Posted at Reformation Scotland:
Parents want to bring up their children to understand the ways of the Lord, but where can we start? As well as telling them who God is and what Jesus did, we also want them to learn the patterns and rhythms of the Christian life. According to Thomas Wilson, a preacher in Maidstone who was a member of the Westminster Assembly, this includes the things we practice in a community of others of the Lord’s people — a Christian church. These concepts are not to be seen as beyond children and young people’s ability to grasp, but rather things it is entirely expected for them to be familiarised with. Thomas Wilson drew up a set of questions and answers to help our young theologians understand the Christian faith and life. He called it “The Child’s Trade” and described it as the basics of the doctrine of Christ, by which “babies may have milk, children may have bread, and those who are in darkness may have a candle.” In his catechism he introduced the key teachings of theology in brief and accessible terms, including, in the following updated extract, how godliness is to be practiced both in our own personal devotions and in a churchly way.What may the godly look for in their way?
Many afflictions (Acts 14:22).
What is our comfort in afflictions?
All is working for good (Rom. 8:28).
What is our help against Satan?
God will tread him down (Rom. 16:20).
What is our help against sin?
God’s grace will be sufficient (2 Cor. 12:9).
What is our support when people reproach us?
The great reward in heaven (Matt. 5:12).
What is our supply in infirmities?
God will be sparing (Mal. 3:17).
Where there is true grace, what should be done?
Grace should increase more and more (1 Thess. 4:1).