Episode 7: His Only Son | We Believe: A Study of the Apostles Creed
Understanding the Apostles' Creed: Jesus Christ as God's Only Son
In the latest segment of our deep dive into the Apostles' Creed, Patrick and I are continuing to explore the core beliefs that shape our understanding of Christian faith. Last time, we discussed the profound significance of believing in Jesus Christ—His identity, His title, and the work He has accomplished for us. Today, we're shifting focus to the next key phrase in the creed: "His only Son." This might seem straightforward, but unpacking this phrase opens the door to some truly foundational Christian doctrines, particularly the doctrine of the Trinity.
The Trinity in the Apostles' Creed
The phrase "His only Son" draws us directly into a conversation about the relationship between the Father and the Son, which in turn leads us to the doctrine of the Trinity. This is a crucial moment in our study of the creed, as understanding this relationship properly prevents a number of potential misconceptions and heresies that have historically plagued the church. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit exist in an eternal, perfect union of love, but it’s essential that we get the roles of each person of the Trinity right. When we misunderstand one part, the whole system of belief can be impacted.
Patrick and I discussed several key scriptural passages that help illuminate the Trinity and Jesus' unique role as God's Son. Passages like John 1:1-14, Philippians 2:6, and John 17:5 all point to the distinct yet unified relationship between Jesus and the Father. In these texts, Jesus is not just a created being but shares the same nature and essence as the Father. For example, in John 1, we are told, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." Here, Jesus is directly identified with God, affirming His divinity and His eternal existence with the Father. This is a far cry from the misunderstandings that arose in the early church, like Arianism, which wrongly suggested that Jesus was a created being rather than truly divine.
What Does "Only Son" Mean?
The phrase "His only Son" in the Apostles' Creed can sometimes be confusing. For some, the word "begotten" sparks debates. What does it mean that Jesus is "begotten" of the Father? The Greek word used here is "Monogenes," which means "unique" or "one of a kind." It doesn't suggest that Jesus was created, but rather that He has a unique, eternal relationship with the Father, unlike any other. A helpful comparison can be made to Isaac, who is called Abraham's "only son" in Hebrews 11:17, even though Abraham had other children. Isaac’s unique status comes from his special role in God's covenant promises.
Understanding this distinction is vital because it ensures we’re not falling into misunderstandings about the nature of Jesus and His relationship with the Father. It's not about Him being created or having a beginning like humans or other creatures; it's about His unique, eternal relationship with the Father, marking Him as distinct yet fully divine.
Jesus as the Agent of Creation and New Creation
As we explore the depths of the Apostles' Creed, we also come to appreciate the crucial role Jesus plays not only in our salvation but in creation itself. Jesus is the agent through whom all things were made (John 1:3), and through Him, we are made a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). He is the one who not only created the universe but who will also bring about its renewal. This aspect of Jesus' role reminds us that His mission goes beyond redemption alone—it includes the restoration and recreation of the world.
This is foundational for understanding the nature of God’s work in the world. Jesus, as the Son of God, is not merely a historical figure, but the eternal Word of God through whom all things were made and through whom all things will be made new. The doctrine of the Trinity grounds all of this, as it reveals that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are each involved in this great work of creation and recreation.
In closing, the phrase "His only Son" in the Apostles' Creed is much more than a simple theological statement. It opens up a profound understanding of the nature of God and the relationship between the Father and the Son. Understanding Jesus as the only Son of God helps us see the deep unity of the Trinity, the eternal nature of Christ, and His role in both the creation and the redemption of the world. It’s a powerful reminder of the mystery and majesty of our God, who has revealed Himself as both Father and Son in a relationship that has been the heart of existence for all eternity.
