The Westminster Shorter Catechism

Q3. What do the Scriptures principally teach?

A. The Scriptures principally teach—What Man Is To Believe Concerning God,
— and What Duty God Requires of Man.[1]

Proofs

[1] 2 Timothy 1:13; 3:16; John 5:39; Ecclesiastes 12:13.

Comments

This question, together with the first two questions, form the introductory section of the WSC. In the previous question, we are taught that the Scriptures are the only rule sanctioned by God to teach us how we may glorify and enjoy Him. In this question, we are taught, in a broad summary, what the Scriptures specifically teach us in order to achieve that end, namely (a) what we are to believe concerning Him and (b) what we are to do which pleases Him. This does not mean that the Scriptures do not teach anything else (e.g., history or geography), but that the things which pertain to salvation are the principal emphasis of the Scriptures. Other subjects found in the Scriptures, though bearing the stamp of divine authority, and are inerrant and infallible, are nevertheless not alike necessary and useful.

These two duties alone are explained fully and sufficiently in the Scriptures. It explains who God is, what He has done for us, and what He requires us to do, in order that it may be well with us, now and forever more.

The questions in the Catechism that follow are, accordingly, divided into two sections. The first section (Questions 1–38) covers what we are to believe concerning God and His works. The second section (Questions 39–107) covers what duty God requires of us.