Written Review
Another AWESOME theological book! Dr. Albert Mohler is awesome. This is a smart look at this Apostles' Creed! I'll give you that text later, but wow, this is an incredibly detailed look at the entire creed. If you've heard of the Apostles' Creed before, this will be a FRESH LOOK. One thing I will, which is something that I LOVE, is Theological Density. Despite the clarity of Mohler's writing, the theological density of the material may still be challenging for readers with little prior theological education.
I've read a lot of prior theological books, and this is just another rung on the theological ladder, pardon that analogy. Really quick read, also very impactful in my faith. Something good to understand, specifically for me, was the "He descended into hell". This is something that I am very interested in, what is hell and hades and sheol and gehenna? There is a chapter on that line, and it is very helpful!
The Apostles' Creed: What is it?
The Apostles' Creed is one of the oldest and most widely accepted creeds in Christianity. It is a succinct statement of Christian faith that outlines key doctrinal beliefs held by many Christian denominations. The creed is traditionally believed to have been composed by the apostles themselves, though it more likely developed over time as a summary of apostolic teaching. Here is the text of the Apostles' Creed:
The Apostles' Creed: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth. And 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, 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 living and the dead. I believe in 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.
Key Elements of the Apostles' Creed
- Belief in God the Father Almighty: Affirms belief in one God, the Creator of heaven and earth.
- Belief in Jesus Christ: Asserts the divinity and humanity of Jesus, His conception by the Holy Spirit, birth from the Virgin Mary, suffering, crucifixion, death, burial, descent into hell, resurrection, ascension, and eventual return for judgment.
- Belief in the Holy Spirit: Acknowledges the Holy Spirit's role in the life of the believer and the church.
- The Holy Catholic Church: Declares faith in the universal (catholic) church, the communion of saints, the community of believers across all times and places.
- Forgiveness of Sins: Affirms the forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ.
- Resurrection of the Body and Life Everlasting: Expresses hope in the resurrection and eternal life.
The Apostles' Creed is recited in many Christian liturgies and is used as a statement of faith in baptisms and other religious ceremonies. Its concise and profound articulation of Christian beliefs has made it a foundational document for centuries.
Summary
In "The Apostles' Creed," R. Albert Mohler Jr., a prominent theologian and president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, explores one of Christianity's most enduring statements of faith. The Apostles' Creed, a concise summary of core Christian doctrines, has been a foundational element in the life of the church for centuries. Mohler unpacks each phrase of the Creed, illuminating its historical significance and contemporary relevance.
Main Themes
- Historical and Theological Context: Mohler provides an in-depth historical background of the Apostles' Creed, tracing its development and usage throughout church history. He emphasizes how the Creed has served as a unifying statement of faith amidst various theological disputes and cultural changes.
- Doctrinal Clarity: Each chapter of the book is dedicated to a specific phrase of the Creed. Mohler meticulously explains the theological implications of each statement, such as the nature of God as Father, the divinity and humanity of Jesus Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the hope of resurrection and eternal life.
- Countering Modern Challenges: A significant portion of the book addresses how the Apostles' Creed confronts contemporary theological errors and cultural misconceptions. Mohler argues that in an age where authentic Christianity is often overshadowed by counterfeits, the Creed provides clarity and truth.
- Practical Application: Mohler emphasizes that the Creed is not just a historical artifact but a living declaration that should shape the faith and practice of Christians today. He encourages readers to let the truths of the Creed inform their worship, discipleship, and witness in the world.
Strengths
- Clarity and Accessibility: Mohler's writing is clear and accessible, making complex theological concepts understandable to a broad audience. His ability to distill deep theological truths into concise, readable chapters is commendable.
- Relevance: By connecting the ancient words of the Creed to contemporary issues, Mohler demonstrates its enduring relevance. His discussions on how the Creed addresses modern cultural and theological challenges are particularly insightful.
- Passionate Defense: Mohler's passion for doctrinal purity and his defense of orthodox Christianity shine through in his writing. His commitment to upholding the historical faith of the church is both inspiring and convincing.
Conclusion
"The Apostles' Creed: Discovering Authentic Christianity in an Age of Counterfeits" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the core doctrines of the Christian faith. R. Albert Mohler Jr.'s thorough and passionate exploration of the Apostles' Creed serves as both an educational tool and a call to deeper faithfulness in an age of confusion and compromise. Whether for personal study, small group discussion, or theological education, this book offers profound insights into the timeless truths of Christianity.