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Mission / Leadership / Vision | Our History | Our Lutheran Faith Tradition

Our Lutheran Christian Faith Tradition

A Lutheran is a Christian who trusts in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Lutherans share a common faith with other Christians . . . we accept the same doctrines described in the New Testament and the same ancient creeds (Apostles, etc.), BUT what is unique about Lutheranism is - (1) emphasis on God's forgiving, welcoming love freely given, (2) justification by faith, and (3) the command to live as forgiven "disciples" in service and love for others.

Lutheranism had its beginning in 1517, when Martin Luther publicly called for correction of errors in the medieval church. Luther was pastor, professor, author, and reformer. His ideas still stimulate new thinking in the church. He is respected, but not worshiped.

First United is a member congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The ELCA is compromised of 5.3 million baptized members, with several thousand congregations across the United States.

The Bible is the basis of Lutheran worship. Generally, the services retain the traditional form of the Mass (liturgy) but place renewed emphasis on the preaching of God's word. Worship seeks to be interesting and relevant to life's struggles and joys. The Lutheran church celebrates two sacraments (sacred acts of Christ giving grace) - (1) Baptism (which stresses the death of sin in us and our rebirth into a holy life, Christ's life) and (2) The Lord's Supper (which is a Christian's direct encounter with God. Christ came among us to forgive our sins and help us to live truly Christian lives.)

The "church" is really people called to faith in Jesus Christ and sent on a mission to the world. It's a living fellowship where we live out our daily partnership with God and people; where loyalty to Christ "matures." Jesus asks that people care for one another, worship together, and raise children in the faith. It's also every Christian's responsibility to win others to the faith by sharing the good news of what God has done in our lives and can do for others. The best way to be witness is to live by example - a life of love and service to others by living selflessly and caring compassionately. Being a Lutheran means living a vital membership in the body of Christ, not being just members, but a disciple, a person who is willing to forget oneself and work for Christ.