The Larger Catechism: A Critical Text & Introduction by John R. Bower (Principal Documents of the Westminster Assembly Series) | Reformation Heritage Hardcover Edition

by John Bower R.

The Larger Catechism stands as one of the three major doctrinal standards produced by the Westminster Assembly. Often overshadowed by the Shorter Catechism and the Confession of Faith, the Larger Catechism exhibits the Assembly's most mature theological reflection and insight. In this remarkable volume, John Bower provides extensive historical background for the making of this colossal catechism. He traces the history of the Assembly's efforts from the initial call for a catechism, through deliberations on its form and content, and down to the intricate process of monitoring its printing. The centerpiece of the volume is Bower's critical text of the catechism. Painstakingly checked and indexed, the critical text is supported by a four-column comparison of the authoritative manuscripts and printings. Graced with a glossary and a catalogue of corrected proof-texts, Bower's text is sure to be the benchmark for future study, modern editions, and foreign translations for years to come. This is the initial volume of the Principal Documents of the Westminster Assembly series.
Table of
The Making of the Catechism
1. One Catechism for Three Kingdoms
2. Exact and A New Catechism
3. Completing the Work
4. Manuscripts and Editions
5. Critical Editing Methods and Conventions
A Critical Edition of the Larger Catechism
Authoritative A Parallel Column Comparison

Genres: Theology

301 pages, Hardcover

First published May 30, 2010

Reviews

[Evan]

nice

[Logan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The introductory material on the history and the structure of the catechism (i.e., modeled after the points in the Apostle's Creed) was highly informative. The critical text itself should be a very valuable source material for future researchers as well.

[Joel Fick · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is divided into two parts. The first part being An Introduction on the Making of the Catechism by John Bower. The second part being the actual critical text of the Larger Catechism followed by a parallel column comparison of the authoritative texts. The introduction itself is worth the price of the book. The first four chapters giving a helpful, clear and concise overview of the formulation of the catechism with the fifth chapter devoted to the methods and conventions of critical editing. A fascinating read for those interested in the work of the Westminster Assembly.