Resources
Recommended books and study tools for exploring the Athanasian Creed and historic Christian theology.
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Reference Books
The Story of Christian Theology
by Roger E. Olson
Roger Olson’s *Twenty Centuries of Tradition & Reform* traces the development of Christian theology from the second-century apostolic fathers through major movements such as the early church councils, the Reformation, and modern theological trends. Central to this narrative is salvation, seen as the unifying theme throughout the diverse theological traditions and reforms.
The Athanasian Creed
by A. E. Burn
A scholarly study of the Athanasian Creed covering its history, authorship, and teaching on the Holy Trinity and Incarnation — with Latin and Greek versions, historical manuscripts, and patristic commentaries.
Early Christian Creeds
by J.N.D. Kelly
J.N.D. Kelly's *Early Christian Creeds* explores the development of foundational Christian statements from the New Testament through early church history, highlighting their biblical roots and significance.
The Creeds of Christendom
by Philip Schaff
Philip Schaff's *The Creeds of Christendom* details Christian creeds from apostolic to 19th century, offering historical context and theological analysis across traditions.
He Descended to the Dead: An Evangelical Theology of Holy Saturday
by Matthew Y. Emerson
A biblical, historical, and theological defense of Christ's descent to the dead — a doctrine confessed in the ancient creeds — arguing it is essential to understanding salvation, eschatology, and the fullness of Christ's redemptive work.
Historic Creeds and Confessions
by Ed. Rick Brannan
A collection of foundational Christian theological documents — including the Apostles' Creed, Nicene Creed, Chalcedonian Symbol, Athanasian Creed, Belgic Confession, Heidelberg Catechism, and Canons of Dordt.
The Athanasian Creed and Its Early Commentaries
by A. E. Burn
The Athanasian Creed presented alongside its early patristic commentaries on Trinitarian doctrine and Christology, with the editor's own critical annotations and scholarly observations.
The Three Creeds
by Edgar C. S. Gibson
A study of the authorship, history, and theology of the Apostles' Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed — together with an examination of the significance of creeds in the life of the Church.
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Study Notes
Structure
The creed divides into two main sections: Trinity (verses 1-25) and Incarnation (verses 26-38). It should be noted that these "verses" are not standardized and many different denominations, sects, scholars and theologians have their own way of dividing up and numbering each line.
Purpose
Establishes precise theological language to combat Arianism and other heresies
Usage
Traditionally recited on Trinity Sunday in liturgical churches (Note: Trinity Sunday is the Sunday following Pentecost, and eight weeks after Easter Sunday.)
Influence
Shaped Western Christian understanding of Trinitarian doctrine