Clayton KrabyThe Nicene Creed is one of the most significant statements of faith in Christian history. But have you ever wondered how it came to be? This video reveals the historical events, people, and controversies that led to its formation.
We’ll look at the turmoil of the Roman Empire at the time of Constantine and survey the fierce theological disagreements about Jesus’ divinity. You’ll meet key figures like Athanasius, Alexander, Arius, and learn how their competing views brought about the need for a creed.
We’ll also explore why the Nicene Creed still matters, from its role in uniting the early church to its relevance in understanding core Christian doctrine. Whether you’re familiar with the Creed or hearing about it for the first time, this discussion will give you a clear and engaging look at a defining moment in church history.
Table of Contents in the Video
00:00:39 – What is a Creed?
00:01:22 – The Historical Cycle: Controversy, Council, Creed
00:02:29 – The Role of Constantine
00:04:58 – The Controversy and Key Players
00:07:41 – The Council of Nicaea
00:10:57 – The Creed of Nicaea
00:12:22 – Post-Creed Controversy
00:15:06 – The Death of Arius
00:17:13 – Post-Nicaea Drama and Controversy
00:18:02 – Council of Constantinople
00:20:52 – The Importance of the Nicene Creed Today
00:21:33 – Theological Issues in Today’s Church
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Additional Resources
- Memorize the Nicene Creed with this (non-annoying) song
- My review of ‘Creeds, Confessions, and Catechisms’, a helpful book from Crossway
- The Apostles Creed
Faith of Our Fathers: A Study of the Nicene Creed
As the church’s first “official” ecumenical creed, the Nicene Creed has protected and shaped the life of God’s people for centuries.
L. Charles Jackson’s popular study walks readers through every line of the creed, highlighting its history and contemporary application, and revealing its grounding in Scripture. It shows us a Nicene Creed that is pastoral, practical, and personal.
