Lutheranism

The Lutheran movement is a group of denominations of Protestant Christianity by the original definition. See Protestantism for further discussion.

History of Lutheranism

Early history

Lutheranism as a movement traces its origin to the work of Martin Luther, a German religious scholar who sought to reform the practices of the Roman Catholic Church in the early 16th century.

The symbolic beginning of the Protestant Reformation occurred on October 31, 1517, when professor Luther posted an open invitation to debate his 95 theses (statements) involving current Catholic dogma and practices upon the door of All Saints Church (customarily used as a notice board by the University) attached to the castle in Wittenberg, Saxony (Germany).

Between 1517 and 1520, Luther preached and published his scathing criticisms of the Catholic Church in books and pamphlets. His ideas were supported by many other Christian theologians, and they also had a certain populist appeal. As a result, Luther gained many supporters and followers from all levels of society, from peasants who considered him a folk hero, to knights who swore to protect him, to rulers of German lands who wanted more independence from papal interference in their domestic policies. Luther also gained some powerful enemies, including the Pope in Rome and the youthful Holy Roman Emperor Charles V.

Concerned about the "problem" of Luther, the Pope and Catholic officials decided to send Luther the papal bull called the "Exsurge Domine" in 1520, which called on Luther to recant and abandon his ideas.

Angered, Charles V wanted to outlaw Luther and his followers, but he was warned by advisors that doing so outright would cause a revolt, since Luther had become so popular. More importantly, the ruler of Luther's land, Frederick the Wise, refused to allow any of his subjects to be condemned without trial. So instead, Luther was to be summoned to appear before the Diet of Worms, where he was to recant his ideas publicly. Luther went to Worms (pronounced Vorms), but when called upon by Catholic officials to recant, Luther made a historic stand, saying the following: "I cannot submit my faith either to the Pope or to the Councils, because it is clear as day they have frequently erred and contradicted each other. Unless therefore, I am convinced by the testimony of Scripture ... I cannot and will not retract ... Here I stand, I can do no other. So help me God, Amen!" --Martin Luther, April 16, 1521

Luther had been granted a Safe Conduct to travel to and from his trial, but remembering how a similar promise had been violated in the case of Jan Hus, Luther's supporters prevailed upon him to escape from Worms in the dark of night, before he too could be seized and executed. Luther remained in hiding for some time, all the while continuing to write and develop his ideas. Shortly after Luther escaped, Charles V issued the Edict of Worms, which outlawed Luther and his followers, declared Luther and his followers heretics, and banned Luther's writings.

Religious war

What had started as a strictly theological and academic debate had now turned into something of a social and political conflict as well, pitting Luther and his German supporters against the king of Spain (the francophone Charles V who also ruled the Low Countries, the New World and the Holy Roman Empire -- of which Germany was then a part), and the Italian Pope, as well as the supporters of the latter two. The conflict would erupt even further into a religious war, fueled by the political climate of the Holy Roman Empire and strong personalities on both sides.

At the 1526 session of the Diet, meeting that year in Speyer, it was decided that, until a General Council could meet and settle the theological issues raised by Martin Luther, the Edict of Worms would not be enforced and each Prince could decide if Lutheran teachings and worship would be allowed in his territories (Cuius regio, eius religio). But the 1529 session, also meeting Speyer, the decision the previous Diet of Speyer was reversed — despite the strong protests of the Lutheran princes and free cities (giving rise to the term protestant).

Lutheranism would become known as a separate movement after the 1530 Diet of Augsburg, which was convened by Charles V to try to stop the growing Protestant movement. At the Diet, Philipp Melanchthon presented a written summary of Lutheran beliefs called the Augsburg Confession. Several of the German princes (and later, kings and princes of other countries) signed the document to define "Lutheran" territories. These princes would ally to create the Schmalkaldic League in 1531, which lead to the Schmalkald War that pitted the Lutheran princes of the Schmalkaldic League against the Catholic forces of Charles V.

After the conclusion of the Schmalkald War, Charles V attempted to impose Catholic religious doctrine on the territories that he had defeated. However, the Lutheran movement was far from defeated. In 1577, the next generation of Lutheran theologians gathered the work of the previous generation to define the doctrine of the persisting Lutheran church. This document is known as the Formula of Concord, and in 1580, all documents were bound and distributed in a volume titled The Confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. This book is still used today, and is referred to as the Book of Concord.

Results of the Lutheran Reformation

Luther and his followers began a large exodus from the Catholic Church known as the Protestant Reformation. In the years and decades following Luther's posting of the 95 theses on the door of the Wittenberg church, large numbers of Europeans left the Roman Church, including the vast majority of Germanic people (the only Germanics who remained in the Catholic church were those under the domain and/or influence of Catholic Austria and Bavaria or the electoral archbishops of Mainz, Cologne, and Trier). Because Luther sparked this mass movement, he is known as the father of the Protestant Reformation, and the father of Protestantism in general.

Today, approximately 1 out every 4 Christians in the world is a Protestant, and 1 out of every 5 Protestants in the world is a Lutheran. Thus, approximately 1 out of every 20 Christians in the world is a Lutheran.

Lutheran doctrine

The Holy Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions (formal principle)

One of the signature teachings of the Lutheran Reformation is the teaching named Sola scriptura -- "Scripture alone." Lutherans believe that the Bible is divinely inspired and is the only standard by which teachings and doctrines can be judged. Lutherans also hold that the Holy Scripture is explained and interpreted by the Book of Concord -- a series of Confessions of faith composed by Lutherans in the 16th Century. Traditionally, Lutheran pastors, congregations and church bodies agree to teach in harmony with the Book of Concord because it teaches and faithfully explains the Word of God. For this reason, Lutherans who follow the Book of Concord closely, especially conservative Lutherans, often refer to themselves as Confessional Lutherans. Other Lutherans, who agree with the main teachings of the Lutheran Confessions, but may take exception to some of its doctrine, subscribe to the Book of Concord in so far as they are in harmony with Holy Scripture.

Some Lutheran church bodies also teach Biblical inerrancy. Others adopt the viewpoint that the Bible contains God's Word, but is essentially a human document, subject to error in non-spiritual matters. Those who hold to the former reject modern liberal scholarship, while those that hold to the latter embrace it.

Central doctrines (material principle)

The central teaching of Lutheranism is the doctrine of salvation by God's grace alone (Sola Gratia), through faith alone (Sola Fide) for the sake of Christ's merit alone (Solus Christus). Lutherans believe God made the world, humanity included, perfect, holy and sinless. However, Adam and Eve chose to disobey God, trusting in their own strength, knowledge and wisdom. Because of this Original Sin -- the sin from which all other sins come -- all descendents of Adam and Eve (thus, all humans) are born in sin and are sinners. For Lutherans, it is not actual sins -- the sinful acts committed by an individual -- that damn someone. What condemns them is that they are sinful from the start.

Lutherans teach that sinners cannot do anything to satisfy God's justice. Every human thought and deed is colored by sin and sinful motives. God has intervened in this world because He loves sinners and does not want them to be damned to Hell, and, by His grace alone -- His free gift of mercy -- a person is forgiven, adopted as a child of God, and given eternal salvation.

Lutherans believe that individuals receive this gift of salvation by faith alone -- a full and complete trust in God's promises to forgive and to save. Even faith itself is seen as a gift of God, created in the hearts of Christians by the work of the Holy Spirit when they hear God's Word proclaimed, and when they are baptized.

Lutherans teach that salvation is possible only because of the birth, perfect life of obedience, sufferings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the person of Jesus Christ, Lutherans believe God and Man meet. Because He is God, He is sinless and so a worthy sacrifice, without spot or blemish. Because He is a man, He could die. In His death, death is destroyed, our debt paid for and our sins forgiven.

Lutherans believe that all who trust in Jesus alone can be sure of their salvation, for it is in Christ's work and his promises in which their surety lies. They teach that, at death, Christians are immediately taken into the presence of God in Heaven, where they await the resurrection of the body at the second coming of Christ.

Most Lutherans also teach:

  • Single Predestination: God chose to save His children before the world was created, but does not predestine the lost to be damned. Unlike Calvin, who explained how the reprobate come to be damned (double predestination), Luther said it was a mystery -- something which humanity cannot, and probably should not, comprehend.
  • Infant Baptism
  • Baptismal Regeneration
  • The Real Presence of Christ's Body and Blood "in, with and under" the Bread and wine of the Lord's Supper.
  • Amillennialism

For an overview of Lutheran theology, see:

ELCA Perspective: Braaten, Carl E., Principles of Lutheran Theology Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1983.

LCMS Perspective: Pieper, Franz. Christian Dogmatics. Saint Louis, Mo. : Concordia Pub. House, 1950-1957.

Lutheran religious practices

Lutherans generally place great emphasis on a liturgical approach to worship services; music also forms a large part of a traditional Lutheran service. Lutheran hymns are sometimes known as chorales, and Luther himself composed hymns and hymn tunes, the most famous of which is "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" ("Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott"). Many Lutheran churches have active music ministries, including choirs, hand-bell choirs, children's choirs and sometimes carillon societies (to ring bells in a bell tower). Johann Sebastian Bach, a devout Lutheran, composed music for the Lutheran church.

Children's ministries are considered fundamental in most Lutheran churches. Almost all maintain Sunday Schools, and many host or maintain private nursery-schools, primary schools, regional high schools and universities. Lutheran pastors and staff are repeatedly reminded that most evangelism occurs within the church, with children.

Pastors usually teach in the common language of the parish. In the U.S., some congregations and synods traditionally taught in German or Norwegian, but this custom has been in significant decline since the early/middle 20th century.

Pastors almost always have substantial theological educations, including Greek and Hebrew so that they can refer directly to the canonical Christian scriptures in the original language. Lutheran pastors may marry and have families.

Lutheran Churches in the United States use a number of hymnals. The most widely uses are: Christian Worship (WELS), The Lutheran Book of Worship (ELCA), The Lutheran Hymnal (LCMS and WELS)and Lutheran Worship (LCMS). The Lutheran Church -- Missouri Synod recently approved a new hymnal, Lutheran Service Book, which will be available in the fall of 2006.

Lutheran ecumenism

Lutherans believe in the idea that there should be a single Christian church, and a single Christian faith. This belief is ingrained in the Lutheran confessions, and reflects the history of Lutheranism as a reform movement rather than a separatist movement.

For that reason, a number of modern Lutheran denominations, now largely separated from state control, are reaching out to other Lutheran denominations as well as other Christian denominations. However, more conservative varieties of Lutheran strive to maintain historical distinctiveness, emphasizing doctrinal purity over ecumenical outreach.

The largest organizations of Lutheran churches around the world are the Lutheran World Federation and the International Lutheran Council, which include the great majority of Lutheran denominations around the globe.

Lutheranism in the United States

In the U.S., congregations are grouped into over 20 different denominations. The three largest Lutheran bodies in the United States are, in order of size: the least conservative Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the more conservative Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod (LCMS), and the most conservative of the three, the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). These denominations provide seminaries, pastoral care, and Sunday School and liturgical materials. Local congregations contribute funds to support them and receive services and materials. Denominations help to start new congregations affiliated with them.

Denominational organization

The ELCA is divided into 64 geographical and one non-geographical synods (the Slovak Zion Synod). The ELCA has established relationships of full communion with The Episcopal Church, the Moravian Church, the United Church of Christ, the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the Reformed Church in America and an interim agreement with the United Methodist Church. The ELCA ordains both men and women to the pastoral office, and is currently studying the issue of homosexuality, and will decide at its 2005 Churchwide assembly whether to bless same-sex marriage and clergy in active same-sex relationships or not.

The LCMS is divided into 35 districts, including 2 non-geographical districts. It permits only qualified men to serve as pastors. It encourages women to be active in the church and has affirmed women's suffrage within congregations since 1969. In 2004, the synod decided that women may also "serve in humanly established offices" such as congregation president, reader, or usher. The LCMS does not permit active homosexuals to serve in the ministry, and it has affirmed an exclusively heterosexual definition of marriage. The LCMS teaches "Levels of Fellowship," closed communion (also called "close" communion), and has undergone recent internal struggles regarding participation of its clergy in interfaith "events." Particularly controversial was the post-911 event "A Prayer for America", held at Yankee Stadium, in which the church's Atlantic District President offered a Christian prayer alongside representatives of various non-Lutheran Christian, and non-Christian faiths.

The WELS is also divided into districts. As with the LCMS, it permits only qualified men to serve as pastors and adopts similar positions on homosexuality and marriage. WELS does not support women's suffrage in the church. WELS teaches the "Unit Concept" of fellowship. Strict adherence to this requires members to refrain from all worship, including prayer, with those not in fellowship with WELS.

There are at least 20 smaller Lutheran Denominations in the U.S., with many of them being cultural or doctrinal offshoots of the main three.

Inter-denomination relations

U.S. denominations differ on doctrine and practice. Doctrinally, the differences are primarily based on the degree of authority denominations place on the written text of Scripture. The ELCA subscribes to the "Historical-Critical Method" of Scripture interpretation, which attempts to interpret the text while taking account of the historical, cultural, and scientific limitations or biases imposed by the original writers. Many members of the ELCA believe that such higher criticism represents the best efforts of modern scholarship.

The LCMS and WELS follow the traditional "historical-grammatical" method of interpreting the Scripture text, which seeks to understand the text as it is written within the context of history, culture, and language.

As a result of doctorinal differences, cooperation between different denominations varies: there is collaboration on some forms of outreach (for example, Lutheran World Relief); in worship practice, however, the conservative demoninations typically practice closed communion, limiting celebration of the eucharist to those within their own denominations out of concern for doctrinal differences.

Lutheran publishers

English-language publishers of books on Luther and Lutheran theology

  1. Concordia Publishing House (http://www.cph.org/) (LCMS)
  2. Augsburg Fortress (http://www.augsburgfortress.com/) and Fortress Press (http://www.fortresspress.com/) (ELCA)
  3. Northwestern Publishing House (http://www.nph.net/) (WELS)
  4. Openbook Publishers (http://www.openbook.com.au/) (Lutheran Church of Australia)
  5. Ambassador Publications (http://www.aflconline.org/parish-ed/index.html) (AFLC)

Modern Lutheranism in Europe

Lutheranism is the state religion of several Scandinavian countries in Northern Europe, including Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. In these countries, the churches are supported directly by taxes. The church tax, an income tax of about 1–2%, is collected only from the members of the church, but the church also gets its share from other taxes such as the municipal corporation tax. Priests are educated at the Faculties of Theology of the state universities. With the extension of the European Union, the status of state churches is largely revised; they remain a State Church but win greater autonomy. In Sweden, Lutheranism was the state religion up until the year 2000. The church is no longer supported by taxes, but the fees are collected along with taxes.

Lutheranism is also prominent in Estonia, and Latvia. Members of the predominant churches in Germany, whether Lutheran, Reformed or Catholic are also required by the state to pay a church tax in addition to their normal income tax. Certain parts of Germany are traditionally Lutheran (generally towards the north and east) while others are historically Catholic (especially Bavaria and areas along the Rhine). Modern mobility and a decrease in religiosity have, however, been instrumental in shifting the demographic situation, as did the movements of German refugees from areas lost to Poland and Russia as a result of World War Two.

Notably, the European churches have very low attending memberships at the offices; due to the history of those European churches, most parts of them knew persecution during the 17th and 18th centuries. The church attendance on Sunday is not decisive and houses offices are still perennial, particularly in southern Europe. Most people feel it is more important to attend to the lot of conference and training and Biblical studies. So, in northern Europe many attend religious services only for baptisms, confirmations, weddings, funerals and possibly at Christmas. Confirmation is treated seriously and is usually delayed until the end of the high school courses. The Lutheran confirmation training usually constitutes the largest exposure of Northern Europeans to Christian doctrines.

Except in Northern Europe (see above), very few seminaries are state-supported. Due to large agreements like the Concorde de Leuenberg (1962), involving many churches raising from the Reformation the training for students in theology embraces a wide range of theologies including modern and contemporary movements in biblical criticism and theology.

Many major seaports contain the outposts of the respective Nordic Lutheran churches (e.g. Norwegian and Finnish) to provide aid, social opportunities and pastoral care for visiting seamen — in their own language. Few Lutheran pastors achieve their pastoral care in foreign countries such as France.

Number of Lutherans worldwide

Europe – 49.3 million

  • Germany – 25.8 million1
  • Sweden – 7.2 million
  • Denmark – 4.6 million
  • Finland – 4.6 million
  • Norway – 3.9 million
  • Latvia – 560,000 2
  • Austria – 380,000
  • Slovakia – 370,000
  • Hungary – 300,000
  • Iceland – 270,000
  • Russia, Belarus, Ukraine combined – 270,000
  • France – 260,000
  • Estonia – 200,000
  • Czech Republic – 150,000
  • United Kingdom – 120,000
  • Poland – 80,000
  • Romania – 50,000
  • Serbia – 50,000
  • Lithuania – 20,000
  • Netherlands – 20,000
  • Slovenia – 20,000
  • Others – 30,000

North America – 14.2 million

  • USA – 13.6 million 3
  • Canada – 640,000 4

Africa – 10.5 million

  • Ethiopia – 4 million
  • Tanzania – 2.5 million
  • Nigeria – 1.3 million
  • Namibia – 920,000
  • South Africa – 880,000
  • Cameroon – 280,000
  • Congo (Democratic Rep. of) – 140,000
  • Zimbabwe – 110,000
  • Kenya – 90,000
  • Liberia – 70,000
  • Central African Republic – 60,000
  • Ghana – 30,000
  • Angola – 20,000
  • Botswana – 20,000
  • Rwanda – 20,000
  • Others – 20,000

Asia & Pacific – 7.5 million

  • Indonesia – 4.3 million
  • India – 1.7 million
  • Papua New Guinea – 960,000
  • Australia – 250,000 5
  • Malaysia – 90,000
  • Hong Kong – 40,000
  • Japan – 30,000
  • Philippines – 30,000
  • Bangladesh – 10,000
  • Others – 30,000

Latin America – 1.1 million

  • Brazil – 940,000 6
  • Argentina – 50,000
  • Bolivia – 20,000
  • Chile – 20,000
  • El Salvador – 10,000
  • Guyana – 10,000
  • Others – 20,000


Total World – 82.6 million


Sources

Unless otherwise noted, these figures are from the Lutheran World Federation (http://www.lutheranworld.org/Welcome.EN.html) (LWF) homepage.

  1. The EKD (Evangelische Kirche in Deutschland - German Evangelical Church) released a figure in November 2004 that said that 25.8 million Germans (31.3% of the national population) are Lutherans.
  2. In 2003, the Latvian Lutheran church estimated the number of Lutherans in the country to be 556,000[1] (http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2004/35465.htm)
  3. The American Religious Identification Survery (ARIS) found that 4.6% of Americans are self-described Lutherans. That means there are 13.6 million American Lutherans.[2] (http://adherents.com/rel_USA.html#families)
  4. Canadian census statistics show that there are 640,000 self-described Lutherans living in Canada[3] (http://www.statcan.ca/english/Pgdb/demo32a.htm)
  5. Australian Census statistics show that there are 250,000 Lutherans living in Australia[4] (http://www.adherents.com/loc/loc_australia.html)
  6. This figure includes both Brazilian LWF and non-LWF churches.

Famous American Lutherans

See the complete List of famous Lutherans

Some of the most famous Lutherans today are:

  • actors David Hasselhoff, William H. Macy, and Bruce Willis;
  • cartoonist Gary Larson;
  • Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court William Rehnquist;
  • comedian Dana Carvey;
  • co-founder and CEO of Apple Computer Steve Jobs;
  • entertainment journalists Mary Hart and Pat O'Brien;
  • filmmaker John Woo;
  • militaryman Norman Schwarzkopf;
  • musicians Kris Kristofferson and John Mellencamp;
  • several current and former US governors, as well as several dozen US congressman and senators;
  • sports figures Troy Aikman, Dale Earnhardt, Lou Gehrig, and Tom Landry;
  • theologian Richard Charles Henry Lenski (immigrated from Prussia)
  • travel writer Rick Steves
  • writers Dr. Seuss and John Updike
  • writer and radio host Garrison Keillor

This page about Lutheranism includes information from a Wikipedia article.
Additional articles about Lutheranism
News stories about Lutheranism
External links for Lutheranism
Videos for Lutheranism
Wikis about Lutheranism
Discussion Groups about Lutheranism
Blogs about Lutheranism
Images of Lutheranism

Some of the most famous Lutherans today are:. Note: The Magic have hired former Magic coach Brian Hill to be head coach again.. See the complete List of famous Lutherans. 6--The Fans. Unless otherwise noted, these figures are from the Lutheran World Federation (http://www.lutheranworld.org/Welcome.EN.html) (LWF) homepage. The Magic will pick 11th in the 2005 NBA Draft.
. In addition, the Magic announced the following day that Brian Hill, the coach who led the Magic to the NBA Finals under O'Neal and Hardaway, would return as head coach.


Total World – 82.6 million. On May 23, however, the Magic's plans were disrupted by the abrupt resignation of General Manager and Chief Operating Officer John Weisbrod. Latin America – 1.1 million. However, the promise for the future is great, as the club hopes to build around Howard, Hill, Francis, and Nelson and become a playoff contender with a new coach. Asia & Pacific – 7.5 million. In the end, the Magic ended a few games out of the playoffs. Africa – 10.5 million. Their playoff push was hampered by injuries in the last quarter of the season: a season-ending broken wrist for sixth man Hedo Turkoglu, a shin injury to Grant Hill, a rib cage injury to Nelson, and a three-game suspension to Francis for allegedly kicking a photographer.

North America – 14.2 million. The Magic finished the season with a 36-46 record, disappointing after a strong start. Europe – 49.3 million. Howard was an unanimous selection. Few Lutheran pastors achieve their pastoral care in foreign countries such as France. Hill was chosen an All-Star starter by NBA fans, and Dwight Howard and Jameer Nelson were named to the All-Rookie first and second teams, respectfully. Norwegian and Finnish) to provide aid, social opportunities and pastoral care for visiting seamen — in their own language. Hill also returned and averaged 19 points a game.

Many major seaports contain the outposts of the respective Nordic Lutheran churches (e.g. In addition, Nelson, after a slow start, developed into a talented player, taking over the starting point guard position. Due to large agreements like the Concorde de Leuenberg (1962), involving many churches raising from the Reformation the training for students in theology embraces a wide range of theologies including modern and contemporary movements in biblical criticism and theology. Howard was a consistant rebounder and scorer, becoming the first rookie to start and play all 82 games in a season. Except in Northern Europe (see above), very few seminaries are state-supported. However, Howard showed great promise, becoming one of the few players to average a double-double. The Lutheran confirmation training usually constitutes the largest exposure of Northern Europeans to Christian doctrines. However, led by the erratic play of Francis, the Magic also lost to league bottom-feeders, such as the expansion Charlotte Bobcats and the Atlanta Hawks.

Confirmation is treated seriously and is usually delayed until the end of the high school courses. Throughout the season, bolstered by Hill's return, the Magic played spectacularly, defeating top NBA teams such as the San Antonio Spurs and the Detroit Pistons. So, in northern Europe many attend religious services only for baptisms, confirmations, weddings, funerals and possibly at Christmas. The Magic are currently in a search for a new head coach. Most people feel it is more important to attend to the lot of conference and training and Biblical studies. Later on, Christie claimed he had bone spurs and was placed on the injured list after playing only a few games for the Magic. Near the end of the season, with a playoff-push faltering, Weisbrod fired Davis and promoted Chris Jent to become interim head coach. The church attendance on Sunday is not decisive and houses offices are still perennial, particularly in southern Europe. Christie, because of his emotional ties to the Kings, at first refused to play for the Magic.

Notably, the European churches have very low attending memberships at the offices; due to the history of those European churches, most parts of them knew persecution during the 17th and 18th centuries. First, Weisbrod traded Mobley for Doug Christie from the Sacramento Kings. Modern mobility and a decrease in religiosity have, however, been instrumental in shifting the demographic situation, as did the movements of German refugees from areas lost to Poland and Russia as a result of World War Two. After a promising 13-6 start, the Magic began to fall apart. Certain parts of Germany are traditionally Lutheran (generally towards the north and east) while others are historically Catholic (especially Bavaria and areas along the Rhine). Nelson, who most scouts speculated to be a top-10 pick, fell to the 20th pick, and the Magic traded a future first-round draft pick to the Denver Nuggets for Nelson. Members of the predominant churches in Germany, whether Lutheran, Reformed or Catholic are also required by the state to pay a church tax in addition to their normal income tax. With the number one draft pick, the Magic selected high-school phenom Dwight Howard and traded for point guard Jameer Nelson.

Lutheranism is also prominent in Estonia, and Latvia. In addition, the Magic also acquired center Tony Battie and free agent Hedo Turkoglu. The church is no longer supported by taxes, but the fees are collected along with taxes. The Magic traded McGrady to the Houston Rockets for Steve Francis, Kelvin Cato, and Cuttino Mobley. In Sweden, Lutheranism was the state religion up until the year 2000. McGrady, discontent with the Magic, wished to move on; Weisbrod accused McGrady of "slacking off" and not attending practices (McGrady later admitted that he did not give 100% percent during the 2003-2004 season). With the extension of the European Union, the status of state churches is largely revised; they remain a State Church but win greater autonomy. The most significant trade was that of Tracy McGrady.

Priests are educated at the Faculties of Theology of the state universities. Though he kept Davis at coach, he shook up the player roster, only keeping a few of the players from last season. The church tax, an income tax of about 1–2%, is collected only from the members of the church, but the church also gets its share from other taxes such as the municipal corporation tax. In the offseason, Weisbrod dismantled the team. In these countries, the churches are supported directly by taxes. In addition, general manager Gabriel was replaced by John Weisbrod. Lutheranism is the state religion of several Scandinavian countries in Northern Europe, including Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. In the middle of the 19-game losing streak, coach Doc Rivers was fired, and assistant Johnny Davis was promoted.

English-language publishers of books on Luther and Lutheran theology. The Magic finished with a disappointing 21-61 record, the worst in the NBA. As a result of doctorinal differences, cooperation between different denominations varies: there is collaboration on some forms of outreach (for example, Lutheran World Relief); in worship practice, however, the conservative demoninations typically practice closed communion, limiting celebration of the eucharist to those within their own denominations out of concern for doctrinal differences. After winning its first game, the Magic lost 19 consecutive games, setting a franchise record. The LCMS and WELS follow the traditional "historical-grammatical" method of interpreting the Scripture text, which seeks to understand the text as it is written within the context of history, culture, and language. Even with the acquisition of veterans Tyronn Lue and Juwan Howard, the Magic struggled early. Many members of the ELCA believe that such higher criticism represents the best efforts of modern scholarship. The Magic's 15th season in 2003-2004 proved to be one of its toughest ever.

The ELCA subscribes to the "Historical-Critical Method" of Scripture interpretation, which attempts to interpret the text while taking account of the historical, cultural, and scientific limitations or biases imposed by the original writers. Despite still not having Hill due to injury, the Magic entered the playoffs for the third straight year. However, after taking a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven first round series, the Magic faltered and fell to the Detroit Pistons 4-3 in a heartbreaker. Doctrinally, the differences are primarily based on the degree of authority denominations place on the written text of Scripture. In 2002-2003, with the acquisition of Gordon Giricek and Drew Gooden, T-Mac once again led the Magic to a 42-40 record. denominations differ on doctrine and practice. However, the Magic were defeated 3-1 by the Charlotte Hornets (the team has since relocated, becoming the New Orleans Hornets). U.S. T-Mac, combined with Armstrong, Miller, and 3-point sharpshooter Pat Garrity, formed the core of the team that season.

There are at least 20 smaller Lutheran Denominations in the U.S., with many of them being cultural or doctrinal offshoots of the main three. Led once again by McGrady, nicknamed "T-Mac", Orlando once again posted a winning record, 44-38, in the 2001-2002 season. However, Hill was still severely limited by his ankle injury and did not play for the vast majority of the season. Strict adherence to this requires members to refrain from all worship, including prayer, with those not in fellowship with WELS. Miller won the Rookie of the Year that season. WELS teaches the "Unit Concept" of fellowship. With the addition of Mike Miller from the draft, the Magic compiled a 43-39 record, including a nine-game winning streak, that season, and entered the playoffs once again. WELS does not support women's suffrage in the church. However, Hill was limited to 4 games because of an ankle injury. McGrady blossomed into a star during this season, becoming one of the NBA's top scorers.

As with the LCMS, it permits only qualified men to serve as pastors and adopts similar positions on homosexuality and marriage. Despite Duncan opting to remain with the San Antonio Spurs, the Magic gained Hill, a perenial All-Star, and McGrady. The WELS is also divided into districts. In the following offseason, Gabriel, with millions of cleared salary cap space, attempted to lure three of the NBA's most prized free agents: Tim Duncan, Grant Hill, and Tracy McGrady. The LCMS teaches "Levels of Fellowship," closed communion (also called "close" communion), and has undergone recent internal struggles regarding participation of its clergy in interfaith "events." Particularly controversial was the post-911 event "A Prayer for America", held at Yankee Stadium, in which the church's Atlantic District President offered a Christian prayer alongside representatives of various non-Lutheran Christian, and non-Christian faiths. This year was characterized by the slogan "Heart and Hustle", as the team was known for its hard-working style. The LCMS does not permit active homosexuals to serve in the ministry, and it has affirmed an exclusively heterosexual definition of marriage. At the end of the season Rivers was named Coach of the Year by the NBA.

In 2004, the synod decided that women may also "serve in humanly established offices" such as congregation president, reader, or usher. With a team with virtually no name players and little experience, Rivers and Armstrong, the team captain, led the Magic to a 41-41 record, barely out of the playoffs. It encourages women to be active in the church and has affirmed women's suffrage within congregations since 1969. Gabriel dismantled the previous team and acquired multiple future first round draft picks. It permits only qualified men to serve as pastors. In 1999, the Magic, under new General Manager John Gabriel, who was named Executive of the Year, acquired rookie-coach Doc Rivers. The LCMS is divided into 35 districts, including 2 non-geographical districts. The 76ers, led by Allen Iverson, upset the Magic 3-1 in the first round.

The ELCA ordains both men and women to the pastoral office, and is currently studying the issue of homosexuality, and will decide at its 2005 Churchwide assembly whether to bless same-sex marriage and clergy in active same-sex relationships or not. In the playoffs, though, the Magic were seeded number 3 because of tiebreakers and faced the Philadelphia 76ers. The ELCA has established relationships of full communion with The Episcopal Church, the Moravian Church, the United Church of Christ, the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the Reformed Church in America and an interim agreement with the United Methodist Church. In addition, Orlando also acquired brothers Dominique and Gerald Wilkins, who were past their primes but were still regarded as NBA greats. The ELCA is divided into 64 geographical and one non-geographical synods (the Slovak Zion Synod). Armstrong again led the team emotionally, winning the NBA's Sixth-Man and Most Improved Player awards. Local congregations contribute funds to support them and receive services and materials. Denominations help to start new congregations affiliated with them. In 1998-1999, with the acquisition of Matt Harping and Michael Doleac and a healthy Hardaway and Anderson, the Magic tied for the Eastern Conference's best record in the lockout-shortened season, 33-17.

These denominations provide seminaries, pastoral care, and Sunday School and liturgical materials. Anderson, combined with newly acquired free agent Bo Outlaw, led the team to a respectable 41-41 record, just out of reach of the NBA playoffs. In addition, Rony Seikaly was traded before the season started to the New Jersey Nets for three role players and a future draft pick. The three largest Lutheran bodies in the United States are, in order of size: the least conservative Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the more conservative Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod (LCMS), and the most conservative of the three, the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). However, the season was hampered by injuries, as Hardaway sat out the majority of the season . In the U.S., congregations are grouped into over 20 different denominations. In addition, Hall of Famer Julius Erving joined the Magic's front office, giving Orlando immense hope for a successful season. The largest organizations of Lutheran churches around the world are the Lutheran World Federation and the International Lutheran Council, which include the great majority of Lutheran denominations around the globe. The Magic hired Chuck Daly to be head coach for the 1997-1998 season.

However, more conservative varieties of Lutheran strive to maintain historical distinctiveness, emphasizing doctrinal purity over ecumenical outreach. In the middle of the season, though, urged by player discontent, management fired coach Brian Hill and named Richie Adubato as interim coach for the rest of the season. For that reason, a number of modern Lutheran denominations, now largely separated from state control, are reaching out to other Lutheran denominations as well as other Christian denominations. In the playoffs, the Magic stunned the favorites Miami Heat in the first round 3-2 after losing the first two games. This belief is ingrained in the Lutheran confessions, and reflects the history of Lutheranism as a reform movement rather than a separatist movement. However, the Magic still mananged to compile a 45-37 record, led by Hardaway, Darrell Armstrong, the team's emotional leader, and newly-acquired free agent Rony Seikaly. Lutherans believe in the idea that there should be a single Christian church, and a single Christian faith. In the offseason, in a huge blow to the Magic franchise, O'Neal left as a free agent to the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Lutheran Church -- Missouri Synod recently approved a new hymnal, Lutheran Service Book, which will be available in the fall of 2006. The combination of Jordan and rebounder Dennis Rodman was too much for the Magic, and Orlando was swept 4-0 in the Eastern Conference finals. The most widely uses are: Christian Worship (WELS), The Lutheran Book of Worship (ELCA), The Lutheran Hymnal (LCMS and WELS)and Lutheran Worship (LCMS). In the playoffs, after the Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons and the Atlanta Hawks, Orlando met the Bulls in the Eastern Conference finals. Lutheran Churches in the United States use a number of hymnals. However, the Magic were seeded number two, behind the amazing 72-10 record the Chicago Bulls accumulated under Michael Jordan. Lutheran pastors may marry and have families. In the 1995-1996 season, the Magic again dominated the Eastern Conference and the Atlantic Division with a 60-22 record, led by O'Neal and Hardaway.

Pastors almost always have substantial theological educations, including Greek and Hebrew so that they can refer directly to the canonical Christian scriptures in the original language. The Houston Rockets, though, ended Orlando's dream of a championship by sweeping Orlando 4-0 in the Fianls to take the crown. In the U.S., some congregations and synods traditionally taught in German or Norwegian, but this custom has been in significant decline since the early/middle 20th century. In the playoffs, the Magic defeated the Boston Celtics, Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls, and the Indiana Pacers, advancing to the NBA Finals. Pastors usually teach in the common language of the parish. However, in the 1994-1995 season, the Magic's sixth season, after acquiring rebounder Horace Grant as a free agent from the Chicago Bulls, Orlando compiled a 57-25 record, best in the East and winning the Atlantic Conference title. Lutheran pastors and staff are repeatedly reminded that most evangelism occurs within the church, with children. However, the underdog Pacers team swept the Magic 3-0 in the first round, thus ending the Magic's season.

Almost all maintain Sunday Schools, and many host or maintain private nursery-schools, primary schools, regional high schools and universities. The Magic were in the playoffs for the first time, ranked the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Children's ministries are considered fundamental in most Lutheran churches. With the lethal combination of O'Neal and Hardaway, the Magic became a dominant team in the NBA, compiling the first 50 win season in franchise history with a 50-32 record. Johann Sebastian Bach, a devout Lutheran, composed music for the Lutheran church. In the draft, the Magic selected Chris Webber, but traded him to the Golden State Warriors for the number three pick, guard Anfernee Hardaway (known as "Penny" Hardaway) and three future first-round draft picks. Many Lutheran churches have active music ministries, including choirs, hand-bell choirs, children's choirs and sometimes carillon societies (to ring bells in a bell tower). In addition, despite having the NBA's best non-playoff record (and thereby the least chance of gaining the top draft pick), the Magic again landed the number one draft spot.

Lutheran hymns are sometimes known as chorales, and Luther himself composed hymns and hymn tunes, the most famous of which is "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" ("Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott"). In the offseason, Guokas stepped down as head coach, and Brian Hill was promoted to become the Magic's second coach. Lutherans generally place great emphasis on a liturgical approach to worship services; music also forms a large part of a traditional Lutheran service. However, the Magic missed that year's playoffs, because they were tied with the Indiana Pacers for the 8th (and final) playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and because the Pacers owned the tiebreaker. House, 1950-1957. The Magic again were the NBA's most improved franchise, and O'Neal garnered All-Star starter status and the Rookie of the Year award. Saint Louis, Mo. : Concordia Pub. O'Neal, a 7-1 center, made an immediate impact on the Magic, leading the club to a 41 - 41 record.

Christian Dogmatics. With the first overall pick, the Magic selected big-man Shaquille O'Neal from Louisiana State University. LCMS Perspective: Pieper, Franz. The club's history was changed dramatically with the 1992 Draft. ELCA Perspective: Braaten, Carl E., Principles of Lutheran Theology Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1983. 1992 was a more disappointing season for the Magic, who finished with a 21 - 61 record. Hampered by injuries, the Magic had a then franchise-record 17 game losing streak. For an overview of Lutheran theology, see:. Combined with the fast-paced energy style of Skiles, who was named the NBA's Most Improved Player at the end of the season, the Magic heralded the NBA's most improved record that season.

Most Lutherans also teach:. In the 1990 NBA Draft, the Orlando Magic selected Dennis Scott with the fourth overall pick. Scott, known as a sharpshooter, helped the Magic compile a 31 - 51 record, still under Coach Guokas. They teach that, at death, Christians are immediately taken into the presence of God in Heaven, where they await the resurrection of the body at the second coming of Christ. The Magic's first victory came 2 days later, as the Magic pounded the New York Knicks 118- 110. Lutherans believe that all who trust in Jesus alone can be sure of their salvation, for it is in Christ's work and his promises in which their surety lies. Despite playing a hard-fought game, the visiting New Jersey Nets won 111- 106. In His death, death is destroyed, our debt paid for and our sins forgiven. The club's first game was on November 4, 1989, at the Orlando O-Rena.

Because He is a man, He could die. In the club's first draft in 1989, the Magic chose Nick Anderson with the 11th pick in the first round. Because He is God, He is sinless and so a worthy sacrifice, without spot or blemish. The inaugural team compiled a respectable 18-64 record with players including Reggie Theus, Scott Skiles (now current coach of the Chicago Bulls), Terry Catledge, Sam Vincent, Otis Smith, and Jerry Reynolds. In the person of Jesus Christ, Lutherans believe God and Man meet. Led by former Philadelphia 76ers general manager Pat Williams, the Magic hired Matt Guokas as the team's first coach. Lutherans teach that salvation is possible only because of the birth, perfect life of obedience, sufferings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Orlando Magic officially entered the NBA as an expansion franchise in 1989.

Even faith itself is seen as a gift of God, created in the hearts of Christians by the work of the Holy Spirit when they hear God's Word proclaimed, and when they are baptized. The Orlando Magic are a National Basketball Association team based in Orlando, Florida. Lutherans believe that individuals receive this gift of salvation by faith alone -- a full and complete trust in God's promises to forgive and to save. Magic Fan Message Board (http://magicmadness.us/). God has intervened in this world because He loves sinners and does not want them to be damned to Hell, and, by His grace alone -- His free gift of mercy -- a person is forgiven, adopted as a child of God, and given eternal salvation. Orlando Magic Fan - News and rumors (http://www.orlandomagicfan.com/). Every human thought and deed is colored by sin and sinful motives. AmIAnnoying.com - Orlando Magic (http://www.amiannoying.com/(tvzdgtiwcey31555j0cjsvff)/view.aspx?id=11520&collection=3069).

Lutherans teach that sinners cannot do anything to satisfy God's justice. Magic Fan Hangout Message Board (http://www.ezekielbearsports.com/bbs/forumdisplay.php?f=25). What condemns them is that they are sinful from the start. Official Summer Pro League web site for the Orlando Magic (http://www.summerproleague.com/). For Lutherans, it is not actual sins -- the sinful acts committed by an individual -- that damn someone. Orlando Magic official web site (http://www.nba.com/magic/). Because of this Original Sin -- the sin from which all other sins come -- all descendents of Adam and Eve (thus, all humans) are born in sin and are sinners. Tom Sterner.

However, Adam and Eve chose to disobey God, trusting in their own strength, knowledge and wisdom. Randy Ayers. Lutherans believe God made the world, humanity included, perfect, holy and sinless. It is expected that at least one more will be hired.. The central teaching of Lutheranism is the doctrine of salvation by God's grace alone (Sola Gratia), through faith alone (Sola Fide) for the sake of Christ's merit alone (Solus Christus). Assistant Coaches: Note: Brian Hill has recently announced the following two assistant coaches. Those who hold to the former reject modern liberal scholarship, while those that hold to the latter embrace it. Head Coach: Brian Hill.

Some Lutheran church bodies also teach Biblical inerrancy. Others adopt the viewpoint that the Bible contains God's Word, but is essentially a human document, subject to error in non-spiritual matters. General Manager: CURRENTLY IN SEARCH FOR GM (John Weisbrod resigned on May 23, 2005). For this reason, Lutherans who follow the Book of Concord closely, especially conservative Lutherans, often refer to themselves as Confessional Lutherans. Other Lutherans, who agree with the main teachings of the Lutheran Confessions, but may take exception to some of its doctrine, subscribe to the Book of Concord in so far as they are in harmony with Holy Scripture. Team captain: Grant Hill. Traditionally, Lutheran pastors, congregations and church bodies agree to teach in harmony with the Book of Concord because it teaches and faithfully explains the Word of God. #15 Hedo Turkoglu (Hidayet Türkoğlu) (Turkey). Lutherans also hold that the Holy Scripture is explained and interpreted by the Book of Concord -- a series of Confessions of faith composed by Lutherans in the 16th Century. #9 DeShawn Stevenson (Washington Union HS, Fresno, California).

One of the signature teachings of the Lutheran Reformation is the teaching named Sola scriptura -- "Scripture alone." Lutherans believe that the Bible is divinely inspired and is the only standard by which teachings and doctrines can be judged. #14 Jameer Nelson (Saint Joseph's). Thus, approximately 1 out of every 20 Christians in the world is a Lutheran. #41 Mario Kasun (Croatia). Today, approximately 1 out every 4 Christians in the world is a Protestant, and 1 out of every 5 Protestants in the world is a Lutheran. #7 Mark Jones (UCF). Because Luther sparked this mass movement, he is known as the father of the Protestant Reformation, and the father of Protestantism in general. #34 Brandon Hunter (Ohio).

In the years and decades following Luther's posting of the 95 theses on the door of the Wittenberg church, large numbers of Europeans left the Roman Church, including the vast majority of Germanic people (the only Germanics who remained in the Catholic church were those under the domain and/or influence of Catholic Austria and Bavaria or the electoral archbishops of Mainz, Cologne, and Trier). #12 Dwight Howard (Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy, Atlanta, Georgia). Luther and his followers began a large exodus from the Catholic Church known as the Protestant Reformation. #33 Grant Hill (Duke). This book is still used today, and is referred to as the Book of Concord. #8 Pat Garrity (Notre Dame). This document is known as the Formula of Concord, and in 1580, all documents were bound and distributed in a volume titled The Confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. #3 Steve Francis (Maryland).

In 1577, the next generation of Lutheran theologians gathered the work of the previous generation to define the doctrine of the persisting Lutheran church. #55 Andrew DeClercq (Florida). However, the Lutheran movement was far from defeated. #1 Doug Christie (Pepperdine). After the conclusion of the Schmalkald War, Charles V attempted to impose Catholic religious doctrine on the territories that he had defeated. #13 Kelvin Cato (Iowa State). These princes would ally to create the Schmalkaldic League in 1531, which lead to the Schmalkald War that pitted the Lutheran princes of the Schmalkaldic League against the Catholic forces of Charles V. #4 Tony Battie (Texas Tech).

Several of the German princes (and later, kings and princes of other countries) signed the document to define "Lutheran" territories. #11 Andre Barrett (Seton Hall). At the Diet, Philipp Melanchthon presented a written summary of Lutheran beliefs called the Augsburg Confession. #2 Stacey Augmon (UNLV). Lutheranism would become known as a separate movement after the 1530 Diet of Augsburg, which was convened by Charles V to try to stop the growing Protestant movement. Joseph's University. But the 1529 session, also meeting Speyer, the decision the previous Diet of Speyer was reversed — despite the strong protests of the Lutheran princes and free cities (giving rise to the term protestant). #14 Jameer Nelson; St.

At the 1526 session of the Diet, meeting that year in Speyer, it was decided that, until a General Council could meet and settle the theological issues raised by Martin Luther, the Edict of Worms would not be enforced and each Prince could decide if Lutheran teachings and worship would be allowed in his territories (Cuius regio, eius religio). #12 Dwight Howard; Drafted from high school. The conflict would erupt even further into a religious war, fueled by the political climate of the Holy Roman Empire and strong personalities on both sides. #33 Grant Hill; Duke University. What had started as a strictly theological and academic debate had now turned into something of a social and political conflict as well, pitting Luther and his German supporters against the king of Spain (the francophone Charles V who also ruled the Low Countries, the New World and the Holy Roman Empire -- of which Germany was then a part), and the Italian Pope, as well as the supporters of the latter two. #3 Steve Francis; University of Maryland, College Park. Shortly after Luther escaped, Charles V issued the Edict of Worms, which outlawed Luther and his followers, declared Luther and his followers heretics, and banned Luther's writings. Scott Skiles.

Luther remained in hiding for some time, all the while continuing to write and develop his ideas. Dennis Scott. Luther had been granted a Safe Conduct to travel to and from his trial, but remembering how a similar promise had been violated in the case of Jan Hus, Luther's supporters prevailed upon him to escape from Worms in the dark of night, before he too could be seized and executed. Shaquille O'Neal. So help me God, Amen!" --Martin Luther, April 16, 1521. Tracy McGrady. Here I stand, I can do no other. Anfernee Hardaway.

I cannot and will not retract .. Horace Grant. Unless therefore, I am convinced by the testimony of Scripture .. Darrell Armstrong. Luther went to Worms (pronounced Vorms), but when called upon by Catholic officials to recant, Luther made a historic stand, saying the following: "I cannot submit my faith either to the Pope or to the Councils, because it is clear as day they have frequently erred and contradicted each other. Tree Rollins. So instead, Luther was to be summoned to appear before the Diet of Worms, where he was to recant his ideas publicly. Danny Schayes.

More importantly, the ruler of Luther's land, Frederick the Wise, refused to allow any of his subjects to be condemned without trial. Nick Anderson. Angered, Charles V wanted to outlaw Luther and his followers, but he was warned by advisors that doing so outright would cause a revolt, since Luther had become so popular. Chuck Daly (coach). Concerned about the "problem" of Luther, the Pope and Catholic officials decided to send Luther the papal bull called the "Exsurge Domine" in 1520, which called on Luther to recant and abandon his ideas. Luther also gained some powerful enemies, including the Pope in Rome and the youthful Holy Roman Emperor Charles V.

As a result, Luther gained many supporters and followers from all levels of society, from peasants who considered him a folk hero, to knights who swore to protect him, to rulers of German lands who wanted more independence from papal interference in their domestic policies. Between 1517 and 1520, Luther preached and published his scathing criticisms of the Catholic Church in books and pamphlets. His ideas were supported by many other Christian theologians, and they also had a certain populist appeal. The symbolic beginning of the Protestant Reformation occurred on October 31, 1517, when professor Luther posted an open invitation to debate his 95 theses (statements) involving current Catholic dogma and practices upon the door of All Saints Church (customarily used as a notice board by the University) attached to the castle in Wittenberg, Saxony (Germany). Lutheranism as a movement traces its origin to the work of Martin Luther, a German religious scholar who sought to reform the practices of the Roman Catholic Church in the early 16th century.

See Protestantism for further discussion. The Lutheran movement is a group of denominations of Protestant Christianity by the original definition. writer and radio host Garrison Keillor. Seuss and John Updike.

writers Dr. travel writer Rick Steves. theologian Richard Charles Henry Lenski (immigrated from Prussia). sports figures Troy Aikman, Dale Earnhardt, Lou Gehrig, and Tom Landry;.

several current and former US governors, as well as several dozen US congressman and senators;. musicians Kris Kristofferson and John Mellencamp;. militaryman Norman Schwarzkopf;. filmmaker John Woo;.

entertainment journalists Mary Hart and Pat O'Brien;. co-founder and CEO of Apple Computer Steve Jobs;. comedian Dana Carvey;. Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court William Rehnquist;.

cartoonist Gary Larson;. Macy, and Bruce Willis;. actors David Hasselhoff, William H. This figure includes both Brazilian LWF and non-LWF churches.

Australian Census statistics show that there are 250,000 Lutherans living in Australia[4] (http://www.adherents.com/loc/loc_australia.html). Canadian census statistics show that there are 640,000 self-described Lutherans living in Canada[3] (http://www.statcan.ca/english/Pgdb/demo32a.htm). That means there are 13.6 million American Lutherans.[2] (http://adherents.com/rel_USA.html#families). The American Religious Identification Survery (ARIS) found that 4.6% of Americans are self-described Lutherans.

In 2003, the Latvian Lutheran church estimated the number of Lutherans in the country to be 556,000[1] (http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/irf/2004/35465.htm). The EKD (Evangelische Kirche in Deutschland - German Evangelical Church) released a figure in November 2004 that said that 25.8 million Germans (31.3% of the national population) are Lutherans. Others – 20,000. Guyana – 10,000.

El Salvador – 10,000. Chile – 20,000. Bolivia – 20,000. Argentina – 50,000.

Brazil – 940,000 6. Others – 30,000. Bangladesh – 10,000. Philippines – 30,000.

Japan – 30,000. Hong Kong – 40,000. Malaysia – 90,000. Australia – 250,000 5.

Papua New Guinea – 960,000. India – 1.7 million. Indonesia – 4.3 million. Others – 20,000.

Rwanda – 20,000. Botswana – 20,000. Angola – 20,000. Ghana – 30,000.

Central African Republic – 60,000. Liberia – 70,000. Kenya – 90,000. Zimbabwe – 110,000.

of) – 140,000. Congo (Democratic Rep. Cameroon – 280,000. South Africa – 880,000.

Namibia – 920,000. Nigeria – 1.3 million. Tanzania – 2.5 million. Ethiopia – 4 million.

Canada – 640,000 4. USA – 13.6 million 3. Others – 30,000. Slovenia – 20,000.

Netherlands – 20,000. Lithuania – 20,000. Serbia – 50,000. Romania – 50,000.

Poland – 80,000. United Kingdom – 120,000. Czech Republic – 150,000. Estonia – 200,000.

France – 260,000. Russia, Belarus, Ukraine combined – 270,000. Iceland – 270,000. Hungary – 300,000.

Slovakia – 370,000. Austria – 380,000. Latvia – 560,000 2. Norway – 3.9 million.

Finland – 4.6 million. Denmark – 4.6 million. Sweden – 7.2 million. Germany – 25.8 million1.

Ambassador Publications (http://www.aflconline.org/parish-ed/index.html) (AFLC). Openbook Publishers (http://www.openbook.com.au/) (Lutheran Church of Australia). Northwestern Publishing House (http://www.nph.net/) (WELS). Augsburg Fortress (http://www.augsburgfortress.com/) and Fortress Press (http://www.fortresspress.com/) (ELCA).

Concordia Publishing House (http://www.cph.org/) (LCMS). Amillennialism. The Real Presence of Christ's Body and Blood "in, with and under" the Bread and wine of the Lord's Supper. Baptismal Regeneration.

Infant Baptism. Unlike Calvin, who explained how the reprobate come to be damned (double predestination), Luther said it was a mystery -- something which humanity cannot, and probably should not, comprehend. Single Predestination: God chose to save His children before the world was created, but does not predestine the lost to be damned.