Larger Catechism: A Critical Text and Introduction

The Larger Catechism stands as one of the three major doctrinal standards produced by the Westminster Assembly. Often overshadowed by the Shorter Catechism and the Confession of Faith, the Larger Catechism exhibits the Assembly's most mature theological reflection and insight. In this remarkable volume, John Bower provides extensive historical background for the making of this colossal catechism. He traces the history of the Assembly's efforts from the initial call for a catechism, through deliberations on its form and content, and down to the intricate process of monitoring its printing.

The centerpiece of the volume is Bower's critical text of the catechism. Painstakingly checked and indexed, the critical text is supported by a four-column comparison of the authoritative manuscripts and printings. Graced with a glossary and a catalogue of corrected proof-texts, Bower's text is sure to be the benchmark for future study, modern editions, and foreign translations for years to come. This is the initial volume of the Principal Documents of the Westminster Assembly series.

Table of Contents:
Introduction: The Making of the Catechism
1. One Catechism for Three Kingdoms
2. Exact and Comprehensive: A New Catechism
3. Completing the Work
4. Manuscripts and Editions
5. Critical Editing Methods and Conventions
A Critical Edition of the Larger Catechism
Authoritative Texts: A Parallel Column Comparison

Bower is adjunct professor of Church History at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburg and associate professor at Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine.