Volume 06: Apostle's Creed
The Foundational Confession of the Early Church
The Apostle's Creed is the historic summary of apostolic doctrine developed in the early Western church as a baptismal confession of faith. It articulates twelve fundamental articles concerning God the Father Almighty, Jesus Christ His only Son, the Holy Spirit, the Church, and eternal life.
A line-by-line theological exposition of the Apostle's Creed, exploring its patristic origins, baptismal role, and core orthodox affirmations.
Key facts
- The Apostle's Creed grew out of the 2nd-century Old Roman Symbol used as a baptismal confession in Rome.
- It is structured around the Trinitarian formula commanded by Christ in Matthew 28:19.
- The term 'catholic' in the creed signifies the universal, worldwide Church of all true believers across history.
- The clause 'He descended into hell' references Christ's proclamation of victory over the realm of the dead prior to His resurrection.
Frequently asked questions
Did the Twelve Apostles literally write the Apostle's Creed?
While ancient tradition attributed one clause to each apostle, historical evidence demonstrates it organically crystallized the apostolic 'Rule of Faith' across the 2nd to 5th centuries.
What does 'catholic' mean in the Apostle's Creed?
In historic Christian theology, 'catholic' comes from the Greek katholikos meaning 'universal' or 'according to the whole,' referring to the global body of Christ, not solely Roman Catholicism.
What does 'descended into hell' mean in the Creed?
It affirms that Jesus truly entered the realm of death (Hades/Sheol), securing victory over death and liberating the saints, rather than suffering torment after His death on the cross.
Why do Christian churches still recite the Creed today?
Reciting the creed anchors modern worship in 2,000 years of historic orthodox consensus, guards against theological fads, and confesses unity with the global Church.