The 1,700^th anniversary of the gathering of the Council of Nicaea has sparked a lot of writing and discussion this summer. In fact, it is this anniversary that was one of the driving forces to our summer preaching series at Bethel (Creeds & Covenants). Much of the writings and discussions have been instructive, sharpening, and helpful to me. One such article is entitled, Creeds and the Gospel: From the Beginnings to the Council of Nicaea (325) written by Donald Fairbain (You can also listen to it being read or listen to an interview with the author). I found this article and interview sharpening because…

• Of the clarity it offers in the fact that creeds are not merely statements of what Christians believe but in whom we believe in. This is why in the hymn, “My Faith Has Found a Resting Place” we rightly say “My faith as found a resting place not in device nor creed.” We trust not primarily in the affirmation of truth but in our Triune God – in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Creeds are avenues in which we proclaim these allegiances to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
• Of the distinction between the Creed of Nicaea and the Nicene Creed. At first glance, this seems to be just semantics. But history goes on to show that what was initially produced from the gathering of bishops in Nicaea in 325 (the Creed of Nicaea) and what we now know as the Nicene Creed are a little different. The Nicene Creed was the product of a second council that gathered about 60 years later in Constantinople. This Council, among other things, further elaborated on the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. This just proves that there is always a need for watchfulness and biblical thought and application. While we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us, we should never let down our guard and stop the work. The generation and time we live in must continue to be faithful and not solely rest of the faithfulness of others who came before us.

In addition to the above mentioned article, you can find all sorts of interesting resources about the Nicene Creed at Christ Over All covering topics such as: Creeds and Quiet Time: How the Nicene Creed Helps Us Read the Bible, The 1925 Scopes Evolution Trial: Why it Matters 100 Years Later, and Nicaea & Nestorius: Why Old Creeds are Not Enough to Guard From New Challenges.