What we believe
Lutherans believe in the Triune God (the Holy Trinity), Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
We believe that the Bible is the word of God, and it is the only source of inspiration and teaching. God comes to us through hearing the word of God and through the means of grace – baptism and holy communion.
We believe that we are saved 'by grace, for Christ's sake, through faith'. In other words, there is nothing we can do to earn God's favour or to gain eternal life. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus Christ has won all this and more for us.
Lutherans worldwide also believe that the Lutheran Confessions, contained in the Book of Concord of 1580, are true expositions of the word of God. These documents are:
- the three ecumenical creeds (confessed by Christians around the world): the Apostles' Creed, the Nicene Creed and the Athanasian Creed
- the Augsburg Confession
- the Apology of the Augsburg Confession
- the Smalcald Articles
- the Small Catechism of Luther
- the Large Catechism of Luther
- the Formula of Concord.
'Presence' video series and study guides
'Presence' is a nine-part video series with companion study guides that introduces what Lutherans believe. A versatile free resource that suits many settings within congregations and Lutheran entities, it's also ideal for people new to the church and those who have begun work in a Lutheran school, aged care or community organisation. Watch the videos and download the study guides here.
If you would like to explore these themes or have any questions about what Lutherans believe, please contact your local Lutheran church.
Commission on Theology and Inter-Church Relations
The Commission on Theology and Inter-Church Relations (CTICR) oversees the development of theological advice and statements and works on the relationships between the LCANZ and other churches. At the request of the College of Bishops or the General Convention of Synod, it periodically studies a contemporary issue in the life of the church or society and prepares statements for information or adoption. Click on the button below to learn more about our ecumenical relationships or read or download the Doctrinal Statements and Theological Opinions CTICR has produced over many years.
From the Bishop's Desk
From time to time, LCANZ Bishop Paul Smith issues pastoral messages to our members in relation to current events in the world and the church.
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