Heidelberg Catechism / Lord's Day 25 / Q. 66
Q. 66. What are the sacraments?
Question. What are the sacraments?
Answer. The sacraments are holy visible signs and seals (Rom. 4;11), appointed of God (1 Cor. 11;25); for this end, that by the use thereof he may the more fully declare and seal to us the promise of the gospel (1 Cor. 11;26); namely, that he grants us freely the remission of sin and life eternal (Matt. 26;28), for the sake of that one sacrifice of Christ, accomplished on the cross (Heb. 9;28).
Proofs.
- [proof-1] Rom. 4;11.—And he received the sign of circumcision: a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had, yet being uncircumcised.— Gen. 17;11.—1 Cor. 11;24, 25.—Ex. 12;13.—Ex. 29;33.
- [proof-2] 1 Cor. 11;25.—This do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.— Matt. 28;19.—Ex. 12;27.—John 1;33.—Acts 7;8.—1 Cor. 11;23.
- [proof-3] 1 Cor. 11;26.—For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.— Acts 22;16.—Rom. 4;11.—Deut. 30;6.—2 Cor. 5;7.—Matt. 26;27,28.
- [proof-4] Matt. 26;28.—For this is my blood of the New Testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins.— Acts 22;38.—John 10;28.—Acts 22;16.—1 Cor. 11;25.
- [proof-5] Heb. 9;28.—So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him, shall he appear the second time, without sin, unto salvation.— Rom. 3;24, 25.—Rom. 6;3.