This week we continue our Worship series on the Apostle’s Creed called “We Believe.” During this time, we explore one of the most common affirmations of faith, originating from some of the earliest Christians.
Our second week jumps into the absolute core of Christianity in the exploration of the history and personhood of Jesus of Nazareth. The creed makes a litany of statements that highlight classic Christian theology. It should be noted that the portrayal of Jesus in the Gospels is strikingly different from the Messiah who was expected at the time, particularly given the lineage of King David and the assumptions at how such a Messiah would exercise power. Yet the letter to the Philippians observes that Jesus “emptied himself” by living in the world in the most humble of ways.
Philippians 2:5-11 (CEB)
5 Adopt the attitude that was in Christ Jesus:
6 Though he was in the form of God,
he did not consider being equal with God something to exploit.
7 But he emptied himself
by taking the form of a slave
and by becoming like human beings.
When he found himself in the form of a human,
8 he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death,
even death on a cross.
9 Therefore, God highly honored him
and gave him a name above all names,
10 so that at the name of Jesus everyone
in heaven, on earth, and under the earth might bow
11 and every tongue confess
that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
- The Apostle’s Creed begins its description of Jesus as God’s “only Son, our Lord.” What does this simple phrase signify or symbolize for you? What is the deeper meaning behind it (if you perceive a deeper meaning)?
- What do you understand about the virgin birth? Do you think it’s possible? Do you think it’s true? Why would this be important?
- Do you believe that Jesus was both fully divine and fully human? What does that mean? How is that possible?
- What does the historical and physical presence of Jesus in the world mean to you?
- Is the resurrection essential to an understanding of Jesus? Why or why not? If you think it’s essential, what does it signify and what does it mean to you?