Abstract:
The article deals with the function and aim of the Apostles’ Creed in the Netherdutch Reformed
Church of Africa – and for that matter, all other Reformed churches. The history of the Credo
is carefully described. By so doing the earliest uses of the Creed are established. This
information is necessary to determine the present-day function and aim of our confession.
The relationship between faith, confession and the catechisms also provides important
perspectives on the role of the Creed in the life of the church. The ecumenical nature of the
church and the unity amongst Christians are emphasised. Unity with previous generations
also receives attention as one of the main functions of the Credo.
In the article, attention is further given to a variety of misunderstandings about the Creed. Due
to the fact that the confessional documents interpret the Credo, these documents tend to
receive a status beyond the original intention. The Reformed understanding of the doctrinal
standards is therefore explained.
