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Description of the Lutheran Religion
INCEPTION
The Lutheran faith was founded by the German monk Martin Luther in the 16th century. Finding the Catholic Church corrupt, Luther posted his "95 Theses" on a church's door. Initially, Luther wanted reformation of the church, but as the Catholic Church continued to support its practices of indulgences, Luther was eventually excommunicated and threatened by church authorities. He continued to spread his doctrines throughout medieval Europe; they gained great acclaim as word of them spread rapidly.
PROTESTANT REFORMATION
The founding of the Lutheran Church marked the origins of the Protestant Reformation, which attacked some teachings of the Roman Catholics and brought about considerable change. Martin Luther accepted many of the Roman Catholic doctrines but had qualms about a few select issues. The Catholic Church stresses holiness and good works as essential for the soul's salvation. Lutherans believe that salvation is a gift from God, and that man can attain salvation by faith alone. The Lutheran movement re-examined man's personal relationship with God, and emphasized the freedom of spirituality. Martin Luther criticized using Latin-only Bibles, because the common man could not read Latin. Lutherans printed religious texts in native languages, which promoted a growth in literacy across Europe. Lutheranism also took power from clerical authorities, such as the pope, and instead proclaimed God as the supreme authority.
SACRAMENTS
Lutherans participate in the sacraments of baptism and Communion. They baptize with water in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit; ministers often perform infant baptisms. Communion includes partaking of bread and wine, which are the "body and blood" of Jesus Christ. Conservative Lutherans practice "closed Communion," limiting participation. Progressive Lutherans can take Communion with those of different faiths.
THE "ALONES"
The "alones" summarize the beliefs of the Lutheran faith: The salvation of man rests on God alone, faith alone and Holy Scripture alone. God sent his son, Jesus Christ, to die for the sins of man, so his grace offers redemption. To attain eternal salvation, man must have faith and believe in God's ability to save. Finally, man must accept the teachings of God-given, sacred texts for doctrine and live according to their standards. Lutherans from more conservative synods believe in "Bible alone," while more liberal Lutherans sometimes interpret the Bible more figuratively.
TEXTS
Aside from the Bible, Lutherans also might learn material from the "Book of Concord," including the Nicene and Apostles' creeds. Before confirmation, students might study Luther's "Small Catechism" to learn about their denomination and its beliefs.
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