When the church wanted to clarify its doctrines in the early centuries it developed the Apostle’s Creed. It would also be helpful to have a creed that summarizes the practice of the faith. That is why I wrote the Christlike Creed. It contains 9 stanzas of 3 lines each and summarizes the important attitudes and practices of the Christian life, including identity and destiny. It describes what a Christlike person looks like. In other words, it describes spiritual growth and discipleship.
Consider how important it is to have a description of what a disciple of Jesus looks like. How can a church or ministry make disciples if the leaders or the people don’t know what a disciple looks like? Don’t we need to know what we are aiming for? This creed describes what a disciple of Christ looks like so we know what is important and what is less important.
The Christlike Creed helps us spot areas in our spiritual selves that are underdeveloped. It helps us reaffirm our commitments to God. It is a great tool for stimulating discussion in a small group and moving members to make deeper commitments to God. It can be spoken collectively in a fellowship meeting, used as lyrics for a song, or used for personal devotion. It is also very useful for creating a disciple plan for a church or ministry. I would love any feedback you have and if you write a song I would love to hear it. (This Christlike Creed is in the public domain; I am not restricting the use.)
As you read this, ask yourself, How much do I believe this line and how much do I practice this line? This will help you find weak links in your spiritual maturity and consider what God might have you do in that area to become more Christlike.
THE CHRISTLIKE CREED
I am a forgiven and loved child of God.
I have been reborn in the image of Christ.
I have the Spirit of God dwelling in me.
I am a member of God’s family.
I have spiritual gifts for blessing this family.
My destiny is the community of love with God and His people.
I need the Father’s Spirit and grace to become Christlike.
I need the support of God’s family in order to grow.
I need to pray and absorb scripture to follow Jesus.
I commit to loving and trusting God with my whole self.
I commit to setting my mind and heart on Jesus and things above.
I commit to trusting the Bible.
I commit to loving and forgiving all people, including enemies.
I commit to acknowledging and turning away from my sins.
I commit to accepting God’s healing for my shame.
I commit to surrendering to God’s will in all things.
I commit to pursuing honesty, humility, and holiness.
I commit to trusting Jesus even when life is dark and painful.
I commit to being a channel of God’s kingdom coming to earth.
I commit to walking in the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit.
I commit to blessing those in my care.
I commit to exercising discernment in all matters.
I commit to speaking words of encouragement and blessing.
I commit to building godly friendships.
I joyfully look forward to seeing Jesus and the Father in the new creation.
And being completely Christformed.
And united in love with God and His people.
