Maybe I have to go back and read my Christian history, but the Apostolic creed and the Credal formulas mentioned are pre-constantine. These Bishops were not sitting on their thrones like Caesars playing power politics. Being a bishop in the early centuries was as equivalent to a November farm turkey in modern day America. “Persecution” was a household term for those deemed to be leaders in the Church. Even in Nicaea, shortly after the edict, the bishops showed up scarred with missing limbs. It is in this context that I would prefer to view the Bishops call for unity via a communal faith declaration.

What if we think of Credal formulas in these terms, rather than an ancient authoritative rule to which we must adhere to?

Maybe I am oversimplifying this a bit, but a few posts back in this thread, Chris outlined his personal statement of faith in a form of credal genre. Regardless of the method of communication, I either identify with his personal creed or I do not. And there may be nuances to some of his phrases which I might question, such as what is meant by “authority of the Bible” etc…

Nevertheless, I think I have common ground with Chris… certainly enough to which may be deemed Christian fellowship. Why? Not because of his Character – don’t know the guy. Simply because the essential components of his faith declaration are in unity with mine.

Is this not an important ingredient for a community of believers?

del dominus