Of the three documents that comprise the Westminster Standards, the Larger Catechism has been the most neglected, even by conservative Presbyterians who profess to embrace these Standards. J. G. Vos wrote a series of studies of the Larger Catechism that first appeared in Blue Banner Faith and Life (1946-49) and has never circulated widely. G. I. Williamson has edited Vos's commentary, and P&R is publishing it in book form for the first time. Because the Larger Catechism supplements the Shorter Catechism on such topics as the church and the means of grace, Presbyterians dare not ignore it. This edition of J. G. Vos's commentary will encourage a recommitment to the Larger Catechism.
The Larger Catechism stands as one of the three major doctrinal standards produced by the Westminster Assembly. Often overshadowed by the Shorter Catechism and the Confession of Faith, the Larger Catechism exhibits the Assembly's most mature theological reflection and insight. In this remarkable volume, John Bower provides extensive historical background for the making of this colossal catechism. He traces the history of the Assembly's efforts from the initial call for a catechism, through deliberations on its form and content, and down to the intricate process of monitoring its printing. The centerpiece of the volume is Bower's critical text of the catechism. Painstakingly checked and indexed, the critical text is supported by a four-column comparison of the authoritative manuscripts and printings. Graced with a glossary and a catalog of corrected proof-texts, Bower's text is sure to be the benchmark for future study, modern editions, and foreign translations for years to come. This is the initial volume of the Principal Documents of the Westminster Assembly series. Table of Contents: Introduction: The Making of the Catechism 1. One Catechism for Three Kingdoms 2. Exact and Comprehensive: A New Catechism 3. Completing the Work 4. Manuscripts and Editions 5. Critical Editing Methods and Conventions A Critical Edition of the Larger Catechism Authoritative Texts: A Parallel Column Comparison Series Description Principal Documents of the Westminster Assembly series presents the six chief works authored by the Westminster Assembly for establishing covenanted uniformity of religion in England: the Confession of Faith, the Larger Catechism, the Shorter Catechism, the Directory for Public Worship, the Directory for Church Government, and the Psalter. Each volume will contain a historical introduction, the critical text, and parallel columns comparing original manuscripts and authoritative editions.
In the Large Catechism Luther set out to inculcate the centrality of the Gospel. Whether Luther is dealing with the Ten Commandments or the Lord's Supper, the dynamic of the Word of God as Gospel provides the cutting edge for what he says. The Large Catechism is a primary source for an understanding of the Christian ethos in action in Reformation Christianity.
Martin Luther's Large Catechism, has been regarded as significant work throughout human history, and in order to ensure that this work is never lost, we have taken steps to ensure its preservation by republishing this book in a contemporary format for both current and future generations. This entire book has been retyped, redesigned, and reformatted. Since these books are not made from scanned copies, the text is readable and clear.
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