THE NICENE CREED

 

THE NICENE CREED The Nicene Creed is a foundational statement of Christian faith. It was originally adopted at the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD and then refined in 381 AD. At the time, the purpose for devising a creed was to eliminate any confusion regarding essential beliefs of the Christian faith, and bring greater unity among the Christian churches. It was also meant to put down some heresies that had arisen. In fact, it was because of heresies that church leaders believed an essential statement of faith was necessary. Other Christian Creeds that came afterward are very similar to this first, significant statement of faith. We live in an age of lies and deception, when loud voices are trying to tell Christians what to believe and how to live. Heresies have always existed, and they always distract from the essential core of the Gospel. They always cause division, and many of them promoted sinful behaviors. Christians need to know the basics of what we believe so we won't be distracted by the loud noises coming from the world. If there are doctrines that disturb the unity of the Believers then it's best to avoid such topics when we gather together. Our fellowship and unity is in Jesus Christ. THE NICENE CREED I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic (unified) and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.  The statements in the Nicene Creed are more than words: they are precious truths which are dear to the hearts of those who truly love God. There is one little word in this creed that is easily overlooked, and that is the word HOLY. As believers, God expects us to desire holiness in our lives. (More on that topic tomorrow.)