This study guide, which follows the Cover to Cover Study Guide format, explores the Apostles' Creed.
The origins of the Creed are found in Jesus' departing words to His disciples in Matthew 28: 'Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit' (v.19) It is believed that, in response to this command, the Church developed the practice of asking baptismal candidates to profess their faith, asking them, 'Do you believe in God the Father? Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God? Do you believe in the Holy Spirit?' The person being baptised would answer, 'I believe', to each question, and thus the creed was born.
So why is it important to remind ourselves of what we believe by studying the Creed?
Because what we believe shapes how we live, and the Apostles' Creed doesn't waste time with the less important matters, but focuses only on things that are essential - the areas of Christian belief that we are to grip firmly and immovably.
Here then, we have the core truths of Christianity laid out for us -- the beliefs that, above all else, should shape the way we live our lives:
1. I believe in one God
2. I believe Jesus is God
3. I believe Jesus is human
4. I believe in the Holy Spirit
5. I believe in the Church
6. I believe in Salvation
7. I believe in Eternal Life
Seven sessions with icebreakers, discussion starters, leader's notes and more - ideal for individual or small-group use.
Click to expand
