The Character of God
As we study the Character of God this summer, I also want to introduce you to some of the early church creeds that formulated some of the basic tenets of the Christian faith.
These Creeds do not hold the same authority as sacred Scripture but they give us a good overview of the major beliefs of the Orthodox faith as well as help us understand some of the major battles that were fought in early church history to come to grips with what is truth.
This creed, The Apostles creed, is the earliest of all the creeds. Dating from around the fourth century it gives us in beautiful poetic form the basic teachings of the New Testament concerning the work and mission of Christ and the ongoing work of the Church.
It was not written by the Apostles but is a summary of their teachings:
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.
The third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended to heaven and is seated 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, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
Because of grace,
Tim
