by Rev. James I. Good
In ePub,.mobi & .pdf formats
Aid to the Heidelberg Catechism by Rev. James I. Good is a pastoral treasure crafted to strengthen the theological foundation of young catechumens and equip pastors with a richly layered resource for instruction in the historic Reformed faith. As the title suggests, this book is more than a mere reiteration of the Heidelberg Catechism—it is a carefully structured guide that provides doctrinal, historical, and devotional enrichment, tailor-made for the church’s teaching ministry. Rev. Good, a seasoned scholar of Reformed history, offers not only the full catechism, but also a condensed version (The Shorter Heidelberg Catechism by Prof. D. Van Horne), a sweeping survey of biblical history, a primer on Reformed church history, selected hymns, and thoughtful pastoral advice for those preparing for confirmation.
What makes this volume stand out is its sensitivity to the realities of modern catechesis, particularly in an American context where public instruction in Scripture is lacking. It compensates for that gap with supplemental material—such as Bible history lessons and an introduction to the heritage of the Reformed Church—structured in a way that allows for weekly instruction. The volume is not merely academic; it is deeply devotional and missional, aimed at leading young hearts to Christ. It embodies the Reformed conviction that theology is for life, and that catechesis is not simply about rote memorization, but about forming disciples rooted in truth and love. Pastors, teachers, and parents alike will find in this volume an indispensable aid for raising up the next generation to cherish the gospel of sovereign grace.
James Isaac Good (1850–1924) was a noted church historian born in York, PA. Educated at Lafayette College and Union Theological Seminary, Good pastored Reformed churches in Pennsylvania for 30 years and also taught church history at Ursinus College. He was then promoted to the professor of dogmatics and pastoral theology, and then the dean of the school. In 1907, he moved to Central Theological Seminary where he was a professor of Reformed Church history and liturgics. From 1911 to 1914 he was president of the general synod of the Reformed Church in the United States. In recognition of his services as a Reformed Church historian, he was made an honorary member of the Huguenot Society of Germany.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface
Book I: The Heidelberg Catechism
Book II: The Shorter Heidelberg Catechism
Book III: Bible History
BOOK IV: History of the Reformed Church
BOOK V: Hymns
BOOK VI: Advice to Catechumens
BOOK VII: Prayers