What Should I Read to Learn More About the Three Forms of Unity?

There are a number of great resources which will help you better understand the theology, practical application, and devotional value of the Three Forms of Unity (The Belgic Confession, the Heidelberg Catechism, and the Canons of Dort).

The Heidelberg Catechism

Dr. Scott Clark has written an historical, theological, pastoral, and devotional commentary on The Heidelberg Catechism. We have seen a fair bit of this material previewed on Scott’s Heidelblog over the years, but to have it assembled in a one volume commentary makes it an invaluable reference and accessible resource for anyone interested in the Reformed Confessions.

The need for a comprehensive and modern commentary on the beloved Heidelberg Catechism is obvious. There have been many previous efforts, to be sure, but Clark’s commentary treats the catechism in its historical context, and reflects Ursinus’s efforts to engage with long-standing and contemporary theological debate and conflict, while keeping the pastoral focus of the Catechism through consistently reminding us of our only comfort in life and in death (Q & A 1 of the Catechism).

This volume will long be the gold standard for comment upon the Catechism.

Zacharius Ursinus' "Commentary" on the Heidelberg Catechism is a must read.  The commentary comes to us in the form of classroom notes taken by David Paraeus based on lectures given by Ursinus.  The commentary follows the order of the Catechism, but reads more like a systematic theology.  The translation by G. Willard is dated, but if you love the Catechism and Reformed theology, this is must reading:  Volume 1 of Ursinus's Commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism; Volume 2 of Ursinus’s Commentary on the Heidelberg catechism 

Kevin DeYoung's book on the catechism is a great place to start if the Heidelberg Catechism is new to you. The Good News We Almost Forgot

This is an "off the beaten path" kind of book, but is the best single volume I know of on the background and circumstances which led to the production of the Catechism. Lots of good biographical material on the Catechism's principle authors (Zacharius Ursinus and Caspar Olevianus). Don't overlook this one! It is a gem. The Church's Book of Comfort

G. I. Williamson’s “Study Guide” is a popular guide for group or personal study of the Heidelberg Catechism. He is well-known for his study guides for the Westminster Standards. The only caveat here is that as one of my fellows quipped, it reads like something a Presbyterian would write to study a Reformed catechism. Not a doctrinal concern, but an “ethos” matter.

The Belgic Confession

Rev. Danny Hyde's commentary on the Belgic Confession is a great resource to understand both the content and background of the Belgic Confession. Arranged as a commentary, the content is easily accessible. With Heart and Mouth

The Canons of Dort

Dr. Godfrey's book is absolutely must reading. The history and background to the Canons are discussed in a compelling fashion, but Dr. Godfrey's focus is upon seeing the Canons as an important practical, even devotional document. This book is worth the price just for Godfrey's translation of the Canons. Buy this one! Saving the Reformation

Matthew Barrett's book is an important look at the theology of the Canons, especially in light of the Arminian controversy (then and now). This one is very helpful in spelling out the biblical basis for the Five-Points. The Grace of Godliness

Danny Hyde’s Grace Worth Fighting For applies the theology of the Canons of Dort to a number of contemporary issues. It is very helpful for those who are new to the Reformed faith and learning the ropes.

Additional Resources on the Three Forms of Unity

The URCNA has published an edition of the Three Forms of Unity--a helpful modernizing and reworking of the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession and the Canons of Dort. The translations are in crisp modern English and Scripture proofs abound. This volume includes our liturgical forms, and a number of prayers (both for official church and personal/family use). You can find URCNA Forms and Prayers here.

The Three Forms are also available in an inexpensive paperback format (note: This volume includes the Three Forms and the Ecumenical Creeds, without any of the prayers or forms in the hardback volume above.

Creeds, Confessions, & Catechisms contains editions of The Apostles’ Creed, The Nicene Creed, The Athanasian Creed, The Chalcedonian Definition, The Augsburg Confession, The Belgic Confession, The Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion, The Canons of Dort, The Westminster Confession of Faith, The London Baptist Confession, The Heidelberg Catechism, The Westminster Larger Catechism, and The Westminster Shorter Catechism. It is great to have them all in one place!

Lyle Bierma’s book, An Introduction to the Heidelberg Catechism contains a wealth of information on the history and background of the catechism. An important book for deeper study.

Nicolaas Gootjes has written an outstanding book on the history and background of the Belgic Confession. Must reading if you are doing serious study of the beloved “BC”.

Free Resources on the Three Forms of Unity (3FU) at the Riddleblog

I have written an exposition of the Belgic Confession which you can find here at the Riddleblog: Exposition of the Belgic Confession

I have also written a Commentary on the Canons of Dort, which you can find here too