Introduction

The Heidelberg Catechism (1563) is one of the most beloved and widely used confessions of faith in the Reformed tradition. Commissioned by Elector Frederick III of the Palatinate, it was written in Heidelberg, Germany, to provide a clear, biblical, and pastoral guide for teaching the Christian faith. Traditionally attributed to Zacharias Ursinus as the primary writer, with Caspar Olevianus playing a smaller role, the catechism was designed for young people, church preaching, and confessional unity among Protestants.  

Organized into 52 Lord’s Days for weekly study, it follows three key themes: guilt (our sin and need for salvation), grace (God’s redemption through Christ), and gratitude (our response to His grace). This simple yet profound structure makes it a valuable tool for both new and mature believers.  

The Synod of Dort (1619) formally approved the catechism, and it has since been translated worldwide, shaping the faith of countless Christians. With its warm, pastoral tone, the Heidelberg Catechism remains a trusted resource for understanding the comfort and assurance found in Jesus Christ.

Lord’s Day 1

Q & A 1

Q. What is your only comfort

in life and in death?

A. That I am not my own,1

but belong—

body and soul,

in life and in death—2

to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ.3

He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood,4

and has set me free from the tyranny of the devil.5

He also watches over me in such a way6

that not a hair can fall from my head

without the will of my Father in heaven;7

in fact, all things must work together for my salvation.8

Because I belong to him,

Christ, by his Holy Spirit,

assures me of eternal life9

and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready

from now on to live for him.10

1 1 Cor. 6:19-20

2 Rom. 14:7-9

3 1 Cor. 3:23; Titus 2:14

4 1 Pet. 1:18-19; 1 John 1:7-9; 2:2

5 John 8:34-36; Heb. 2:14-15; 1 John 3:1-11

6 John 6:39-40; 10:27-30; 2 Thess. 3:3; 1 Pet. 1:5

7 Matt. 10:29-31; Luke 21:16-18

8 Rom. 8:28

9 Rom. 8:15-16; 2 Cor. 1:21-22; 5:5; Eph. 1:13-14

10 Rom. 8:1-17

Q & A 2

Q. What must you know to

live and die in the joy of this comfort?

A. Three things:

first, how great my sin and misery are;1

second, how I am set free from all my sins and misery;2

third, how I am to thank God for such deliverance.3

1 Rom. 3:9-10; 1 John 1:10

2 John 17:3; Acts 4:12; 10:43

3 Matt. 5:16; Rom. 6:13; Eph. 5:8-10; 2 Tim. 2:15; 1 Pet. 2:9-10