THE LUTHERAN FAITH

Three Basic Lutheran Principles

Lutherans hold to three basic principles of theology and practices:

        1)We are saved by the grace of God alone -- not by anything we do.

        2) Our salvation is through faith alone -- we only need to believe that our sins are forgiven for Christ's sake, who died to redeem us.

        3)The Bible is the only norm of doctrine and life.

History of the Lutheran Church

Martin Luther (1483-1546) is known as the Father of Protestantism. While studying to become a doctor of Theology, he discovered significant difference between what he read in the Bible and the beliefs and practices of the Catholic church. In 1517 he challenged Wittenberg University in Germany to debate on 95 theological issues. What started as a debate and attempt to reform the Church, escalated into religious division.

"Lutheran" was a name applied to Luther and his followers.

Sacraments of the Lutheran Church

Lutherans accept two Sacraments: Baptism and Holy Communion. In Baptism, especially infant Baptism, God offers his grace and lovingly establishes a new community. In Holy Communion -- also called the Lord's Supper or the Eucharist -- those who come to the table receive in bread and wine the body and blood of Jesus. This gift is the real presence of God's forgiveness and mercy.

Lutherans and the Bible

Luther said, "The Bible is the manger in which the Word of God is laid." It is accepted as the primary and authoritative witness to the church's faith. It is the authority for the Christian faith and practice, not a definitive record of history or science. In the Old Testament is found the vivid account of God's covenant relationship to Israel. In the New Testament is found the story of God's new covenant with all of creation in Jesus. The Bible is the record of the drama of God's saving care for creation throughout history.

The information on this page and more on Lutheran Faith can be found
on the ELCA web site at: http://www.elca.org/co/brief.html