J. G. Vos wrote a series of studies of the Larger Catechism that first appeared in Blue Banner Faith and Life (1946-49) and has never circulated widely. G. I. Williamson has edited Vos's commentary, and P&R is publishing it in book form for the first time. Because the Larger Catechism supplements the Shorter Catechism on such topics as the church and the means of grace, Presbyterians dare not ignore it. This edition of J. G. Vos's commentary will encourage a recommitment to the Larger Catechism's increased use and study.
An excellent commentary on the sadly neglected Larger Catechism of the Westminster Assembly, which is itself a theological goldmine. J. G. Vos had a great gift of explaining complex issues simply and clearly. The practical applications in the exposition of the Ten Commandments are also very useful for understanding the duties that we owe to God and the sins that we must avoid. While the author waters down the establishment principle a little and errs in describing written prayers as unbiblical (though making a solid defence of saying the Lord's Prayer), these are relatively minor complaints. It is a book that everyone would do well to read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest.
I’ll begin by noting that Vos’ commentary, while generally helpful, is uneven. That said, his work helped me to fulfill a longtime goal of working through all of the Larger Catechism proof texts. The LC itself has been my invaluable spiritual companion for decades, and perhaps the best thing I can say about Vos’ work is that upon completing it what I really want to do is spend even more time in the LC.
Foram oito anos e duas leituras dessa obra, finalizo com grande gratidão a Deus. Ensinei o CMW comentado por Johannes Geerhardus Vos, todas as perguntas e respostas e todos os versículos lidos, durante oito anos para o PMC. Foi num discipulado estudando esse livro com um pequeno grupo e foi incrível. Recomendo com entusiasmo nas EBDs, nos cultos de doutrina. Todo pastor, teólogo, missionário, todo cristão comprometido com as Escrituras devem ler atenciosamente.
A solid resource on the Larger Catechism (basically one of two available and the only one currently in print). Vos was a clear writer, obviously a gifted teacher, and a capable theologian. This would be a valuable resource for any office-holder in a Presbyterian church to own and consult often.
Sistematizado em formas de perguntas e respostas, comentado por um proeminente teólogo reformado, não preciso dizer mais nada! Simplesmente fantástico!
This is a very long read, but very enjoyable. It takes many of the common Christian beliefs and breaks them down in digestible pieces. For example, each one of the Ten Commandments are dealt with individually and over several pages. I also enjoyed how common questions were asked and answered for each of the topics. This is also loaded with Bible references to support the conclusions. It should be on the shelf of every Christian and is a valuable reference tool.