09 May 2009

Lord's Day 19 Heidelberg Catechism

Lord's Day 19:

Scripture Readings: Colossians 1:9-20; Ephesians 4:1-16; Matthew 25:31-46

Question 50. Why the next words: "and sits at the right hand of God"?
Answer. Christ ascended to heaven so that he might show there that he is head of his church, and that the Father rules all things through him.

Question 51. How does this glory of Christ our head benefit us?
Answer. First, through his Holy Spirit he pours out his gifts from heaven upon us his members. Second, by his power he defends us and keeps us safe from all enemies.

Question 52. How does Christ's return "to judge the living and the dead" comfort you?
Answer. In all my affliction and persecution I may await with head held high the very Judge from heaven who has already submitted himself to the judgment of God for me and has removed all the curse from me. He will cast all his enemies and mine into everlasting condemnation, but he will take me and all his chosen ones to himself into the joy and glory of heaven.

For discussion and study:
In what specific ways do we think differently knowing that the Holy Spirit pours out his gifts upon us?
Is there any practical import of this doctrine?

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