Question about the Nicene Creed?

Question

The Nicene Creed begins with the phrase “We believe in…” Do you think reciting this phrase implies the type of faith that is a personal commitment to God, or does the phrase imply the type of faith that is a profession of a list of beliefs? In other words, when a person recites the Nicene Creed, which of the two types of faith is being expressed?

Answer 1

I believe it would be the first. The early Christians put together this creed to help give a foundation to the basis for the Christian faith. All true Christians should hold these beliefs in their heart, if they truly follow Christ, because the creed was based on the truth of the scripture. It was not a just a list of beliefs- it was based on the facts as presented in the scriptures, and anyone who can read the words of the creed and mean it, has a personal commitment already with God.

Answer 2

The most appropriate form of the creed begins with "I believe".

The post Vatican II version settled on "we believe" ... but that will soon be changed back to "I believe " ... which is the way it should have always been.

http://douglawrence.wordpress.com/

Answer 3

In either case, the person is saying "I believe without evidence" (because if there was evidence, there would be no need for faith).

Answer 4

I think it is both. I commit myself to God because I believe in the truths of the creed (which is based on the Bible). If I didn't believe that Jesus is the substitution for me on the cross, I would not commit myself to Him. If I did not believe that the Holy Spirit indwells me, I would not commit myself to serving Him. My commitment is based on my beliefs.  

Answer 5

I'm a Lutheran and we recite this creed and the Apostles. I'm pretty sure we say "I believe in one God, Father Almighty..." And as a Christian we should make this statement as if its our very own. The type of faith that is personal commitment to God.

Answer 6

I was told, once, that the word "We" indicates that it is a list of what the congregation believes, and individuals may have personal disagreements.

I have trouble reciting the creed, because I didn't write it. :)