeer⁶.

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Korintiërs 6:15 2: 1 Johannes 2:27 3: Matteus 10:32 4: Romeine 12:1 5: Efesiërs 6:11; 1 Timoteus 1:18-19 6: 2 Timoteus 2:12

Lord’s Day 12

Question 31: Why is he called “Christ,” that is, Anointed? Answer: Because he has been ordained by God the Father¹ and anointed with the Holy Spirit² to be our chief Prophet and Teacher³, our only High Priest⁴, and our eternal King⁵. As Prophet and Teacher he has fully made known to us the secret counsel and will of God concerning our redemption⁶; as High Priest he has offered himself as the one sacrifice for us and intercedes for us with the Father⁷; and as King he governs us by his Word and Spirit, and defends and preserves us in the salvation he has won for us⁸.

Scripture references: 1: Hebrews 1:9; Luke 4:18 2: Isaiah 61:1 3: Deuteronomy 18:15; Acts 3:22 4: Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 7:17 5: Psalm 2:6; Luke 1:33 6: John 15:15 7: Hebrews 9:12, 14 8: Matthew 28:18-20; John 10:28

Question 32: Why are you called a Christian? Answer: Because by faith I am a member of Christ¹ and so share in his anointing², so that I may confess his name³, offer myself a living sacrifice of thankfulness to him⁴, and with a free and good conscience fight against sin and the devil in this life⁵, and hereafter reign with him eternally over all creatures⁶.

Scripture references: 1: 1 Corinthians 6:15 2: 1 John 2:27 3: Matthew 10:32 4: Romans 12:1 5: Ephesians 6:11; 1 Timothy 1:18-19 6: 2 Timothy 2:12

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Sondag 13Lord's Day 13

Sondag 13

Vraag 33: Waarom word Christus God se eniggebore Seun genoem, terwyl ons ook kinders van God is? Antwoord: Omdat Christus alleen die ewige, natuurlike Seun van God is¹, maar ons ter wille van Hom uit genade as kinders van God aangeneem is².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 1:1-3, 14, 18 2: Romeine 8:15-17; Efesiërs 1:5-6

Vraag 34: Waarom noem jy Hom ons Here? Antwoord: Omdat Hy ons met liggaam en siel uit die hele ellende, nie met goud of silwer nie, maar met sy kosbare bloed gekoop het¹ en ons sy eiendom gemaak het².

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Petrus 1:18-19 2: 1 Korintiërs 6:19-20

Lord’s Day 13

Question 33: Why is he called God’s “only-begotten Son,” when we also are children of God? Answer: Because Christ alone is the eternal, natural Son of God¹, but we are children of God by adoption, through grace, for his sake².

Scripture references: 1: John 1:1-3, 14, 18 2: Romans 8:15-17; Ephesians 1:5-6

Question 34: Why do you call him “our Lord”? Answer: Because he has redeemed us, body and soul, from all our sins, not with gold or silver, but with his precious blood¹, and has set us free from all the power of the devil to make us his own possession².

Scripture references: 1: 1 Peter 1:18-19 2: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

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Sondag 14Lord's Day 14

Sondag 14

Vraag 35: Wat beteken: “wat ontvang is van die Heilige Gees, gebore is uit die maagd Maria”? Antwoord: Dat die ewige Seun van God, wat ware en ewige God is en bly¹, die ware menslike natuur uit die vlees en bloed van die maagd Maria deur die werking van die Heilige Gees aangeneem het², sodat Hy ook die ware nageslag van Dawid is³, aan sy broers in alles gelyk, behalwe die sonde⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 1:1, 14; 1 Johannes 5:20 2: Lukas 1:31, 35 3: 2 Samuel 7:12-16; Romeine 1:3 4: Hebreërs 4:15

Vraag 36: Watter nut het die heilige ontvangenis en geboorte van Christus vir jou? Antwoord: Dat Hy ons Middelaar is¹, en met sy onskuld en volkome heiligheid my sonde, waarin ek ontvang en gebore is, voor God bedek².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Hebreërs 2:16-17 2: 1 Petrus 1:18-19

Lord’s Day 14

Question 35: What does it mean that he “was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary”? Answer: That the eternal Son of God, who is and remains true and eternal God¹, took upon himself true human nature from the flesh and blood of the virgin Mary, by the working of the Holy Spirit², so that he might also be the true seed of David³, like his brothers in all things, except for sin⁴.

Scripture references: 1: John 1:1, 14; 1 John 5:20 2: Luke 1:31, 35 3: 2 Samuel 7:12-16; Romans 1:3 4: Hebrews 4:15

Question 36: What benefit do you receive from the holy conception and birth of Christ? Answer: That he is our Mediator¹, and with his innocence and perfect holiness covers, in the sight of God, my sin in which I was conceived and born².

Scripture references: 1: Hebrews 2:16-17 2: 1 Peter 1:18-19

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Sondag 15Lord's Day 15

Sondag 15

Vraag 37: Wat verstaan jy onder die woordjies: “Hy het gely”? Antwoord: Dat Hy aan liggaam en siel die hele tyd van sy lewe op aarde, maar veral aan die einde daarvan, die toorn van God teen die sonde van die hele menslike geslag gedra het¹, sodat Hy met sy lyding, as die enigste versoenende offer², ons liggaamlike en geestelike ewige straf van God verlos het³ en vir ons die genade van God, geregtigheid en die ewige lewe verwerf het⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Jesaja 53:4-5; 1 Petrus 2:24 2: Hebreërs 10:14 3: Galasiërs 3:13 4: Romeine 3:24-26

Vraag 38: Waarom het Hy onder die regter Pontius Pilatus gely? Antwoord: Sodat Hy, onskuldig deur ‘n wêreldlike regter veroordeel, ons van die streng oordeel van God wat oor ons sou kom, bevry¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Lukas 23:13-15; Johannes 19:4; Psalm 69:5

Vraag 39: Het dit ‘n besondere betekenis dat Christus gekruisig is en nie op ‘n ander manier gesterf het nie? Antwoord: Ja, want daardeur is ek verseker dat Hy die vervloeking wat op my gerus het, op Hom geneem het¹, omdat die kruisdood deur God vervloek was².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Galasiërs 3:13 2: Deuteronomium 21:22-23

Lord’s Day 15

Question 37: What do you understand by the word “suffered”? Answer: That during his whole life on earth, but especially at the end, he bore in body and soul the wrath of God against the sin of the whole human race¹, so that by his suffering, as the only atoning sacrifice², he might deliver us from eternal condemnation of body and soul³, and obtain for us the grace of God, righteousness, and eternal life⁴.

Scripture references: 1: Isaiah 53:4-5; 1 Peter 2:24 2: Hebrews 10:14 3: Galatians 3:13 4: Romans 3:24-26

Question 38: Why did he suffer “under Pontius Pilate” as judge? Answer: So that he, being innocent, and yet condemned by a temporal judge, might thereby free us from the severe judgment of God that was to fall upon us¹.

Scripture references: 1: Luke 23:13-15; John 19:4; Psalm 69:4

Question 39: Is there anything more in his being crucified than if he had died some other death? Answer: Yes, for by this I am assured that he took upon himself the curse which lay on me¹, since death by crucifixion was cursed by God².

Scripture references: 1: Galatians 3:13 2: Deuteronomy 21:22-23

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Sondag 16Lord's Day 16

Sondag 16

Vraag 40: Waarom moes Christus in die dood gaan? Antwoord: Omdat die geregtigheid en waarheid van God vereis het¹ dat vir ons sondes die Seun van God self sou sterf².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Genesis 2:17 2: Filippense 2:8; Hebreërs 2:9

Vraag 41: Waarom is Hy begrawe? Antwoord: Om daarmee te bevestig dat Hy werklik gesterf het¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 27:59-60; Johannes 19:38-42

Vraag 42: Aangesien Christus vir ons gesterf het, waarom moet ons nog self sterf? Antwoord: Ons dood is nie ‘n betaling vir ons sondes nie¹, maar net ‘n afsterwe van die sonde en ‘n deurgang tot die ewige lewe².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Psalm 49:7-8 2: Filippense 1:21, 23; 1 Tessalonisense 5:10

Vraag 43: Watter verdere voordeel verkry ons nog uit die offer en die dood van Christus aan die kruis? Antwoord: Dat deur sy krag ons ou mens saam met Hom gekruisig, gedood en begrawe word¹, sodat die bose begeertes van die vlees in ons nie meer regeer nie, maar dat ons onsself as lewende offers van dankbaarheid aan Hom kan toewy².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 6:6 2: Romeine 12:1

Vraag 44: Waarom word daar bygevoeg: “Neergedaal na die hel”? Antwoord: Sodat ek in my grootste versoekinge verseker kan wees dat my Here Jesus Christus deur sy onuitspreeklike benoudheid, smarte, angs en helse kwelling, waarin Hy gedurende sy hele lyding veral aan die kruis gedompel was¹, my van die helse angs en pyn verlos het².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Jesaja 53:10; Matteus 27:46 2: Hebreërs 2:9

Lord’s Day 16

Question 40: Why was it necessary for Christ to humble himself even unto death? Answer: Because the justice and truth of God required¹ that the Son of God himself should make payment for our sins by his death².

Scripture references: 1: Genesis 2:17 2: Philippians 2:8; Hebrews 2:9

Question 41: Why was he buried? Answer: His burial testified that he had really died¹.

Scripture references: 1: Matthew 27:59-60; John 19:38-42

Question 42: Since Christ has died for us, why do we still have to die? Answer: Our death is not a payment for our sins¹, but only a dying to sin and an entrance into eternal life².

Scripture references: 1: Psalm 49:7-8 2: Philippians 1:21, 23; 1 Thessalonians 5:10

Question 43: What further benefit do we receive from Christ’s sacrifice and death on the cross? Answer: That by his power our old man is crucified, put to death, and buried with him¹, so that the evil desires of the flesh may no longer reign in us, but that we may offer ourselves to him as a sacrifice of thanksgiving².

Scripture references: 1: Romans 6:6 2: Romans 12:1

Question 44: Why is there added: “He descended into hell”? Answer: To assure me in times of personal crisis and temptation that Christ my Lord, by suffering unspeakable anguish, pain, terror, and agony of hell, throughout all his sufferings but especially on the cross¹, has delivered me from the anguish and torment of hell².

Scripture references: 1: Isaiah 53:10; Matthew 27:46 2: Hebrews 2:9

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Sondag 17Lord's Day 17

Sondag 17

Vraag 45: Watter voordeel bring die opstanding van Christus vir ons? Antwoord: Eerstens het Hy deur sy opstanding die dood oorwin, sodat Hy ons deel kan laat hê aan die geregtigheid wat Hy deur sy dood vir ons verwerf het¹. Tweedens word ons nou ook deur sy krag tot ‘n nuwe lewe opgewek². Derdens is die opstanding van Christus vir ons ‘n waarborg van ons salige opstanding³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 4:25; 1 Petrus 1:3-5 2: Romeine 6:4-5 3: 1 Korintiërs 15:20-22

Lord’s Day 17

Question 45: What benefit do we receive from Christ’s resurrection? Answer: First, by his resurrection he has overcome death, so that he could make us share in the righteousness which he had obtained for us by his death¹. Second, by his power we too are already raised to a new life². Third, Christ’s resurrection is to us a sure pledge of our blessed resurrection³.

Scripture references: 1: Romans 4:25; 1 Peter 1:3-5 2: Romans 6:4-5 3: 1 Corinthians 15:20-22

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Sondag 18Lord's Day 18

Sondag 18

Vraag 46: Hoe verstaan jy: “Opgevaar na die hemel”? Antwoord: Dat Christus voor die oë van sy dissipels van die aarde opgeneem is na die hemel¹ en dat Hy daar vir ons ten goede is totdat Hy weer kom om die lewendes en die dooies te oordeel².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Handelinge 1:9-11 2: Hebreërs 7:24-25

Vraag 47: Is Christus dan nie by ons tot die einde van die wêreld soos Hy ons belowe het nie? Antwoord: Christus is as ware mens nie meer op aarde nie¹, maar as ware God, majesteit, genade en Gees wyk Hy nooit van ons nie².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 26:11; Johannes 16:28 2: Matteus 28:20

Vraag 48: Maar as sy menslike natuur nie oral is waar sy Godheid is nie, word dan die twee nature van Christus nie van mekaar geskei nie? Antwoord: Glad nie, want aangesien sy Godheid onbeperk is en oral teenwoordig, moet dit noodwendig volg dat dit buite sy aangeneemde menslike natuur is en tog ook daarin persoonlik bly verenig¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 3:13; Kolossense 2:9

Lord’s Day 18

Question 46: How do you understand the words “He ascended into heaven”? Answer: That Christ, before the eyes of His disciples, was taken up from the earth into heaven,¹ and that He is there for our benefit until He comes again to judge the living and the dead.²

Scripture References: 1: Acts 1:9-11 2: Hebrews 7:24-25

Question 47: Is Christ, then, not with us until the end of the world, as He has promised us? Answer: Christ is true man and true God. As man He is no longer on earth,¹ but as God, in majesty, grace, and Spirit, He is never absent from us.²

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 26:11; John 16:28 2: Matthew 28:20

Question 48: But if His human nature is not present wherever His divinity is, are not the two natures of Christ then separated from each other? Answer: Not at all, for since His divinity is incomprehensible and everywhere present, it must follow that it is indeed beyond the bounds of the human nature which He has taken on, but is nevertheless personally united with it.¹

Scripture References: 1: John 3:13; Colossians 2:9

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Sondag 19Lord's Day 19

Sondag 19

Vraag 49: Watter nut bring vir ons die hemelvaart van Christus? Antwoord: Eerstens dat Hy in die hemel voor die aangesig van sy Vader ons Voorspraak is¹. Tweedens dat ons ons vlees in die hemel as ‘n betroubare waarborg het dat Hy, as ons Hoof, ons, sy lede, ook daarheen sal neem². Derdens dat Hy sy Gees as ‘n waarborg aan ons stuur, deur wie se krag ons soek wat daar bo is, waar Christus aan die regterhand van God sit, en nie wat op die aarde is nie³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 8:34; 1 Johannes 2:1 2: Johannes 14:2-3; Efesiërs 2:6 3: Kolossense 3:1-2

Vraag 50: Waarom word daar bygevoeg: “Sit aan die regterhand van God”? Antwoord: Omdat Christus daar opgegaan het om Homself as Hoof van sy Christelike kerk te openbaar¹, deur wie die Vader alles regeer².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Efesiërs 1:20-23 2: Matteus 28:18

Lord’s Day 19

Question 49: What benefit do we receive from Christ’s ascension into heaven? Answer: First, that He is our Advocate in heaven before the face of His Father.¹ Second, that we have our flesh in heaven as a sure pledge that He, as our Head, will also take us, His members, up to Himself.² Third, that He sends us His Spirit as a counter-pledge, by whose power we seek the things that are above, where Christ sits at the right hand of God, and not the things that are on earth.³

Scripture References: 1: Romans 8:34; 1 John 2:1 2: John 14:2-3; Ephesians 2:6 3: Colossians 3:1-2

Question 50: Why is it added, “He sits at the right hand of God”? Answer: Because Christ ascended into heaven to manifest Himself there as the Head of His Christian church,¹ through whom the Father governs all things.²

Scripture References: 1: Ephesians 1:20-23 2: Matthew 28:18

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Sondag 20Lord's Day 20

Sondag 20

Vraag 51: Watter nut bring vir ons hierdie heerlikheid van ons Hoof, Christus? Antwoord: Eerstens stort Hy deur sy Heilige Gees die hemelse gawes op ons, sy lede, uit¹. Tweedens beskerm Hy ons met sy mag teen alle vyande².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Efesiërs 4:8 2: Psalm 110:1-2

Vraag 52: Wat troos jou die wederkoms van Christus om te oordeel die lewendes en die dooies? Antwoord: Dat ek in alle teenspoed en vervolging met opgehewe hoof dieselfde Een verwag wat Hom tevore om my ontwil aan die oordeel van God onderwerp het en al die vloek van my weggeneem het¹, en wat al my vyande in die ewige verdoemenis sal werp, maar my saam met al die uitverkorenes tot Hom in die hemelse blydskap en heerlikheid sal neem².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Lukas 21:28; Romeine 8:23-24 2: Matteus 25:31-34; 2 Tessalonisense 1:6-10

Lord’s Day 20

Question 51: What benefit do we receive from this glory of our Head, Christ? Answer: First, that through His Holy Spirit He pours out heavenly gifts upon us, His members.¹ Second, that by His power He defends and preserves us against all enemies.²

Scripture References: 1: Ephesians 4:8 2: Psalm 110:1-2

Question 52: What comfort is it to you that Christ “shall come to judge the living and the dead”? Answer: That in all my sorrow and persecution I lift up my head and eagerly await as judge from heaven the very same One who before has submitted Himself to the judgment of God for my sake and has removed all the curse from me;¹ who will cast all His and my enemies into everlasting condemnation, but will take me, together with all His elect, to Himself into heavenly joy and glory.²

Scripture References: 1: Luke 21:28; Romans 8:23-24 2: Matthew 25:31-34; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10

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Sondag 21Lord's Day 21

Sondag 21

Vraag 54: Wat glo jy van die heilige, algemene, Christelike kerk? Antwoord: Dat die Seun van God uit die hele menslike geslag¹, van die begin van die wêreld af tot aan die einde², vir Hom ‘n gemeente wat tot die ewige lewe uitverkies is³, deur sy Gees en Woord⁴ in die een ware geloof⁵ vir Hom vergader, beskerm en onderhou⁶, en dat ek daarvan ‘n lewende lid is en ewig sal bly⁷.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Genesis 26:4; Openbaring 5:9 2: Johannes 10:10-11 3: Efesiërs 1:10-13 4: Romeine 10:14-17 5: Efesiërs 4:3-6 6: Psalm 121:4-8 7: 1 Johannes 3:14, 20-21

Vraag 55: Wat verstaan jy onder “die gemeenskap van die heiliges”? Antwoord: Eerstens dat die gelowiges almal saam as lede aan die Here Christus en sy skatte en gawes deel het¹. Tweedens dat elkeen verplig is om sy gawes gewillig en met vreugde tot nut en saligheid van die ander lede aan te wend².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 8:32; 1 Korintiërs 12:12-13 2: 1 Korintiërs 12:21; 13:1-5; Filippense 2:4-6

Vraag 56: Wat glo jy van “die vergewing van sondes”? Antwoord: Dat God, ter wille van die versoening wat Christus bewerk het¹, al my sondes sowel my sondige natuur², waarteen ek my hele lewe lank moet stry³, nie meer wil gedenk nie⁴ en my uit genade die geregtigheid van Christus skenk⁵, sodat ek nooit weer in sy oordeel kom nie⁶.

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Johannes 2:2 2: Romeine 7:21-25 3: Galasiërs 5:17 4: Psalm 103:3, 10-12; Jeremia 31:34 5: 2 Korintiërs 5:19, 21 6: Johannes 3:18

Lord’s Day 21

Question 54: What do you believe concerning the holy catholic Christian church? Answer: That the Son of God, out of the whole human race,¹ from the beginning of the world to its end,² gathers, defends, and preserves for Himself, by His Spirit and Word,⁴ in the unity of the true faith,⁵ a church chosen to everlasting life;³ ⁶ and that I am and forever shall remain a living member of it.⁷

Scripture References: 1: Genesis 26:4; Revelation 5:9 2: John 10:10-11 3: Ephesians 1:10-13 4: Romans 10:14-17 5: Ephesians 4:3-6 6: Psalm 121:4-8 7: 1 John 3:14, 20-21

Question 55: What do you understand by the communion of saints? Answer: First, that believers, all and everyone, as members share in Christ and in all His treasures and gifts.¹ Second, that each one ought to know that he is obliged to use his gifts willingly and with joy for the benefit and well-being of the other members.²

Scripture References: 1: Romans 8:32; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 2: 1 Corinthians 12:21; 13:1-5; Philippians 2:4-6

Question 56: What do you believe concerning the forgiveness of sins? Answer: That God, because of Christ’s satisfaction,¹ will no longer remember my sins² nor my sinful nature, against which I have to struggle all my life long;³ ⁴ but will graciously grant me the righteousness of Christ,⁵ that I may never come into condemnation.⁶

Scripture References: 1: 1 John 2:2 2: Romans 7:21-25 3: Galatians 5:17 4: Psalm 103:3, 10-12; Jeremiah 31:34 5: 2 Corinthians 5:19, 21 6: John 3:18

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Sondag 22Lord's Day 22

Sondag 22

Vraag 57: Watter troos gee jou die opstanding van die liggaam? Antwoord: Dat nie alleen my siel na hierdie lewe dadelik tot Christus, my Hoof, geneem sal word nie¹, maar dat ook hierdie liggaam, deur die krag van Christus opgewek, weer met my siel verenig en aan die verheerlikte liggaam van Christus gelyk sal word².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Lukas 23:43; Filippense 1:21-23 2: 1 Korintiërs 15:20-23, 42-44; Filippense 3:21

Vraag 58: Watter troos gee jou die artikel van die ewige lewe? Antwoord: Dat ek, aangesien ek nou al in my hart die begin van die ewige vreugde het¹, na hierdie lewe ‘n volkome saligheid sal besit² wat geen oog gesien, geen oor gehoor en in geen menslike hart opgekom het nie³, om God daarin vir ewig te prys⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: 2 Korintiërs 5:2-3 2: Johannes 17:3 3: 1 Korintiërs 2:9 4: Johannes 4:14; Openbaring 21:4

Lord’s Day 22

Question 57: What comfort does the resurrection of the body give you? Answer: That not only my soul after this life shall immediately be taken up to Christ, its Head,¹ but also that this my flesh, raised by the power of Christ, shall be reunited with my soul and made like the glorious body of Christ.²

Scripture References: 1: Luke 23:43; Philippians 1:21-23 2: 1 Corinthians 15:20-23, 42-44; Philippians 3:21

Question 58: What comfort do you receive from the article of the life everlasting? Answer: That, since I now already feel in my heart the beginning of eternal joy,¹ after this life I shall possess perfect blessedness,² such as no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human heart has ever imagined,³ to praise God therein forever.⁴

Scripture References: 1: 2 Corinthians 5:2-3 2: John 17:3 3: 1 Corinthians 2:9 4: John 4:14; Revelation 21:4

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Sondag 23Lord's Day 23

Sondag 23

Vraag 59: Maar wat help dit jou nou dat jy dit alles glo? Antwoord: Dat ek in Christus voor God geregverdig is¹ en ‘n erfgenaam van die ewige lewe².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Habakuk 2:4; Romeine 1:17 2: Romeine 8:16-17

Vraag 60: Hoe is jy regverdig voor God? Antwoord: Slegs deur ‘n ware geloof in Jesus Christus¹. Al kla my gewete my aan dat ek teen al die gebooie van God swaar gesondig het en geen daarvan gehou het nie², en dat ek nog altyd tot alle kwaad geneig is³, tog skenk God my, sonder enige verdienste van my kant, uit loutere genade⁴, die volkome genoegdoening, geregtigheid en heiligheid van Christus⁵. Dit reken Hy my toe asof ek nooit sonde gehad of gedoen het nie, ja, asof ek self al die gehoorsaamheid volbring het wat Christus vir my volbring het⁶, in soverre ek hierdie weldaad met ‘n gelowige hart aanneem⁷.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 3:21-28; Galasiërs 2:16 2: Romeine 3:9-10 3: Romeine 7:23 4: Efesiërs 2:8-9 5: 2 Korintiërs 5:21 6: Romeine 4:3-5 7: Johannes 3:18

Vraag 61: Waarom sê jy dat jy slegs deur die geloof regverdig is? Antwoord: Nie dat ek deur die waarde van my geloof vir God aanvaar word nie, maar omdat alleen die genoegdoening van Christus, sy geregtigheid en heiligheid my geregtigheid voor God is¹, en ek dit nie anders kan aanneem en my eie kan maak nie as alleen deur die geloof².

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Korintiërs 1:30-31 2: 1 Johannes 5:10-12

Lord’s Day 23

Question 59: But what does it help you now that you believe all this? Answer: That I am righteous in Christ before God¹ and an heir of eternal life.²

Scripture References: 1: Habakkuk 2:4; Romans 1:17 2: Romans 8:16-17

Question 60: How are you righteous before God? Answer: Only by true faith in Jesus Christ.¹ Although my conscience accuses me that I have grievously sinned against all God’s commandments and have never kept any of them,² and that I am still inclined to all evil,³ yet God, without any merit of my own, out of mere grace,⁴ grants and imputes to me the perfect satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ.⁵ He imputes these to me as if I had never had nor committed any sin, indeed, as if I myself had accomplished all the obedience which Christ has rendered for me,⁶ if only I accept this gift with a believing heart.⁷

Scripture References: 1: Romans 3:21-28; Galatians 2:16 2: Romans 3:9-10 3: Romans 7:23 4: Ephesians 2:8-9 5: 2 Corinthians 5:21 6: Romans 4:3-5 7: John 3:18

Question 61: Why do you say that you are righteous only by faith? Answer: Not that I am acceptable to God on account of the worthiness of my faith, but because only the satisfaction, righteousness, and holiness of Christ is my righteousness before God,¹ and I can receive and apply it to myself in no other way than by faith alone.²

Scripture References: 1: 1 Corinthians 1:30-31 2: 1 John 5:10-12

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Sondag 24Lord's Day 24

Sondag 24

Vraag 62: Maar waarom kan ons goeie werke nie ons geregtigheid voor God wees nie, of ten minste ‘n deel daarvan? Antwoord: Omdat die geregtigheid wat voor God kan bestaan, heeltemal volkome en aan die wet van God heeltemal gelykvormig moet wees¹, en ook ons beste werke in hierdie lewe alles onvolmaak en met sonde bevlek is².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Deuteronomium 27:26; Galasiërs 3:10 2: Jesaja 64:6; Romeine 3:23

Vraag 63: Verdien ons goeie werke dan niks, al beloon God dit in hierdie en in die toekomstige lewe? Antwoord: Hierdie beloning kom nie uit verdienste nie, maar uit genade¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Lukas 17:10; 2 Timoteus 4:7-8

Vraag 64: Maak hierdie leer nie mense roekeloos en goddeloos nie? Antwoord: Nee¹, want dit is onmoontlik dat dié wat deur ‘n ware geloof in Christus ingeplant is, nie vrugte van dankbaarheid sou voortbring nie².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 7:18 2: Johannes 15:5

Lord’s Day 24

Question 62: But why can our good works not be our righteousness before God, or at least a part of it? Answer: Because the righteousness which can stand before God’s judgment must be absolutely perfect and in complete conformity with the law of God,¹ and even our best works in this life are all imperfect and stained with sin.²

Scripture References: 1: Deuteronomy 27:26; Galatians 3:10 2: Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:23

Question 63: Do our good works merit nothing, even though God promises to reward them in this life and the next? Answer: This reward is not earned; it is a gift of grace.¹

Scripture References: 1: Luke 17:10; 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Question 64: Does this teaching not make people careless and ungodly? Answer: No,¹ for it is impossible that those who are grafted into Christ by true faith should not bring forth fruits of gratitude.²

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 7:18 2: John 15:5

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Sondag 25Lord's Day 25

Sondag 25

Vraag 65: Aangesien dit slegs die geloof is wat ons met Christus en al sy weldade verbind, waar kom hierdie geloof vandaan? Antwoord: Van die Heilige Gees¹, wat dit in ons harte werk deur die verkondiging van die heilige evangelie² en dit versterk deur die gebruik van die sakramente³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Efesiërs 2:8 2: Romeine 10:17 3: Matteus 28:19-20

Vraag 66: Wat is sakramente? Antwoord: Sigbare, heilige waartekens en seëls wat deur God ingestel is¹, sodat Hy deur die gebruik daarvan vir ons die belofte van die evangelie des te beter kan laat verstaan en verseël², naamlik dat Hy ons vanweë die eenmalige offer van Christus aan die kruis vergewing van sondes en die ewige lewe uit genade skenk³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 28:19; 1 Korintiërs 11:23 2: Romeine 4:11 3: Matteus 26:27-28

Vraag 67: Is beide die Woord en die sakramente daarop gerig om ons geloof op die offer van Jesus Christus aan die kruis as die enigste grond van ons saligheid te vestig? Antwoord: Ja¹, want die Heilige Gees leer ons in die evangelie en verseël dit deur die sakramente dat ons hele saligheid berus op die eenmalige offer van Christus vir ons aan die kruis².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 6:3 2: Galasiërs 3:27

Lord’s Day 25

Question 65: Since faith alone makes us share in Christ and all His benefits, where does this faith come from? Answer: From the Holy Spirit,¹ who works it in our hearts by the preaching of the holy gospel² and strengthens it by the use of the sacraments.³

Scripture References: 1: Ephesians 2:8 2: Romans 10:17 3: Matthew 28:19-20

Question 66: What are the sacraments? Answer: They are visible, holy signs and seals instituted by God¹ so that by their use He may the more fully declare and seal to us the promise of the gospel,² namely, that He graciously grants us forgiveness of sins and everlasting life because of the one sacrifice of Christ accomplished on the cross.³

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23 2: Romans 4:11 3: Matthew 26:27-28

Question 67: Are both the Word and the sacraments then intended to direct our faith to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross as the only ground of our salvation? Answer: Yes,¹ for the Holy Spirit teaches us in the gospel and assures us by the sacraments that our entire salvation rests on the one sacrifice of Christ made for us on the cross.²

Scripture References: 1: Romans 6:3 2: Galatians 3:27

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Sondag 26Lord's Day 26

Sondag 26

Vraag 68: Hoeveel sakramente het Christus in die Nuwe Testament ingestel? Antwoord: Twee: die heilige doop en die heilige nagmaal.

Vraag 69: Hoe word jy in die heilige doop daaraan herinner en verseker dat die eenmalige offer van Christus aan die kruis vir jou van nut is? Antwoord: So: Christus het die uitwendige waterbad ingestel¹ en daarby beloof dat ek net so seker met sy bloed en Gees van die onreinheid van my siel, dit is van al my sondes, gewas is², as wat ek uitwendig met die water wat die onreinheid van die liggaam wegneem, gewas is³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 28:19 2: Matteus 3:11; Markus 16:16 3: 1 Petrus 3:21

Vraag 70: Wat beteken dit om met die bloed en Gees van Christus gewas te wees? Antwoord: Dit beteken om van God vergewing van sondes uit genade te ontvang¹ ter wille van die bloed van Christus wat Hy in sy offer aan die kruis vir ons gestort het² en verder ook om deur die Heilige Gees vernuwe en tot lede van Christus geheilig te word³, sodat ons hoe langer hoe meer vir die sonde sterf en in ‘n Godvresende, onberispelike lewe wandel⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Hebreërs 12:24; 1 Petrus 1:2 2: 1 Johannes 1:7 3: 1 Korintiërs 6:11 4: Romeine 6:4

Vraag 71: Waar het Christus beloof dat Hy ons net so seker met sy bloed en Gees wil was as wat ons met die doopwater gewas word? Antwoord: In die instelling van die doop waar Hy sê: “Gaan dan heen, maak dissipels van al die nasies en doop hulle in die Naam van die Vader en die Seun en die Heilige Gees”¹; en: “Wie glo en hom laat doop, sal gered word; maar wie nie glo nie, sal veroordeel word”². Hierdie belofte word herhaal waar die Skrif die doop “die bad van die wedergeboorte” en “die afwassing van sondes” noem³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 28:19 2: Markus 16:16 3: Titus 3:5; Handelinge 22:16

Lord’s Day 26

Question 68: How many sacraments has Christ instituted in the New Testament? Answer: Two: holy baptism and the holy supper.

Question 69: How does holy baptism signify and seal to you that the one sacrifice of Christ on the cross benefits you? Answer: In this way: Christ instituted the outward washing with water¹ and with it promised that I am as certainly washed with His blood and Spirit from the uncleanness of my soul, that is, from all my sins,² as I am washed outwardly with water, which is used to remove the dirt from the body.³

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 28:19 2: Matthew 3:11; Mark 16:16 3: 1 Peter 3:21

Question 70: What does it mean to be washed with the blood and Spirit of Christ? Answer: It means to receive from God the forgiveness of sins through grace, for the sake of Christ’s blood,¹ which He shed for us in His sacrifice on the cross;² and also to be renewed by the Holy Spirit and sanctified as members of Christ,³ so that we may more and more die to sin and live in a godly and blameless way.⁴

Scripture References: 1: Hebrews 12:24; 1 Peter 1:2 2: 1 John 1:7 3: 1 Corinthians 6:11 4: Romans 6:4

Question 71: Where has Christ promised that He will wash us with His blood and Spirit as surely as we are washed with the water of baptism? Answer: In the institution of baptism, where He says: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”;¹ and: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”² This promise is repeated where Scripture calls baptism “the washing of regeneration” and “the washing away of sins.”³

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 28:19 2: Mark 16:16 3: Titus 3:5; Acts 22:16

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Sondag 27Lord's Day 27

Sondag 27

Vraag 72: Is die uitwendige waterbad self die afwassing van sondes? Antwoord: Nee¹, net die bloed van Jesus Christus en die Heilige Gees reinig ons van alle sondes².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 3:11; 1 Petrus 3:21 2: 1 Johannes 1:7; 1 Korintiërs 6:11

Vraag 73: Waarom noem die Heilige Gees die doop dan die bad van die wedergeboorte en die afwassing van sondes? Antwoord: God praat so met groot rede: Hy wil ons daarmee leer dat soos die vuilheid van die liggaam deur water verdwyn, so word ons sondes deur die bloed en Gees van Christus weggeneem¹; en Hy wil ons deur hierdie Goddelike pand en teken verseker dat ons geestelik net so seker van ons sondes gewas is as wat ons liggaamlik met die water gewas is².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Openbaring 1:5; Handelinge 22:16 2: Romeine 6:3-4; Galasiërs 3:27

Vraag 74: Moet ook die klein kinders gedoop word? Antwoord: Ja, want aangesien hulle net soos die volwassenes in die verbond van God en sy gemeente ingesluit is¹ en aangesien aan hulle deur die bloed van Christus die verlossing van sondes en die Heilige Gees wat die geloof werk, belowe word², moet hulle ook deur die doop, as die teken van die verbond, by die Christelike kerk ingelyf word³ en van die kinders van ongelowiges onderskei word⁴, soos in die Ou Verbond deur die besnydenis gebeur het⁵, waarvoor in die Nuwe Verbond die doop ingestel is⁶.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Genesis 17:7; Handelinge 2:39 2: Lukas 1:14-15; Psalm 22:10-11 3: Handelinge 10:47 4: 1 Korintiërs 7:14 5: Genesis 17:14 6: Kolossense 2:11-13

Lord’s Day 27

Question 72: Is the outward washing with water itself the washing away of sins? Answer: No,¹ only the blood of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit cleanse us from all sins.²

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 3:11; 1 Peter 3:21 2: 1 John 1:7; 1 Corinthians 6:11

Question 73: Why then does the Holy Spirit call baptism the washing of regeneration and the washing away of sins? Answer: God speaks this way for a good reason: He wants to teach us that just as the dirt of the body is removed by water, so our sins are taken away by the blood and Spirit of Christ;¹ and He wants to assure us by this divine pledge and sign that we are as truly washed from our sins spiritually as we are washed with water bodily.²

Scripture References: 1: Revelation 1:5; Acts 22:16 2: Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:27

Question 74: Should infants also be baptized? Answer: Yes, for since they belong to the covenant and people of God no less than their parents,¹ and since both redemption from sin through the blood of Christ and the Holy Spirit, who works faith, are promised to them no less than to their parents,² they too must be incorporated into the Christian church by baptism, the sign of the covenant,³ and be distinguished from the children of unbelievers,⁴ as was done in the old covenant by circumcision,⁵ in place of which baptism was instituted in the new covenant.⁶

Scripture References: 1: Genesis 17:7; Acts 2:39 2: Luke 1:14-15; Psalm 22:10-11 3: Acts 10:47 4: 1 Corinthians 7:14 5: Genesis 17:14 6: Colossians 2:11-13

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Sondag 28Lord's Day 28

Sondag 28

Vraag 75: Hoe word jy in die heilige nagmaal daaraan herinner en verseker dat jy aan die een offer van Christus aan die kruis en al sy gawes deel het? Antwoord: So: Christus het my en alle gelowiges beveel om van hierdie gebroke brood te eet en uit hierdie beker te drink tot sy gedagtenis¹. Hy het daarby beloof: eers dat sy liggaam so seker vir my aan die kruis geoffer en gebreek en sy bloed vir my vergiet is, as wat ek met my oë die brood van die Here vir my gebreek sien en die beker vir my gegee sien word²; en verder dat Hy my siel met sy gekruisigde liggaam en vergiete bloed net so seker tot die ewige lewe voed en verkwik, as wat ek die brood en die wyn as tekens van die liggaam en bloed van Christus uit die hand van die bedienaar ontvang en met my mond geniet³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Lukas 22:19-20; 1 Korintiërs 11:23-25 2: 1 Korintiërs 10:16-17 3: Johannes 6:51, 55-56

Vraag 76: Wat beteken dit om die gekruisigde liggaam van Christus te eet en sy vergiete bloed te drink? Antwoord: Dit beteken nie net om met ‘n gelowige hart die hele lyding en dood van Christus aan te neem en daardeur vergewing van sondes en die ewige lewe te verkry nie¹, maar ook om deur die Heilige Gees wat tegelyk in Christus en in ons woon², so met sy heilige liggaam al hoe meer verenig te word³, dat ons, al is Hy in die hemel en ons op die aarde, tog vlees van sy vlees en been van sy bene is⁴, en altyd deur een Gees (soos die lede van ‘n liggaam deur een siel) lewe en regeer word⁵.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 6:35, 40, 47-48, 50-54 2: Johannes 14:23; 15:4-5 3: Efesiërs 3:16-17 4: Efesiërs 5:29-30 5: 1 Korintiërs 6:15-17; 10:17

Vraag 77: Waar het Christus beloof om gelowiges net so seker te voed en verkwik met sy liggaam en bloed as wat hulle van hierdie gebroke brood eet en uit hierdie beker drink? Antwoord: In die instelling van die nagmaal: “Die Here Jesus het in die nag waarin Hy verraai is, brood geneem en nadat Hy gedank het, dit gebreek en gesê: ‘Neem, eet, dit is my liggaam wat vir julle gebreek word; doen dit tot my gedagtenis.’ Net so ook die beker, ná die ete, met die woorde: ‘Hierdie beker is die nuwe verbond in my bloed; doen dit, so dikwels as julle daaruit drink, tot my gedagtenis’.”¹ Hierdie belofte word ook herhaal deur Paulus waar hy sê: “Die beker van danksegging wat ons seën, is dit nie die gemeenskap met die bloed van Christus nie? Die brood wat ons breek, is dit nie die gemeenskap met die liggaam van Christus nie? Omdat dit een brood is, is ons, al is ons baie, een liggaam, want ons het almal deel aan die een brood.”²

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Korintiërs 11:23-25 2: 1 Korintiërs 10:16-17

Lord’s Day 28

Question 75: How does the holy supper signify and seal to you that you share in the one sacrifice of Christ on the cross and all His benefits? Answer: In this way: Christ has commanded me and all believers to eat of this broken bread and to drink of this cup in remembrance of Him.¹ With this command He has promised: first, that His body was as certainly offered and broken on the cross for me and His blood shed for me, as I see with my eyes the bread of the Lord broken for me and the cup given to me;² and second, that He Himself as certainly feeds and nourishes my soul to everlasting life with His crucified body and shed blood, as I receive from the hand of the minister and taste with my mouth the bread and the cup of the Lord, as sure signs of the body and blood of Christ.³

Scripture References: 1: Luke 22:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 2: 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 3: John 6:51, 55-56

Question 76: What does it mean to eat the crucified body of Christ and to drink His shed blood? Answer: It means not only to embrace with a believing heart the whole suffering and death of Christ and thereby to receive forgiveness of sins and eternal life,¹ but also, through the Holy Spirit who dwells both in Christ and in us,² to be united more and more with His sacred body,³ so that, although He is in heaven and we are on earth, we are nevertheless flesh of His flesh and bone of His bones,⁴ and are forever lived and governed by one Spirit, as the members of a body are by one soul.⁵

Scripture References: 1: John 6:35, 40, 47-48, 50-54 2: John 14:23; 15:4-5 3: Ephesians 3:16-17 4: Ephesians 5:29-30 5: 1 Corinthians 6:15-17; 10:17

Question 77: Where has Christ promised that He will feed and nourish believers with His body and blood as surely as they eat of this broken bread and drink of this cup? Answer: In the institution of the supper: “The Lord Jesus on the night when He was betrayed took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, ‘This is My body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.’ In the same way also He took the cup, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’“¹ This promise is repeated by Paul where he says: “The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.”²

Scripture References: 1: 1 Corinthians 11:23-25 2: 1 Corinthians 10:16-17

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Sondag 29Lord's Day 29

Sondag 29

Vraag 78: Word die brood en die wyn dan in die liggaam en bloed van Christus verander? Antwoord: Nee, maar soos die water in die doop nie in die bloed van Christus verander word of die afwassing van die sondes self is nie, so word ook die brood in die nagmaal nie die liggaam van Christus self nie¹, al is dit volgens die aard en gebruik van die sakramente die liggaam van Christus genoem².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 26:29 2: 1 Korintiërs 10:16-17, 26-28

Vraag 79: Waarom noem Christus die brood sy liggaam en die beker sy bloed, of die nuwe verbond in sy bloed, en Paulus, die gemeenskap met die liggaam en bloed van Christus? Antwoord: Christus wil ons daarmee leer en verseker: so seker as wat ons met ons mond hierdie heilige tekens ontvang as ‘n waarborg, so seker het Hy sy liggaam vir ons aan die kruis geoffer en sy bloed vir ons vergiet¹. Met hierdie tekens en seëlversekering wil Hy ons ook deur die werking van die Heilige Gees laat deel hê aan sy ware liggaam en bloed², sodat ons al hoe meer aan sy heilige liggaam verenig word³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Lukas 22:19-20 2: 1 Korintiërs 10:16-17 3: Johannes 6:55-56

Lord’s Day 29

Question 78: Are the bread and the wine then changed into the real body and blood of Christ? Answer: No, for just as the water of baptism is not changed into the blood of Christ nor is it the washing away of sins itself, so also the bread in the Lord’s supper does not become the body of Christ itself,¹ although it is called the body of Christ in keeping with the nature and usage of sacraments.²

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 26:29 2: 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, 26-28

Question 79: Why then does Christ call the bread His body and the cup His blood, or the new covenant in His blood, and Paul, the participation in the body and blood of Christ? Answer: Christ speaks this way for a good reason: He wants to teach us by it that just as certainly as we receive and taste with our mouths these holy signs as pledges, so certainly has He offered His body for us on the cross and shed His blood for us.¹ By these signs and pledges He also wants to assure us, through the working of the Holy Spirit, that we share in His true body and blood,² so that we are more and more united with His sacred body.³

Scripture References: 1: Luke 22:19-20 2: 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 3: John 6:55-56

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Sondag 30Lord's Day 30

Sondag 30

Vraag 80: Wat is die verskil tussen die nagmaal van die Here en die pouslike mis? Antwoord: Die nagmaal getuig aan ons dat ons volkome vergifnis van al ons sondes het deur die eenmalige offer van Jesus Christus, wat Hy self eenmalig aan die kruis volbring het¹, en dat ons deur die Heilige Gees met Christus verenig word². Die pouslike mis leer dat die lewendes en die dooies nie deur die lyding van Christus vergewe word tensy Christus nog daagliks vir hulle deur die mispriesters geoffer word nie³, en dat Christus liggaamlik onder die gedaante van brood en wyn is en daarom daarin aanbid moet word. So is die mis in wese niks anders nie as ‘n verloëning van die eenmalige offer en lyding van Jesus Christus, en ‘n vervloekte afgodediens⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Hebreërs 7:27; 9:12, 25-28; 10:10, 14 2: 1 Korintiërs 6:17 3: Hebreërs 9:24-26 4: Matteus 15:9

Vraag 81: Wie moet aan die tafel van die Here kom? Antwoord: Dié wat vanweë hulle sondes ‘n afkeer van hulleself het¹, en tog vertrou dat hulle sondes vergewe is en dat ook die oorblywende swakheid met die lyding en dood van Christus bedek is², en wat ook begeer om hulle geloof al hoe meer te versterk en hulle lewe te verbeter³. Maar die huigelaars en dié wat hulle nie van harte tot God bekeer nie, eet en drink vir hulleself ‘n oordeel⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Korintiërs 10:19-22 2: Psalm 103:1-5 3: 1 Korintiërs 11:28 4: 1 Korintiërs 11:29

Vraag 82: Moet diegene wat met hulle belydenis en lewe wys dat hulle ongelowig en goddeloos is, tot hierdie maaltyd toegelaat word? Antwoord: Nee, want so word die verbond van God ontheilig en sy toorn oor die hele gemeente opgewek¹. Daarom is die Christelike kerk verplig om ooreenkomstig die bevel van Christus en sy apostels sulke mense deur die sleutels van die koninkryk van die hemel uit te sluit totdat hulle hulle lewe verbeter².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Psalm 50:16; Jesaja 1:11-17 2: Matteus 18:15-18; 1 Korintiërs 5:6-7, 11-13

Lord’s Day 30

Question 80: What is the difference between the Lord’s supper and the papal mass? Answer: The Lord’s supper testifies to us that we have complete forgiveness of all our sins through the one sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which He Himself accomplished on the cross once for all,¹ and that through the Holy Spirit we are grafted into Christ.² The papal mass teaches that the living and the dead do not have forgiveness of sins through the suffering of Christ unless Christ is still offered for them daily by the priests,³ and that Christ is bodily present under the form of bread and wine and is therefore to be worshipped in them. Thus the mass is basically nothing but a denial of the one sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ, and an accursed idolatry.⁴

Scripture References: 1: Hebrews 7:27; 9:12, 25-28; 10:10, 14 2: 1 Corinthians 6:17 3: Hebrews 9:24-26 4: Matthew 15:9

Question 81: Who ought to come to the table of the Lord? Answer: Those who are truly displeased with themselves because of their sins¹ and yet trust that these are forgiven them and that their remaining weakness is covered by the suffering and death of Christ,² and who also desire more and more to strengthen their faith and amend their life.³ But hypocrites and those who do not sincerely turn to God eat and drink judgment upon themselves.⁴

Scripture References: 1: 1 Corinthians 10:19-22 2: Psalm 103:1-5 3: 1 Corinthians 11:28 4: 1 Corinthians 11:29

Question 82: Should those who show by their confession and life that they are unbelieving and ungodly be admitted to this supper? Answer: No, for then the covenant of God would be profaned and His wrath kindled against the whole congregation.¹ Therefore, according to the command of Christ and His apostles, the Christian church is obliged, by the keys of the kingdom of heaven, to exclude such persons until they amend their lives.²

Scripture References: 1: Psalm 50:16; Isaiah 1:11-17 2: Matthew 18:15-18; 1 Corinthians 5:6-7, 11-13

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Sondag 31Lord's Day 31

Sondag 31

Vraag 83: Wat is die sleutels van die koninkryk van die hemel? Antwoord: Die verkondiging van die heilige evangelie¹ en die Christelike tug². Deur hierdie twee word die koninkryk van die hemel vir die gelowiges oopgesluit en vir die ongelowiges toegesluit³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 16:19; Johannes 20:23 2: Matteus 18:15-18 3: Jesaja 22:22; Handelinge 5:1-5

Vraag 84: Hoe word die koninkryk van die hemel deur die verkondiging van die heilige evangelie oop- en toegesluit? Antwoord: So: volgens die bevel van Christus word aan alle gelowiges verkondig en openlik getuig dat God hulle, so dikwels as hulle die belofte van die evangelie met ‘n ware geloof aanneem, waarlik al hulle sondes vergewe het ter wille van die verdienste van Christus¹. Aan alle ongelowiges en huigelaars daarenteen word verkondig dat die toorn van God en die ewige verdoemenis op hulle bly solank hulle hulle nie bekeer nie². Volgens hierdie getuienis van die evangelie sal God sowel in hierdie as in die toekomstige lewe oordeel³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 20:21-23 2: Matteus 16:19 3: Johannes 3:36

Vraag 85: Hoe word die koninkryk van die hemel deur die Christelike tug toegesluit en weer oopgesluit? Antwoord: So: volgens die bevel van Christus word dié wat hulle as Christene deur ‘n onchristelike leer of lewe skuldig maak en wat, nadat hulle herhaaldelik broederlik vermaan is, nie van hulle dwalinge of ondeugde wil afsien nie, aan die gemeente of aan diegene wat deur die gemeente daarvoor aangewys is, bekend gemaak¹, en as hulle nie op hulle vermaning ag slaan nie, word hulle deur hulle die sakramente geweier² en uit die Christelike gemeente, en dus deur God self uit die koninkryk van Christus, uitgesluit³. As hulle egter werklik beloftes van verandering toon en hulle bekeer, word hulle weer as lede van Christus en sy gemeente aanvaar⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 18:15-17 2: 1 Korintiërs 5:3-5, 11 3: 2 Tessalonisense 3:14-15 4: Lukas 15:20-24; 2 Korintiërs 2:6-8

Lord’s Day 31

Question 83: What are the keys of the kingdom of heaven? Answer: The preaching of the holy gospel¹ and Christian discipline.² By these two the kingdom of heaven is opened to believers and shut against unbelievers.³

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 16:19; John 20:23 2: Matthew 18:15-18 3: Isaiah 22:22; Acts 5:1-5

Question 84: How is the kingdom of heaven opened and shut by the preaching of the holy gospel? Answer: According to the command of Christ: to believers, one and all, it is proclaimed and publicly testified that, as often as they accept the promise of the gospel with true faith, all their sins are truly forgiven them by God for the sake of Christ’s merits.¹ To all unbelievers and hypocrites, on the other hand, it is proclaimed that the wrath of God and eternal condemnation rest upon them as long as they do not repent.² According to this testimony of the gospel, God will judge both in this life and in the life to come.³

Scripture References: 1: John 20:21-23 2: Matthew 16:19 3: John 3:36

Question 85: How is the kingdom of heaven shut and opened by Christian discipline? Answer: According to the command of Christ: those who, though called Christians, show themselves to be unchristian in doctrine or life are first repeatedly admonished in a brotherly manner. If they do not give up their errors or evil ways, they are reported to the church, that is, to the elders.¹ If they do not heed their admonitions, they are forbidden the use of the sacraments,² and they are excluded from the Christian church and by God Himself from the kingdom of Christ.³ They are again received as members of Christ and of the church when they promise and show real amendment.⁴

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 18:15-17 2: 1 Corinthians 5:3-5, 11 3: 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 4: Luke 15:20-24; 2 Corinthians 2:6-8

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Sondag 32Lord's Day 32

Sondag 32

Vraag 86: Aangesien ons net uit genade deur Christus, sonder ons verdienste, verlos is, waarom moet ons dan nog goeie werke doen? Antwoord: Omdat Christus ons, nadat Hy ons met sy bloed gekoop en verlos het, ook deur sy Heilige Gees vernuwe tot sy ewebeeld¹, sodat ons met ons hele lewe God vir sy weldade dankbaar sal wees² en Hy deur ons geprys word³. Verder dat ons deur ons vrugte onsself van ons geloof seker kan maak⁴ en ook ons naaste vir Christus kan wen⁵.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Efesiërs 4:22-24 2: Romeine 6:13 3: 1 Petrus 2:9-12 4: 2 Petrus 1:10-11 5: Matteus 5:16; 1 Petrus 3:1-2

Vraag 87: Kan diegene gered word wat in hulle ondankbaarheid en goddelose lewe volhard en hulle nie tot God bekeer nie? Antwoord: Nee, want soos die Skrif sê, sal geen ontugtiges, afgodedienaars, egbrekers, diewe, gierigaards, dronkaards, kwaadpraters of rowers die koninkryk van God beërwe nie¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Korintiërs 6:9-10; Efesiërs 5:5-6; 1 Johannes 3:14-15

Lord’s Day 32

Question 86: Since we have been delivered from our misery by grace alone through Christ, without any merit of our own, why must we still do good works? Answer: Because Christ, having redeemed us by His blood, also renews us by His Holy Spirit to be His image,¹ so that with our whole life we may show ourselves thankful to God for His benefits² and He may be praised by us.³ Further, that we ourselves may be assured of our faith by its fruits⁴ and that by our godly walk of life we may win our neighbours for Christ.⁵

Scripture References: 1: Ephesians 4:22-24 2: Romans 6:13 3: 1 Peter 2:9-12 4: 2 Peter 1:10-11 5: Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 3:1-2

Question 87: Can those be saved who do not turn to God from their ungrateful and impenitent way of life? Answer: No, for as Scripture says, no unchaste person, idolater, adulterer, thief, covetous person, drunkard, slanderer, or robber shall inherit the kingdom of God.¹

Scripture References: 1: 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Ephesians 5:5-6; 1 John 3:14-15

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Sondag 33Lord's Day 33

Sondag 33

Vraag 88: Waaruit bestaan die ware bekering van die mens? Antwoord: Uit twee dele: die afsterwe van die ou mens en die opstanding van die nuwe mens¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Efesiërs 4:22-24; Kolossense 3:5-10; Romeine 6:1-11

Vraag 89: Wat is die afsterwe van die ou mens? Antwoord: Dit is ‘n hartlike berou dat ons God deur ons sondes vertoorn het¹, en dit is om die sonde hoe langer hoe meer te haat en daarvan te vlug².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Psalm 51:3-4, 17 2: Romeine 8:13; 2 Korintiërs 7:10

Vraag 90: Wat is die opstanding van die nuwe mens? Antwoord: Dit is ‘n hartlike vreugde in God deur Christus¹, en dit is ‘n lus en liefde om volgens die wil van God in alle goeie werke te lewe².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 5:1-2; 14:17 2: Romeine 6:10-11; Galasiërs 2:20

Vraag 91: Wat is goeie werke? Antwoord: Slegs dié wat uit ‘n ware geloof¹, volgens die wet van God² en tot sy eer³ gedoen word, en nie dié wat op ons goeddunke of op mense se voorskrifte gegrond is nie⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 14:23 2: Levitikus 18:4; 1 Samuel 15:22 3: 1 Korintiërs 10:31 4: Jesaja 29:13; Matteus 15:9

Lord’s Day 33

Question 88: Of how many parts does true repentance or conversion consist? Answer: Of two parts: the dying of the old nature and the coming to life of the new.¹

Scripture References: 1: Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:5-10; Romans 6:1-11

Question 89: What is the dying of the old nature? Answer: It is a sincere sorrow of heart that we have provoked God by our sins,¹ and more and more to hate and flee from them.²

Scripture References: 1: Psalm 51:3-4, 17 2: Romans 8:13; 2 Corinthians 7:10

Question 90: What is the coming to life of the new nature? Answer: It is a sincere joy of heart in God through Christ,¹ and a delight and love to live according to the will of God in all good works.²

Scripture References: 1: Romans 5:1-2; 14:17 2: Romans 6:10-11; Galatians 2:20

Question 91: What are good works? Answer: Only those which are done out of true faith,¹ according to the law of God,² and to His glory,³ and not those based on our own opinion or on human tradition.⁴

Scripture References: 1: Romans 14:23 2: Leviticus 18:4; 1 Samuel 15:22 3: 1 Corinthians 10:31 4: Isaiah 29:13; Matthew 15:9

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Sondag 34Lord's Day 34

Sondag 34

Vraag 92: Wat is die wet van die Here? Antwoord: Toe het God al hierdie woorde gespreek en gesê: Ek is die Here jou God wat jou uit Egipteland, uit die slawehuis, uitgelei het. Jy mag geen ander gode voor My aangesig hê nie. Jy mag vir jou geen gesnede beeld of enige gelykenis maak van wat bo in die hemel of onder op die aarde of in die water onder die aarde is nie. Jy mag jou voor hulle nie neerbuig en hulle nie dien nie; want Ek, die Here jou God, is ‘n jaloerse God wat die ongeregtigheid van die vaders besoek aan die kinders tot in die derde en vierde geslag van die wat My haat; maar Ek bewys barmhartigheid aan duisende van die wat My liefhet en my gebooie onderhou. Jy mag die Naam van die Here jou God nie ydellik gebruik nie, want die Here sal die een wat sy Naam ydellik gebruik, nie ongestraf laat bly nie. Gedenk die sabbatdag dat jy dit heilig. Ses dae moet jy arbei en al jou werk doen; maar die sewende dag is die sabbat van die Here jou God; dan mag jy geen werk doen nie – jy of jou seun of jou dogter of jou dienskneg of jou diensmaagd of jou vee of jou vreemdeling wat binne jou poorte is nie; want in ses dae het die Here die hemel en die aarde gemaak, die see en alles wat daarin is, en op die sewende dag gerus; daarom het die Here die sabbatdag geseën en dit geheilig. Eer jou vader en jou moeder, dat jou dae verleng mag word in die land wat die Here jou God aan jou gee. Jy mag nie doodslaan nie. Jy mag nie egbreek nie. Jy mag nie steel nie. Jy mag geen valse getuienis teen jou naaste spreek nie. Jy mag nie jou naaste se huis begeer nie. Jy mag nie jou naaste se vrou begeer nie, of sy dienskneg of sy diensmaagd of sy os of sy esel of iets wat van jou naaste is nie.

Vraag 93: Hoe word hierdie gebooie verdeel? Antwoord: In twee tafels: die eerste leer ons hoe ons ons teenoor God moet gedra¹; die tweede hoe ons ons teenoor ons naaste moet gedra².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 22:37-38 2: Matteus 22:39-40

Vraag 94: Wat eis God in die eerste gebod? Antwoord: Dat ek, tot my eie saligheid, alle afgodery¹, towery², bygeloof³, aanroeping van heiliges of ander skepsels verlaat en daarvan wegvlug⁴, dat ek die enigste ware God reg leer ken⁵, Hom alleen vertrou⁶, en in alle nederigheid en geduld van Hom alleen alles goeds verwag⁷, en Hom van harte liefhê⁸, vrees⁹ en eer¹⁰, sodat ek liewer alle skepsels versaak as om in die minste teen sy wil te doen¹¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Korintiërs 6:9-10 2: Deuteronomium 18:10-12 3: 2 Konings 21:6 4: Matteus 4:10 5: Johannes 17:3 6: Jeremia 17:5, 7 7: Romeine 5:3-5 8: Deuteronomium 6:5 9: Psalm 111:10 10: Matteus 10:28 11: Matteus 5:29-30

Vraag 95: Wat is afgodery? Antwoord: Afgodery is om, in plaas van die enigste ware God wat Hom in sy Woord geopenbaar het, of langs Hom, iets anders te bedink of te hê waarop die mens sy vertroue plaas¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Jeremia 2:13; 23:27; Psalm 81:9-11

Lord’s Day 34

Question 92: What is the law of the Lord? Answer: God spoke all these words, saying: I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them; for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My commandments. Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh His name in vain. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates; for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it. Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.

Question 93: How are these commandments divided? Answer: Into two tables: the first of which teaches us how we must behave towards God;¹ the second, what duties we owe to our neighbour.²

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 22:37–38 2: Matthew 22:39–40

Question 94: What does God require in the first commandment? Answer: That I, on peril of my soul’s salvation, avoid and flee from all idolatry,¹ sorcery,² superstition,³ invocation of saints or of other creatures;⁴ and that I rightly acknowledge the only true God,⁵ trust in Him alone,⁶ with all humility and patience expect all good from Him only,⁷ and love,⁸ fear,⁹ and honour¹⁰ Him with my whole heart; so that I rather renounce all creatures than do the least thing against His will.¹¹

Scripture References: 1: 1 Corinthians 6:9–10 2: Deuteronomy 18:10–12 3: 2 Kings 21:6 4: Matthew 4:10 5: John 17:3 6: Jeremiah 17:5, 7 7: Romans 5:3–5 8: Deuteronomy 6:5 9: Psalm 111:10 10: Matthew 10:28 11: Matthew 5:29–30

Question 95: What is idolatry? Answer: Idolatry is, instead of the one true God who has revealed Himself in His Word, or besides Him, to contrive or have any other thing in which to place one’s trust.¹

Scripture References: 1: Jeremiah 2:13; 23:27; Psalm 81:9–11

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Sondag 35Lord's Day 35

Sondag 35

Vraag 96: Wat eis God in die tweede gebod? Antwoord: Dat ons God op geen ander manier afbeeld as wat Hy self in sy Woord beveel het nie¹. En dat ons Hom op geen ander manier vereer as wat Hy self beveel het nie².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Deuteronomium 4:15-19 2: Matteus 15:9-10

Vraag 97: Mag ons dan glad nie ‘n beeld van God maak nie? Antwoord: Nee, want geen skepsel kan God afbeeld nie¹, en alhoewel die skepsels afgebeeld mag word, verbied God tog om beeld of afbeelding van hulle te maak met die doel om dit te vereer of God daardeur te dien².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Jesaja 40:18-25 2: Eksodus 32:4-5

Vraag 98: Maar mag ons nie beelde as boeke vir die leke in die kerke toelaat nie? Antwoord: Nee, want ons mag nie wyser wil wees as God nie, wat sy Christene nie deur stomme beelde nie, maar deur die lewendige verkondiging van sy Woord wil onderrig¹.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 10:14-17; 2 Timoteus 3:16-17

Lord’s Day 35

Question 96: What does God require in the second commandment? Answer: That we in no wise make any image of God,¹ nor worship Him in any other way than He has commanded in His Word.²

Scripture References: 1: Deuteronomy 4:15–19 2: Matthew 15:9–10

Question 97: May we not make any image at all? Answer: God cannot and may not be visibly portrayed in any way.¹ Although creatures may be portrayed, yet God forbids making or having any likeness of them in order to worship them or to serve God by them.²

Scripture References: 1: Isaiah 40:18–25 2: Exodus 32:4–5

Question 98: But may not images be tolerated in the churches as books for the laity? Answer: No, for we must not pretend to be wiser than God, who will have His people taught not by dumb images but by the lively preaching of His Word.¹

Scripture References: 1: Romans 10:14–17; 2 Timothy 3:16–17

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Sondag 36Lord's Day 36

Sondag 36

Vraag 99: Wat is die wil van God in die derde gebod? Antwoord: Dat ons die Naam van God nie op ‘n oneerbare manier gebruik nie¹, nie deur te vloek², of vals te sweer³, of deur onnodige eedswering nie⁴; dat ons ook deur ons stil swye en belydenis van sy Naam Hom eerbiedig⁵, en dat ons Hom deur ons belydenis en lewe verheerlik⁶.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 6:9 2: Levitikus 24:11-16 3: Matteus 5:34-37 4: Jakobus 5:12 5: Psalm 50:14-15 6: 1 Korintiërs 10:31

Vraag 100: Is dit so ‘n groot sonde om in die Naam van God te vloek en vals te sweer dat God ook diegene wat nie soveel as moontlik daaraan help keer nie, straf? Antwoord: Ja, want daar is geen groter sonde of een wat God meer vertoorn as dié wat sy Naam ontheilig nie¹. Daarom het Hy beveel om dit met die dood te straf².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Levitikus 24:16 2: Levitikus 19:12; Matteus 5:37

Lord’s Day 36

Question 99: What is required in the third commandment? Answer: That we must not by cursing,¹ or by false swearing,² or by unnecessary oaths,³ profane or abuse the name of God; nor even by our silence or connivance be partakers of these horrible sins in others;⁴ and in short, that we use the holy name of God no otherwise than with fear and reverence,⁵ so that He may be rightly confessed and worshipped by us,⁶ and be glorified in all our words and works.

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 6:9 2: Leviticus 24:11–16 3: Matthew 5:34–37 4: James 5:12 5: Psalm 50:14–15 6: 1 Corinthians 10:31

Question 100: Is the profaning of God’s name by swearing and cursing so grievous a sin that His wrath is kindled against those who do not help as much as they can to prevent and forbid it? Answer: Yes, truly; for there is no sin greater or more provoking to God than the profaning of His name.¹ That is why He commanded it to be punished with death.²

Scripture References: 1: Leviticus 24:16 2: Leviticus 19:12; Matthew 5:37

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Sondag 37Lord's Day 37

Sondag 37

Vraag 101: Mag ‘n mens in die Naam van God ‘n eed sweer op ‘n heilige manier? Antwoord: Ja, wanneer die owerheid dit van sy onderdane eis, of wanneer dit andersins nodig is om trou en waarheid tot eer van God en heil van die naaste te bevestig en te bevorder¹. Sulke eedswering is gegrond op die Woord van God² en daarom deur die heiliges in die Ou en Nuwe Testament reg gebruik³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Deuteronomium 6:13; Jeremia 4:2 2: Jesaja 65:16 3: Abraham in Genesis 21:24; Paulus in Romeine 1:9

Vraag 102: Mag ons ook by die heiliges of by enige ander skepsel sweer? Antwoord: Nee, want ‘n regmatige eed is ‘n aanroeping van God, dat Hy as die enigste Kenner van die hart die waarheid bevestig en my straf as ek vals sweer¹. So ‘n eer kom geen skepsel toe nie².

Skrifverwysings: 1: 2 Korintiërs 1:23 2: Matteus 5:34-37

Lord’s Day 37

Question 101: May we then swear reverently by the name of God? Answer: Yes, when the magistrate requires it, or when it may be needful otherwise, to maintain and promote fidelity and truth, to the glory of God and our neighbour’s good.¹ For such swearing is grounded in God’s Word² and was therefore rightly used by the saints in the Old and New Testaments.³

Scripture References: 1: Deuteronomy 6:13; Jeremiah 4:2 2: Isaiah 65:16 3: Abraham in Genesis 21:24; Paul in Romans 1:9

Question 102: May we also swear by the saints or any other creatures? Answer: No, for a lawful oath is a calling upon God, as the only Searcher of hearts, to bear witness to the truth, and to punish me if I swear falsely;¹ which honour is due to no creature.²

Scripture References: 1: 2 Corinthians 1:23 2: Matthew 5:34–37

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Sondag 38Lord's Day 38

Sondag 38

Vraag 103: Wat wil God in die vierde gebod hê? Antwoord: Eerstens dat die kerkdiens en die prediking van die evangelie gehandhaaf word¹, en dat ek veral op die rusdag ywerig na die gemeente van God toe gaan² om die Woord van God te leer³, die sakramente te gebruik⁴, God openlik aan te roep⁵ en die Christelike liefdadigheid te beoefen⁶. Tweedens dat ek al die dae van my lewe my slegte werke laat staan en die Here deur sy Gees in my laat werk, en so die ewige sabbat in hierdie lewe begin⁷.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Handelinge 2:42 2: Hebreërs 10:25 3: Psalm 40:10-11 4: 1 Korintiërs 11:23-26 5: Psalm 50:14-15 6: 1 Korintiërs 16:2 7: Jesaja 66:23; Hebreërs 4:9-11

Lord’s Day 38

Question 103: What does God require in the fourth commandment? Answer: First, that the ministry of the gospel and the schools be maintained;¹ and that I, especially on the day of rest, diligently attend the church of God² to learn the Word of God,³ to use the holy sacraments,⁴ to call publicly upon the Lord,⁵ and to give Christian alms.⁶ Second, that all the days of my life I rest from my evil works, let the Lord work in me by His Holy Spirit, and thus begin in this life the eternal Sabbath.⁷

Scripture References: 1: Acts 2:42 2: Hebrews 10:25 3: Psalm 40:10–11 4: 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 5: Psalm 50:14–15 6: 1 Corinthians 16:2 7: Isaiah 66:23; Hebrews 4:9–11

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Sondag 39Lord's Day 39

Sondag 39

Vraag 104: Wat wil God in die vyfde gebod hê? Antwoord: Dat ek my vader en moeder en almal wat oor my gestel is, met alle eer, liefde en trou eerbiedig en gehoorsaam¹, en ook met hulle gebreke geduld het², omdat dit God behaag om ons deur hulle hand te regeer³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Efesiërs 6:1-3 2: Spreuke 23:22 3: Kolossense 3:20

Lord’s Day 39

Question 104: What does God require in the fifth commandment? Answer: That I show all honour, love, and faithfulness to my father and mother, and to all those in authority over me,¹ submit myself with due obedience to all their good instruction and correction,² and also bear patiently with their infirmities, since it is God’s will to govern us by their hand.³

Scripture References: 1: Ephesians 6:1–3 2: Proverbs 23:22 3: Colossians 3:20

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Sondag 40Lord's Day 40

Sondag 40

Vraag 105: Wat wil God in die sesde gebod hê? Antwoord: Dat ek my naaste nie in gedagtes, woorde of gebare, en veel minder deur die daad, deur myself of deur iemand anders, verontagsaam, haat, beledig, wond of doodmaak nie¹, maar dat ek alle wraakgierigheid laat vaar², ook dat ek myself nie kwaad aandoen of moedwillig in gevaar bring nie³. Daarom moet die owerheid ook die swaarddra om moord te straf⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 5:21-22 2: Romeine 12:19 3: Matteus 4:7; 26:52 4: Genesis 9:6; Romeine 13:4

Vraag 106: Maar verbied God in hierdie gebod net moord nie? Antwoord: Nee, want as God die moord verbied, leer Hy daarmee dat Hy ook die wortel van die moord haat, soos afguns¹, haat², toorn³ en wraakgierigheid⁴, en dat Hy dit alles as moord beskou⁵.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Jakobus 3:14-16 2: 1 Johannes 2:9-11 3: Efesiërs 4:26-27 4: Romeine 12:19 5: 1 Johannes 3:15

Vraag 107: Maar is dit genoeg as ons ons naaste wat hierdie dinge betref, nie benadeel nie? Antwoord: Nee, want wanneer God afguns, haat en toorn verbied, beveel Hy dat ons ons naaste liefhê soos onsself¹, hom geduldig moet verdra², hom goed moet doen in sy nood³ en selfs ons vyande wel moet doen⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 22:39; Romeine 13:9 2: Kolossense 3:12-14 3: Romeine 12:20-21 4: Matteus 5:44-45

Lord’s Day 40

Question 105: What does God require in the sixth commandment? Answer: That I do not revile, hate, insult, or kill my neighbour either in thought, word, or gesture, much less in deed, whether by myself or through another;¹ but that I lay aside all desire of revenge;² and that I do not harm myself or wilfully expose myself to danger.³ Therefore also the magistrate is armed with the sword to prevent murder.⁴

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 5:21–22 2: Romans 12:19 3: Matthew 4:7; 26:52 4: Genesis 9:6; Romans 13:4

Question 106: But does this commandment speak only of killing? Answer: No, for in forbidding murder God teaches us that He abhors the root of murder, such as envy,¹ hatred,² anger,³ and desire of revenge;⁴ and that He regards all these as murder.⁵

Scripture References: 1: James 3:14–16 2: 1 John 2:9–11 3: Ephesians 4:26–27 4: Romans 12:19 5: 1 John 3:15

Question 107: But is it enough that we do not kill our neighbour in any such way? Answer: No, for when God forbids envy, hatred, and anger, He commands us to love our neighbour as ourselves,¹ to show patience and peace towards him,² to do him good in his need,³ and even to do good to our enemies.⁴

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 22:39; Romans 13:9 2: Colossians 3:12–14 3: Romans 12:20–21 4: Matthew 5:44–45

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Sondag 41Lord's Day 41

Sondag 41

Vraag 108: Wat wil God in die sewende gebod hê? Antwoord: Dat alle onsedelikheid deur God vervloek word¹, en dat ons daarom dit van harte moet haat² en kuis en gedissiplineerd moet lewe, hetsy in die heilige huwelik of buite die huwelik³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Levitikus 18:30; Efesiërs 5:3-5 2: Judas 23 3: 1 Tessalonisense 4:3-4; Hebreërs 13:4

Vraag 109: Verbied God in hierdie gebod net owerspel en sulke skandelike sondes? Antwoord: Aangesien ons liggaam en siel tempels van die Heilige Gees is, wil God hê dat ons beide rein en heilig bewaar¹. Daarom verbied Hy alle onkuise dade, gebare, woorde, gedagtes, begeertes² en alles wat die mens daartoe kan verlei³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: 1 Korintiërs 6:18-20 2: Matteus 5:27-28 3: Efesiërs 5:18; 1 Korintiërs 15:33

Lord’s Day 41

Question 108: What does the seventh commandment teach us? Answer: That all unchastity is cursed by God,¹ and that we must therefore detest it from the heart² and live chaste and disciplined lives, whether in holy wedlock or in single life.³

Scripture References: 1: Leviticus 18:30; Ephesians 5:3–5 2: Jude 23 3: 1 Thessalonians 4:3–4; Hebrews 13:4

Question 109: Does God in this commandment forbid nothing more than adultery and such gross sins? Answer: Since both our body and soul are temples of the Holy Spirit, it is God’s will that we keep both pure and holy.¹ Therefore He forbids all unchaste actions, gestures, words, thoughts, desires,² and whatever may entice us thereto.³

Scripture References: 1: 1 Corinthians 6:18–20 2: Matthew 5:27–28 3: Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 15:33

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Sondag 42Lord's Day 42

Sondag 42

Vraag 110: Wat verbied God in die agtste gebod? Antwoord: God verbied nie net diefstal en roof wat die owerheid straf nie¹, maar Hy beskou ook as diefstal alle listige truuks en bedrog waardeur ons ons naaste se goed onregverdig in die hande kry², asook alle gierigheid³ en misbruik en verkwisting van sy gawes⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Eksodus 22:1 2: Lukas 16:10-12 3: 1 Korintiërs 6:10 4: Spreuke 21:20; Spreuke 28:19

Vraag 111: Maar wat gebied God jou in hierdie gebod? Antwoord: Dat ek die belange van my naaste waar moontlik bevorder¹, met hom handel soos ek sou wou hê dat ander met my moet handel², en dat ek getrou my werk doen sodat ek die behoeftige kan help³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Filippense 2:4 2: Matteus 7:12 3: Efesiërs 4:28

Lord’s Day 42

Question 110: What does God forbid in the eighth commandment? Answer: God forbids not only such theft and robbery as are punished by the magistrate,¹ but He also regards as theft all wicked tricks and devices by which we seek to get our neighbour’s goods,² whether by force or under the appearance of right, as also all covetousness³ and the misuse and waste of His gifts.⁴

Scripture References: 1: Exodus 22:1 2: Luke 16:10–12 3: 1 Corinthians 6:10 4: Proverbs 21:20; Proverbs 28:19

Question 111: But what does God require of you in this commandment? Answer: That I further my neighbour’s good where I can and may,¹ deal with him as I would have others deal with me,² and work faithfully so that I may be able to help the needy.³

Scripture References: 1: Philippians 2:4 2: Matthew 7:12 3: Ephesians 4:28

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Sondag 43Lord's Day 43

Sondag 43

Vraag 112: Wat wil God in die negende gebod hê? Antwoord: Dat ek teen niemand vals getuienis lewer nie¹, niemand se woorde verdraai nie², geen kwaadprater of kwaadstoker is nie³, niemand ongevonnisd help veroordeel nie⁴, maar alle leuens en bedrog as die werke van die duiwel vermy⁵, tensy ek my ‘n swaar straf op die hals wil haal⁶. Verder dat ek in regspraak en in alle ander sake die waarheid liefhet, opreg spreek en bely⁷, en soveel as ek kan, die eer en goeie naam van my naaste verdedig en bevorder⁸.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Spreuke 19:5 2: Psalm 15:3 3: Romeine 1:29-30 4: Matteus 7:1-2 5: Johannes 8:44 6: Spreuke 19:9 7: Efesiërs 4:25 8: 1 Petrus 4:8

Lord’s Day 43

Question 112: What is required in the ninth commandment? Answer: That I bear false witness against no one,¹ twist no one’s words,² be no backbiter or slanderer,³ join in condemning no one unheard or rashly;⁴ but that I avoid all lying and deceit as the very works of the devil,⁵ unless I would bring down upon myself the heavy wrath of God;⁶ also that in matters of judgment and justice, and in all other affairs, I love, speak, and confess the truth honestly;⁷ and that I defend and promote my neighbour’s good name as much as I can.⁸

Scripture References: 1: Proverbs 19:5 2: Psalm 15:3 3: Romans 1:29–30 4: Matthew 7:1–2 5: John 8:44 6: Proverbs 19:9 7: Ephesians 4:25 8: 1 Peter 4:8

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Sondag 44Lord's Day 44

Sondag 44

Vraag 113: Wat wil die tiende gebod hê? Antwoord: Dat selfs die kleinste begeerte of gedagte teen enige gebod van God nooit in ons hart mag opkom nie¹, maar dat ons ons altyd van harte teen alle sonde moet verset² en altyd in alle gehoorsaamheid aan God se gebooie moet lewe³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 7:7-8 2: Galasiërs 5:17 3: Matteus 5:6

Vraag 114: Maar kan dié wat tot God bekeer is, hierdie gebooie volkome onderhou? Antwoord: Nee, want selfs die allerheiligste het in hierdie lewe nog maar ‘n klein begin van hierdie gehoorsaamheid¹. Tog begin hulle met ‘n ernstige voorneme, nie net volgens sommige nie, maar volgens al die gebooie van God te lewe².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 7:14-15 2: Psalm 1:2; Romeine 7:22

Vraag 115: Waarom laat God hierdie tien gebooie so streng aan ons verkondig as niemand dit in hierdie lewe kan onderhou nie? Antwoord: Eerstens dat ons ons hele lewe lank ons sondige aard al hoe beter leer ken¹ en des te meer na vergifnis van sondes en geregtigheid in Christus soek². Tweedens dat ons sonder ophou ons toewy aan die strewe om deur die genade van die Heilige Gees meer en meer na die beeld van God vernuwe te word, totdat ons uiteindelik na hierdie lewe die doel van volmaaktheid bereik³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 3:20 2: Psalm 143:2; Jesaja 64:6 3: 1 Johannes 3:2-3; Filippense 3:12-14

Lord’s Day 44

Question 113: What does the tenth commandment require of us? Answer: That even the least inclination or thought against any of God’s commandments never arise in our heart;¹ but that at all times we hate all sin with our whole heart² and delight in all righteousness.³

Scripture References: 1: Romans 7:7–8 2: Galatians 5:17 3: Matthew 5:6

Question 114: But can those who are converted to God keep these commandments perfectly? Answer: No, but even the holiest, so long as they are in this life, have only a small beginning of this obedience;¹ yet so that with earnest purpose they begin to live not only according to some but according to all the commandments of God.²

Scripture References: 1: Romans 7:14–15 2: Psalm 1:2; Romans 7:22

Question 115: Why then does God have the ten commandments preached so strictly since no one can keep them in this life? Answer: First, that all our life long we may learn more and more to know our sinful nature,¹ and so the more earnestly seek forgiveness of sins and righteousness in Christ.² Second, that we constantly and diligently pray to God for the grace of the Holy Spirit, that we may become more and more renewed after the image of God, till we arrive at the goal of perfection after this life.³

Scripture References: 1: Romans 3:20 2: Psalm 143:2; Isaiah 64:6 3: 1 John 3:2–3; Philippians 3:12–14

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Sondag 45Lord's Day 45

Sondag 45

Vraag 116: Waarom is gebed vir Christene nodig? Antwoord: Omdat dit die vernaamste deel van die dankbaarheid is wat God van ons eis¹, en omdat God sy genade en Heilige Gees net aan dié wil gee wat Hom sonder ophou daarom bid en Hom daarvoor dank².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Psalm 50:14-15 2: Matteus 7:7-8; Lukas 11:13; 1 Tessalonisense 5:17-18

Vraag 117: Wat behoort tot ‘n gebed wat God behaag en deur Hom verhoor word? Antwoord: Eerstens dat ons die enigste ware God wat Hom in sy Woord aan ons geopenbaar het, om alles bid wat Hy ons beveel het om van Hom te vra¹. Tweedens dat ons ons geestelike en liggaamlike nood reg leer ken² en voor sy aangesig diep verootmoedig³. Derdens dat ons hierdie vaste grond het dat Hy ons gebed om die ontwil van Christus sekerlik wil verhoor soos Hy ons in sy Woord belowe het⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 4:24; 1 Johannes 5:14 2: 2 Kronieke 20:12 3: Psalm 143:2 4: Johannes 14:13-14; Romeine 10:13

Vraag 118: Wat het God beveel om in ons gebede te vra? Antwoord: Alles wat vir die gees en die liggaam nodig is¹, soos Christus in die gebed leer wat Hy self aan ons gegee het².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 6:33; Filippense 4:6 2: Matteus 6:9-13; Lukas 11:2-4

Vraag 119: Wat is daardie gebed? Antwoord: Ons Vader wat in die hemele is, laat u Naam geheilig word. Laat u koninkryk kom. Laat u wil geskied, soos in die hemel net so ook op die aarde. Gee ons vandag ons daaglikse brood, en vergeef ons ons skulde, soos ons ook ons skuldenaars vergewe. En lei ons nie in versoeking nie, maar verlos ons van die bose. Want aan U behoort die koninkryk en die krag en die heerlikheid tot in ewigheid. Amen.

Lord’s Day 45

Question 116: Why is prayer necessary for Christians? Answer: Because prayer is the most important part of the thankfulness which God requires of us,¹ and because God will give His grace and Holy Spirit only to those who sincerely ask Him for these gifts in prayer, without ceasing, and who thank Him for them.²

Scripture References: 1: Psalm 50:14-15 2: Matthew 7:7-8; Luke 11:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

Question 117: What belongs to a prayer which pleases God and is heard by Him? Answer: First, that from the heart we call upon the one true God only, who has revealed Himself in His Word, for all that He has commanded us to ask of Him.¹ Second, that we thoroughly know our need and misery, so that we may humble ourselves in the presence of His majesty.² ³ Third, that we rest on this firm foundation: that although we do not deserve it, God will certainly hear our prayer for the sake of Christ our Lord, as He has promised us in His Word.⁴

Scripture References: 1: John 4:24; 1 John 5:14 2: 2 Chronicles 20:12 3: Psalm 143:2 4: John 14:13-14; Romans 10:13

Question 118: What has God commanded us to ask of Him in prayer? Answer: Everything we need for body and soul,¹ as embraced in the prayer Christ our Lord Himself taught us.²

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 6:33; Philippians 4:6 2: Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:2-4

Question 119: What is that prayer? Answer: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

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Sondag 46Lord's Day 46

Sondag 46

Vraag 120: Waarom het Christus ons beveel om God as “Ons Vader” aan te spreek? Antwoord: Om ons van die begin van ons gebed af op God se vaderlike goedheid te laat vertrou¹, wat Hy vir ons deur Christus ons Here is², en om van Hom niks anders te verwag as wat ‘n goeie vader vir sy kinders voorsien nie³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 7:9-11 2: Johannes 1:12-13 3: Psalm 103:13; Matteus 6:8

Vraag 121: Waarom word bygevoeg: “Wat in die hemele is”? Antwoord: Sodat ons nie van God aards moet dink nie¹, en dat ons sy almagtigheid van alles verwag².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Jeremia 23:23-24; Handelinge 17:24-25 2: Romeine 10:12

Lord’s Day 46

Question 120: Why has Christ commanded us to address God as “Our Father”? Answer: To awaken in us at the very beginning of our prayer that childlike reverence and trust toward God which should be the basis of our prayer,¹ namely, that God has become our Father through Christ,² and will much less deny us what we ask of Him in faith than our fathers would refuse us earthly things.³

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 7:9-11 2: John 1:12-13 3: Psalm 103:13; Matthew 6:8

Question 121: Why is there added: “Who art in heaven”? Answer: That we might have no earthly conception of the heavenly majesty of God,¹ and that we may expect from His almighty power all things needed for body and soul.²

Scripture References: 1: Jeremiah 23:23-24; Acts 17:24-25 2: Romans 10:12

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Sondag 47Lord's Day 47

Sondag 47

Vraag 122: Wat is die eerste bede? Antwoord: “Laat u Naam geheilig word” beteken: Gee ons eerstens dat ons U reg ken¹, U heilig, loof en prys in al u werke waarin u almag, wysheid, goedheid, geregtigheid, barmhartigheid en waarheid helder skyn². Gee ons tweedens dat ons hele lewe – gedagtes, woorde en werke – daarop gerig is dat u Naam om ons ontwil nie gelaster word nie³, maar geëer en geloof word⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 17:3 2: Lukas 1:46-55; Psalm 145 3: Romeine 2:24 4: 1 Petrus 2:12

Lord’s Day 47

Question 122: What is the first petition? Answer: “Hallowed be Thy name” means: Grant us first of all that we may rightly know Thee,¹ and sanctify, glorify, and praise Thee in all Thy works, in which Thy power, wisdom, goodness, righteousness, mercy, and truth shine forth.² Grant us also that we may so direct our whole life — our thoughts, words, and deeds — that Thy name is not blasphemed because of us,³ but honoured and praised.⁴

Scripture References: 1: John 17:3 2: Luke 1:46-55; Psalm 145 3: Romans 2:24 4: 1 Peter 2:12

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Sondag 48Lord's Day 48

Sondag 48

Vraag 123: Wat is die tweede bede? Antwoord: “Laat u koninkryk kom” beteken: Regeer ons so deur u Woord en Gees dat ons ons al hoe meer aan U onderwerp¹. Bewaar en vermeerder u kerk². Verwoes die werke van die duiwel, en elke mag wat teen U verhef, en alle bose planne wat teen u heilige Woord bedink word³, totdat die volkomenheid van u ryk kom waarin U alles in almal sal wees⁴.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Psalm 119:5; Matteus 6:33 2: Psalm 51:18; Handelinge 2:42-47 3: Romeine 16:20; 1 Johannes 3:8 4: 1 Korintiërs 15:28; Openbaring 22:17, 20

Lord’s Day 48

Question 123: What is the second petition? Answer: “Thy kingdom come” means: So rule us by Thy Word and Spirit that more and more we submit to Thee.¹ Preserve and increase Thy church.² Destroy the works of the devil, every power that raises itself against Thee, and every conspiracy against Thy holy Word,³ until the fullness of Thy kingdom comes wherein Thou shalt be all in all.⁴

Scripture References: 1: Psalm 119:5; Matthew 6:33 2: Psalm 51:18; Acts 2:42-47 3: Romans 16:20; 1 John 3:8 4: 1 Corinthians 15:28; Revelation 22:17, 20

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Sondag 49Lord's Day 49

Sondag 49

Vraag 124: Wat is die derde bede? Antwoord: “Laat u wil geskied, soos in die hemel net so ook op die aarde” beteken: Help ons en alle mense om ons eie wil te verloën¹, en dat ons sonder enige teëspraak u wil wat alleen goed is, gehoorsaam², sodat elkeen sy taak so gewillig en getrou as die engele in die hemel uitvoer³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Matteus 16:24; Lukas 22:42 2: Romeine 12:2 3: Psalm 103:20-21

Lord’s Day 49

Question 124: What is the third petition? Answer: “Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven” means: Grant that we and all men may deny our own will,¹ and without any murmuring obey Thy will, which alone is good,² so that everyone may carry out his office and calling as willingly and faithfully as the angels in heaven.³

Scripture References: 1: Matthew 16:24; Luke 22:42 2: Romans 12:2 3: Psalm 103:20-21

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Sondag 50Lord's Day 50

Sondag 50

Vraag 125: Wat is die vierde bede? Antwoord: “Gee ons vandag ons daaglikse brood” beteken: Versorg ons hele liggaamlike lewe¹ sodat ons deur dit wat nodig is, U erken as die enigste bron van alles wat goed is², en dat ons sonder ons sorg of ongeregverdigde vertroue op enige skepsel, ons volle vertroue alleen op U stel³.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Psalm 104:27-28 2: Matteus 6:25-34 3: Psalm 55:22; 1 Petrus 5:7

Lord’s Day 50

Question 125: What is the fourth petition? Answer: “Give us this day our daily bread” means: Provide us with all our bodily needs¹ so that we may acknowledge that Thou art the only source of all that is good,² and that without Thy blessing neither our care and labour, nor Thy gifts, can profit us.³ Grant therefore that we may withdraw our trust from all creatures and place it in Thee alone.³

Scripture References: 1: Psalm 104:27-28 2: Matthew 6:25-34 3: Psalm 55:22; 1 Peter 5:7

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Sondag 51Lord's Day 51

Sondag 51

Vraag 126: Wat is die vyfde bede? Antwoord: “En vergeef ons ons skulde, soos ons ook ons skuldenaars vergewe” beteken: Om U ontwil, moet U ons, arme sondelaars, al ons sondes en ook die boosheid wat nog altyd aan ons kleef, nie toereken nie¹, net soos ons ook van harte aan ander vergewe².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Psalm 51:1-7; 1 Johannes 2:1-2 2: Matteus 6:14-15

Lord’s Day 51

Question 126: What is the fifth petition? Answer: “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” means: For the sake of Christ’s blood, do not impute to us, miserable sinners, any of our transgressions, nor the evil which still clings to us,¹ as we also find this evidence of Thy grace in us, that it is our sincere intention to forgive our neighbour heartily.²

Scripture References: 1: Psalm 51:1-7; 1 John 2:1-2 2: Matthew 6:14-15

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Sondag 52Lord's Day 52

Sondag 52

Vraag 127: Wat is die sesde bede? Antwoord: “En lei ons nie in versoeking nie, maar verlos ons van die bose” beteken: Omdat ons van onsself so swak is dat ons nie ‘n oomblik staande kan bly nie¹, en boonop ons doodsvyande – die duiwel², die wêreld³ en ons eie sondige natuur⁴ – ons onophoudelik aanval, wil U ons tog bewaar en versterk deur die krag van u Heilige Gees, sodat ons in hierdie geestelike stryd nie beswyk nie⁵, maar altyd sterk teenstand bied totdat ons uiteindelik volkome oorwin⁶.

Skrifverwysings: 1: Johannes 15:5 2: 1 Petrus 5:8 3: 1 Johannes 2:15-17 4: Romeine 7:23 5: Matteus 26:41; Efesiërs 6:13 6: 1 Korintiërs 10:13

Vraag 128: Hoe sluit jy jou gebed af? Antwoord: “Want aan U behoort die koninkryk en die krag en die heerlikheid tot in ewigheid” beteken: Dit alles vra ons van U omdat U as ons Koning alles kan en wil gee wat goed is¹, en omdat ons daardeur nie onsself nie, maar u heilige Naam vir ewig prys².

Skrifverwysings: 1: Romeine 10:12; 2 Petrus 1:3 2: Psalm 115:1

Vraag 129: Wat beteken die woord “Amen”? Antwoord: “Amen” beteken: dit is seker en waar¹. Want my gebed is veel sekerder deur God verhoor as wat ek in my hart gevoel het dat ek dit van Hom begeer².

Skrifverwysings: 1: 2 Korintiërs 1:20 2: Jesaja 65:24

Lord’s Day 52

Question 127: What is the sixth petition? Answer: “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” means: Since we are so weak that we cannot stand on our own for a moment,¹ and besides, our sworn enemies — the devil,² the world,³ and our own sinful nature⁴ — do not cease to attack us, wilt Thou preserve and strengthen us by the power of Thy Holy Spirit, so that we may not go down to defeat in this spiritual warfare,⁵ but may firmly resist until we finally obtain the complete victory.⁶

Scripture References: 1: John 15:5 2: 1 Peter 5:8 3: 1 John 2:15-17 4: Romans 7:23 5: Matthew 26:41; Ephesians 6:13 6: 1 Corinthians 10:13

Question 128: How do you conclude your prayer? Answer: “For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever” means: We ask all this of Thee because, as our King, Thou art willing and able to give us all that is good,¹ and because not we ourselves but Thy holy name should receive all praise forever.²

Scripture References: 1: Romans 10:12; 2 Peter 1:3 2: Psalm 115:1

Question 129: What does the word “Amen” mean? Answer: “Amen” means: it is true and certain.¹ For God has much more certainly heard my prayer than I feel in my heart that I desire this of Him.²

Scripture References: 1: 2 Corinthians 1:20 2: Isaiah 65:24

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© Attie Retief, 2025