The purpose of a creed or confession in Christian theology, particularly from a Reformed perspective, is multifaceted:

Doctrinal Summary: Creeds and confessions provide a concise summary of essential Christian doctrines. They distill the core teachings of the Bible, making it easier for believers to understand and articulate their faith.

Teaching Tool: These documents serve as teaching tools within the church. They help in educating members, especially new believers, about the fundamental beliefs and principles of Christianity.

Unity and Identity: Creeds and confessions help in establishing a sense of unity and common identity among Christians. They define what a particular church or denomination believes, distinguishing it from other groups and fostering a shared understanding among its members.

Historical Continuity: They connect contemporary believers with the historical church, showing continuity in fundamental beliefs over time. This historical aspect reassures believers that their faith is rooted in a long-standing tradition.

Guard Against Heresy: By clearly stating what is believed, creeds and confessions also serve to guard against heretical teachings and doctrinal errors. They provide a standard against which teachings and beliefs can be measured.

Public Witness: They also serve as a form of public witness, declaring to the world the beliefs and doctrines that the church holds to be true according to their understanding of Scripture.

Biblical Interpretation Guide: From a Reformed perspective, creeds and confessions are seen as valuable guides for interpreting Scripture. They are not seen as equal to Scripture but as faithful summaries and applications of its teachings.

The Westminster Confession of Faith, a prominent Reformed confession, serves these purposes by articulating the doctrines held by Reformed churches, drawing from Scripture as its ultimate authority.