Lesson 3

Question 1

Not using any of Cara’s biblical examples, cite a biblical verse and briefly discuss how that verse uses God’s immutable/eternal attributes to provide comfort.

Answer 1

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

We take comfort in that God is not tempt us when we are tempted (Jn 1:13) but gives every perfect gift to us and, because He does not change (immutable), He will continue to give to His people the perfect gift of salvation.

Question 2

Cara argues that the expression “without . . . passions” (WCF1) was not intended by the divines to mean
that God is w/out passions/emotions absolutely. Give one of Cara’s several rationales.

Answer 2

Cara sees “passions” in WCF 2.1 as not arguing that God has no emotions, but that God
does not have (1) emotions related to a body, and (2) uncontrollable emotions that make
one do bad things.

Question 3

Is the Son’s attribute of “eternally begotten” (WCF3) related to his substance or personal property?

Answer 3

personal property

Question 4

Name the five main parts of Luther’s Small Catechism

Answer 4

1. TEN COMMANDMENTS (PART 1)
2. CREED (PART 2)
3. LORD’S PRAYER (PART 3)
4. SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM (PART 4)
5. SACRAMENT OF THE ALTER (PART 5)

Question 5

Using the numbering system of Luther’s Small Catechism, in which commandment does Luther discuss “rulers”?

Answer 5

4. Fourth Commandment

Question 6

According to Luther’s Large Catechism, distinguish between a “valid” baptism and when one “receives”
baptism.

Answer 6

Baptism is valid if the Word is connected to it. Lack of faith does not invalidate a
baptism, but faith is needed to “receive” baptism.