The Apostles' Creed

After a brief holiday for spring break, Bible Study resumes this week.  The evening group is still working on Galatians, but the morning group is starting a new, six week study of the Apostles' Creed.  Many of us know it by heart, others will recognize it when they hear it.  It's that bit in the communion service that begins "I believe . . ."  In Latin it begins Credo in Deum.  The root of the English word "creed" comes from the Latin Credo.  Anyone who has sung in choirs will recognize the phrase from the many settings of the Mass that form the heart of classical choral repertoire. 

The Apostles' Creed is an attempt to summarize what Christians believe.  i.e. we believe in God the Father, in Jesus Christ . . . our Lord. This is one of the earliest statements of the church, dating from the fourth century.  Through the ages some slight adjustments were made, but the words we know today were fixed in the seventh century.  Imagine that -- fourteen centuries of Christians proclaiming the same words of faith.  Talk about the "communion of saints."

A creed does not take the place of scripture, but it provides a convenient summation of our faith.  It can be a handy reference to test suspect statements about Christianity.  Any confession that leaves out or contradicts the essential elements stated in the Apostles' Creed must be found wanting.

Finally, the creed reminds us that we belong to a community of faith.  We "belong!"  There is such longing in the hearts of humans to belong and the church answers that need.  The Apostles' Creed affirms that we are members of the church, tracing our roots all the way back to the upper room.  Such a mighty company, open to all who can say with conviction, "I believe in God . . . and in Jesus Christ . . . our Lord."

Morning study is Wednesdays at 9:30 am in the Ross Lounge.  Evening study is at 7:00 pm.  All are welcome.  Don't worry if you can't attend all sessions.  Each lesson can stand independently.