In 2021 our preaching calendar is being shaped by the New City Catechism, so to kick off the podcast year, Autumn and Hunter ask this question: How can learning a catechism make you happy?
It's a counter-intuitive question because a catechism, at first blush, can appear somewhat dry. It's a series of short questions and answers that cover the foundations of the Christian faith. Many of us would admit that it would be good for us to brush up on our understanding. But "make me happy" seems like a stretch! How can learning a catechism make you happy?
We start by discussing the common understanding of "happiness," which emphasizes inner psychological satisfaction. This kind of happiness, which sounds normal to modern people, is found by moving from the inside out. When what's "inside me" can be expressed, I'm happy. But for many people, this kind of happiness is over-promising and under-delivering. Is there another kind of happiness that's more robust, more enduring? And how might a catechism help me experience it?
Resources mentioned in this episode:
New City Catechism (http://newcitycatechism.com/)
Book: The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl Trueman (https://www.amazon.com/dp/1433556332)
