Westminster Shorter Catechism – Lord’s Day 38
Q & A 85
Q What does God require of us, that we may escape his wrath and curse, due to us for sin?
A To escape the wrath and curse of God, due to us for sin, God requires of us faith in Jesus Christ, repentance unto life,*1 with the diligent use of all the outward means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption.*2
Q & A 86
Q What is faith in Jesus Christ?
A Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace,*3 whereby we receive and rest upon him alone for salvation, as he is offered to us in the gospel.*4
Q & A 87
Q What is repentance unto life?
A Repentance unto life is a saving grace,*5 whereby a sinner, out of a true sense of his sin, and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ,*6 does, with grief and hatred of his sin, turn from it unto God,*7 with full purpose of, and endeavor after, new obedience.*8
Q & A 88
Q What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption?
A The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption are, his ordinances, especially the Word, sacraments, and prayer; all which are made effectual to the elect for salvation.*9
*1 Mark 1:15; Acts 20:21.
*2 Acts 2:38; 1 Corinthians 11:24-25; Colossians 3:16.
*3 Ephesians 2:8-9; Cf. Romans 4:16.
*4 John 20:30-31; Galatians 2:15-16; Philippians 3:3-11.
*5 Acts 11:18; 2 Timothy 2:25.
*6 Psalm 51:1-4; Joel 2:13; Acts 2:37.
*7 Jeremiah 31:18-19; Luke 1:16-17; 1 Thessalonians 1:9.
*8 2 Chronicles 7:14; Psalm 119:57-64; Matthew 3:8.
*9 Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:41-42.
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