The Heidelberg Catechism's 129
questions and answers are divided into
three parts patterned after the book of
Romans. After a moving introduction
related to the true believer's comfort,
questions 3-11 consider the experience
of sin and misery (Romans 1-3:20);
questions 12-85 are concerned with
redemption in Christ and faith (Romans
3:21-11:36), incorporating a lengthy
exposition of the Apostle's Creed and
the sacraments; and questions 86-129
stress true gratitude for God's
deliverance (Romans 12-16), primarily
through a consideration of the Ten
Commandments and the Lord's Prayer. One
of the Catechism's precious distinctives
is its presentation of doctrines with
clarity and warm piety in an
experiential, practical matter. It is
not surprising that the Catechism, so
personal and devotional throughout as
exemplified by its use of personal
pronouns, has been called "the book of
comfort" for God's people.