Podcast Summary: The Westminster Shorter Catechism with Sinclair Ferguson

Episode: Question & Answer 67
Date: January 5, 2026
Host: Ligonier Ministries | Speaker: Sinclair Ferguson

Episode Overview

This episode addresses Question 67 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism: "Which is the sixth commandment?" Dr. Sinclair Ferguson reflects on the significance and depth of the sixth commandment, "Thou shalt not kill," discussing its foundational role in discipleship and Christian living. The discussion emphasizes the importance of building spiritual maturity through a deep understanding of basic biblical truths before advancing to richer doctrinal insights.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. The Sixth Commandment – Stated Simply

• [00:03] Sinclair Ferguson:

  “Question 67. Which is the sixth commandment? Answer. The sixth commandment is, thou shalt not kill.”

• The episode opens with a clear and direct recitation of Westminster’s Question 67 and answer, stating the biblical text of the commandment without elaboration.

2. Foundational Role of the Commandments

• The brevity and simplicity of the answer underscore the catechism’s pedagogical approach: starting with biblical basics before delving into their full implications.
• Dr. Ferguson employs this as a launching point to remind listeners that learning “the milk” of Scripture—the essentials—is vital before progress to “solid food.”

3. The Importance of Building on Biblical Basics

• While the episode is concise and focused, the theme echoes that solid discipleship grows from grasping elementary doctrines.
• The sixth commandment’s priority in Christian ethics is emphasized: respect for life is foundational to our understanding of God’s law and character.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• [00:03] Sinclair Ferguson:

  “The sixth commandment is, Thou shalt not kill.”

• This succinct statement encapsulates the catechism’s approach and frames the episode’s takeaway: mastering these basics equips believers for deeper theological understanding.

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [00:03] – Recitation of Question 67 and answer
• [00:10] onward – (The episode is extremely brief, mainly consisting of question/answer recitation and a moment of reflection)

Episode Tone and Style

• The language is formal yet accessible, maintaining reverence for Scripture and catechetical tradition.
• Dr. Ferguson communicates with clarity and warmth, inviting listeners to savor the essentials of biblical truth before moving into deeper study.

Takeaway

This episode of The Westminster Shorter Catechism with Sinclair Ferguson serves as a reminder that Christian growth hinges on mastering and appreciating foundational biblical truths. Before exploring complex theology, Christians are encouraged to digest the basics—beginning with commandments as central as “Thou shalt not kill.” This episode reinforces the value of catechetical learning in discipleship, benefiting believers of all ages and backgrounds.