An Exposition of the Apostles’ Creed

by Caspar Olevian, R. Scott Clark (Introduction), Lyle D. Bierma (Translator)

Caspar Oleviaus (1536–1587) is most known today for his role as one of the authors of the Heidelberg Catechism. He was also an able biblical commentator, passionate preacher, and influential churchman. His place in history is noted as a key transitional theologian, helping to bridge the gap between the first generation of the Reformation and the era of Reformed Orthodoxy.
Olevianus’s Exposition of the Apostles’ Creed is a collection of sermons he preached on the basic articles of the Christian faith. It serves as a reminder that the Reformed tradition did not see itself as separate from the universal church, though it was principally opposed to Rome. Rather, Olevianus and his tradition argue for a Reformed catholicity rooted in the ancient confession of the church.
This new translation by Lyle D. Bierma, along with R. Scott Clark’s historical introduction, will benefit both scholarly and general readers. Charged with federal language, An Exposition explains the Christian faith as the believer’s fellowship with God in the covenant of grace. Thus, it is significant for its contribution to the development of Reformed covenantal theology. In addition to exhibiting its historical value within the Reformed tradition, readers will be “directed,” as Olevianus had intended, “toward edification in true and sound piety.”


Endorsements:
“Although the Apostles’ Creed is ancient, its relevance and simplicity make it a most helpful tool for learning and imparting our faith today. And though the early and illustrious German Reformed theologian, Caspar Olevianius, has been largely eclipsed by the Reformed worthies of the ensuing centuries, his erudition and pastoral skill make his exposition of the Apostles’ Creed a timeless jewel in the pedagogy of the New Covenant in the Kingdom of Christ. Bierma and Clark have richly blessed the Church by bringing back to life Olevianus’s mini theological masterpiece on the heart of the Christian faith.”
—Peter A. Lillback, President, Westminster Theological Seminary

“Caspar Olevianus is a significant theologian and his exposition of the creed places him firmly in the great tradition of the church. Pre-eminent authorities on Olevianus, Clark and Bierma have combined to provide a wider readership access to this important source of our Reformed heritage. Clark’s detailed biographical introduction effectively sets the work in context, while Bierma’s excellent and readable translation is a welcome addition to the corpus of classic Reformed texts available in English.”
—Robert Letham, Wales Evangelical School of Theology

Genres: Theology

291 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1576

About the author

Caspar Olevianus

Reviews

[Deiniol Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

It came highly recommended and it didn’t disappoint. Thoroughly biblical, richly pastoral, concise and easy to read. Essential for any study of the Apostles’ Creed.

[Andy Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic book. Simple but complex, clear and concise. An incredible volume that all reformed Christians should read.

[Jordan Carl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid exposition of the Apostles Creed. Uniquely covenantal in its approach. Quite fascinating to see how an early reformation document such as this develops and clarifies covenant theology.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent.