Matthew Hooper, Richie Fike, Travis Ryan
A musically energetic, creed-based corporate anthem that successfully translates historic Christian confession into modern congregational song. Theologically comprehensive and scripturally rooted, covering the Trinity, incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and eschaton with declarative clarity. The Apostles' Creed structure provides doctrinal weight that transcends stylistic preference. Minor singability concerns at the upper range and rapid lyric density at tempo are offset by strong congregational appeal and pastoral utility for teaching core doctrine.
Five lenses
This song operates as a confessional hymn, drawing from the Apostles' Creed framework and grounding each article in biblical narrative. The declaration of belief in the Father as Creator echoes Genesis 1, the affirmation of Christ's virgin birth reflects Matthew 1 and Luke 1, the crucifixion and resurrection anchor in the Gospels and 1 Corinthians 15, and the second coming draws from Acts 1 and Revelation 19. The Holy Spirit's role in sanctification mirrors John 14-16 and Romans 8. The structure itself is a biblical-theological synthesis rather than verse-by-verse exegesis, which is appropriate for confessional worship.
The song functions as a sung catechism, moving systematically through the Trinity and the economy of salvation. It presents God as Creator, Christ as incarnate Redeemer who died, rose, and will return, and the Spirit as sanctifying presence. The theological arc is historic Christian orthodoxy: creation, fall (implied in the need for salvation), incarnation, atonement, resurrection, ascension, ongoing sanctification, and eschatological hope. The corporate 'we believe' voice reinforces that this is the church's faith, not individual opinion. No heterodox elements are present; every article aligns with Nicene-Chalcedonian orthodoxy and Baptist theological commitments.
The melody is anthemic and memorable, with a driving rhythm that energizes younger and contemporary worship settings. However, the D5 ceiling in the original key is high for mixed congregations, particularly men singing melody and older adults. Dropping to C major brings the ceiling to C5, which is more sustainable. The rapid lyric delivery at 130 BPM requires clear diction and familiarity with the text - this is not a song that congregations can sight-sing easily on first encounter. The repetitive chorus structure aids memorization, but the verses pack significant theological content into short melodic phrases, which can feel rushed.
The song's poetic strength lies in its confessional structure and corporate voice, not in metaphor or imagery. The repeated 'we believe' functions as liturgical refrain, reinforcing unity and shared conviction. The lyrics are lean and declarative, avoiding embellishment in favor of clarity. This is intentional - the song is doing the work of a creed, not a hymn of adoration. The lack of first-person singular voice is a strength here, as corporate confession is the mode. The rhythm and rhyme scheme are functional rather than artful, but the theological architecture is impressive.
The song's creed-based structure and orthodox content make it highly defensible theologically. Potential objections center on stylistic preference, the rapid tempo's impact on congregational comprehension, and whether a pop-rock arrangement suits the gravitas of doctrinal confession. These are secondary concerns that do not undermine the song's theological integrity. The song's greatest apologetic strength is its function as catechesis - it teaches the faith while the church sings.
Full analysis
This song stands as a modern expression of the Apostles' Creed, translating the historic confession of the church into a congregational anthem with energy and clarity. The theological architecture is comprehensive, moving systematically through the Trinity and the economy of salvation: the Father as Creator, the Son's incarnation and redemptive work, and the Spirit's ongoing sanctification. Each article of faith is grounded in Scripture, and the corporate 'we believe' voice positions the congregation as the confessing body, not isolated individuals. This is catechetical worship at its best, teaching doctrine while the church sings.
The song's greatest strength is its doctrinal precision and scope. It affirms the virgin birth, the substitutionary nature of Christ's death, the bodily resurrection, the ascension, and the promised return. It confesses the Spirit's role in making believers holy and calls the church to live in light of eschatological hope. This is not vague spirituality or therapeutic religion - it is the faith once delivered to the saints, sung with conviction. The creed structure ensures that no essential element of the gospel is omitted or minimized.
The primary challenges are practical rather than theological. The original key pushes most congregations at the upper range, and the tempo creates lyric density that can feel rushed. Worshipers accustomed to slower, more reflective songs may find the pace disorienting. However, these concerns are mitigated by adjusting the key to C major and considering a slightly slower tempo (115-120 BPM) to allow the words to land. The song benefits from strong vocal leadership and clear lyric projection, and it should be used in contexts where the congregation has some familiarity with creedal language.
For Baptist worship leaders in the BGCT tradition, this song offers a powerful tool for reinforcing core doctrine in a culturally accessible form. It pairs well with teaching moments, baptismal services, and affirmation of faith. The absence of sacramental language and the emphasis on personal faith and sanctification align with Baptist theology, while the Trinitarian structure honors historic orthodoxy. Use this song to anchor the congregation in the faith, but balance it with songs that express personal devotion, lament, or adoration to create a well-rounded worship experience.
Defense brief
Who raises this: Worshipers accustomed to affective, first-person singular songs; those who prioritize relational intimacy in worship language
The Psalms themselves contain both affective praise and declarative confession (Psalm 100, 103, 136). The corporate 'we believe' echoes Israel's Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4) and the early church's creedal confessions. Romans 10:9 links confession of belief with salvation. Corporate doctrinal declaration is a biblical worship mode.
This song functions as a sung creed, similar to how many traditions recite the Apostles' Creed. It is not meant to replace songs of adoration or lament, but to anchor the congregation in shared theological conviction. Pair it with more affective songs to create a balanced worship arc.
Who raises this: Musicians, contemplative worshipers, older congregants, those who value slower, reflective worship
Psalm 46:10 calls for stillness and knowing God. The concern is valid - rapid delivery can obscure meaning. However, other psalms celebrate energetic praise (Psalm 149, 150). The issue is not the song itself, but how it is used in the service flow.
Acknowledge the tempo and use the song strategically. Consider slowing it down slightly (to 120 BPM) or pausing between sections to let the doctrine settle. Alternatively, use it as a corporate declaration after a sermon or teaching moment when the congregation has already engaged the content reflectively.
Who raises this: Traditional worshipers, those who associate certain musical styles with reverence and others with entertainment
Psalm 150 calls for worship with loud cymbals, strings, and dancing. Scripture does not prescribe musical style, only that worship be offered in spirit and truth (John 4:24). The early church adapted the musical forms of its culture. The question is whether the style serves the content, not whether the style matches a particular tradition's preferences.
Musical style is a matter of cultural context, not theological validity. This song brings the ancient creed into a contemporary musical language that connects with many worshipers, particularly younger generations. The energy of the arrangement reflects the joy and confidence of the resurrection faith being confessed.
Scripture map
Primary foundations
Supporting connections
Story behind the song
The song was written by Matthew Hooper, Richie Fike, and Travis Ryan for the Newsboys' 2017 album 'United.' The writers intentionally crafted a creed-based song to provide congregations with a doctrinally rich anthem that teaches the core tenets of the Christian faith.
Album liner notes, United (Newsboys)
The song emerged during a period when many worship leaders were seeking theologically substantive songs that could function as both corporate confession and catechesis. The Newsboys, known for their energetic pop-rock sound, adapted the Apostles' Creed into a form that would resonate with contemporary worship settings.
Worship leader discussions and CCLI usage reports
The song quickly gained traction in evangelical and Baptist churches, particularly among congregations that value doctrinal clarity and wanted a modern alternative to reciting the creed. Its use in worship has reinforced the connection between historic Christian confession and contemporary musical expression.
CCLI reporting and worship ministry feedback
Hymn lineage
Themes
Sermon series fit
Audience fit
Maturity
Most effective with congregants who have some familiarity with creedal language and orthodox theology. Can serve as teaching tool for newer believers if contextualized.
Age group
Broad appeal, particularly strong with youth, young adults, and contemporary worship settings. The energy and tempo may be less accessible to older traditional congregants.
Service type
Contemporary worship, blended services, youth gatherings, baptismal services, and services emphasizing corporate confession or doctrinal teaching.
Visitor-friendly
Moderately visitor-friendly. The creed structure is clear and the content is accessible, but the tempo and theological density may require familiarity. Best used when the congregation can join confidently.
Special contexts
Excellent for baptismal services, membership classes, affirmation of faith moments, and sermon series on core doctrine. Also effective in youth camps and retreats where catechesis is a priority.
Similar songs
If you love this song
This I Believe (The Creed) - Hillsong Worship
Nicene Creed - Keith & Kristyn Getty
The Apostles' Creed - Hillsong United
Cornerstone - Hillsong Worship
Christ Is Risen - Matt Maher
If this concerns you
In Christ Alone - Keith Getty & Stuart Townend (slower, more reflective creed-based song)
The Lord's My Shepherd - Stuart Townend (Psalm-based, traditional feel)
Great Is Thy Faithfulness - Thomas Chisholm (classic hymn with doctrinal content)
How Deep the Father's Love for Us - Stuart Townend (contemplative, theologically rich)