Confirmation
Creed Unit

The beginning of a lifelong Christian education and relational experience, within the congregation, that began when I came to faith in Christ Jesus.

Goals:
1. Understand and take ownership in my Christian faith.
2. To live faith as a child and servant of God.
3. Grow in the life and mission of the church.

Unit Creed (Introduction): With the help of the Holy Spirit, students will understand the importance of creeds and how they are utilized. Given Scripture references, The Lutheran Study Bible, Small Catechism, and class discussion, students will recognize Scripture as the source of creedal authority; explain the functions of creeds; list the three ecumenical creeds and demonstrate where to find the creeds of the Lutheran church.

Lesson Notes: Creeds Introduction

Terms

Creed - A statement of belief

Authority of Scripture

• Scriptures are the only source and norm for faith and life.
• Creeds have authority insofar as they are descriptions, restatements or summaries of Scripture

Views of Scripture

• It is the Word of God, God's own Word (LCMS)
• Contains the Word of God, some are man's words (ELCA)

Function of Creeds

1. Teaching device
2. Highlights what is central in Scripture
3. Provides a common identity
4. Attacks false teachings

Creeds of the Lutheran Church

- Apostles’ Creed (100s AD)
- Nicene Creed (327 AD)
- Athanasian Creed (451)
- Book of Concord
     • Augsburg Confession (1530)
     • Apology of the Augsburg Confession (1531)
     • Smalcal Articles (1537)
     • Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope
     • Small Catechism (1529)
     • Large Catechism (1529)
     • Formula of Concord (1577)