Episode Overview

Title: Question & Answer 92
Podcast: The Westminster Shorter Catechism with Sinclair Ferguson
Host: Ligonier Ministries
Date: February 9, 2026

This episode focuses on Question 92 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism: "What is a sacrament?" Dr. Sinclair Ferguson examines the nature, purpose, and significance of sacraments within Christian life, unpacking the Catechism’s definition and its relevance for discipleship and spiritual growth. Listeners are guided through both the theology and practical implications of the sacraments, highlighting their foundational role in understanding and living out the truths of the Christian faith.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Understanding the Definition of a Sacrament

• Catechism’s Answer (00:02):
  • "A sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ, wherein, by sensible signs, Christ and the benefits of the new Covenant are represented, sealed, and applied to believers."
• Dr. Ferguson emphasizes the importance of learning basic definitions in Christian doctrine, not merely for rote memory but as a way to lay a spiritual foundation for deeper understanding.

The Importance of Foundations in Discipleship

• Basic Before Advanced:
  • Dr. Ferguson stresses that just as healthy physical growth relies on a balanced diet of both "milk and meat" (simple and deeper truths), spiritual health depends on grasping essential truths like the sacraments before moving to more complex doctrines.
• Role of Teachers and Parents:
  • The episode underscores the responsibility of pastors, teachers, and parents to help others grasp foundational truths, preparing them to mature in faith and appreciate the "solid food" of Scripture.

Deconstructing the Elements of a Sacrament

• Holy Ordinance:
  • Sacraments are not human inventions but are holy practices established by Christ Himself.
• Instituted by Christ:
  • Only those rites given by Christ (specifically Baptism and the Lord's Supper) are recognized as sacraments in Reformed theology.
• Sensible Signs:
  • "By sensible signs" means the sacraments use tangible, perceptible signs (like water, bread, and wine) to communicate spiritual realities.
• Representing, Sealing, and Applying:
  • Dr. Ferguson clarifies that sacraments don’t just symbolize Christ and His benefits; they also serve to seal (confirm) and actually apply the grace of the new Covenant to believers.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Defining the Sacrament (00:02):
  “A sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ, wherein, by sensible signs, Christ and the benefits of the new Covenant are represented, sealed, and applied to believers.” — Catechism Answer
• On Spiritual Growth:
  “Before we can savor the solid food of sound doctrine, we need to be able to digest the basics of biblical truth.” — Sinclair Ferguson, paraphrased (approx. 01:00)
• On Discipleship:
  “Helping others enjoy the ‘solid food’ of Scripture is one of the most important components of discipleship.” — Sinclair Ferguson, paraphrased (approx. 02:00)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:02 — Introduction of Question 92; the Catechism’s definition of a sacrament
• 01:00 — Discussion of the necessity of basics (“milk”) before doctrinal “meat”
• 02:00 — The role of teachers and parents in discipleship
• 03:00–end — Breakdown of the components of the sacrament’s definition: holy ordinance, instituted by Christ, sensible signs, the benefits represented, sealed, and applied

Episode Tone & Style

The episode maintains a warm, instructive tone, using accessible language to explain deep theological concepts. Dr. Ferguson guides the listener thoughtfully, showing both the simplicity and richness of the Catechism’s teaching on sacraments.

Summary

This episode serves as a concise yet thoughtful exposition of the Westminster Shorter Catechism’s teaching on sacraments. Dr. Ferguson clarifies not only what a sacrament is but why understanding such foundational truths is vital for every Christian’s growth and the effective discipleship of others. Through clear explanations and memorable phrases, listeners are equipped to appreciate both the meaning and the necessity of the Church’s sacraments.