The Nicene Creed stands as a foundation of our Christian faith, bringing believers together around a shared understanding of what we hold most dear. Its story begins in the early 4th century, when the Roman Emperor Constantine gathered church leaders for the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.
This remarkable council was called to help Christians unite by resolving theological disagreements and strengthening the bonds of the church.
This creed grew out of a season of intense reflection and debate among church leaders. Their hope was to bring everyone together around a clear and united expression of faith—one that would help guide believers and provide a steady foundation for the church.
The Nicene Creed not only resolved key questions of its day but continues to offer a hopeful and enduring framework for our Christian faith today.
At the very heart of the Nicene Creed is an invitation from Jesus Himself—a question He asked His disciples: “Who do you say that I am?” This question encourages each of us to pause and truly reflect on our understanding of Jesus and who He is to us personally.
It moves us beyond what others may say, inviting us to make our own thoughtful confession of faith.
When Simon Peter responded, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God,” he captured the truth the creed declares. This profound realization isn’t something we arrive at on our own; it’s a gift of revelation from God.
It reminds us that recognizing Jesus as the Messiah is at the very center of our faith and daily walk with Him.
The Nicene Creed is so much more than a set of beliefs—it’s an expression of our worship. It gives voice to our answer to Jesus’ question by sharing the church’s confession of faith.
Through this creed, we have a way to recognize and celebrate the many ways Christ reveals His glory.
The creed reflects our sincere desire to worship Jesus honestly and fully. By highlighting key moments from His life, death, resurrection, and divine nature, the creed helps root our worship in a true understanding of who Jesus is.
This isn’t just about saying words together; it’s about letting our hearts and minds join together in genuine praise and wonder.
We are also reminded of Apostle Paul’s conversation in the Areopagus, as described in Acts 17. Paul’s story is an example of how to share the gospel across different cultures.
He met with both Jews and Gentiles, talking with them about Jesus and the hope of the resurrection.
Paul’s approach reminds us how important it is to understand where others are coming from and to listen to their real questions and concerns. His genuine connection with people from all walks of life, without ever losing sight of Jesus’ message, teaches us how meaningful and compassionate evangelism can be.
Paul’s example encourages us to be open, flexible, and caring as we reach out with the good news.
In today’s world, the Nicene Creed continues to help us explore questions about Jesus and the Christian faith. It offers guidance, providing clear and meaningful answers for anyone who’s curious—whether they’re longtime believers or just beginning to seek.
The way the creed uses time-honored language helps connect ancient truths to the things we wrestle with today.
The creed isn’t just a piece of church history—it’s alive and active, speaking to each new generation’s questions. With its wisdom, the church is equipped to explain the wonder of Jesus, His relationship with the Father, and why His resurrection matters—all in ways that are honest, loving, and welcoming.
The Nicene Creed is like a bridge that connects our worship with our calling to share Jesus’ love. It helps us express what we believe in a way that feels clear and confident—whether we’re gathered for worship or simply having a conversation with someone curious about faith.
By giving us a shared way to declare our beliefs, the creed strengthens our unity and reminds us of our purpose together as a church family.
We are encouraged to let the creed deepen our worship and spark our witness. We’re invited to be filled with the Spirit, to share Jesus boldly, and to answer questions from the world around us with kindness and truth.
As we reflect on these words, may we keep growing in understanding and appreciation for the deep truths it carries so our faith is strengthened and we’re even more ready to share God’s love with those around us.
Exploring the Nicene Creed deepens our worship and helps us share our faith with understanding and genuine care for others. By embracing the creed, we’re better equipped to answer, “Who do you say that Jesus is?” with confidence and kindness, inviting others to experience the life-changing joy of knowing Him for themselves.
We’d love for you to listen to the sermon; just click the link below to join in. You can also view the entire text of the Nicene Creed below.
WE BELIEVE in one God,
the Father, the Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth,
of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,
the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father,
God from God, Light from Light,
true God from true God,
begotten, not made,
of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation
he came down from heaven:
by the power of the Holy Spirit
he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary,
and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again
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.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son.
With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified.
He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead,
and the life of the world to come.
Amen.