Author: Phillip Cary
Publisher: Lexham Press
Pages: 248
ISBN: 9781683596332
The Nicene Creed may seem somewhat irrelevant to many Christians, in fact, the mere mention of the matter could lead to more doubts than certainties. And it is in this sense, that this work turns out to be a very good contribution for those who are unaware of the Nicene Creed or who want to delve deeper. Dr. Phillip Cary, who is Professor of Philosophy at Eastern University in St. Davids, Pennsylvania, where he is also Scholar-in-Residence at the Templeton Honors College, provides us in this work a clear, concise, and solid introduction to the Nicene Creed. As the author rightly points out, this book has the objective “to show biblical Christians how the Creed gives words to what they already believe, so that they can hear these words as gospel, the story of our God.”(pp.12).
The book is divided into four large parts that develop the articles of the Nicene Creed, but before that, the reader will find a very important introduction in which the historical background of the Nicene Creed is presented, this will allow us to understand the reason why arises this ecclesiastical document and its relevance for our time.
Finally there is an epilogue that shows in a concise and accessible way what concerns the doctrine of the Trinity. Which becomes the theological framework of the Nicene Creed. Something very outstanding about this introduction is that it is an affordable read, even for readers who are not familiar with the subject. Each developing section of the creed presents an exposition of the creedal article with a biblical and theological foundation.
I have personally enjoyed reading this book, as it brings us closer to the roots of our faith and helps us in the times we are living in, in which individualism and modernism distance us from the historical and theological values of our faith.
Writes Dr Cary: “Hence even when Christians in the West begin the Creed with the words, “I believe,” this is not just an individual expression of faith but a commitment to the faith of a community, the Body of Christ which the individual has joined in baptism." (pp.20)
A recommended work for seminary students, particularly if they are taking a course in Church history; but it will also be useful for any Christian who wants to know the history of his faith and confess the biblical and theological truths of the Nicene Creed. “The Nicene Creed is a blessing and a joy, for it is a confession of faith in this good news” (pp. 12)
I received this book for free from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review for the book.
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