What Do Lutheran Churches Teach?

Lutherans, Catholics, Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians...the various branches within Christianity are many. It can be overwhelming and seemingly impossible to distinguish the different denominations and determine where the differences lie. Don't all Christian churches basically believe the same thing? They all follow Jesus, right?

The reason that there are so many groups within Christianity is that there are so many different interpretations of the Scriptures. Historically, as a person or group of people became dissatisfied with their church's theology or practices, they would try to reform the church, or break off and start a church of their own.

Lutheranism got its start at the beginning of the Protestant Reformation under the leadership of Martin Luther. Lutheranism was born out of the desire to "Protest" (hence, "Protestant" Churches) the Catholic church and her doctrine. They subscribe to the major tenants of Christianity, i.e. the virgin birth, the death and literal resurrection of Jesus, Jesus was the Son of God, etc. The movement emphasized salvation by faith alone and the Bible as the only source of authority, rather than the Pope, traditions, etc.

The Lutheran church follows the Augsburg Confession of Faith and the church Catechism.

Lutherans believe in the Priesthood of all believers (Any person can approach God in prayer through Jesus Christ, no confession or human mediator is necessary). They also hold to two sacraments: The Eucharist, (communion) and baptism.

They are Calvinistic and Covenant in their theology, thus they believe in the predestination of some to salvation. Conversely, historical church doctrine also teaches reprobation. Reprobation is the view that as God has chosen some to salvation, He has also chosen others to hell. More recent Evangelical Lutheran churches do not hold this view.