Catechism Question 1
Question 1: Why did God create humans?
To glorify God and enjoy Him forever.
Focus and Purpose of this Question
In this question we are giving the introduction to the entire catechism. This sums up the purpose of our entire lives – all we are and do. In a sense, the rest of the catechism will expand on this idea. In every thought, word, and deed, we are either glorifying God and enjoying Him, or we are falling short of the very purpose of our existence. The phrase “to glorify God and enjoy Him” will recur at various points in the catechism to underline this central idea.
This question shows us that we are created by God, and that we have a purpose. The purpose is to glorify God – not ourselves. Our fulfillment is not found by looking within or trying to simply please ourselves. It is found as we look outside of ourselves and glorify God. Paradoxically, however, the more we glorify God, the more we will enjoy Him, and the more personal joy and fulfillment we will experience. That which glorifies God brings good to us, and as John Piper has famously said “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.” Finally, note that this purpose is not temporary, but will last forever. What begins now – glorifying and enjoying God – will go on throughout eternity for God’s children.
Additional Questions:
Why did God make you?
Why are we here?
Why did God make people?
What is your purpose in life?
Why are you alive?
What is the most important thing in life?
What is the chief end of man?
Scripture References:
Habakkuk 2:14
14 For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
Psalm 29:1-2
1 Ascribe to the LORD, O mighty ones, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength. 2 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness.
1 Corinthians 10:31
31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Revelation 4:11
11 “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.”
Psalm 16:11
11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 73:25-26
25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
Questions for Further Discussion:
Does bringing glory to God mean that we make God glorious, or that we recognize that God is glorious?
How can you glorify God in everything you do – school, work, chores, play and leisure – and not just in “spiritual” activities?
Is it possible for me to glorify God and be self-centered or self-focused?
Additional Information:
This question is based on question 1 from the Westminster Shorter Catechism. It is probably the most famous catechism question among Protestants in history. Any resources you find on Westminster catechism will have a good discussion on this question.
For additional information, see the teachings “Our Purpose: To Glorify and Enjoy God” (July 7, 2019), “All In: The Joy of A God-Centered Life” (September 13, 2015), and “Created To Glorify and Enjoy God Forever” (January 3, 2010).
Suggested Worship Song:
(Fanny Crosby, 1875)
To God be the glory, great things he hath done!
So loved he the world that he gave us his Son,
who yielded his life an atonement for sin,
and opened the lifegate that all may go in.
Chorus:
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
let the earth hear his voice!
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father thru Jesus the Son,
and give him the glory, great things he hath done!
O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood,
to every believer the promise of God;
the vilest offender who truly believes,
that moment from Jesus a pardon receives.
(Refrain)
Great things he hath taught us, great things he hath done,
and great our rejoicing thru Jesus the Son;
but purer, and higher, and greater will be
our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.
(Refrain)