WSC 85
Westminster Shorter Catechism
Q85. What doth God require of us, that we may escape his wrath and curse, due to us for sin?
To escape the wrath and curse of God, due to us for sin, God requireth of us faith in Jesus Christ, repentance unto life, with the diligent use of all the outward means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of redemption.
Proof texts
- Acts 20:21 — [21] testifying both to Jews and to Greeks of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
- Prov. 2:1-5 — [1] My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, [2] making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; [3] yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, [4] if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, [5] then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.
- Prov. 8:33-36 — [33] Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. [34] Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. [35] For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD, [36] but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death.”
- Isa. 55:3 — [3] Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live; and I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David.
For discussion
- The Assembly cited Acts 20:21 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
- 4 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
- WLC Q153 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
- HC Q86 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?