Issues, Etc. Martin Luther’s Large Cateshism, Part 1 – Dr. Ken Schurb, 1/8/26 (0081)
Jan 8, 2026
Dr. Ken Schurb, a Ph.D. in church history and evangelism executive, dives deep into Martin Luther's Large Catechism. He reveals how Luther wrote it to address widespread ignorance in the church. Schurb compares the Large Catechism's depth to the Small Catechism's focus on households. He discusses the timeless relevance of these teachings, emphasizing the importance of daily practice and the First Commandment. Schurb also tackles the concept of faith, identifying money as a common idol, and highlights the need to trust God above all.
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Catechisms Born From Pastoral Visitations
- Luther wrote both a large and a small catechism because he saw deep ignorance after parish visitations in 1527–28.
- The large catechism responds especially to the need for deeper instruction beyond what scattered pastors and laity were receiving.
Small And Large Catechisms Complement Each Other
- The small catechism is concise classroom/home instruction while the large catechism expands and applies the teaching.
- Luther intended the two to work together, with the large catechism providing deeper application of the small's basics.
Catechisms As The Layman's Bible
- The Formula of Concord called the catechisms the 'layman's Bible' as a compact compendium of faith.
- The small catechism shaped Lutheran piety across generations, while the large offers a warmer, fuller theological treatment.
