Learning the Creed with Karl Barth

Show Notes:

Summary

This conversation explores the necessity of professing Jesus Christ's conception by the Holy Spirit and birth from the Virgin Mary. It delves into the mystery and humanity of Christ, distinguishing the incarnation from ancient pagan myths. The Chalcedonian formula is discussed, along with the exclusion of the life, ministry, and teaching of Jesus in the Creed. The inclusion of Pontius Pilate in the Creed is examined, and the conversation concludes with a discussion on sin and its nature. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various theological topics related to sin, the crucifixion, and politics. They explore the concept of sin as a rejection of God's grace and how all sin ultimately goes against God. They also discuss the symbolism of the tree of life and its connection to Jesus' crucifixion. The role of Pilate in God's plan is examined, as well as the condemnation of Jesus by both Pilate and the crowd. The hosts address the phrase 'He descended into hell' and its meaning in the creed. Finally, they discuss righteous versus unrighteous politics and the importance of truth and serving others in political engagement.

Takeaways

• The profession of Jesus Christ's conception by the Holy Spirit and birth from the Virgin Mary is necessary to affirm the mystery and humanity of Christ.

• The Chalcedonian formula provides a framework for understanding the incarnation and the nature of Christ.

• The Creed skips over the life, ministry, and teaching of Jesus because it focuses on the essential elements of his redemptive work.

• Pontius Pilate's inclusion in the Creed serves as a reminder of the intrusion of salvation into human history and the judgment it brings.

• Sin is not only a violation of human relationships but also a rejection of God. Sin is fundamentally a rejection of God's grace.

• The tree of life symbolizes Jesus' crucifixion and the fruit represents the crucifixion itself.

• Pilate played a role in God's plan, but his actions were not predetermined or without sin.

• Jesus was condemned by both Pilate and the crowd, representing the condemnation of all humanity.

• The phrase 'He descended into hell' in the creed refers to Jesus going to the realm of the dead to preach to the disobedient.

• Righteous politics centers around Jesus as the truth and the proper use of power for the care of others.