Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 12/19/2006

Question
Hi! I'm in the process of finding a roommate for college and am really looking for someone with whom I share somewhat similar beliefs.  One of the girls who has e-mailed me is a member of the Lutheran church.  However, having been raised in a Baptist church, I'm afraid I don't know much about Lutheran doctrine.  What are the major differences between what I believe and what the Lutheran church teaches?

Answer
Hayley,

Thanks for your question. I will do my best to answer you.

The major difference between the Baptist and Lutheran churches are as follows...

1. Baptism

Lutherans believe that baptism is necessary for salvation, and they practice infant baptism.

Baptist believe that the baptismal candidate must be saved, therefore since an infant is not mature enough to understand the need for salvation, they do not baptize infants.

2. The Lords Supper, or Communion.

Lutherans believe the bread and wine (achalolic), when taken at communion are the literal body and blood of Jesus. Therefore if any is left over after a service, it must be consumed and not thrown away. They also hold the communion as the central feature of a church service.

Baptist believe that the bread and wine (non-alcoholic) as symbolic of the body and blood of Jesus. Baptist (depending on the church) do not partake of communion every service, and the preaching of Gods Word is the central feature of the church service.

3. Liturgical worship (a prescribed ceremony according to tradition, an elaborate formal ritual).

Lutherans church services are very ritualistic and formal.

Baptist church services (once again depending upon the church) are orderly, yet not ritualistic.

Hayley, there are several different Lutheran denominations that may have slightly different views than the ones I have listed, but for the most part Lutherans hold to these. I am not sure what "type" of Baptist church you attend, but I believe that these are true with most of them as well. I suggest that you discuss your concerns with you family, pastor, and with the young lady.

Please let me know if this helps or if you have any further questions.
Elder Greg Madden