Zacharias Ursinus' "Commentary on The Heidelberg Catechism" is a comprehensive and influential exposition of the Heidelberg Catechism, one of the foundational documents of Reformed Christianity. Ursinus, a prominent Reformed theologian and one of the authors of the Catechism, wrote this commentary to provide a detailed explanation and defense of the Catechism's teachings.
The commentary follows the structure of the Heidelberg Catechism, which is organized into 52 Lord's Days, each addressing a specific question and answer format. Ursinus delves into the biblical, theological, and practical aspects of each section, providing a thorough analysis of the Christian doctrines and the Reformed theology found in the Catechism.
Throughout the commentary, Ursinus upholds the authority of Scripture as the foundation for all Christian teaching. He skillfully draws on various biblical passages to support the Catechism's doctrinal statements and to demonstrate their harmony with the teachings of the Bible.
Ursinus' commentary is marked by its clear and systematic presentation of Reformed theology. He expounds on key Reformed doctrines, such as the sovereignty of God in salvation, the covenant of grace, the work of Christ, and the importance of the sacraments.
Ursinus' commentary emphasizes the practical application of the Catechism's teachings to the Christian life. He highlights the comfort, assurance, and joy that believers can find in Christ and the Gospel. Ursinus encourages readers to apply the Catechism's truths to their daily lives, nurturing their faith, and growing in love and obedience to God.
ZACHARIAS URSINUS
Zacharias Ursinus (1534-1583) was a prominent theologian and Reformer during the Protestant Reformation. Born in Breslau, Silesia (now Wrocław, Poland), Ursinus studied under the leading Reformer Philip Melanchthon in Wittenberg. He became a significant figure in the development of Reformed theology and confessions.
Ursinus is best known for his involvement in writing "The Heidelberg Catechism," which remains one of the most influential and widely used Reformed confessions in the history of the Christian church.
As a theologian, Ursinus is remembered for his expertise in systematic theology and biblical exegesis. He emphasized the importance of grounding theological beliefs in the Scriptures and approaching theological questions with a biblical perspective. Ursinus was committed to the principles of sola Scriptura and sola fide, emphasizing the sufficiency of Scripture and the doctrine of justification by faith alone.
Ursinus served as a pastor and professor in various locations throughout his life. He taught at the University of Heidelberg and contributed significantly to the Reformed theological tradition. His emphasis on the centrality of Christ, the comfort of believers, and the application of biblical truth in daily life continues to influence and inspire Reformed Christians to this day.
24. The Divinity Of Christ (00:00)
25. Concerning the Name, Lord (1:01:51)
26. Of The Conception & Nativity Of Christ (1:10:52)
27. Of The Two Natures Of Christ (1:17:35)
28. The Sufferings Of Christ (1:31:11)
29. The Death & Burial Of Christ (1:54:37)
30. Christ's Descent Into Hell (2:24:08)
31. The Resurrection Of Christ (2:39:20)
32. The Ascension Of Christ (3:08:50)
33. Christ's Sitting At The Right Hand Of The Father (3:48:52)
34. Christ's Return To Judgment (4:08:45)
35. Of God The Holy Ghost (4:43:13)
36. The Church (5:35:36)
37. The Eternal Predestination Of God (5:59:38)
38. The Communion Of Saints (6:35:00)
39. The Forgiveness Of Sins (6:40:27)
40. The Resurrection Of The Body (6:52:07)
41. The Life Everlasting (7:23:40)
42. The Doctrine Of Justification (7:44:00)
43. The Sacraments In General (8:38:49)
44. Holy Baptism (9:31:21)
45. Of Circumcision (10:28:28)
46. The Lord's Supper (Part 1) (10:38:57)
Online PDF Source Text: https://archive.org/download/commdrza00ursi/commdrza00ursi.pdf