In 1897 the present publishers issued in Norwegian an Explanation of Luther's Small Catechism by Pastor H. U. Sverdrup, being an abridged edition of a larger work by the same author, based on Dr. Pontoppidan's Explanation of the Catechism. Some alterations were made in the answers to questions 244–252. The present work is a translation of this abridged and slightly altered edition.

A literal translation has been avoided rather than sought; an attempt has been made to render the original in the simplest and strongest English, and to avoid words and expressions with which the young are little familiar.

In the catechism proper the Standard English Catechism Version has been followed when it did not interfere with the plan stated above. But departures have been made reluctantly and only when simplicity and clearness seemed to be gained thereby. It is not thought that these few changes will cause any disturbance.

Scripture quotations have been added somewhat freely from the larger edition.

As the needs of our English speaking young people have been constantly borne in mind during the preparation of this translation, it is hoped that the book may not fail to carry some blessing to them.

Luther's Small Catechism.

PART ONE.