Prefatory Note

The following pages possess somewhat more the character of a Catena than that of an original Commentary. In his pastoral work the author has repeatedly carried large Bible classes through the Shorter Catechism, and part of his method has always been to elucidate and enliven the text by notes and illustrations taken from such writers of authority and distinction as were known to him. The results of this method of instruction have been such as to encourage the author to follow it in the compilation of the following pages.

This little book is sent forth in the earnest hope that it may be found useful in the catechizing of Christian families, as well as in directing the reading of private students.