The Apostles' Creed

A Guide to the Ancient Catechism (Christian Essentials)

You recite it. But do you understand it? The Apostles’ Creed has become so familiar to us that we don’t think about what we’re saying. Christians from different times, places, and traditions have been united by its eternal truths. We believe them, we recite them, but do we build our lives on them?

The fact that so many in the early church died for their faith means they were caught up in something greater than themselves. What were those truths? How did they empower a revolution? How did early church pastors and theologians use the Apostles’ Creed as the essential guide to the basics of the Christian life?

Ben Myers re-introduces that creed. He shows us what about the Christian faith is so counter-cultural, and what truths embedded in the Apostles’ Creed we’ve come to assume, when really they should amaze us and earn our allegiance unto death.

©2018 Lexham Press (P)2025 Lexham Press

I cannot recommend to anyone

I have never disagreed with an author on the topic of the creed more vehemently.

Historically Rooted & Insightful look at the Creed

Ben Myers does an effective job rendering the historical and theological issues behind the Apostles’ Creed both accessible and relevant. His emphasis on the Creed’s roots in early baptismal confessions reframes it within a more pastorally immediate and formative context, which strengthens the overall impact of the work.

The book strikes a careful balance in its engagement with historical sources. It is informed and insightful without becoming overly technical or inaccessible. Readers familiar with figures like Gregory of Nyssa or Origen will find additional depth, but Myers provides sufficient explanation for those less acquainted with the patristic tradition, ensuring they are not left behind.

One point of reservation is his treatment of the phrase “I believe.” Myers leans heavily into a communal interpretation that, at times, feels somewhat overstated. While the theological claim that baptism unites one’s confession with that of the broader Christian community across time, is sound, it is less clear that the Creed’s wording itself carries that weight as strongly as he suggests.

Overall, this is a valuable and timely resource. It is both theologically substantive and pastorally useful, and I would recommend it without hesitation.