Here you will find the questions, answers and Scripture proofs for the Shorter Catechism, together with a brief explanation.

    • Q.42

      Matthew 22:37-40, James 2:10 & Romans 13:10

      The Westminster Shorter Catechism

      Q. 42. What is the sum of the ten commandments?

      A. The sum of the ten commandments is, to love the Lord our God, with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind; and our neighbour as ourselves.

      Scripture References:

      Matthew 22:37-40
      Matthew 10:27
      James 2:10
      Romans 13:10

      The Westminster Shorter Catechism in Modern English:

      Q.42. What is the essence of the ten commandments?

      A. The essence of the ten commandments is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind, and to love everyone else as we love ourselves.

      Questions

      1. How are the duties of the commandments divided in this answer?

      The duties are divided in the following way: Our duties toward God and our duties toward our neighbour.

      2. What is the meaning of the word “sum” in this question?

      The meaning of the word “sum” is the comprehensive duty of the law which is love; for love is the fulfilling of the law.

      3. What is the meaning of loving God with all our heart?

      To love God with all our heart means to love him without hypocrisy, to be sincere and honest in our love.

      4. What is the meaning of loving God with all our soul?

      To love God with all our soul means to exercise all the faculties we have in fulfilling the duties of our Christian life as we delight in Him and in following His will.

      5. What is the meaning of loving God with all our strength?

      To love God with all our strength means to love nothing or no one more than God.

      6. Who is our neighbour that we are to love as ourselves?

      Every man is our neighbour therefore we are to have a general affection toward all.

      7. What is it to love our neighbour as ourselves?

      To love our neighbour as ourselves is to love him with the same truth and constancy of love as we do ourselves. (Ephesians 5:29)

      8. If a standard could be given from Scripture as to this love for others, what could be given?

      A good standard from the word of God would be Matthew 7:12 - that we do to others what we would have them do to us, or John 15:12, where Jesus said, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”