Well... Catechizing is a practice that has been familiar to those of the past, but it is not so common these days, at least not that I am aware of. In History's past, children studies catechisms so that they may accurately know the the doctrine of the Scriptures, and avoid deception. Now, I suppose that programs like Awanas are a lighthearted form of catechizing. But, may I dare to point out that these popular church programs are elementary compared to what our ancestors learned and understood.
What is it?
Catechize comes from the Greek word katecheo which is translated "to indoctrinate" or " inform, instruct, teach".
It is used here: Luke 1:4 "That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed."
And here: Acts 18:25 "This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John."
A catechism is a list of questions, their answers and their scripture proofs in a logical order for memorization. We are using a Baptist Catechism that is patterned after the reformed Westminster Catechism. Here is the link: http://www.desiringgod.org/AboutUs/OurDistinctives/ABaptistCatechism/
This is a picture of Prudence catechizing Christiana's childrenin John Bunyan's Christiana, Part II of Pilgrim's Progress.
I am interested to know if others are catechizing their children or themselves. If so, which one are you using and why? Please comment.
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