Q. 114. But can those who are converted to God, perfectly keep these commandments?
Question. But can those who are converted to God, perfectly keep these commandments?
Answer. No; but even the holiest men, while in this life, have only small beginnings of this obedience (Phil. 3;13), yet so, that with a sincere resolution, they begin to live, not only according to some, but all the commands of God (Phil. 3;13, 14).
Proofs.
- [proof-1] Phil. 3;13.—Brethren I count not myself to have apprehended.— Ps. 19;12.—James 3;2.—Job 9;1-3.—1 John 1;8.—Ecc. 7;20.
- [proof-2] Phil. 3;13, 14.—This one thing I do, forgetting the things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.— Rom. 7;22.—Ps. 119;60, 106, 127, 128.
Source and provenance
Citation: Heidelberg Catechism Q. 114, Wikisource 1879 Reformed Church in America translation.
Original work: Public-domain historical catechism
Digital source: Wikisource transcription
Edition status: Edition comparison pending
Proof texts: Proof lines preserved; extraction partial
Scripture refs: 1JN.1.8, ECC.7.20, JAS.3.2, JOB.9.1-JOB.9.3, PHP.3.13, PHP.3.14, PSA.119.106, PSA.119.127, PSA.119.128, PSA.119.60, PSA.19.12, ROM.7.22
Source provider: Wikisource
Use guidance: Use with source citation; compare edition before formal reuse