The Apostles’ Creed: Brilliant at the Basics

Why print The Apostle’s Creed? It’s simple really. Any document respected and revered enough by Christendom to remain in widespread use since the very early days of Christianity deserves some attention.

Some readers will immediately yawn and dismiss this article because their tradition recites the Creed every week in church. Other readers already have their defenses up; bristling at the thought of my using this space to discuss a creed. And still others are probably scratching their head wondering aloud: Hmm, what’s a creed? (It’s a brief statement of faith.)

As my Sunday School class discussed The Apostles’ Creed briefly this past week, I tagged it with the sub-title “Brilliant at the Basics” because of the way it effectively articulates the basic tenants of Christianity. I am convinced The Apostles’ Creed can be defended biblically. That being the case, I challenge you to read it carefully, slowly, and with an open mind; noting how it systematically and brilliantly lays out the basic beliefs held dear by Christians throughout the ages. It is truly Brilliant at the Basics.

Well, here it is with some of my thoughts inserted in brackets. Think of it and read it as a profession of faith in three parts.

I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit
and born of the virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to hell. [This phrase was not in the earliest editions of the Creed. It first appeared around the end of the fourth century and much debate surrounds its meaning. I’m convinced that “to hell” should be interpreted and read “to the grave.” But you can beg to differ and we’ll still be friends.]
The third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended to heaven
and is at the right hand of God the Father almighty.
From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church, [In modern English, this phrase is better rendered “the holy universal church;” meaning the true church. It is not a reference to the Roman Catholic Church that we know today.]
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.

Ken worships at Tharptown Baptist Church in Russellville where he leads an adult Bible study. Comments are welcome and may be sent to kenaskew@charter.net.