My Beliefs
(or Rather a Summary Statement)
BELIEF [bə • leef’] 1. acceptance by the mind that something is true or real, often underpinned by an emotional or spiritual sense of certainty 2. confidence that somebody or something is good or will be effective 3. a statement, principle, or doctrine that a person or group accepts as true 4. an opinion, especially a firm and considered one 5. religious faith
The sole purpose of this page is to somehow succinctly communicate my beliefs. So, it should primarily seek to accomplish definition number 3 above as an expression of definition number 5. However, this can be extremely difficult, because as you can see from definitions 1, 2, and 4, beliefs can expand, change, or shift, especially when, as a Christ-follower, I work out my own salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12) and God continues to sanctify me and grow my knowledge and understanding of Himself.
With that in mind, let’s just recognize that anything posted here is not going to serve as a summation of everything I believe. The focus just needs to be on what’s essential and consistent. For that reason, I’ve chosen to use the Apostles’ Creed as my statement of faith. It’s served that purpose for millions of others for centuries. I’m sure it will serve me as well. If you have any questions about anything or would like to know something more specific, feel free to contact me.
The Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended into hell.
On the third day he rose again;
he ascended into heaven,
he is seated at the right hand of the Father,
and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Amen.