Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the Three Forms of Unity and using this resource directory.
About the Three Forms of Unity
What are the Three Forms of Unity?
The Three Forms of Unity are the primary confessional documents of Reformed churches: the Heidelberg Catechism (1563), the Belgic Confession (1561), and the Canons of Dort (1619). Together they provide a comprehensive summary of Reformed theology and doctrine.
What is the Heidelberg Catechism?
The Heidelberg Catechism is a Reformed catechism consisting of 129 questions and answers, divided into 52 Lord's Days. Written in 1563, it teaches Christian doctrine through three themes: Misery (our sin), Deliverance (redemption through Christ), and Gratitude (Christian living).
How many questions are in the Heidelberg Catechism?
The Heidelberg Catechism contains 129 questions and answers, organized into 52 Lord's Days for weekly study throughout the year.
What is Question 1 of the Heidelberg Catechism?
Q. What is your only comfort in life and in death?
A. That I am not my own, but belong—body and soul, in life and in death—to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ. He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood, and has set me free from the tyranny of the devil. He also watches over me in such a way that not a hair can fall from my head without the will of my Father in heaven; in fact, all things must work together for my salvation. Because I belong to him, Christ, by his Holy Spirit, assures me of eternal life and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for him.
Where can I read the Heidelberg Catechism for free?
The Heidelberg Catechism is in the public domain and available free from many sources including CRCNA.org, Heidelberg-Catechism.com, and various Reformed denominational websites. PDF versions are widely available for download.
What is the Belgic Confession?
The Belgic Confession is a Reformed confession of faith written in 1561 by Guido de Brès. It contains 37 articles articulating Reformed doctrine and was written during a time of persecution of Protestant believers in the Low Countries.
What are the Canons of Dort?
The Canons of Dort are the theological conclusions of the Synod of Dort (1618-1619), which affirmed Reformed theology against Arminianism. They are often summarized as the Five Points of Calvinism: Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints (TULIP).
About This Directory
How many resources are in this directory?
We have carefully cataloged 307 resources including 78 on the Heidelberg Catechism, 86 on the Belgic Confession, 96 on the Canons of Dort, and 47 general resources covering all three confessions.
Are the Amazon links affiliate links?
Yes, some links are Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This helps support the maintenance of this free directory.
How can I suggest a resource to be added?
We welcome suggestions! Visit our Submit a Resource page to suggest resources for inclusion in our directory.