Westminster Shorter Catechism — Question 1

November 23rd, 2025
by Derek Cozine

Westminster Shorter Catechism — Question 1

Q. 1. What is the chief end of man?
A. Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever.

Teaching the Chief End of Man

The opening question of the Westminster Shorter Catechism sets the foundation for our whole Christian life and therefore for all Christian parenting. Children today are surrounded by voices telling them what life is “really about”. Things like success, comfort, being true to yourself, or following your dreams. The catechism begins by grounding our families in God’s standard instead. It teaches that life has one great purpose, which designed by God Himself: for us to glorify Him and for us to enjoy Him forever.

This isn’t merely a theological idea, as important as that is. It’s also a framework for parenting. If children grasp their purpose early, they will interpret every joy, sorrow, success, and frustration through the lens of God’s glory and His goodness.

Below is a breakdown to help parents understand and confidently teach this truth.

1. “Man’s chief end” The Central Purpose of Life

The phrase chief end means the ultimate goal or the highest purpose. It is the reason we exist. The catechism teaches that this purpose is not self-chosen; it is given and revealed by God in Scripture.

We humans ask, “Why am I here?” Scripture answers unmistakably:

Scripture Proofs

“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Corinthians 10:31
“For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever.” — Romans 11:36
“Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory.” — Isaiah 43:7

Children especially need to know their purpose is not uncertain. They are creatures made by God, known by God, and called by God.

2. “is to glorify God” What It Means to Glorify God

To “glorify” God does not mean we make Him more glorious. He already is infinitely glorious. It means we show or reflect His greatness.

We glorify God by:

Knowing Him as He reveals Himself in Scripture
Trusting Him with childlike dependence
Obeying Him joyfully
Thanking Him continually
Reflecting His character in our words, attitudes, and choices

Scripture Proofs

“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” — John 14:15
“Whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God… in order that in everything God may be glorified.” — 1 Peter 4:11

For parents, this means that ordinary Christian life exhibited through our meals, discipline, forgiveness, schedules, school, and hobbies are filled with ways to reflect God’s holiness and goodness.

Your children must learn early that glorifying God isn’t something you do only in church; it’s the posture of the whole heart through daily living that defines our obedience to this God ordained purpose.

3. “and to enjoy Him forever.” The Surprising Half of the Answer

Many parents stop at “glorifying” God, but the catechism beautifully ties God’s glory to joy. God commands our joy because:

He is the source of all good
True happiness matches our created purpose
God’s glory and our enjoyment are never in competition

John Piper summarizes this Reformed truth simply: “God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.”

Though that phrase is modern, and not grounded in PCA doctrine, the truth is deeply rooted in the Westminster Standards.

Scripture Proofs

“In your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” — Psalm 16:11
“Delight yourself in the LORD…” — Psalm 37:4
“…we rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:11
“This is eternal life, that they know you…” — John 17:3

Children need to understand that Christianity is not a life drained of joy, but instead it is a life built on the deepest possible joy, which found only in God.

4. Why This Matters for Christian Parents

WSC Q1 gives parents a mission statement for their home.

A. It anchors your discipline
The goal isn’t behavior control; it's training hearts to love what God loves and to reflect Him.

B. It shapes your family priorities
Your schedule, media habits, friendships, church life, schooling, and decisions all follow your family’s purpose.

C. It comforts parents
When you doubt yourself as a parent, your hope is not “perfect techniques” but a clear, God-given goal: Lead your children to glorify and enjoy God.

D. It stabilizes children
Kids feel most secure when life makes sense. This question gives them a stable Christ-centered identity and calling.

5. How to Teach This to Your Children

For young kids (ages 3–7):

Repeat the Q&A daily
Explain: “God made you to love Him and enjoy Him.”
Use simple illustrations (flowers designed to face the sun; fish designed for water, etc)

For older kids (ages 8–12):

Discuss what people around them think life is about
Help them see how glorifying God changes daily decisions
Let them see your repentance, joy, and worship at home

For teens:

Talk about purpose, identity, and satisfaction
Contrast cultural messages (“follow your heart”) with Scripture
Encourage them to build habits of prayer, worship, and service

6. Family Discussion Questions

What does it mean that God created us for a purpose?
How can our family glorify God in ordinary daily activities?
What makes God enjoyable?
How does knowing your purpose help when life is hard?
What is one way you can glorify God this week?

Closing Encouragement to Parents

You are raising children in a confused world, but you do not need to raise them without direction. God Himself has revealed the purpose of life. He has entrusted it to you, so you can teach your children with patience, love, and confidence.

The catechism begins with joy because Christianity begins with joy.
Your home can be a place where God’s glory and God’s goodness are made visible through daily ups and downs of worship, repentance, laughter, and grace.

By teaching your children WSC Q1, you are giving them a life-shaping truth that will stand firm long after childhood.

Posted in Confessions of the Faith - WSC