CONFESSIONAL LUTHERAN Meaning and
Definition
-
Confessional Lutheranism refers to a particular branch of Lutheranism that adheres closely to the teachings and confessions of Martin Luther and the other reformers of the Lutheran Church. It is characterized by its unwavering commitment to upholding the historic, orthodox interpretations of Lutheran doctrine as expressed in various confessional writings.
The term "confessional" denotes that this tradition of Lutheranism holds a strong allegiance to the Lutheran Confessions, which include the Augsburg Confession, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles, Luther's Small and Large Catechisms, and the Formula of Concord. These confessions are regarded as authoritative documents that accurately articulates the teachings of Scripture and Luther's theological insights.
Confessional Lutherans believe in the essential doctrines of justification by grace alone through faith alone, the authority of Scripture alone, and the priesthood of all believers. They hold to the distinction between law and gospel, the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's Supper, and the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Furthermore, confessional Lutherans affirm the traditional liturgical practices of the Lutheran Church, value the use of hymns and chorales in worship, and maintain a commitment to biblical preaching and teaching.
In essence, confessional Lutheranism seeks to preserve and faithfully transmit the core beliefs of the Lutheran Reformation, grounding its theology and practice on the Word of God as expressed in the confessions of the Lutheran Church.
Etymology of CONFESSIONAL LUTHERAN
The etymology of the term "Confessional Lutheran" can be broken down into its two components: "confessional" and "Lutheran".
1. Confessional: The word "confessional" relates to the act of making a confession or stating one's beliefs and principles. It comes from the Latin word "confessio", which means "confession" or "acknowledgment". In religious contexts, it typically refers to a formal declaration or statement of faith.
2. Lutheran: The term "Lutheran" refers to the theological tradition and discipleship inspired by the Protestant Reformer Martin Luther. It originates from Martin Luther himself, who initiated the Protestant Reformation in the early 16th century. Lutheranism developed as a distinct branch of Protestant Christianity based on Luther's teachings, emphasizing justification by faith alone, the authority of Scripture, and the priesthood of all believers.
