The Shorter Catechism Illustrated

from Church History and Biography

Look Inside Price £16.50

Weight 0.41 kg
Dimensions 22.225 × 14.2875 × 1.905 cm
ISBN 9781800404670
The Author

John Whitecross

Binding

Cloth-bound

Format

Book

Page Count

284

Banner Pub Date

2025

Subtitle

from Church History and Biography

Original Pub Date

1828

Banner Pub Date

1968

Book Description

This helpful volume follows the doctrinal structure of the Shorter Catechism but expands each doctrinal point with a wide range of factual stories that illustrate or apply the teaching. Subjects like providence, prayer, and the Ten Commandments are illuminated with telling, moving, and sometimes fascinating narratives.

John Whitecross’s book stands out as a resource that will assist to memorably teach the catechism in a family, small group, or formal setting. First published in 1828, the book has been gently modernized.

Whitecross was a schoolmaster who knew how to gain people’s attention and help them retain what they learned. This book can also be recommended reading for children aged ten and over. It is a valuable treasury of illustrative matter for all those who have the responsibility of making biblical teaching interesting in home, school, or church.

Testimonials

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  1. Marc Daniel Rivera (KristiyaKnow)

    The Banner of Truth Trust has once again provided us with a valuable resource by republishing The Shorter Catechism Illustrated by John Whitecross. First published in 1828, this 2024 edition has been carefully re-typeset and gently modernized for improved readability while preserving the essence of the original work. Bound in a durable cloth format, this volume is an essential tool in teaching biblical doctrine in the home, school, or church.

    John Whitecross, an experienced schoolmaster, recognized the power of storytelling in education. Instead of presenting a conventional exposition or commentary of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, he enhances each doctrinal point with engaging historical and biographical anecdotes. These real-life accounts bring to life the catechism’s key themes, helping readers—both young and old—grasp the depth and application of biblical truths.

    This is my first time to encounter a book with this approach, and I must say that it is really engaging and effective in educational and devotional settings. Parents, teachers, and ministers will find it a compelling aid in instructing and teaching.

    Whitecross’ selections of anecdotes are noteworthy. These accounts range from stories of spiritual awakening to striking illustrations of divine providence and moral integrity. For instance, the opening catechism question—”What is the chief end of man?”—is reinforced by the story of Lady Glenorchy, who was deeply convicted upon realizing she had never truly sought to glorify God. Such narratives do more than entertain; they provide powerful and thought-provoking applications of biblical doctrine.

    Whitecross’ expertise as an educator is evident in his thoughtful arrangement of these stories. Each account is selected to capture attention, provoke reflection, and reinforce theological principles in a memorable way. His approach aligns with the well-established teaching method that moral and spiritual truths are best absorbed when illustrated through real-life examples. The Westminster Shorter Catechism continues to be a foundational guide to Christian doctrine, and Whitecross’ narratives make its teachings vivid and practical.

    Final thoughts:

    The Shorter Catechism Illustrated by John Whitecross is an exceptional resource that presents sound doctrinal teaching through edifying anecdotes and narratives. It not only aids in catechetical instruction but also provides a means to make biblical teaching more engaging and memorable. I highly recommend it for every family, church, and school as a valuable tool for teaching and reinforcing biblical truths.

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