Denomination

Lutheran (General)

Generic Lutheran. Positions vary significantly between ELCA (liberal) and LCMS (conservative). Use specific denomination name when known.

Typical Beliefs

Reflects the denomination's official or typical position. Individual churches may differ.

CORE BELIEFS

Bible is God's Word

Affirmed

The Bible is Completely Without Error

Not Stated

The Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit)

Affirmed

Jesus Christ is Fully God and Fully Human

Affirmed

Bodily Resurrection of Jesus Christ

Affirmed

Humans Are Sinful and Need Salvation

Affirmed

Salvation by Grace Through Faith Alone

Affirmed

DENOMINATIONAL DISTINCTIVES

Position

Salvation Cannot Be Lost

Salvation Can Be Lost

Not Stated

Position

Baptism is for Believers Only

Infant Baptism Practiced

Affirmed

Position

Baptism by Full Immersion

Baptism by Sprinkling or Pouring

Affirmed

Baptism Required for Salvation

Not Stated

Position

Communion as a Symbol of Remembrance

Christ is Truly Present in Communion

Not Stated

Position

God Chooses Who is Saved

People Choose to Accept God

Not Stated

Position

Spiritual Gifts Active Today

Spiritual Gifts Ended with the Apostles

Not Stated

Position

Women Serve as Lead Pastors and Elders

Lead Pastors and Elders are Men

Not Stated

ADDITIONAL POSITIONS

Marriage Defined as One Man and One Woman

Not Stated

Young Earth or Literal Six-Day Creation

Affirmed

Literal Second Coming of Christ

Affirmed

Hell as Eternal Conscious Punishment

Affirmed

Premillennial End Times View

Not Stated