The Apostles’ Creed is one of the earliest and most foundational statements of Christian belief. While not written by the apostles, it reflects their teaching and has been used for centuries as a summary of essential Christian doctrine. Rooted in Scripture, it expresses core tenets of the faith in a concise and memorable way, making it a valuable tool for believers. Even if one does not regularly recite the Creed, understanding its truths is helpful for grasping the essence of the gospel.
The Apostles’ Creed is structured around the nature and work of the Triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). It begins with, “I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.” This affirms the foundational truth that God is sovereign over all creation (Genesis 1:1; Psalm 24:1). He is not a distant force but a personal Father, revealing Himself through His Word and governing the universe with power and wisdom.
The Creed then turns to Jesus Christ, “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.” Jesus is fully divine and fully human. This affirms the miracle of the Incarnation (Matthew 1:18-23), emphasizing that salvation comes through Christ alone. The Creed acknowledges Christ’s suffering under Pontius Pilate, His crucifixion, death, burial, and descent to the dead. These truths align with biblical testimony (Isaiah 53:5-6; Matthew 27:26-50) and affirm the historical reality of Jesus’ sacrificial death for our sins.
The following lines declare the triumphant heart of the gospel. “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 judge the living and the dead.” The resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) is central to Christian faith, proving Christ’s victory over sin and death. His ascension and present reign at the right hand of the Father (Acts 1:9-11; Hebrews 1:3) confirm His Lordship, and the Creed proclaims His future return to judge the living and the dead (2 Timothy 4:1).
The final section is a glorious profession. “I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of the saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.” It affirms belief in the Holy Spirit, the third Person of the Trinity, who empowers and sanctifies believers (John 14:26; Romans 8:11). It speaks of “the holy catholic Church,” which is not referring to the Roman Catholic Church but to the universal body of Christ (Ephesians 4:4-6). The Creed also acknowledges “the communion of saints,” affirming the unity of all believers across time and space. It proclaims “the forgiveness of sins,” made possible through Christ’s atoning work (Ephesians 1:7), and the hope of “the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting,” pointing to the final victory of God’s people in eternity (1 Corinthians 15:42-44; Revelation 21:3-4).
Even if you do not recite the Apostles’ Creed in worship, you should know and understand it because it encapsulates the essential truths of the Christian faith. In an age of confusion and shifting beliefs, the Creed provides an anchor, reminding us of the unchanging gospel. It connects us to the historic faith of Christians across centuries, uniting us with the great cloud of witnesses who have confessed these same truths (Hebrews 12:1).
The Creed is not Scripture, but it is thoroughly biblical. It is not a substitute for personal faith but a powerful tool for affirming what we believe. Knowing it helps guard against false teaching, strengthens our ability to share the gospel, and deepens our confidence in God’s promises. Therefore, the Apostles’ Creed is worth knowing, not just as words to recite but as truths to embrace, live by, and proclaim to a world needing the salvation and life found in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!