A Devotional Guide to the Westminster Shorter Catechism

In this episode, we speak with William Boekestein, Jonathan Landry Cruse, and Andrew J. Miller, the authors behind a new book, Glorifying and Enjoying God: 52 Devotions through the Westminster Shorter Catechism. These three pastors and theologians share their insights and experiences from their journey through the Westminster Shorter Catechism, offering listeners a unique opportunity to understand the profound theological truths encapsulated in this historic summary of faith. William Boekestein, serving the Immanuel Fellowship Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan, alongside his wife Amy and their four children, brings a pastoral heart to our discussion. Jonathan Landry Cruse, author of What Happens When We Worship and pastor of Community Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Kalamazoo, where he resides with his wife and three children, offers a perspective enriched by his literary and ministerial endeavors. Andrew J. Miller, the Regional Home Missionary for the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in central Pennsylvania, shares his extensive missionary experiences, living out the catechism’s teachings alongside his wife Rebekah and their five children. Together, they speak about the motivations behind their collaborative work, the importance of the Westminster Shorter Catechism in today’s Christian walk, and how the book aims to deepen the reader’s love and knowledge of God. Join us as we explore how understanding God leads to a richer relationship with Him, and how the intertwined nature of heart and mind can bring us closer to the glory and enjoyment of God. Chapters 00:07 Introduction 03:12 Ministry in Kalamazoo 04:43 Church Planting in Central Pennsylvania 06:18 Beginning the Book Project 11:21 Reformed Ecumenism and Confessional Standards 18:06 Organizing the Shorter Catechism into 52 Sections 24:56 A Devotional Mindset 26:47 How to Use the Book 27:47 The Chief End of Man 33:23 The Relationship of the Catechism to the Bible 40:51 The Abiding Relevance of the Catechism’s Questions 43:22 Scripture and Catechetical Memorization 50:24 Lessons Learned and Pleasant Surprises 53:58 Make the Catechism Great Again 56:12 Conclusion Participants: Andrew J. Miller, Camden Bucey, Jonathan Landry Cruse, William Boekestein Mentioned in this episode: Call the Question! To be able to vote and see the results of our weekly polls, subscribe to our email newsletter for free at reformedforum.org/newsletter. You’ll also receive our bi-annual magazine in digital format. If you provide a US mailing address, we’ll also send you a print copy for free. Cast your vote, and we'll share the results next week.