The Bible is the one and only God-inspired and infallible source of truth. God's Word is truth. Throughout its history, however, the Christian church has found it both necessary and beneficial to produce official, clear statements and explanations of biblical belief. These summary documents - precise, approved statements of scriptural belief - are known as church symbols or creedal statements.

Creedal statements (church symbols) have been written by the church for the following three reasons:

1. To confess - The church is called to display the light of the truth to the world. The common question asked of the church by outsiders is, "What do you believe?" A well-written creedal statement is a helpful tool for summarizing and communicating the truths (doctrines) of Scripture to others, especially the most central truths (dogmas).

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick: and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

- Matthew 5:14-16