Apostles' Creed (II), Page 2

The basic creed of Reformed churches, as most familiarly known, is called the Apostles' Creed. It has received this title because of its great antiquity; it dates from very early times in the Church, a half century or so from the last writings of the New Testament.

I believe in GOD, the FATHER ALMIGHTY, the CREATOR of heaven and earth, and in JESUS CHRIST, HIS ONLY SON, our LORD: Who was conceived of the HOLY SPIRIT, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. HE descended into hell. The third day HE arose again from the dead. HE ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of GOD the FATHER ALMIGHTY, whence 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 life everlasting. Amen.

*The word "catholic" refers not to the Roman Catholic Church, but to the universal church of the Lord Jesus Christ.

We continue our journey into the Basic Principles of the Christian Faith. These beliefs are fundamental to our salvation. Although the Church of JESUS CHRIST on earth today is quite fragmented, there are several teachings (doctrines) that are common to all true believers. We will look at these doctrines one by one in the hopes of strengthening our "like precious faith!"

1 Corinthians 1:23
"but we preach CHRIST crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles."

I heard a young man speaking the other day. He was telling another about his ministry and travels. He was a minister of the Gospel (he said). He also said that around JESUS' time there were lots of reported "virgin births, crucifixions and resurrections . . ." This man was "back-peddling" from his faith.

Then there are others that say JESUS did not actually die on the cross (called the "swoon theory) but was taken down and revived (without having actually expired) and that explains the resurrection.

Now I don't mean to sound "fire and brimstone-ish" but both the above theories are satanic in origin and will cause the adherent to "bust hell wide open" to coin a phrase.

And, to tell the truth, when I hear this line of thought I become personally offended! This is defaming and belittling the death of the JESUS I love so much! But just think of the effect this line of thinking has on the FATHER!

HE knows the Truth! HE sent HIS SON for the expressed purpose of dying (that means dead) and to take the sins of humankind with HIM to the grave. And HE did exactly that, no more (well there is no more to do) and no less. It is a simple truth hanging by the scarlet thread of our salvation!