A Review of Dr. Kevin DeYoung’s new book

Before diving into the review, let’s reflect on the Nicene Creed as presented in the 1990 Trinity Hymnal (Great Commission Publications). This version, rooted in the Reformed tradition, articulates the foundational beliefs of the Christian faith. In his recent book, The Nicene Creed: What You Need to Know About the Most Important Creed Ever Written, Kevin DeYoung helps readers rediscover the enduring power of this confession—remarkably, now 1,700 years old as of 2025.

We believe in one God, the Father Almighty,
Maker of heaven and earth,
Of all things visible and invisible.
And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God,
Begotten of his Father before all worlds.
God of God, Light of Light,
Very God of very God,
Begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father;
By whom all things were made;
Who for us, and for our salvation,
Came down from heaven,
And was incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary,
And was made man;
And was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate;
He suffered and was buried;
And the third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures,
And ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father;
And he shall come again, with glory, to judge both the living and the dead;
Whose kingdom shall have no end.
And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord and giver of life,
Who proceeds from the Father and the Son;
Who with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and glorified;
Who spoke by the prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church;
We acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins;
And we look for the resurrection of the dead,
And the life of the world to come. Amen.

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Book Overview

Kevin DeYoung’s The Nicene Creed: What You Need to Know About the Most Important Creed Ever Written is a concise yet profound exploration of this pivotal statement of faith. As part of Crossway’s “Foundational Tools for Our Faith” series, this 90-page volume serves as both an introduction and a deep dive into the creed’s theological significance.

DeYoung, Senior Pastor of Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, North Carolina, and Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, brings both pastoral sensitivity and academic rigor to the text. His writing is accessible, making complex theological concepts understandable without oversimplification.

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Structure and Content

The book is organized into seven chapters, each unpacking a specific segment of the Nicene Creed:

1. We Believe – Explores the communal aspect of faith and the importance of shared belief.
2. Only Begotten – Discusses the unique sonship of Christ and the implications of His divine nature.
3. One Substance – Delves into the concept of homoousios, affirming the consubstantiality of the Son with the Father.
4. For Us and for Our Salvation – Examines the incarnation and atoning work of Christ.
5. Who Proceeds from the Father and the Son – Addresses the procession of the Holy Spirit and the Filioque clause.
6. One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church – Reflects on the nature and marks of the true Church.
7. One Baptism for the Remission of Sins – Considers the sacrament of baptism and its role in the believer’s life.

An introduction titled “From the Nicene to the Nicene Creed” provides historical context, tracing the development and significance of the creed. Additionally, the book includes a general index (p. 87) and a Scripture index (p. 91), enhancing its utility for study and reference.

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Why This Book Matters

In an age where doctrinal clarity is often lacking, DeYoung’s exposition of the Nicene Creed offers a timely reminder of the core truths that unite Christians across denominations. By revisiting this ancient confession, readers are invited to deepen their understanding of the faith and to appreciate the historical continuity of Christian doctrine.

DeYoung’s approach is both informative and devotional, encouraging readers not only to comprehend the creed intellectually but also to internalize its truths spiritually. This makes the book suitable for personal study, small group discussions, and educational settings within the church.

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Final Thoughts

The Nicene Creed: What You Need to Know About the Most Important Creed Ever Written is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to grasp the foundational beliefs of Christianity. Kevin DeYoung’s clear and thoughtful exposition makes this ancient creed accessible and relevant for contemporary readers.

Whether you’re a seasoned theologian or a new believer, this book offers insights that will enrich your faith and deepen your understanding. It’s a commendable addition to any Christian’s library and a testament to the enduring significance of the Nicene Creed. This is a must-read for anyone serious about Christian theology, church history, or understanding what the earliest Christians believed—and why those beliefs still matter today.

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Note: The Nicene Creed text is sourced from the 1990 Trinity Hymnal, Great Commission Publications.

(I received a copy of this book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review)