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Published Apr 24, 2014

[Unedited] Jaroslav Pelikan With Krista Tippett

Jaroslav Pelikan delves into the enduring significance of Christian creeds, their role in shaping faith amidst global religious pluralism, and the interplay between tradition and change within Christianity. He underscores the flexibility of the faith, as seen in diverse interpretations like the African Messiah Creed, while balancing personal belief with communal doctrine.
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  • First Person Faith

    The discussion on individual versus communal belief within Christian traditions highlights the significance of speaking in the first person. emphasizes that personal integrity and human experience are central to understanding faith, while notes that the original text of the Creed was in the first person plural, "we believe" 1. This communal aspect of faith is contrasted with the individualistic approach seen in modern interpretations, where creeds are often seen as dead letters due to a lack of specific content 2.

    The original text of the Creed was not, I believe. We believe.

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    The conversation further explores how faith must be affirmed both personally and communally, respecting the dignity of others' beliefs.

       

    Love and Creeds

    The relationship between personal expressions of love and the reciting of creeds is complex. argues that while creeds are important, they must be accompanied by genuine love and truthfulness, as reflected in the liturgy of St. John Chrysostom 3. The language of love, much like creeds, is both conventional and spontaneous, requiring sincerity in its expression 4.

    Let us love one another, that with one mind we may confess.

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    This duality underscores the necessity of aligning creeds with personal and communal acts of love and service.

       

    Who Do You Say?

    Reflecting on the importance of personal understanding of Christ's identity, stresses the need for each culture and individual to answer the question, "Who do you say that I am?" 5. This question is central to the Christian faith and requires a personal and cultural response that is both honest and authentic. The Nicene Creed, with its communal "we believe," serves as a testament to the shared faith across time and cultures, connecting believers through a common declaration 6.

    At some point, you have to be who and what you are in the only culture in which you're ever going to live.

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    This exploration of creed and community highlights the dynamic interplay between personal belief and collective tradition.

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