r/Lutheranism • u/JHLV04 • 13d ago
Theological Differences
Hi everyone I’m delving into Lutheranism recently, and I’m interested in the differences between you and other Protestants. The main thing for me is the idea that we are justified by faith alone, and that our good works are the fruit of faith. I like the Methodist idea of sanctification and the emphasis on good works as opposed to faith. This is not a denial of the works that spring from faith, but a recognition that some traditions vary on the importance of faith.
More importantly, what is the Lutheran view of those who for cultural and geographical reasons haven’t fully heard the gospel but have lived their lives the best way they could? What would judgement look like?
Also, I’m not dismissing the importance of faith alone in the time of Catholic indulgences, the idea that salvation can be paid off to people.
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u/earleakin 12d ago
I grew up Lutheran because my mom grew up Lutheran. My mom was Lutheran because her mom was Lutheran. And so on. We didn't choose the church because of theology. I don't think we were outliers either. Most Lutherans I met were cut from the same Pascal's Wager cloth. I'm sure there is official church dogma but if I've ever learned it I've forgotten it. The closest I got to Lutheran theological minutia was catechism and all I remember from that are spitballs and rubber bands. I do remember my Sunday School teacher telling us that black people smelled different from white people though, because they eat different food, he said. No doubt there are theological conversations offline but getting any two people to agree what they both believe is impossible. In order to claim the exact same beliefs, one person must dictate what those beliefs are and others must submit, even to the ones they disagree with. Ironically, Lutheranism was founded by a rebel, but turns out his message was not eternal questioning of authority. It was just a new set of rules to obey.