For five centuries, the Reformed confessions have served as faithful guides to Scripture — clarifying doctrine, strengthening believers, and preserving the unity of Christ’s church. These documents do not compete with God’s Word; they shine like well-cut lenses that help us see its riches with clarity and joy.
The Ecumenical Creeds
The Apostles, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds are the earliest summaries of Christian belief — uniting the global church around the essentials of biblical, orthodox faith.
The Second Helvetic Confession
Written by Heinrich Bullinger in 1566, the Second Helvetic Confession emphasizes God’s sovereignty, the sufficiency of Scripture, and the Christ-centered hope of believers. It remains one of the clearest expressions of early Swiss Reformed theology.
The Belgic Confession
Penned by Guido de Brès during fierce persecution, the Belgic Confession boldly defends the Christian faith. It systematically presents essential doctrines — God, Scripture, salvation, the sacraments, and the church — with remarkable clarity and devotion.
The Heidelberg Catechism
Published in 1563, the Heidelberg Catechism speaks with a warmth that has comforted generations. Its threefold pattern — guilt, grace, gratitude — gives believers a pastoral, Christ-centered explanation of biblical truth. Its first question remains one of the most beloved in all Christian history.
The Canons of Dort
Formed at the Synod of Dort (1618–1619), these canons defend the doctrines of grace — the sovereign mercy of God in salvation. Their pastoral precision offers deep assurance to weary sinners resting in Christ alone.
The Westminster Confession
Written in 1647, the Westminster Confession is a towering summary of Christian doctrine — from God’s eternal decree to worship, sacraments, the Christian life, and the hope of glory. Alongside it stand the Larger and Shorter Catechisms, treasured tools for teaching the faith.
The Westminster Shorter Catechism
Designed for easy memorization, the Shorter Catechism distills the core truths of Scripture with unmatched clarity — including the beloved declaration that our chief end is “to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.”
The Westminster Larger Catechism
Intended for pastors, elders, and serious students of Scripture, the Larger Catechism offers rich doctrinal exposition, guiding believers through the law, the gospel, the sacraments, and the life of holiness.
