While its exact origins are uncertain, the creed likely developed over time to articulate the essential Christian beliefs and distinguish them from other religious teachings. The early church placed importance upon apostolic doctrine, the teaching from Jesus’ primary disciples since Christ gave them that very task (Matthew 28:18-20). Therefore, they named this creed after the apostles.
The earliest known version dates to the 4th century AD, even though it likely existed in some form before then. Originally written in Latin, the creed has been translated into quite a few languages. It reads as follows:
“I think in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. I think in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; He descended to the dead. On the third day, He rose again; He ascended into heaven and is seated at the fitting hand of the Father; He will come again to evaluate the living and the dead. I think within 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.”
Three sections of the creed each deal with different features of Christian belief. The first section affirms belief in God the Father Almighty, the creator of heaven and earth, emphasizing God’s divine sovereignty and windfall. The second section declares the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and his role in redemption and salvation. It includes the idea within the Gospel narrative—Jesus’ virgin birth, crucifixion, death, burial, resurrection, and heavenly ascension. Additionally, the creed includes Jesus’ role in judging the living and the dead. The third section details the Holy Spirit and the Christian church. The creed attests to the Holy Spirit because the giver of life and the source of renewal and empowerment for the family of God, his people, and the Church. Finally, it includes the idea within the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and everlasting life.
The Apostles’ Creed continues to be considered a foundational statement of Christian belief and an emblem of unity amongst believers across denominational and cultural lines.
