What Lutherans Believe…

Who is Jesus?

Lutherans believe in Jesus Christ as the divine Son of God and the Savior of humanity. They affirm His full humanity, acknowledging His birth from the Virgin Mary, sinless life, and sacrificial death on the cross for the redemption of humanity’s sins. As the mediator between God and humanity, Jesus offers forgiveness, grace, and eternal life to those who believe in Him. Lutherans anticipate His second coming and the fulfillment of God’s kingdom, emphasizing faith in Jesus as central to salvation and Christian living.

Salvation by Grace through Faith

Lutherans believe that salvation is a gift from God, received by faith alone. It is not earned through good works but is a result of God’s grace and mercy

Authority of Scripture

Lutherans affirm the Bible as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and life. They believe that the Scriptures contain all that is necessary for salvation and are to be interpreted through the lens of Christ’s teachings.

The Trinity

Lutherans believe in the triune nature of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—as revealed in the Scriptures. They worship and confess faith in one God, who exists eternally in three distinct persons.

Sacraments

Lutherans recognize two sacraments instituted by Christ: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion). They believe that through these sacraments, God imparts grace and strengthens faith.

Justification by Faith

Lutherans emphasize the doctrine of justification, which teaches that humans are justified (made right with God) by faith in Christ’s atoning sacrifice on the cross. This righteousness is imputed to believers through faith.

Priesthood of All Believers

Lutherans affirm the priesthood of all believers, meaning that every baptized Christian has direct access to God and the responsibility to proclaim the Gospel and serve others.

Law and Gospel

Lutherans distinguish between the Law, which reveals sin and God’s standards, and the Gospel, which proclaims forgiveness, salvation, and new life in Christ. They believe that both Law and Gospel are essential for understanding God’s message of grace.

Eternal Life

Lutherans believe in the resurrection of the dead and the promise of eternal life for those who trust in Christ. They look forward to the return of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s kingdom.