The Larger Catechism

Book excerpt: The Larger Catechism stands as one of the three major doctrinal standards produced by the Westminster Assembly. Often overshadowed by the Shorter Catechism and the Confession of Faith, the Larger Catechism exhibits the Assembly's most mature theological reflection and insight. In this remarkable volume, John Bower provides extensive historical background for the making of this colossal catechism. He traces the history of the Assembly's efforts from the initial call for a catechism, through deliberations on its form and content, and down to the intricate process of monitoring its printing. The centerpiece of the volume is Bower's critical text of the catechism. Painstakingly checked and indexed, the critical text is supported by a four-column comparison of the authoritative manuscripts and printings. Graced with a glossary and a catalog of corrected proof-texts, Bower's text is sure to be the benchmark for future study, modern editions, and foreign translations for years to come. This is the initial volume of the Principal Documents of the Westminster Assembly series. Table of Contents: Introduction: The Making of the Catechism 1. One Catechism for Three Kingdoms 2. Exact and Comprehensive: A New Catechism 3. Completing the Work 4. Manuscripts and Editions 5. Critical Editing Methods and Conventions A Critical Edition of the Larger Catechism Authoritative Texts: A Parallel Column Comparison Series Description Principal Documents of the Westminster Assembly series presents the six chief works authored by the Westminster Assembly for establishing covenanted uniformity of religion in England: the Confession of Faith, the Larger Catechism, the Shorter Catechism, the Directory for Public Worship, the Directory for Church Government, and the Psalter. Each volume will contain a historical introduction, the critical text, and parallel columns comparing original manuscripts and authoritative editions.