The catechism was composed at the request of Elector Frederick III for the purpose of instructing the youth of the day, and guiding pastors and teachers in their teaching duties. Of the Heidelberg Catechism, Schaff writes, "The Catechism is a work of religious enthusiasm, based on solid theological learning, and directed by excellent judgement.… It is the product of the heart as well as the head, full of faith and unction from above. It is fresh, lively, glowing, yet clear, sober, self-sustained. The ideas are Biblical and orthodox, and well fortified by apt Scripture proofs. The language is dignified, terse, nervous, popular, and often truly eloquent. It is the language of devotion as well as instruction. Altogether the Heidelberg Catechism is more than a book, it is an institution, and will live as long as the Reformed Church."1
What is thy only comfort in life and death?
That I with body and soul, both in life and death,2 am not my own,3 but belong unto my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ;4 who, with his precious blood, has fully satisfied for all my sins,5 and delivered me from all the power of the devil;6 and so preserves me7 that without the will of my heavenly Father, not a hair can fall from my head;8 yea, that all things must be subservient to my salvation,9 and therefore, by his Holy Spirit, He also assures me of eternal life,10 and makes me sincerely willing and ready, henceforth, to live unto him.11
1 Philip Schaff, The Creeds of Christendom, Volume 1: The History of Creeds, p 542.(Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books) 1983.
5 1 Pet. 1:18, 19; 1 John 1:7; 1 John 2:2, 12.