The Apostles Creed

Only 7 chapters in, this detailed look at the Apostles' Creed has exceeded my expectations -- which were pretty high based on my previous encounters with the author's work. It had been my intent to read the book as peripheral background as I prepare to moderate a discussion or two in an upcoming Sunday School class, but today encouraged each member to purchase it in anticipation of more in-depth discussions I now see could dominate a dozen enlightening sessions. Hope there are more issues in stock!

Barclay did an outstanding outline of the Apostle's Creed. Line by line he revealed a new understanding of the Creed based on the historical context of the time in which Christ lived. Using Greek translations, Barclay shed new insight as to what the true meaning of what was Christ's teachings were and how centuries of translations obscured or lost those teachings. After reading this book I walked away with a tremendous respect for what Christ really was trying to say, "Look and you will find." The caviot is to look spiritually within your own heart and there you will find Christ and what he was trying to convey.David Chilton

This book provides a helpful historical study of the ancient Apostles' Creed. More importantly, it provides expert and loving pastoral guidance on the meaning of each passage in this important summary of the Christian faith. Dr. Barclay views God primarily in terms of a loving and forgiving father--in sharp contrast with those who see God more in terms of a triumphant king bent on destroying his enemies. Dr. Barclay's view gave him a wonderful perspective on profound issues such as the foregiveness of sin and the meaning of Jesus' death on the cross. Dr. Barclay dares to hope that God will ultimately restore all of humankind to Himself. And rather than dying instead of us on the cross (because an offended and vengeful God demands that somebody die as a punishment for sin), Dr. Barclay believes the cross was instead necessary to show humanity that there is no point beyond which the love of our foregiving God will not go. The book provides an articulate, beautiful, and believable summary of Dr. Barclay's view of the Christain faith based on a God who "is love." I highly recommend it.

Barclay does a complete and through review of each line of the creed. Beginning with "I believe", the writer explores the development of each phrase of the creed in simple language for the beginner as well as the student of theology. He explains the meaning of each phrase, why it is included, and the culture in which the phrase developed. The different interpretations of the individual phrases are fully explored along with the defense of each. This is a great book for those preparing for baptism or confirmation as well as a good book for a Christian Formation Class. I used this as a theology resource in preparation for the Diaconate in the Episcopal Church. The only shortcoming is the lack of inclusive language; otherwise, I would rate it five star.