The Apostles' Creed: Faith Matters

12/16/2020

Episode 2 of The Apostles’ Creed: Faith Matters, titled “Almighty Love,” explores the profound meaning behind the phrase “God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and Earth.” The scholars unpack how divine omnipotence is not about coercive force, but about love expressed through humility, suffering, and creation. They emphasize that God's power is revealed most clearly in weakness—especially through the crucifixion of Christ—and that true freedom is found not in endless choice, but in unchanging love rooted in grace. The episode also explores the tension between God's sovereignty and human free will, the implications of being made in God's image, and the purposefulness of creation as a reflection of divine order and relationship.

12/23/2020

Episode 3 of The Apostles’ Creed: Faith Matters, titled “Savior of the World,” explores the identity and mission of Jesus Christ as expressed in the Creed: “I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary.” The episode emphasizes Jesus as both fully divine and fully human, uniquely qualified to redeem humanity. Scholars unpack the theological significance of His name, His role as Messiah, and His incarnation—highlighting how the virgin birth affirms both His divinity and His solidarity with humanity. The discussion also addresses early heresies, the mystery of the Trinity, and Mary’s radical faith as a model of obedience and trust.

12/30/2020

Episode 4 of The Apostles’ Creed: Faith Matters, titled “Acquainted With Grief,” explores the profound significance of Jesus Christ’s suffering, crucifixion, and burial as stated in the Creed: “suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried.” Through reflections from leading theologians, the episode emphasizes that Christ’s suffering was not symbolic or accidental—it was real, redemptive, and deeply human. By naming Pontius Pilate, the Creed anchors Jesus’ Passion in historical reality, underscoring the injustice of His trial and the brutality of crucifixion. The scholars highlight how Jesus’ willingness to enter into human grief affirms His solidarity with all who suffer, revealing divine love through vulnerability and sacrifice. His burial confirms the finality of death and sets the stage for resurrection, offering hope to believers in the midst of sorrow

1/6/2021

Episode 5 of The Apostles’ Creed: Faith Matters, titled “The Last Enemy Defeated,” explores the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, focusing on the Creed’s declaration: “The third day He rose again from the dead.” This episode emphasizes that resurrection is not a metaphor or myth—it is the central, historical claim of Christianity. Scholars reflect on how Jesus’ triumph over death redefines human destiny, offering hope, renewal, and the promise of eternal life. The discussion highlights the physical reality of the resurrection, the transformation of the disciples, and the theological implications of Christ’s victory over sin and death. By defeating “the last enemy,” Jesus inaugurates a new creation, affirming that death does not have the final word. This episode invites believers to live in the light of resurrection, embracing both its mystery and its power.

1/13/2021

Episode 6 of The Apostles’ Creed: Faith Matters, titled “The Breath of God,” explores the person and work of the Holy Spirit as expressed in the Creed: “I believe in the Holy Spirit.” This episode emphasizes the Spirit not as an abstract force, but as the living presence of God—active in creation, conviction, transformation, and communion. Scholars reflect on the Spirit’s role in inspiring Scripture, empowering the Church, and sustaining believers in their daily walk. The discussion highlights the Spirit’s intimate connection to both the Father and the Son, revealing the Spirit as the breath of divine life that animates faith, renews hearts, and unites the global body of Christ. Through historical insight and theological reflection, the episode affirms that belief in the Holy Spirit is essential to a vibrant, relational Christianity.

1/20/2021

Episode 7 of The Apostles’ Creed: Faith Matters, titled “All That Debt,” centers on the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and the theological weight of the phrase “He descended into hell.” Dr. N.T. Wright and other scholars explore how this line affirms that Christ entered the depths of human suffering and death—not to be defeated, but to conquer sin and reclaim what was lost. The episode emphasizes that Jesus bore the full burden of humanity’s spiritual debt, offering forgiveness and restoration through His descent and resurrection. It also examines historical interpretations of this Creed line, clarifying misconceptions and highlighting its pastoral significance: that no place is beyond the reach of God’s love. Ultimately, the episode invites viewers to reflect on the cost of redemption and the boundless grace that cancels every debt