The Westminster Confession of Faith and the Shorter Catechismwhich grew out of it are statements of doctrine, of what many people believeare the teachings of the Bible. We who were involved in writing this studybelieve that they contain the best summary of what God has revealed to usthrough His Word. We also believe that if a person understands these teachings, they will bring much peace and comfort to his or her life in Christ. But wedo not believe that understanding all of this doctrine is necessary to salvation.