The ‘Apostle’s Creed’ dates from the first century or early second century of the New Testament church. The legend of the creed has it that the Apostle’s Creed was actually written by the apostles. Though this is certainly not the case, it is certainly rich in apostolic doctrine.
The creed as we know it today was not its earliest form, but has been added to over the period of the early church, becoming more or less its current content and format by the early eighth century. Various fragments of the creed have been found from the early centuries of the church.
It is probable that the creed was developed in response to heretical teachings that began to develop in the early church, including that of Gnosticism.
The creed was also known as ‘The Roman Symbol,’ because it was used by that church as a summary of Christian belief during baptismal services.
The Apostle's Creed is as follows:
‘I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth; And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried. He descended into hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost. I believe in the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.’
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28/02/2002
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