The Good News We Almost Forgot
Rediscovering the Gospel in a 16th Century Catechism
About This Book
In The Good News We Almost Forgot, Kevin DeYoung invites readers to rediscover the profound wisdom contained in the Heidelberg Catechism, a 450-year-old confession that remains remarkably relevant to contemporary Christian life. Written with clarity, warmth, and pastoral insight, DeYoung demonstrates how this historic document speaks powerfully to modern questions about sin, salvation, and sanctification.
The Heidelberg Catechism organizes Christian doctrine around three fundamental themes: our misery (guilt), God's redemption (grace), and our response (gratitude). DeYoung skillfully unpacks each of these sections, showing how the catechism presents a comprehensive vision of the Christian faith that is both theologically robust and practically applicable. His explanations are accessible to newcomers while offering fresh insights for those already familiar with Reformed theology.
What sets this book apart is DeYoung's ability to connect historic confessional theology with contemporary Christian experience. He addresses common objections to Reformed doctrine, explains difficult concepts with helpful illustrations, and consistently points readers to the grace of God in Christ. Throughout the book, DeYoung maintains a pastoral tone that is both challenging and encouraging, making complex theological truths understandable without oversimplifying them.
Whether you're new to the Heidelberg Catechism or have studied it for years, DeYoung's commentary offers a fresh, engaging exploration of this foundational Reformed document. His work demonstrates why the catechism has remained a beloved teaching tool across centuries and cultures, and why it continues to speak to the heart of Christian faith today.
Key Features
- Accessible Writing Style: DeYoung writes in a clear, conversational tone that makes Reformed theology approachable for all readers
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covers all 129 questions and answers of the Heidelberg Catechism in organized, digestible sections
- Practical Application: Consistently connects doctrinal truths to everyday Christian living and spiritual growth
- Biblical Foundation: Thoroughly grounded in Scripture, with extensive biblical references throughout
- Historical Context: Provides helpful background on the catechism's origin and historical significance
- Modern Relevance: Addresses contemporary questions and objections to Reformed theology
- Study Questions: Includes discussion questions suitable for personal reflection or small group study
- Pastoral Insight: Written by a practicing pastor who understands the questions and struggles of ordinary believers
Table of Contents
Part One: Guilt (Our Misery)
- My Only Comfort (Q&A 1-2)
- How Great Are Your Sins? (Q&A 3-11)
- The Law of God (Q&A 3-11 continued)
- Can We Keep the Law? (Q&A 3-11 continued)
Part Two: Grace (Our Redemption)
- Delivered from Death (Q&A 12-18)
- True God and True Man (Q&A 19-25)
- The Work of Christ (Q&A 26-44)
- The Spirit and the Church (Q&A 45-64)
- Justification and the Sacraments (Q&A 65-85)
Part Three: Gratitude (Our Response)
- Good Works and Conversion (Q&A 86-91)
- The Ten Commandments (Q&A 92-115)
- Prayer and the Lord's Prayer (Q&A 116-129)
Additional Material
- Appendix: The Full Text of the Heidelberg Catechism
- Study Questions for Personal or Group Use
- Scripture Index
- Subject Index
Who This Book Is For
New Christians
Those seeking a solid foundation in Reformed theology will find DeYoung's clear explanations and biblical grounding invaluable for understanding the core doctrines of the Christian faith.
Small Groups
With discussion questions and organized chapters, this book is ideal for group study, providing rich material for meaningful conversations about doctrine and practice.
Church Members
Members of Reformed churches will deepen their understanding of their confessional heritage and grow in appreciation for the wisdom of historic Reformed theology.
Pastors & Teachers
Church leaders will find helpful insights and illustrations for teaching the catechism, along with pastoral wisdom for applying doctrine to real-life situations.
Seekers & Skeptics
Those exploring Reformed theology or questioning particular doctrines will appreciate DeYoung's winsome, thoughtful approach to addressing common objections.
Seminary Students
Students of theology will benefit from DeYoung's clear synthesis of historical and biblical theology, making complex concepts accessible without sacrificing depth.
About the Author
Related Resources
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Discover the profound wisdom and timeless truths of the Heidelberg Catechism through Kevin DeYoung's accessible, engaging commentary.