How to Become Lutheran

Last Updated: September 15, 2021 Approved

Lutheranism is a denomination of the Christian Church. Lutherans believe that a person is not saved by being good, but only by God's grace through faith in Jesus. This means that a Lutheran simply trusts that Jesus's sacrifice on the cross completely pays for their salvation. Lutherans do want to follow God's commandments, not because they are afraid God will send them to hell, but because they are thankful that God loves them and has given them heaven.

There are three main Lutheran synods: The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is the largest synod of Lutheranism in America. They have moved away from certain aspects of traditional Lutheranism, believing that God's love conquers all human misunderstandings. They are more willing to change with the times and culture. The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) is the second largest group of Lutherans and they are more conservative. The Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) is the most conservative, interpreting the Bible as the inspired word of God. There are some other smaller Lutheran synods as well.

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The pastor will usually offer to take you through a Bible Instruction Class or meet with you to discuss the differences between Lutherans and other Christians.

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Honestly believing the Bible isn't something that magically happens when you join a Lutheran church. It might take a while, but through reading the Bible and prayer, God can create real faith in your heart.
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You may consider reading the Small Catechism of Dr.Martin Luther to further understand what Lutherans really believes.
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This is the testimony and confession of faith of early followers of the reform of Luther.

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Is it necessary to be baptized Lutheran to become a Lutheran if I have been baptized Catholic?

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Most Protestant Christian churches do not require water baptism to become a member. Some, however, will require that you attend an orientation class if this is a conversion from another religious denomination. This is simply to clarify what they believe, teach, and expect from all members of the church. So the answer is no, you do not have to be baptized into the Lutheran church to become a member.

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How do I get baptized?

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Tell the pastor you would like to be baptized.

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What is worship like in a Lutheran church?

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If you've ever experienced a service at another Christian church, then it won't be too unfamiliar. Religious services vary widely within the larger Lutheran denominations from a relatively formal Eucharistic (communion-based) model to one resembling other "Mainline" denominations (Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian etc.) to more contemporary services with modern instruments and much singing and standing. These are usually held weekly on Sunday mornings, but there will be exceptions, especially in larger communities.

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Don't be afraid to ask questions before committing to the classes.

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Know your bible and read the Small Catechism of Dr.Martin Luther

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Attend regularly to the Divine Service or the Worship service in a Lutheran church

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Warnings

Lutheran worship services often offer "communion" or "The Lord's Supper" during their services. ELCA congregations open the Lord's Supper to all who believe Jesus died for them and that Jesus is present in the bread and wine we receive. Others practice 'close' communion. If you aren't a Lutheran member then it is best that you wait to participate in this until you talk to the pastor about it.

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