What do Lutherans believe about sacraments and ordinances?

Lutherans hold a distinct and nuanced view on sacraments and ordinances that is deeply rooted in their theological heritage, particularly the teachings of Martin Luther, the 16th-century reformer. This perspective is encapsulated in the Lutheran Confessions, a series of documents that outline the core beliefs of the Lutheran tradition. To understand the Lutheran position on sacraments and ordinances, it is essential to delve into the nature, number, and significance of these sacred rites within the framework of Lutheran theology.

The Nature of Sacraments in Lutheran Theology

In Lutheran theology, a sacrament is defined as a rite instituted by Christ that combines a visible element with the Word of God, and through which God imparts His grace. This definition is rooted in Luther’s understanding of the means of grace, which are the instruments through which God delivers the benefits of salvation to believers. The visible element in a sacrament serves as a tangible sign that accompanies the promise of God's Word, making the grace of God accessible in a concrete and experiential manner.

Lutherans believe that sacraments are not merely symbolic acts but are efficacious means of grace. This means that God actively works through the sacraments to confer the benefits they signify. This belief is grounded in the conviction that God’s Word is powerful and effective, and when it is combined with the physical elements of the sacraments, it accomplishes what it promises. As the prophet Isaiah declares, “so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11, ESV).

The Number of Sacraments

Lutherans recognize two sacraments: Baptism and the Lord's Supper (Holy Communion). These two rites meet the criteria established by Luther: they were instituted by Christ, involve a visible element, and convey God’s promise of grace.

Baptism

Baptism is considered the sacrament of initiation into the Christian faith. Lutherans believe that through Baptism, individuals are united with Christ, receive the forgiveness of sins, and are reborn as children of God. This understanding is based on passages such as Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands His disciples to baptize “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” and Acts 2:38, where Peter declares, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (ESV).

Lutherans practice infant baptism, believing that God’s grace is extended to all, including infants, who are in need of God’s saving work. This practice underscores the belief that Baptism is primarily an act of God rather than a human decision. As Luther himself wrote in the Small Catechism, “Baptism is not just plain water, but it is the water included in God’s command and combined with God’s word.”

The Lord’s Supper

The Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion, is the sacrament of sustenance and ongoing participation in the life of Christ. Lutherans hold to the doctrine of the real presence, which asserts that Christ is truly present in, with, and under the elements of bread and wine. This belief is based on Jesus’ words at the Last Supper: “This is my body… This is my blood” (Matthew 26:26-28, ESV). Lutherans reject the Roman Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation, which teaches that the bread and wine are transformed into the actual body and blood of Christ, as well as the symbolic interpretation held by some Protestant traditions.

For Lutherans, the real presence means that Christ’s body and blood are truly present and received by the communicants in a mysterious and sacramental manner. This presence is not dependent on the faith of the recipient but is a gracious gift from God. The Lord’s Supper is seen as a means of grace that strengthens faith, forgives sins, and unites believers with Christ and one another.

Ordinances in Lutheran Theology

While Lutherans emphasize the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, they also recognize other rites and practices that are important for the life of the church, often referred to as ordinances. However, these ordinances are not considered sacraments because they do not meet all the criteria established by Luther.

Confession and Absolution

Confession and Absolution is an important practice in Lutheranism, where believers confess their sins and receive the assurance of God’s forgiveness through the words of absolution spoken by the pastor. While it is not considered a sacrament, it is highly valued as a means of grace. Luther emphasized the importance of private confession, stating in the Large Catechism, “When I urge you to go to confession, I am doing nothing else than urging you to be a Christian.”

Confirmation

Confirmation is another significant rite in the Lutheran tradition, where baptized individuals publicly affirm their faith and commitment to the teachings of the church. This rite typically involves a period of catechesis, where individuals receive instruction in the Christian faith. While confirmation is an important milestone, it is not considered a sacrament because it does not involve a visible element instituted by Christ.

Marriage, Ordination, and Anointing of the Sick

Lutherans also recognize the importance of other rites such as marriage, ordination, and anointing of the sick. These practices are considered sacred and are accompanied by prayers and blessings, but they are not classified as sacraments. Lutherans view marriage as a holy union between a man and a woman, ordained by God, and ordination as the setting apart of individuals for pastoral ministry. Anointing of the sick, while practiced less frequently, involves prayers for healing and comfort for those who are ill.

Sacramental Theology and the Means of Grace

Central to Lutheran sacramental theology is the concept of the means of grace. Lutherans believe that God’s grace is mediated through specific means, including the Word of God and the sacraments. The sacraments are seen as visible manifestations of the Word, making the promises of God tangible and accessible to believers. This understanding is rooted in the conviction that God’s grace is not abstract but is delivered to us in concrete ways that engage our senses.

The means of grace are also understood to be communal in nature. The sacraments are administered within the context of the church, the community of believers, and serve to build up the body of Christ. Through Baptism, individuals are incorporated into the church, and through the Lord’s Supper, they are nourished and sustained in their faith. This communal dimension underscores the belief that the Christian life is lived in fellowship with other believers, united by the grace of God.

Conclusion

Lutheran beliefs about sacraments and ordinances are deeply rooted in the theological insights of Martin Luther and the Lutheran Confessions. Sacraments are seen as efficacious means of grace, instituted by Christ, that convey God’s promises through visible elements. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are the two sacraments recognized by Lutherans, serving as means of initiation and sustenance in the Christian life. Other rites and practices, while important, are not considered sacraments because they do not meet the criteria established by Luther. Central to Lutheran sacramental theology is the conviction that God’s grace is mediated through specific means, making the promises of God tangible and accessible to believers within the context of the church.