Body & Soul: Reclaiming the Heidelberg Catechism

Just when you think everything has been said that can be said about something great, you get a wonderful surprise. Barnes has added something valuable to our understanding of the Heidelberg Catechism. I am a reformed church pastor and my whole congregation is reading Body and Soul this year. Last year we all read through the entire Bible. Studying the rich and powerful Heidelberg Catechism is a logical next step. Barnes book is an invaluable asset for this task. M. Craig Barnes is an example of what all theologians should be. He is an astute thinker and teacher. But it doesn't end there. He is intimately engaged with the church, working from within it, not being aloof from it. God has also given him that delightful gift of being able to make doctrine and theology simple and alive for the person in the pew. Our church members are very pleased as they read through Body and Soul. They find it readable, inspiring and instructive.If you are not familiar with the Heidelberg Catechism, now would be a good time to read it and this book will be a faithful and engaging guide. The entire catechism with scriptural references for all 129 questions is printed in he back of the book. The is no more warm, devotional and insightful catechism in the world (The word "catechism" means teaching. The Heidelberg Catechism consists of 129 question and answers about what Christians believe, firmly rooted in the Bible). Barnes also uses anecdotes from his long pastoral experience to bring the catechism to life in the present. Across more than four centuries, the catechism is as alive today as it ever was. I pray that Barnes is opening up this precious document to yet another generation of disciples of Jesus Christ.

Dr. Barnes has crafted a joyful resource for everyone from the most well-read theologian to the everyday Christian in this wonderful book. Whether you explore this gem as part of a church-wide or small group study, or if it is the latest "nightstand book" for your personal reading, you are sure to find both insight and comfort. As a pastor, I have used this book several times for studies with adult groups ranging from half a dozen to almost 40, with great success in every group. The six chapters are perfectly balanced for a six-week study, and when paired with the study kit (  Body & Soul Kit: Reclaiming the Heidelberg Catechism (Includes DVD and CD)  ) you have a wonderful church-wide resource. However, I must emphasize that this is ALSO a wonderful resource for individual study and devotion.Dr. Barnes presents a perfect balance of wit, storytelling, spiritual reflection, and historical understanding. While the focus of this book is certainly on the Heidelberg Catechism, a statement of faith central to churches in the Reformed tradition, background in this (or any) catechism is far from necessary. No matter your background, you are certain to find hope and peace in these pages.

Craig Barnes makes this ancient catechism personal with many personal and practical applications. The book will likely be most practical for those in the Reformed tradition as a concise summary of their beliefs

I never thought that "Catechism" could be so spiritually inviting, motivating or inspirational. Craig Barnes has made the beauty of the catechism sing out and touch my very soul. It is worthwhile reading as a refresher to those who want to remember what they believe, and for those who wonder what this thing calling "following Jesus" is all about.

Good book to study if you want to know the foundation of the early church. Includes scripture references too.

Barnes takes the 450 year old Heidelberg Catechism and illuminates it for the modern Christian, reminding us of its continuing relevance.

This book was recomended by two friends. From what I've read so far , it adds insight on Christianity that I am studying.

Craig Barnes has done an amazing job bringing this catechism from the 1500's to life! We are using it in a study group, and it is excellent! Would also recommend the study kit, including a brief video and excellent discussion questions for the group.

Very well laid out, easy to follow yet deep in theological structure.