What Are the Basic Beliefs of Lutherans?
Lutheranism is a denomination of the Protestant religion and is founded on the religious principles of a German friar in the Augustinian order named Martin Luther. Lutherans believe in the teachings of Luther and the reformers with a particular focus on three phases: Grace Alone, Faith Alone and Scripture Alone.
Grace Alone refers to the Lutheran belief that people can reach salvation through their faith in God alone and not by works of righteousness or sacraments. Sacraments are seen as aids to faith only. Faith Alone explains that all one needs to reach salvation is simple trust in the promises of God and Jesus Christ.
Lutherans believe the bible is the infallible word of God and contains the only necessary guide to truth, according to the idea of Scripture Alone. Some Lutheran congregations teach from The Lutheran Confessions, which they believe to be the correct interpretation and presentation of biblical doctrine. Martin Luther embraced the practices of Catholicism that didn’t contradict scripture. This is the reason for similarities that exist between the two religions today. While Lutherans believe in baptism for spiritual regeneration, they don’t specify a form. Lutherans depart from traditional Roman Catholic doctrine in their belief that everyone has direct access to God. Lutherans don’t feel priests are necessary to mediate conversations with God.
