For The Critical Assignment, Students Will Write A Creed

For The Critical Assignment The Students Will Write A Creed On The Chr

For the Critical Assignment the students will write a creed on the Christian faith. A creed (from the Latin, credo , "I believe") is simply a statement of belief, or a doctrinal summary. The creed in this case will include two components: it will express the beliefs of evangelical Christianity as presented in the course material (lectures and readings), but it will also express the students’ own personal beliefs and reflections on the course material. The lectures and the Treier book will be important resources for this assignment. The creed should be divided into 8 sections: Scripture and Truth God, the Holy Trinity Humanity and Sin The Person of Christ The Work of Christ Soteriology Ecclesiology Eschatology For each of these 8 sections, the students will include 2 sub-sections: 1.) 1–2 paragraphs on the beliefs of evangelical Christianity on the doctrine in question. By "Evangelical Christianity," I simply mean conservative, gospel-believing Protestantism, that is, the viewpoint expressed in the lectures. This section is more objective, and you will be graded on the accuracy and thoroughness of your presentation of the evangelical view. For each section, be sure to include a minimum of three scripture references in parentheses that support the beliefs in question. 2.) 1–2 paragraphs on your own personal beliefs and reflections on the doctrine in question. If you are in fundamental agreement with the course material, you may choose to reflect on the significance of the doctrine for your own personal faith and practice. Or you may choose to register some disagreement with the doctrine in question or to interact critically with the course material. This is your chance to reflect upon what you believe and why you believe it. As such, this section is more subjective. Disagreement will not be penalized, but you will be graded on the thoughtfulness of your interaction. You do not need to cite any sources beyond the Treier book, but if you do use other academic sources (in print or online), be sure to cite them. Plagiarism is taken very seriously in higher education; so do not use any material that is not your own without proper citation. Use the template provided in week 8 (there is no need to make this assignment conform to MLA or APA style). Be sure to add a title page the document with relevant information. See the rubric attached to the assignment in week 8 for more details on how the creed will be assessed. School books to cite Treier, Daniel J. Introducing Evangelical Theology . Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Publishing Group, 2019. Paperback: . eBook: . Also available in Kindle format. Smith, James K. A. You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit . Grand Rapids: Brazos, 2016. Paperback: . Also available in Kindle format. Mathis, David. Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus Through the Spiritual Disciplines . Wheaton, Illinois : Crossway, 2016. Paperback: . Also available in Kindle and EBook formats.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The practice of developing a Christian creed serves as a vital articulation of faith, enshrining doctrinal truths while reflecting personal conviction. This paper aims to construct a comprehensive and reflective creed based on evangelical Christianity, integrating biblical support, doctrinal accuracy, and personal insights, following the structure laid out in the assignment prompt.

Scripture and Truth

Evangelical Christianity affirms that the Scripture is the ultimate authority for Christian life and doctrine. The Bible is inspired, inerrant, and sufficient, serving as the foundation for understanding truth (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Psalm 119:105). Evangelicals believe that Scripture reveals God's truth comprehensively and reliably, guiding believers in faith and conduct. Personally, I see Scripture as Central to my faith, affirming God's sovereignty and providing clarity in navigating life's moral and spiritual challenges. The divine authority of Scripture motivates my commitment to study and uphold it as the guiding principle in my life.

God and the Holy Trinity

Evangelical doctrine teaches that God is one being eternally existing as Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—three persons in one essence (Matthew 28:19; John 1:1-3; 2 Corinthians 13:14). This doctrine emphasizes the relational nature of God and His triune existence, foundational to understanding salvation and divine sovereignty. Personally, I find the doctrine of the Trinity essential as it reveals God's love and unity; it deepens my worship and underscores the relational aspect of my faith, inspiring a sense of connection with a Triune God who invites communion.

Humanity and Sin

Humans were created in God's image but fell into sin through disobedience, resulting in spiritual death and separation from God (Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 3:23; Ephesians 2:1). Original sin affects all people, making salvation necessary. Evangelicals emphasize human depravity and the need for divine grace for redemption. Personally, I am struck by humanity's fallen condition yet also grateful for God's mercy, which offers hope of restoration. Recognizing my own sinfulness underscores the importance of grace, motivating a humble reliance on Christ’s atonement.

The Person of Christ

Christ's humanity and divinity are central doctrines. Evangelical belief affirms that Jesus is fully God and fully man, conceived by the Holy Spirit, and without sin (John 1:14; Hebrews 4:15; Colossians 2:9). His personhood is essential for salvation, as only God can atone for sin, and only a man can represent humanity. Personally, I believe in Christ’s unique identity as the Savior, whose incarnation reveals God's love and offers hope for personal salvation and transformation.

The Work of Christ

The atonement through Christ’s death and resurrection secures salvation for believers. Evangelicals uphold that Christ's sacrifice is sufficient and efficacious, bridging the gap caused by sin (Romans 5:8; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Hebrews 10:10). His resurrection demonstrates victory over sin and death. Personally, I see Christ's atoning work as the foundation of my faith, emphasizing grace alone as the means of salvation, which calls for a response of faith and obedience.

Soteriology

Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, and involves regeneration by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:8-9; John 3:5-6; Titus 3:5). Evangelicals believe salvation is a gift of God's grace, accessible through faith in Christ, resulting in new birth and eternal life. Personally, this doctrine assures me of God's unconditional love and the importance of trusting solely in Christ’s finished work rather than personal achievement.

Ecclesiology

The church is the body of Christ, comprising all believers, called to worship, edification, and evangelism (Ephesians 4:11-13; Acts 2:42; 1 Peter 2:9). Evangelicals emphasize the local church's central role in fostering spiritual growth and mission. Personally, I value authentic community within the church that nurtures faith and accountability, underscoring its importance in my spiritual journey and service.

Eschatology

Evangelical views include belief in Jesus' second coming, the final judgment, and eternal life in either Heaven or Hell (Matthew 24:30-31; Revelation 20:11-15; John 14:2-3). These doctrines motivate holy living and hope amid suffering. Personally, I find the promise of Christ’s return comforting and a motivation to live faithfully, knowing that eternal rewards await believers.

Conclusion

This creed synthesizes evangelical doctrinal tenets with personal reflection. It affirms the authority of Scripture, the triune Nature of God, the fallen condition of humanity, and the saving work of Christ, grounded in grace and faith. Personal insights highlight how these doctrines shape my understanding of God's love, my calling to discipleship, and my hope in future glorification. Engaging critically and reflectively with these truths deepens my faith and commitment to continual growth in Christ.

References

• Treier, Daniel J. Introducing Evangelical Theology. Baker Publishing Group, 2019.
• Smith, James K. A. You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit. Brazos, 2016.
• Mathis, David. Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus Through the Spiritual Disciplines. Crossway, 2016.
• Grudem, Wayne. Systematic Theology. Zondervan, 1994.
• Packer, J.I. Knowing God. InterVarsity Press, 1973.
• Boice, James M. The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Baker Book House, 1996.
• MacArthur, John. The Gospel According to Jesus. Zondervan, 1988.
• Stott, John. The Cross of Christ. InterVarsity Press, 1986.
• Owen, John. Sin and Temptation. Banner of Truth Trust, 1960.
• Berkhof, Louis. Systematic Theology. Eerdmans, 1932.