226 ON INSTRçCTION Ily CATECHISMS.- VI. Rule. Let not the answers,, especially in the younger catechisms, consist of very long sentences : But if there happen to be a necessity of giving a pretty long answer to any ques- tion, let it be distinguished into shorter parts with such plain- ness and evidence, that the child may find apparent and sensible breaks and rests in it. 'I'ltis will much assist the young under- standing,, which is not able to comprehend the sense of one con- tinued sentence prolonged into many lines and it will be greatly helpful to the memory both in getting the answer by heart at fust, and in the recollection of it upon every occasion. In all the longer answers in the catechism for children you will find this rule observed. VII. Rule. Let the questions and answers stand in so easy, so natural, and so happy a connexion with each other, that every answer may become the occasion of sonne following ques- tion ; and as much as may be, let. it be the occasion of the very next question that follows. The memory of the catechiser will be greatly assisted. hereby, and lie will by this means have the question ready ; and. he will also appear to ask no questions but what are necessary for the child to answer : 'Elms the child will seem to be under a necessity of learning an answer to every question, because the question itself rises from his own words. VIII. pule. Let the questions. and answers he framed in such a manner that the child may find himself, and his own case, and his own interest concerned in them all tine way : I would ad- vise therefore that at least in the questions of the younger cate. ehis11.4 they should frequently use thepronouns. you andyour, as, What meist you do tobesaved ? Andthe answer should as often use the words 1, and my, and mine; viz. I must be sorry for my sins, fie. I think this form of instruction will impress children .much. more sensibly, and lead. them sooner to practical godli- ness, than if the catechism speaks only in the third person con- cerning mankind its general; for whatsoever we speak concern. ing man or men, children will hardly think themselves so much concerned in it. IX. Rule. Upon this account I thinkthe very frame and order of things in younger catechisms, should be so composed as that children may be led into inward and practical religion as fast as the knowledge of it is let into their minds : Let them be acquainted with their duty to God immediately upon their being led into the knowledge oi him : As soon as they are taught what sin is, they sbnuld be convineed,that they are sinners, and have liend of a Saviour ; and at the same time as They are informed who this Saviour is, and what he does for our salvation, they Should he told also what is their duty with regard to him, and st hat they are to expect from him, or from God for his sake. The most natural slew and order ofthings in which the- christiap
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