1 Timothy 3:14-16: The Christmas Creed

The word creed comes from a Latin term, credo, which means I believe. The faith associated with this word involves personal trust, not just I believe that but also I believe in. Creeds are designed to be instructional, providing succinct teachings on significant biblical truths. They are also doctrinal, equipping the church to articulate biblical truth accurately. Examples of creeds throughout history include The Apostles’ Creed, The Nicene Creed, and The Athanasian Creed.

1 Timothy 3:16 appears to be an early creed of the church. The verse follows passages describing the roles of elders and deacons (3:1-13). Clearly, the leadership is entrusted with the task of upholding the truth for the household of God (3:15). The creed itself can be understood as being organized in three contrasting pairs. On this unique Post-Thanksgiving yet Pre-Advent Sunday, let’s explore these verses together as we prepare our hearts for the upcoming weeks with The Christmas Creed developed in today’s passage.

As We Explore The Mystery Of Godliness, Note. . .

The Terms Used To Describe The Followers Of Christ. (14-15)

The Household Of God
The Church Of The Living God
A Pillar And Buttress of The Truth

The Pairs Used To Describe The Work of Christ. (16)

He Was Manifested In The Flesh, Vindicated By the Spirit.
Seen By Angels, Proclaimed Among The Nations
Believed On In The World, Taken Up In Glory.