In the opinion of B.B. Warfield, the Westminster divines left to posterity not only 'the most thoroughly thought out statement ever penned of the elements of evangelical religion' but also one which breathes 'the finest fragrance of spiritual religion'. Their most influential work, 'The Shorter Catechism', was intended as a teaching basis for an introduction to the Christian Faith. No London pastor made more effective use of it than Thomas Vincent (1634-1678) and when his 'explanation'(The Shorter Catechism Explained From Scripture) was first published in 1674, John Owen, Thomas Watson along with 38 other signatories to the Preface, declared their belief that it would 'be greatly useful to all Christians in general'.
Supplies two needs: (1) profitable, useable material for family devotions and (2) a practical guide for parents helping their children learn the catechism.
This unusual volume follows the doctrinal structure of the classic Puritan catechism, expounding each doctrinal point not with exposition, as is customary, but with many factual stories well selected by the author from a wide range of sources. Thus such subjects as Providence, Prayer and the Ten Commandments are illuminated with telling and sometimes fascinating narratives. First, published in 1828, and passing through many editions in the last century, the book has been revised for greater usefulness today.
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.