Westminster Shorter Catechism

The Westminster Shorter Catechism (1647) is the companion catechism to the Westminster Confession, written by the same assembly for the instruction of children and those new to the faith. Its 107 questions open with what is perhaps the most quoted confessional line in Reformed history: "What is the chief end of man? Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever."

The catechism is divided into two parts. The first treats what man is to believe concerning God: God's nature and works, the fall, Christ the Redeemer, and the application of redemption through effectual calling, justification, adoption, and sanctification. The second treats what duty God requires of man: the moral law in the Ten Commandments, the means of grace in Word, sacrament, and prayer, and the Lord's Prayer as a pattern. It remains a primary instructional document in Presbyterian and Reformed churches worldwide. AskCredo cites the Shorter Catechism on questions about the chief end of man, the attributes of God, and the application of redemption.

Questions on AskCredo that cite the Westminster Shorter Catechism, organized by question number.