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Question 90. How is the word to be read and heard? That it may become effectual to salvation? That the word may become effectual to salvation. We must attend thereunto with diligence, preparation and prayer. Receive it with faith and love, lay it up in our hearts, and practice it in our lives.
Date: July 6, 2026
Host: Ligonier Ministries
This episode focuses on Question 90 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism: "How is the word to be read and heard, that it may become effectual to salvation?" Sinclair Ferguson explores how Christians are to approach Scripture so that it leads to meaningful spiritual growth and salvation. The discussion centers on the necessary attitudes and actions—diligence, preparation, prayer, faith, love, internalization, and application—that make the Bible transformative in the believer’s life.
"That the word may become effectual to salvation, we must attend thereunto with diligence, preparation and prayer."
(00:01)
Ferguson outlines the Catechism’s six-fold answer:
On diligence in hearing the Word:
"Receive it with faith and love, lay it up in our hearts, and practice it in our lives."
(00:01)
On the necessity of preparation:
"We don’t drift into growth; we attend to the Word with purpose—preparing ourselves to meet God in it."
(paraphrased from the Catechism’s answer at 00:01)
This brief but substantive episode highlights that the effectiveness of Scripture in our lives depends not only on hearing or reading it, but on how we do so. Sinclair Ferguson, drawing from the Westminster Shorter Catechism, makes clear that diligence, preparation, prayer, faith, love, internalization, and practice are all essential disciplines. Whether you’re a ministry leader, teacher, parent, or individual believer, these habits are foundational to growing in grace and equipping others to do the same.
By intentionally approaching God’s Word with these attitudes, Christians can move from spiritual “milk” to “meat,” savoring the rich nourishment that deep doctrine provides and ensuring that the ultimate goal—to glorify and enjoy God forever—is realized.
