Whoever Would Be Saved
Whoever would be saved before all things
This creed represents the Lutheran church's commitment to the three ecumenical creeds as authoritative statements of Christian orthodoxy, particularly regarding the Trinity and the two natures of Christ. It emphasizes that right doctrine and proper confession of the faith are essential to salvation.
History & Background
This is the Athanasian Creed (Quicunque vult), one of the three ecumenical creeds of Western Christianity, traditionally attributed to Saint Athanasius though likely composed in the 5th-6th century. The creed appears in Lutheran hymnals as a liturgical text and has been versified for congregational singing.
Translation
Bulletin Note
Traditionally attributed to Saint Athanasius (4th century), this creed-hymn became the church's definitive statement on the Trinity and Christ's two natures. Luther valued it highly as an ecumenical standard of orthodox faith.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Law's demand for right faith and the Gospel's promise of salvation to those who hold the catholic faith, making it a powerful liturgical response to sermons on trinitarian theology or doctrinal faithfulness.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Athanasian Creed Three Ecumenical Creeds
Themes
Trinity doctrine Christology Salvation Christian faith and confession Ecumenical creed