The Westminster Shorter Catechism with Sinclair Ferguson

Episode: Question & Answer 5 – "Are There More Gods Than One?"
Host: Ligonier Ministries
Guest: Dr. Sinclair Ferguson
Date: March 9, 2026

Episode Overview

This episode focuses on Question 5 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism:
"Are there more gods than one?" The answer given is, "There is but one only, the living and true God."
Dr. Sinclair Ferguson briefly unpacks the significance of monotheism as a foundational doctrine for Christians, emphasizing the importance of understanding and teaching this basic yet profound truth in discipleship.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Catechism’s Fifth Question

• Question 5 asked: "Are there more gods than one?"
• Answer: "There is but one only, the living and true God."
• This establishes monotheism as central to Christianity.

2. The Uniqueness of the Christian God

• Dr. Ferguson highlights that God is not just "one among many" but the only true and living God.
• This is essential groundwork for understanding further doctrines about God's nature, works, and relationship with His people.

3. Teaching the Basics Before the Deep Truths

• Dr. Ferguson underscores the importance of grasping and passing on the basics of Christian belief before advancing to deeper theological matters.
• Using the analogy of spiritual diet, he points out that Christians need the "milk" (basics) before they can digest the "meat" (deeper doctrines) of Scripture.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Dr. Sinclair Ferguson (00:02):

  "Question 5. Are there more gods than one? There is but one only, the living and true God."

  • This quote not only recites the catechism’s answer but sets the tone for the brief episode, anchoring listeners in the clarity and importance of monotheism.

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:02 – Recitation of Question 5 and its answer, introducing the fundamental doctrine of monotheism.

Episode Tone & Style

This episode is succinct, direct, and catechetical, matching the teaching style typical of Dr. Ferguson and Ligonier Ministries. The tone is clear, reverent, and accessible, emphasizing the necessity and beauty of knowing the one true God.

Conclusion

Although brief, this episode reinforces the core biblical truth that there is only one living and true God, forming a crucial foundation for Christian belief and practice. The focus on simplicity before depth serves as a reminder to ground ourselves—and those whom we teach—in the essential doctrines of the faith.