Martin Luther's Small Catechism

We Learn about the Ways of God

Martin Luther wrote the Small Catechism for parents to use in the home to instruct their children in the basics of their faith.

It includes the Ten Commandments, the Apostles' Creed, The Lord's Prayer, the Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion, and a section on Confession.

Luther also wrote the Large Catechism for use by pastors and teachers.

Traditionally, all Lutherans memorized the Small Catechism, including Luther's explanations of each of the sections.

The catechism is available in many forms from all of the Lutheran publishing houses, though most Lutherans have agreed on a common contemporary translation.

Many congregations use the catechism in their basic evangelism and outreach (keeping inexpensive copies at the door for visitors) because it provides a simple explanation of basic Lutheran teaching about God.

A Note to Parents and Teachers | Confirmation HomePage | References and Resources | Sunday School Lessons HomePage