Basic Reformed Baptist Beliefs
In this series, we will take a look at the questions and answers contained in a Reformed Baptist Catechism. Most of these entries will be based on the 1677 catechism known popularly as “Keach’s Catechism”, but some freedom may be taken with regard to updating language or adding additional Scripture references found in other sources. In addition to the questions and answers, there will also be comment of around 100 words to help explain the question/ answer more fully or to provide application. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references will be from the English Standard Version of the Bible, ©2016 by Crossway Bibles.
Why a Catechism?
A catechism allows teachers and disciples to follow a structured Scripture-based study of the major ideas and understandings of the Christian faith. The questions are designed to be accessible to young believers and continue to be instructive to all believers throughout their lives. 2 Timothy 1:13 says, “Follow the pattern of sound words which you heard from me.” The catechism gives us a structural set of precise and sound words describing the doctrines of our faith.
Question 1 – Who is the first and best of beings?
Q/A
Q. Who is the first and best of beings?
A. God is the first and best of beings.
Scripture References
| 1 Samuel 2:2 | There is none holy like the LORD: for there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God. |
| Psalm 8:1 | O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. |
| Psalm 96:4 | For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods. |
| Psalm 97:9 | For you, O LORD, are most high over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods. |
| Isaiah 44:6 | Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: “I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god.” |
| Isaiah 48:12b | I am he; I am the first, and I am the last. |
Applying the Doctrine
This is the fundamental question for everyone: who is most important? For most people, Darwin rules, so everyone struggles for themselves. For the follower of Jesus Christ, the answer is altogether different: God is first, and God is best. He is first chronologically – He created everything that exists. He rightly is first categorically – as the Sovereign God, He deserves to be more important than any piece of His creation, even you. And as the only self-sufficient, unchangeable being, He is the only One who can be truly good or right. Our most appropriate position before Him is humility, not hubris.