A catechism is a fancy word for a set of questions and answers about Bible doctrines. It is a simple, effective way to teach our children (and adults) the BIG truths of the gospel. Join us in 2025 as we jump into these questions and find out the truth that awaits us!
New City Catechism 2025
Week 34: August 25-31
Question 34: Since we are redeemed by grace alone, through Christ alone, must we still do good works and obey God’s Word? Yes, so that our lives may show love and gratitude to God; and so that by our godly behavior others may be won to Christ.
1 Peter 2:9–12
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.
For the Parent’s Heart:
- Read this quote from Charles Spurgeon:
- “So, then, dear friends, these good works must be in the Christian. They are not the root, but the fruit of his salvation. They are not the way of the believer’s salvation; they are his walk in the way of salvation. Where there is healthy life in a tree, the tree will bear fruit according to its kind; so, if God has made our nature good, the fruit will be good.”
- Have you ever confused the root and the fruit that Spurgeon is talking about?How does this statement clear up your confusion?
- It is easy for our children to develop a misunderstanding about God and obedience. They can think that God will only love them when they are well behaved. How can you counteract that misunderstanding with this week’s truth?
Ask Your Children:
- What is your favorite fruit tree? Would you be surprised if that tree produced (a different kind of fruit)? Why?
- What kind of “fruit” do Christians grow? (Fruit of the Spirit, good works, faith, etc.)
- Does that “fruit” make a person a Christian? Why not?
Reminders:
- Be sure to check out the playlists below or in the app for helpful songs that your family can listen to for help memorizing these questions and answers.
- How can you incorporate this question into your normal daily routine? Post it on a mirror in the bathroom, in the kitchen, or in the car where everyone can see it.
- Bedtime is a great opportunity to review this question and have discussions about it. If you have trouble remembering, set a reminder on your phone or ask your child to remind you to review this week’s question.
Find the Catechism
There are many ways for your family to keep up with New City Catechism throughout the year.
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
We have an Instagram account for our children’s ministry! Each week, Pastor Jason will post encouragement and discussion points for that week’s question.
LISTEN TO THE SONGS
The Gospel Coalition has released songs to go with each catechism question. You can find them on both Spotify and Apple Music.