10 April 2009

Lord's Day 15 Heidelberg Catechism

Lord's Day 15:

Scripture Readings: John 17; 10:1-30

Question 37. What do you understand by the word "suffered"?
Answer. That during his whole life on earth, and especially at the end, Christ sustained in body and soul the wrath of God against the sin of the whole human race. This he did in order that, by his suffering as the only atoning sacrifice, he might redeem us, body and soul, from eternal condemnation, and gain for us God's grace, righteousness, and eternal life.

Question 38. Why did he suffer "under Pontius Pilate" as judge?
Answer. So that he, though innocent, might be condemned by an earthly judge, and so set us free from the severe judgment of God that was to fall on us.

Question 39. Is there something more in his having been crucified than if he had died some other death?
Answer. Yes, for by this I am assured that he took upon himself the curse which lay upon me, because the death of the cross was cursed by God.

For discussion:
Why was Christ's suffering so important?
What is the connection between Deut. 21:23 and question #39?

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