The Theology of the Heidelberg Catechism

“Bierma’s metaphor for this defining text of the Reformed tradition is surprising: ‘…a grafting of Reformed branches on a Lutheran vine.’ He brings the whole Catechism and each of its parts into lucid conversation with the documents that have been suggested as sources. He makes his case thoroughly and convincingly.”–Gary Neal Hansen, Associate Professor of Church History, University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, Dubuque, Iowa

“Lyle Bierma achieves several things at once in this remarkable work. His careful sleuthing into the theological sources and historical factions behind the Heidelberg Catechism will surely make this a definitive work on this important Reformation document. At the same time, his accessible and clear writing about the theological topics of this warmly embraced confession makes this a wonderful aid for Reformed and Lutheran Christians who want to understand their faith more deeply. And finally, Bierma helps us see how the ecumenical theology and spirit of the catechism can be of continuing importance for both the Reformed and Lutheran traditions.” –David L. Stubbs, Professor of Ethics and Theology, Western Theological Seminary, Holland, Michigan

Lyle D. Bierma is Dean of the Faculty and the Jean and Kenneth Baker Professor of Systematic Theology at Calvin Theological Seminary. He is the author of Covenant Theology of Caspar Olevianus, The Doctrine of the Sacraments in the Heidelberg Catechism, and An Introduction to the Heidelberg Catechism.