Catechism for Young Children

An adaptation of the Catechism for Young Children in modern English.

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Question 38


Modern Adaptation

Question: Can anyone live with God while they have this sinful nature?

Answer: No; our hearts must be changed before we can live with God.


Traditional Formulation

Question: Can any one go to heaven with this sinful nature?

Answer: No; our hearts must be changed before we can be fit for heaven.


Adaptation Commentary

The notion of “going to heaven” seems out of place given the surrounding context of the fall and original sin. More relevant than the place (heaven, or better the new Earth in the eternal Kingdom) is the fellow resident there (God). So we modify the question and answer to focus better on the central issue of alienation from God, rather than terminal location. This has the side benefit of bringing the issue of sin back into time – sin doesn’t just prevent us from heaven, but keeps God from dwelling with us now.


Last Updated: 2024-05-08 04:51:46 +0000