Heidelberg Catechism: 'Since then we are made partakers of Christ and all his benefits by faith only, where does this faith come from?'
LORD’S DAY 25
65. Since then we are made partakers of Christ and all his benefits by faith only, where does this faith come from?The Holy Spirit creates it in our hearts1 by the preaching of the Gospel,2 and confirms it by the use of the Holy Sacraments.3
1 Jn 3:5; 1 Cor 2:10-14; Eph 2:8; Php 1:29; 2 Rom 10:17; 1 Pt 1:23-25; 3 Mt 28:19-20; 1 Cor 10:16
66. What are the sacraments?
The sacraments are holy, visible signs and seals, instituted by God so that by their use He might the more fully declare and seal to us the promise of the Gospel;1 namely, that He grants us out of free grace the forgiveness of sins and everlasting life, because of the one sacrifice of Christ accomplished on the cross.2
1 Gen 17:11; Deut 30:6; Rom 4:11; 2 Mt 26:27-28; Acts 2:38; Heb 10:10
67. Are both the Word and the Sacraments intended to direct our faith to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, as the only ground of our salvation?
Yes indeed; for the Holy Spirit teaches us in the Gospel, and by the Holy Sacraments assures us, that our whole salvation rests on the one sacrifice of Christ made for us on the cross.1
1 Rom 6:3; 1 Cor 11:26; Gal 3:27
68. How many Sacraments has Christ instituted in the New Covenant?
Two: Holy Baptism and the Holy Supper.1
1 Mt 28:19-20; 1 Cor 11:23-26
