Probably the first summary of Christian doctrine, The Apostles’ Creed was written to bring clarity to the major tenets of the Christian faith at a time when the bible had yet to be officially canonized. This creed then, served as an orthodox expression of Christianity that would serve as a framework for later creeds to build on.

I believe in God, the Father almighty,
    creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
    who was conceived by the Holy Spirit
    and born of the virgin Mary.
    He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
    was crucified, died, and was buried;
    he descended to hell.
    The third day he rose again from the dead.
    He ascended to heaven
    and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty.
    From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
    the holy catholic* church,
    the communion of saints,
    the forgiveness of sins,
    the resurrection of the body,
    and the life everlasting. Amen.

*Catholic – The church of all time throughout all ages.