The Small Catechism – part 6
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Deuteronomy 11:18–19
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Click for a recording of today's lesson.
From the Confessions: The Small Catechism
Choose the version you like, and stick with it thereafter. But when you preach in the presence of educated and intelligent people, you may exhibit your knowledge, and present the parts of the catechism in varied and sophisticated ways, giving them as masterful a turn as you are able. But when teaching the young, stick to one, fixed, permanent form and manner. Begin with these parts: the Ten Commandments, the Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, etc. Match the text word for word, so that they can repeat these parts in the same way after you and commit them to memory.
Pulling It Together: What does it mean to “impress” the word of God on your heart and soul but to memorize Scripture? Other translations use “place,” “deposit,” “lay up,” and “fix.” It all means the same thing: know the Word. We begin with foundational Scripture, teaching our youth, not only these verses that will prove helpful for a lifetime but also, the discipline of memorizing more Scripture as they mature in the faith. Do not be worried about expecting memorization; it is a beneficial exercise and one that God commands.
Prayer: Help me, O God, to meditate in your Word day and night. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
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Author
Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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