Once we begin with a Biblically shaped anthropology, we can throw out this idea of moral neutrality. We are not simply blank slates approaching information. We must recognize our need for a Spirit filled, grace saturated, gospel shaped, discipleship driven, and pride humbling process of progressive sanctification that continually combats our vain idolatry. Catechesis is one of the tools the church has used throughout history to aid us in that process.

Also to be noted is the increasingly rapid trend towards a completely subjective approach to scripture, faith, and practice. This is not only an epidemic within our culture but is becoming broadly accepted within Evangelical circles as well. By subjective I mean that we approach scripture by asking the question, “What does this mean to me?” Or, worse yet, as is becoming increasingly common, to rephrase that question to ask how the text makes us feel; as if to say that our emotional experience is now the highest measure of truth.

The truth claims of scripture of completely objective; meaning that they are true whether we believe them or not. In countering subjectivity, what must be discerned is whether what we claim to be scriptural truth is the product of careful exegeses in exposing the original meaning of both human and Devine authorship; or whether the claim of scriptural truth is rather the product of inserting our own presuppositions into the text.

Catechesis provides the sound theological foundation from which we can build upon as we grow in our faith, understanding, and service. We are provided with a systematic summery of the teaching of scripture on key issues that are a sure rock bed to the Christian life. Whether we are children or adults; whether this is the first time through a catechism or simply a refresher; every believer will benefit greatly from the rich theological wealth and heritage preserved for us. Whether it be the Heidelberg Catechism or either of the Westminster Catechisms (longer or shorter), it would be an outstanding disciplinary exercise to regularly visit or revisit the historic reformed catechisms as well as spending a good deal time with their parent confessions.

A few years ago Tim Keller made a comment during a conference workshop that has staid with me through the years. I don’t remember which conference it was, but I do clearly remember his words of caution: “We all bring our presuppositions to the Bible. The question is, are those good presuppositions.”

Our presuppositions are formed out of our understanding of who God is and how he relates to his creation. To address our presuppositions deals things primary to the development of our worldview. How our presuppositions come about carries over into our understanding of anthropology. To begin with anthropology takes us to not only to the origins of humanity but our understanding of our human nature and condition.

If we do not begin with a Biblically informed anthropology we will most likely error in our assumption of man’s moral ability. The human heart is an idol factory. Even as regenerate Christians we need to recognize our tendency towards assigning to God what is most pleasing to us. Left to our own devices, we will always default to creating a god that suits our own passions, pursuits, and desires.