The Apostles' Creed: 12-Day Plan Sample

 I Believe In…

The beauty and tension of these verses come from the fact that based on what has happened in the past, Christians have assurance and conviction in placing their hope and belief in something they’ve never seen. Though we believe in the existence of God since before time began and in His work that began human history with the creation of the world, a man named Abram was the first in a long tradition of people who put their belief in God. 

Yet it’s easy for our culture of individuality and innovation to shape the way we think about the church. So what should we believe? With so many questions, opinions, and interpretations among people today—even within the church—what should we all agree on as essential to Christian faith?

The Apostles’ Creed begins with the words “I believe in.” The creed is an affirmation Christian story is both good and true. God the Father is reconciling the world to Himself in the Person and work of Jesus Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit. The creed is more than just an individual statement; it’s both personal and corporate. As you read and reflect on the creed you are surrounded by “a large cloud of witnesses” who have gone before you (Heb. 12:1), and you identify with the universal church.

While the creed is not equal with Scripture, the truths contained in us support the churches unified belief in the One true, King who is eternal, immortal, invisible—the only God, who is due honor and glory forevermore (1 Timothy 1:17). It supports the faith that was delivered to the saints once for all (Jude 3).

In the early church, uttering the word “I believe” meant identifying in the closest possible way with the gospel.. When believers said the creed, they were identifying themselves as citizens of a different kingdom—the kingdom of God. This meant, and still means today, that believers could face persecution, alienation, and even death. The creed is far more than a list of propositions; it’s the summary of the faith that has been practiced throughout church history. 

Finding its genesis in the apostles’ teachings, the Apostles’ Creed contains essential Christian doctrines and beliefs that summarize the gospel and make up the foundation of our faith. The scriptural truths contained in the creed help us operate from good theology, with the knowledge that our faith is rooted in truth and a rich history that spans past, present, and future. The lines of the creed aren’t mere words. They convey the essence of what we confess and believe as the body of Christ. 

For more information on The Apostles' Creed by Matt Chandler, please visit LifeWay.com/ApostlesCreed.